United Airlines New 5-Year Deal Promises Higher Pay, Better Work Rules

Rejected deal from last year comes back with $100/hour top pay, $740 million in bonuses across staff, and more. However, the approval is pending at the workers' end.

— 2 min read
United Airlines New 5-Year Deal Promises Higher Pay, Better Work Rules
United Airlines New 5-Year Deal Promises Higher Pay, Better Work Rules

The long wait since 2020 is over for airline workers. United Airlines and the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA have reached a new tentative 5-year deal. This is the result of long negotiations and pressure from flight attendants. The deal promises better working conditions, less exhausting schedules, and improved pay rules. Top earners could make up to $100 per hour by the end of 5 years. On April 1, union leaders will decide whether to put the deal to a vote. What is the deal offering? Given that the old deal was rejected last year, what has improved? Learn more below.   

Why Was the Old United Airlines Deal Rejected?

Last year, a similar deal was proposed. The previous deal offered a 40% gain. However, it couldn't get through. Workers felt the pay raise still wasn't enough. Not all work time, such as overtime, was covered. Work conditions weren't improved enough, in the workers' opinion. Hence, it was rejected. 

Official annoucement of the new deal by United Airlines
Official annoucement of the new deal by United Airlines

Pay Changes in the New United Airlines Agreement

Aspect

Before (Old Situation)

Now (New Tentative Deal)

Base Pay

No raise since 2020

Immediate raise after approval

Top Hourly Pay

Lower than industry leaders

Up to $100/hour by the end of 5 years

Boarding Time Pay

❌ Not paid

✅ Paid

Waiting Time (Ground)

❌ Mostly unpaid

✅ Paid for long waits

Signing Bonus

❌ None

✅ Bonus for all (total ~$740 million)

Retroactive Pay

​

Working Conditions

❌ Not included

​

❌ Limited Scope

✅ Paid for the past unpaid/underpaid period

✅ Limits on overnight flights (less exhausting schedules)

✅ Better hotel rules (quality/rest conditions)

✅ Advance notice for schedule changes (less last-minute chaos)

What Next in the United Airlines Tentative 5-Year Deal?

  • April 1 → Union leaders decide whether to put the deal to a vote.
  • April 3 → Full details will be shared.
  • April 23 – May 12 → Flight attendants vote. 

Final Thoughts… 

It's clear the deal isn't final yet and could come through by the second week of May. The airline has now offered more money, bonuses, and better rules. Therefore, the chances of getting approved by the workers are likely high. For more updates on the same, keep in touch.

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