United Flight Attendants to Receive Pay Hikes and Better Benefits After Tough Negotiations
June 6, 2025
United Airlines flight attendants are set to receive an average 27% pay raise, according to a tentative agreement posted by their union. Starting July 30, a first-year flight attendant will earn $36.92 an hour (up from $28.88), while a 13-year veteran will make $84.78 an hour (previously $67.11). Voting on the contract runs from July 7 to July 29.
Along with the pay increases, flight attendants will receive boarding pay, which they previously did not get, as well as improved healthcare and a higher 401(k) match. Maternity leave will be extended to 10 weeks, and paid parental and adoption leave will be two weeks. The contract also gives flight attendants more control over hotel selection and the option to choose crew meals of the same quality as those in business class.
This deal follows similar agreements with other major U.S. airlines, including American, Southwest, and Alaska. United, however, was one of the last to finalize its negotiations. Tensions were high last year, with flight attendants authorizing a strike. However, under the Railway Labor Act, a 30-day “cooling off” period was required before any strike occurred.
If approved, the new contract will take effect on July 30.
News Sources: skift.com
