On Wednesday some 20,000 flight attendants from Delta Airlines refused to form a union, but only by 328 votes.
“We are happy to share the results of the Delta flight attendant representation election we received today from the National Mediation Board. The majority of voters rejected AFA representation,” says Joanne Smith, senior vice president of in-flight service. “This is a win for all Delta flight attendants. We are pleased not just with the outcome, but also with the fact that so many of you let your voice be heard. There were 18,760 votes cast and 53% voted against AFA representation.”
The AFA was understandably disappointed: “We are extremely disappointed that once again, Delta management overwhelmed flight attendants with heavy handed intimidation and coercion of voters,” says Patricia Friend, AFA-CWA International President. “They stopped at nothing to keep Delta flight attendants from gaining a voice and advancing their profession.”
A Delta spokesperson called the allegations “ridiculous”. “Delta did not track anyone’s votes. These are the same computers used by flight attendants in the 2008 election – to which the AFA didn’t object. The AFA clearly plans to continue its fear and smear campaign, even after our flight attendants have decided.”