Section 13.C. of the CBA outlines when a Flight Attendant may be required to provide medical verification or an Absence Certificate.
Flight Attendants are not required to disclose the nature of a personal illness or injury except to Company Medical.
When Is an Absence Certificate Required?
A Flight Attendant may be required to provide an Absence Certificate when:
- They reach four sick incidents during any 12 months of active service. After the third incident, the Company will provide written notice that additional incidents will require an Absence Certificate.
- They are on sick leave for more than 12 calendar days.
- The Company requires Absence Certificates during designated Fourth of July or Christmas holiday periods, after providing the required advance notice. Flight Attendants with no absences during the prior 12 calendar months are exempt from this holiday requirement.
- Circumstances suggest possible abuse or misuse of sick leave.
When Must You See a Health Care Provider?
The Flight Attendant must actually be seen by a Health Care Provider within 72 hours after notifying Scheduling of the illness or injury.
The visit may be:
- In person
- Virtual
- Telemedicine
The Absence Certificate must be prepared and signed by the Health Care Provider following that visit.
When Must the Absence Certificate Be Submitted?
The Absence Certificate must be submitted to company medical on or before:
- A Lineholder’s first trip check-in following the illness or injury, or
- A Reserve’s first assignment, including Standby Reserve.
If the required release has not been received by that time, the Flight Attendant has 72 hours after the first trip flown or Standby Reserve assignment to provide it.
Questions?
AFA Council 21 Main Office: (703) 260-0051
CBA Reference:
Section 13.C. – Medical Verification
