It was reported on the DEAR-AFA tape today that a decision was rendered by Arbitrator Tom Angelo in the matter of our mid-term contractual Wage Arbitration.

Flight attendants will receive $0.00 in increased financial compensation from United Airlines.  The company prevailed in most of the matters before the arbitrator.  Anyone surprised?

As you know,  this wage arbitration process is outlined on page 264 of our current contract dated December 3, 1997.  It was, a least to some flight attendants I spoke to, somewhat of the main reason to even consider a contract with a ridiculous length of 10 years.

This recent ruling, I'm sure, will only increase the levels of frustration already present throughout the line.  You should read the DEAR-AFA transcript along with their Decision and Award Summary of Arguments---both located at AFA's Website.

While you're at it, have a look at the entire 50 page Decision.  Note the particularly questionable and irritating quote from the lawyer panel member Thomas Manley on page 47 of the document:

"...Finally, it is time for this Conference to be brought to a close so the Company and AFA can move on to address other matters important to the well-being of United Flight Attendants and the relationship of the parties."
                                                      ---Thomas Manley, UAL attorney

If pay isn't of the utmost importance to the well-being of United Flight Attendants, especially with the cost of living going up up and up, then what the hell is?