CHICAGO, July 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- United Airlines announced today, that approximately 2,100 flight attendants have taken advantage of voluntary furlough and other furlough mitigation programs, once again completely eliminating the need for involuntary furloughs.
Last month, United announced it needed to reduce its flight attendant workforce, as a result of capacity reduction and lower attrition. Last year, the company announced a reduction of 1,550 flight attendants, which were all achieved through voluntary furloughs.
"We worked very closely with the Association of Flight Attendants to protect jobs and find solutions to prevent involuntary furloughs," said Alexandria Marren, senior vice president - Onboard Service. "We are pleased to avoid the involuntary furlough of any of our flight attendants, and are grateful that so many were able to take advantage of the voluntary programs as we continue to work through this challenging economic environment."
As of August 31, 2009, United will reduce the flight attendant workforce by a total 2,100 positions through voluntary furloughs and other furlough mitigation programs, including the original 1,550 voluntary furloughs from last year. Eligible participants will receive benefits such as medical insurance and travel benefits throughout the duration of their furlough.
About United
United Airlines operates approximately 3,300* flights a day on United and United Express to more than 200 U.S. domestic and international destinations from its hubs in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago and Washington, D.C. With key global air rights in the Asia-Pacific region, Europe and Latin America, United is one of the largest international carriers based in the United States. United also is a founding member of Star Alliance, which provides connections for our customers to 916 destinations in 160 countries worldwide. United's 48,000 employees reside in every U.S. state and in many countries around the world. News releases and other information about United can be found at the company's Web site at united.com.
*Based on United's forward-looking flight schedule for July 2009 to June 2010.
United Airlines
CONTACT: Worldwide Press Office of United Airlines, +1-312-997-8640
Web Site: http://www.united.com/
