Involuntary ANP Imposed
Ladies and Gentlemen:
The unprecedented aviation crisis shows no signs of abating. As a result of the effects of the war, the April schedule has been reduced in response to decreased passenger booking levels. It is with great sorrow that I must report the company’s most recent announcement that they will further reduce our Flight Attendant workforce by approximately 2,300 active and inactive Flight Attendants beginning April 1, 2003, by invoking Section 5.L. (involuntary ANP) “Work Stoppage,” of the Agreement. This number does not include those who are currently on voluntary or involuntary furlough. Flight Attendants whose classification seniority (SW seniority) is junior to November 29, 1997 may be affected.
Prior to imposing Section 5.L., the company will offer voluntary 30-day ANP. Flight Attendants interested in 30-day ANP can place a request on file via DSPFAI. ANP requests may be placed on file until 1200 (noon) CDT on March 27, 2003. If your circumstances will allow it, we encourage you to volunteer for this April 30-day ANP, as it will reduce the number of Flight Attendants who potentially face a forced ANP status. Additionally, it may provide some of you some peaceful time away from the airline industry as our company faces the challenges of bankruptcy and our country faces the stress of war.
Flight Attendants on 30-day ANP will continue to accrue vacation, sick leave, and seniority as well as continue to receive Company provided Medical and Dental Insurance coverage. While on 30-day ANP, you are entitled to all normal pass travel benefits. The company has confirmed that ANP status will not transition to a personal leave if a Flight Attendant currently on 30-day ANP for March wishes to also take voluntary 30-day ANP for April. The April voluntary 30-day ANP will conclude on April 30, 2003.
If there is an insufficient number of requests for voluntary 30-day ANP, Section 5.L. of the Agreement will be imposed using inverse system seniority order. The company anticipates that involuntary ANP will be for at least a 30-day duration and will be evaluated as passenger bookings improve. The length of the involuntary ANP will be determined based on changes to the situation in the Middle East and in passenger demand. Flight Attendants affected by 5.L. will be able to complete any trip beginning in March that overlaps into April.
The enormity and relentlessness of challenges our workgroup faces weigh heavily on all of us. The United Master Executive Council takes pause to lament this latest announcement immediately affecting so many AFA Members, but we will continue to focus on ensuring that United Airlines successfully emerges from bankruptcy for the security of all AFA Members and the welcome return of our most junior flying partners.
Please continue to stay informed through all AFA communication channels and support each other while we work together to ensure our future.
In Solidarity,
Greg Davidowitch, President United Master Executive Council
