Irregular operations can move quickly. Weather, cancellations, misconnects, legalities, hotel issues, missing vans, or lost flying away from base can create confusion and frustration. In those moments, it is important to slow down, use the resources available to you, and document everything.
Your first step should be to use the appropriate company resources and make a good-faith effort to resolve the issue directly with scheduling or the responsible department. During irregular operations, phone lines may be backed up and response times may be longer than usual. Keep trying through the proper channels, but make sure you are keeping accurate records as you go.
Document the time of each call, the number or department contacted, how long you waited, who you spoke with, and what you were told. Screenshot any messages, pairing changes, hotel information, van issues, or other details that may be needed later. Good documentation matters. It can make the difference when reviewing what happened after the fact.
For Lineholders, Section 7.Q of the JCBA covers the loss of flying due to cancellations, misconnects, and legalities. Reassignments under Section 7.Q are based on when you are notified of the loss of flying. Notification may be initiated by Crew Scheduling or by the Flight Attendant.
Once you have made reasonable attempts to resolve the issue through Scheduling or the appropriate department and have not been successful, contact AFA Council 21 for assistance at (703) 260-0051.
During irregular operations, we may already be on the line assisting another Member. Please leave a voicemail with your name, employee/U#, phone number, pairing information, location, and a brief summary of the issue. Repeated calls are not necessary and may slow the process. We can generally see that calls are coming in, but a voicemail gives us the information needed to follow up.
The best protection during irregular operations is preparation. Know where to find the Contract language, use the proper resources first, and keep clear records from the beginning. When the issue cannot be resolved through the appropriate channels, we are here to help.
Guide Link: https://irrops.unitedafa.org/home
