News

COVID didn’t change our uniform issues

10 Dec, 2021

In January 2020, management announced it would rollout a “completely new uniform program for flight attendants and ACS above-wing employees… as soon as possible, hopefully in late 2021.” This came after months of reports, pressure, and lawsuits about the toxic uniforms making Flight Attendants sick. Shortly after launching our campaign for AFA in November 2019, Flight Attendants were able to wear the black and white uniforms.

Then COVID-19 hit and management abandoned its promise and plans to completely replace the toxic uniforms. Instead, opting to make the “interim” Graphite suit option permanent and forcing Flight Attendants back into the purple and gray uniforms.

Now, thanks to pressure from Flight Attendants, management has rolled back the original January deadline for three more months through March 2022. That’s a testament to the power we’re building, but we need a voice in the process and permanent solutions, not temporary band-aids.

Even with the short term extension, nothing has changed for Delta Flight Attendants who have gotten sick from the toxic uniforms. It’s ridiculous to take a chance with people’s health, especially in a pandemic. Management has touted their commitment to a safe flight for the last two years.

The black and white uniform should be extended indefinitely until a completely new uniform is available. This is about our workplace safety. The caring and safe approach is announcing black and whites are a continued option until we have a new, proven safe uniform.

COVID has changed the airline industry, but the uniform issues remain the same.

We are standing together and standing up for those who are experiencing this serious health issue. They need us to have their backs and we need to stand up for them because the next safety or health issue could affect any one of us. That's what unions do - we stand up for each other and take care of each other in a way none of us can do alone.

This entire process is one more reminder that management holds all the power to dictate the terms of our employment. Let’s get organized, win our union, and secure a voice on the job so we have real standing at Delta! Sign a card and get involved in our campaign today.