Election Set for Northwest Flight Attendants

The National Mediation Board has authorized an election among the more than 9,000 flight attendants at Northwest Airlines, reported AFA-CWA President Pat Friend.

A clear majority of Northwest flight attendants signed cards indicating that they want AFA-CWA representation, triggering the election process. Balloting instructions will be provided to the flight attendants in the coming weeks, the NMB said.

Friend credited the hard work and determination of Northwest flight attendants who are facing a difficult fight over their airline's bankruptcy and restructuring. "We are very excited and are looking forward to officially welcoming the Northwest flight attendants to our family," she said.

Under the Railway Labor Act, at least a majority of workers must cast a vote for the election to be valid. Currently, the Northwest flight attendants are represented by an independent group, the Professional Flight Attendants Association.

CWA Organizing Director Ed Sabol encouraged CWAers who might be traveling over the next several weeks to talk about with Northwest Attendants about CWA.