Picketing Event FAQs

Can I attend the picket if I’m on a (medical/maternity/military) leave of absence?

Depending on the type of leave you are on, you may be able to attend. If you are on a medical, maternity or worker’s compensation leave of absence and have restrictions in place from your treating physician that would not allow you to picket or travel to picket, you should not participate in the event. Please contact your LEC President if you have questions or need clarification.

Can I use my non-rev benefits to fly in and picket?

While we don't agree with it, nor do we believe it is lawful, the Company has a policy that restricts Flight Attendants from using pass travel to attend pickets. For more information about the policy, please refer to page 4 of the Employee Travel Handbook (AAG SSO required).

If I’m a commuter, can I come in before my trip to picket?

If you're commuting in for work, there's nothing that dictates when you can travel into work and in fact it is encouraged to arrive early for your trips or reserve blocks.

If I’m a commuter, can I stay after my trip to picket?

If you're commuting back home after a trip or a reserve block, there's nothing that dictates when you can travel home.

If I’m on reserve, can I attend the picket while I’m on call?

Yes, as long as you are not on duty (i.e., it is prior to your scheduled report time).

Can I attend the picket while on airport standby?

No. You are not permitted to picket while on duty, including during airport standby.

Can I attend the picket if I’m on sit time between flights?

No. You are on duty between flights and therefore not permitted to picket.

Can I attend the picket if I’m on a layover?

Yes! Flight Attendants are encouraged to attend a picketing event if one is taking place in their layover city while they are actually on the layover (i.e., after release at the RON station and prior to report time following the RON.)

Can I attend the picket if I’m on probation?

Probationary Flight Attendants are technically allowed to participate in solidarity actions as allowed under the Railway Labor Act (RLA). However, our Master Executive Council (MEC) believes our newest Flight Attendants can best support the negotiations process by wearing their red AFA pin, familiarizing themselves with the Contract and most importantly focusing on successfully completing probation. 

Can members of other labor groups or unions attend the picket?

Yes! Members of other labor groups are always welcome. Airline employees are asked to come dressed in their full, compliant uniform if their contract or uniform policy allows. Labor allies can show support by wearing a plain red t-shirt.

Can I bring friends or family members along to the picket?

Yes, friends and family members are welcome and can show support at the event by wearing a plain red t-shirt.

What should I wear to the picket?

Alaska Flight Attendants should wear a full, compliant uniform (including red AFA pin). Company ID badges should be removed or hidden from view.

Other airline Flight Attendants, pilots, and other airline workers are asked to wear a full, compliant uniform to the event as long as it is not prohibited by a contract provision or uniform policy. Company ID badges should be removed or hidden from view.

Labor allies, friends, and family members can show support by wearing a red Union t-shirt or plain red t-shirt.

Can I bring my own signs or banners to carry while picketing?

In order to ensure compliance with airport or other jurisdictional regulations, only AFA-provided signs may be carried while picketing. Please do not bring your own signs or banners with you.

Can I picket in a location other than my base?

Yes, you’re welcome to picket in any location regardless of where you are based.