United-Continental Flight Attendants' Union Election to Begin Soon

The National Mediation Board has determined that United-Continental is now a single carrier, triggering the beginning of a union representation election process for the 24,000 flight attendants at the newly merged airline.

AFA-CWA, which has represented United Airlines flight attendants for over 65 years, represents 15,000 flight attendants at the merged carrier. The International Association of Machinists represents about 9,500.

"This is a watershed moment in our union and an exciting time for the thousands of Flight Attendants at the 'new' United who are ready to advance our careers with AFA representation," AFA International President Veda Shook said. "We sought this election because we want to unite the airline's Flight Attendants as quickly as possible to take maximum advantage of the leverage we have from the merger."

The NMB is expected to announce a voting schedule soon. "This sets the stage for real gains for our profession," said Greg Davidowitch, president of AFA at United. "The expertise of our union has resulted in contracts and daily representation that reflect the entire work and home life of the Flight Attendants."

Visit www.yourafa.org for the latest election information.