American Airlines Flight Attendants Approve Contract with Immediate Pay Hikes

American Airlines flight attendants approved a five-year labor deal, securing raises of up to 20.5%, effective in October. The contract passed with 87% of voting members in favor, marking a significant victory for the carrier’s 28,000 cabin crew members.

The agreement ends months of tense negotiations, which included a strike threat, and brings immediate wage increases and retroactive pay for time spent bargaining. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed relief over reaching the deal, calling it a priority for the airline.

Flight attendants have been pushing for higher pay amid rising living costs, following a trend across industries where labor unions have successfully secured better wages. While United Airlines continues contract talks, Alaska Airlines flight attendants recently rejected a tentative deal, and Boeing workers are voting on a new contract that includes 25% raises.