Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 556 President Lyn Montgomery joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss how the challenges faced by flight attendants — constant flight rescheduling, worker shortages, long hours with few breaks, etc. — have led to low employee morale during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The TWU is the Union of Southwest Airlines Flight Attendants.
She also spoke about a Southwest Airlines company policy requiring workers who report sick to see a company doctor to verify the illness. Flight workers are prohibited from coming into work if they experience any COVID-19 symptoms, even something as simple as a mild headache. They are then required to have the illness confirmed by a company assigned doctor, which stresses the employee’s schedule, especially during a pandemic. The TWU has taken a hard line against the requirement and is currently in a dispute in an attempt to end it.
Flight attendant morale has reached its lowest point during Montgomery’s career. Workers are exhausted, as they work long hours with few rest times during a period of chronic understaffing. Many staff members have quit or retired, and those left are often dealing with a frustrated public and suffer excessive harassment, Montgomery said.
The TWU has requested higher security measures, including more manpower at gated areas, but it continues to be an uphill battle, she said.
Listen to the entire episode to learn about how flight attendants are struggling to adjust to travel ordeals during the COVID-19 pandemic.