United Airlines Implements Controversial Sick Leave Policy for Flight Attendants

Back in July 2024, United Airlines rolled out a new policy that raised eyebrows among both flight attendants and the general public. Under the new rule, any flight attendant who calls in sick over a weekend now has to provide a doctor’s note—something many see as a surprising and strict shift in company protocol. This policy has raised eyebrows and sparked tension with the union representing the airline’s flight attendants, the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA).

The airline introduced this new sick leave policy after noticing a 22-23% surge in sick calls from flight attendants during weekends, specifically from Friday to Sunday. These absences were disrupting operations, especially during peak travel times.

Weekends are vital for airlines, as they see high numbers of passengers. And the shortage of staff caused by these sick calls led to a mess in scheduling.

Aviation / Per the new policy, flight attendants who call in sick on weekends must provide a doctor’s note to justify their absence.

United says the policy is meant to keep things running smoothly, especially during peak travel times when every crew member counts. While it’s true that consistent staffing is crucial, the decision has sparked plenty of debate and pushback.

Flight Attendants Union Strikes Back

The AFA-CWA didn’t waste time pushing back, filing a grievance against United over the new policy. The union claimed the move violated the current contract, which, they said, only allowed management to request medical documentation during specific high-traffic times, like around the Fourth of July or Christmas.

From the union’s perspective, extending that requirement to weekends—when sick calls tend to rise—felt like an overreach.

United, on the other hand, stood firm. The airline argued it was well within its rights, especially in situations where there were signs of sick leave being abused. Requiring a doctor’s note, they said, was both reasonable and necessary to avoid disruptions. The disagreement eventually went to arbitration, where an independent arbitrator sided with the airline.

The arbitrator’s ruling was a victory for United Airlines. The decision supported the idea that the airline could demand medical proof if there was sufficient evidence of sick leave misuse. While the union described the policy as “reprehensible,” the arbitrator found that it didn’t violate the contract.

Though United won this round, the policy was temporarily suspended once the sick call rates returned to normal levels.

This suspension gave flight attendants a temporary reprieve, but it didn’t mean the issue was resolved. United Airlines kept the door open to reinstate the policy if sick call rates spike again.

Sismets / Unsplash / Flight attendants argue that this could lead to unsafe working conditions, with employees being forced to work when they might not be fully recovered.

Disciplinary Action to Follow Suit

Under the policy, flight attendants who fail to provide a doctor’s note within 72 hours of calling in sick on weekends risk facing disciplinary action. Depending on the situation, this could include anything from warnings to termination.

This has raised concerns within the union, as they feel it pressures sick employees to return to work before they are ready.

In response, United has defended the policy, saying it’s essential for keeping flights on schedule. According to the airline, when crew members call out without enough notice—or don’t show up at all—it can lead to delays and cancellations that directly affect travelers.

In addition to the doctor’s note requirement, United Airlines has implemented another rule that flight attendants must notify the airline of their illness at least eight hours in advance. If they fail to do so, they receive attendance points and face potential performance warnings.