Rita Pearl

With all the scheduling issues and long hold times with crew support, what is your plan to address these daily operational challenges?

"I know how frustrating the daily operational challenges are because I live them too. The endless hold times and scheduling errors are unacceptable. While I can't demand a meeting on day one, I am committed to making this a priority. I will use my position to formally bring forward an agenda item to our council, demanding that we address these systemic failures with management and push for real, enforceable solutions."

How will you ensure that our voices are actually heard and that the union is more transparent?

"Transparency is at the heart of my campaign. You shouldn't have to jump through hoops to understand how your dues are being used. I will work to make our budget clear and accessible. Furthermore, to ensure your voices are heard, I will host bi-monthly open meetings where you can speak directly with me and your other representatives. My goal is to create a union where every member feels informed and empowered."

What will you do about the controversial attendance/sick-leave policies?

“I know how strongly many of us felt about the recent sick-leave policy changes. No one should ever feel forced to come to work sick, or feel disrespected when they take time to recover. I will advocate for policies that treat us with dignity and fairness, and I’ll continue to push back on any approach that undermines our sick-leave protections. While I can’t control every management decision, I will always raise our concerns and fight to keep our voices at the center of this issue.”

How will you help reduce being stranded during schedule disruptions or operational failures?

“We’ve all lived through the chaos when the operation melts down—long hold times, poor communication, crews sleeping in airports. I will push for stronger protections in our contract and clearer procedures during disruptions, including timely hotel accommodations and adequate scheduling support. I can’t promise these fixes overnight, but I will bring your stories to the table and advocate for improvements so that none of us are left without the resources we need in those moments.”

What are your thoughts on medical benefits protections and health & safety for flight attendants?

“Our medical benefits and safety standards are some of the most important protections we have. I will stand up against concessions that weaken our benefits, and I’ll advocate for maintaining and improving our health and safety standards, whether that means proper rest, safe hotels, or strong protections against onboard threats. While I can’t guarantee outcomes, I can promise to make this a priority and to keep members informed and engaged every step of the way.”