We are all experiencing changes at work. Some of these changes are merger related – redeployment of aircraft into different markets while running two separate inflight operations. Other changes come as a result of our new Contract that provides for increased productivity – fewer Flight Attendants doing more work. The changes have resulted in new experiences for all of us - including a return to serving Reserve for some who have not done so in a long time.
As Contract changes take effect, we are experiencing the annual shifts of reduced flying during specific seasons and time of year. Does this mean we are shrinking? No. It's important to understand all of the moving parts within our schedules, identify what is really happening at our airline and how it impacts our schedules.
This article provides a comprehensive review of all of these points. There is no single factor that is tipping the scale, but a number of issues in combination are having a noticeable effect. Reading the article may not change the reality of our current schedules, but it may help with our understanding of what is causing the current changes we may feel on the job.