DALLAS- Flight attendants at American Airlines (AA) have issued a scathing critique of senior management at the Fort Worth-based carrier (DFW) through their union, demanding accountability following the airline’s $473 million first-quarter loss.
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) released their statement hours after American Airlines announced disappointing Q1 2025 financial results, particularly criticizing the million-dollar severance package received by former chief commercial officer Vasu Raja despite his failed business strategies.
Photo: American AirlinesAmerican Attendants Slam Management
The flight attendant union’s frustration stems from what they perceive as a series of strategic failures under previous leadership that have weakened American’s competitive position, PYOK reported.
Former CCO Vasu Raja, who departed in June 2024, continued receiving his base salary until January 2025, totaling $462,019, plus a lump sum payment of $968,750 after his severance period ended, despite implementing strategies that the union claims damaged the airline’s performance.
Under Raja’s direction, American Airlines pivoted away from premium international markets, removed seatback entertainment systems, and implemented a controversial sales strategy that reportedly alienated travel agencies and corporate customers.
These decisions, according to APFA, contributed significantly to American’s current financial challenges as competitors like Delta Air Lines (DL) and United Airlines (UA) gained market advantage.
Photo credit: Joe PriesDemands for Accountability
APFA National President Julie Hedrick has called for American’s leadership team to be “held to the same performance standards as the Flight Attendants,” suggesting that executives should face consequences comparable to frontline employees when strategies fail.
The union’s core demand is straightforward: “Fix the product in all cabins and staff your airplanes to be the global leader in aviation.”
The criticism comes at a pivotal time for American Airlines, which has begun implementing changes to improve its product offerings.
The carrier plans to take delivery of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners featuring business class suites with privacy doors and has announced the rollout of free in-flight Wi-Fi across its domestic single-aisle fleet in early 2026.
Photo: Cado PhotoFinancial Impact and Future Direction
American Airlines’ financial position remains challenging despite last year’s new flight attendant contract that provided a significant 33% pay increase for veteran crew members.
While this contract has added to the airline’s operating costs, it addressed long-standing compensation concerns without substantial workload concessions.
Industry analysts suggest American faces a critical juncture where it must balance financial discipline with necessary product investments to regain competitive footing.
The airline’s upcoming product enhancements signal acknowledgment of needed changes, though the union argues these steps may be insufficient without more fundamental strategic realignment.
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