These are the questions Flight Attendants have asked about SWAFAA, authorization cards, the RLA, finances, negotiations, leadership, and accountability.
Q1Why are you doing this? What's wrong with TWU?
Honestly, this isn't about hating TWU or hating people. It's about believing Flight Attendants deserve another option. For years I've watched people feel like they weren't being heard. Whether it's communication, transparency, finances, or major decisions, I just kept hearing the same frustrations over and over. I got tired of complaining. So I decided to try doing something about it. If people love TWU, that's completely their choice. I'm not here to force anyone into anything. I'm simply asking, "Should Flight Attendants have another option?" I think that's a fair question.
Q2Isn't this just about you wanting power?
If I wanted power, this would probably be the dumbest way to get it. This has been hundreds and hundreds of volunteer hours. I've spent my own money. I've driven all over. I've built the website. I've paid for legal filings. I've answered thousands of questions. Nobody has paid me a dime. I'm doing this because I honestly believe we can build something better.
Q3How do we know you won't become just like TWU?
That's probably one of the best questions you could ask. The answer is... You shouldn't just trust me because I'm Travis. You should hold me accountable. That's exactly why I've talked so much about transparency. If SWAFAA can't explain where money is going... If leadership hides information... If members don't have a voice... Then we've already failed. I don't want anyone blindly following me. I want people asking hard questions.
Q4Why should I sign an Authorization Card?
Because it isn't a vote. That's probably the biggest misconception. The card simply says... "I want the opportunity to vote." That's it. If enough Flight Attendants sign, the National Mediation Board can hold a representation election. THAT'S where everyone votes. Whether someone votes for SWAFAA... TWU... or against us... that's completely their decision. The Authorization Card simply gives everybody the opportunity to make that decision.
Q5If SWAFAA loses, then what?
Then the members have spoken. That's how democracy works. I'm not afraid of a vote. Actually... I'm asking FOR one. If Flight Attendants choose TWU... I'll respect it. But I think Flight Attendants deserve the opportunity to decide.
Q6Where's the money going?
That's easy. Right back into building this. Legal filings. Website. Printing. Travel. P.O. Box. Educational material. Terminal visits. Marketing. Everything has been volunteer. Nobody is collecting a paycheck. And unlike what many Flight Attendants say they've experienced elsewhere, I want members to always know where their money is going. If we're asking people to trust us with dues one day, then we should be willing to show them exactly how those funds are being used.
Q7How are you going to run a union without TWU's money?
Every union had a first day. We'd be starting from the ground up financially, just like every organization does. Right now we're building that foundation through donations. If SWAFAA were ever elected, the members—not me—would decide what dues should be. Once dues started coming in, we'd have a steady operating budget just like every other union. The hard part is getting started. After that, it's about being responsible with the members' money.
Q8Won't we lose our contract?
No. That's probably one of the biggest misconceptions out there. Changing representatives doesn't make the contract disappear. The National Mediation Board has said a change in representation does not alter or cancel an existing agreement. The contract stays in place while the new representative takes over and bargains going forward. Nobody wakes up the next morning without a contract.
Q9Why now?
The frustrations have been building for a long time, and it feels like the right moment to offer a real alternative. People are talking more openly about what’s not working — communication, transparency, how decisions get made. I got tired of just hearing the complaints in the galley or on the jumpseat. So I decided to do something about it. This isn’t a sudden idea. It’s the result of listening to hundreds of Flight Attendants over months and years. If people are happy with the current setup, great — stay with it. But if you’ve felt unheard, SWAFAA is here as an option. I think giving Flight Attendants a choice is fair.
Q10Are you getting paid for this?
No, not a single dime. This has all been volunteer work from the start. I’ve used my own time off, my own money for travel and supplies, and countless hours answering messages. Nobody is funding me personally. The donations that come in go straight to legal stuff, the website, printing cards, and terminal visits. That’s it. If we ever get to dues, those will be decided by members and used for actual representation. I’m doing this because I believe in it, not for a paycheck.
Q11What makes SWAFAA different from other unions?
We’re starting fresh with member input at the center. From the beginning, we’re talking about transparency reports, accountability measures, and listening to what Flight Attendants actually want in negotiations. I’ve seen too many people feel like decisions happen far away from the line. SWAFAA is built to keep the power closer to you. We’re not promising perfection, but we are promising to do it differently and learn from what hasn’t worked before. That’s the difference.
Q12Do you have any union experience?
Honestly, I think that’s a fair question.
I’ve never tried to portray myself as someone who has spent decades in union leadership. I’ve always been honest about that.
Before Southwest, I was with United Airlines, where I served as an IOE Coordinator and Link Team Rep. Those experiences gave me a lot of exposure to working with people, helping others navigate issues, and being someone people could come to when they needed help.
Since coming to Southwest, I’ve continued learning and getting involved, and SWAFAA has taken that to an entirely different level. I’ve spent countless hours studying the Railway Labor Act, the NMB process, our contract, talking with Flight Attendants, listening to their concerns, answering questions, researching, and learning what it actually takes to build something from the ground up.
I don’t pretend to know everything, and I don’t think anyone should. I think good leadership means being willing to listen, learn, bring in people with different experiences, and make decisions together.
That’s really what I’m trying to do with SWAFAA. I’m bringing the experience I have, continuing to learn every day, and building this with the Flight Attendants — not pretending that one person has all the answers.
And honestly, I think that’s a pretty good place to start.
Q13Is this just a few people pushing this?
No. It started with a small group, but it’s growing because so many Flight Attendants are sharing the same frustrations. I’ve heard from hundreds across bases. This isn’t one person’s idea anymore — it’s becoming a real movement of people who want a voice. The more who get involved, the stronger and more representative it becomes.
Q14What’s your background as a Flight Attendant?
I’m a working Flight Attendant just like you. I’ve seen the same schedules, the same challenges, the same issues in the cabin. That’s why I care so much. I’m not some outsider. I live this job every day, and I want it to be better for all of us.
Q15Are you running for a position?
No. I will serve as SWAFAA’s Founding President during the organizing process and until the first election is held. Once the members elect their leadership, my role as President ends, and I will move into the permanent Guardian of the Constitution role. The Guardian of the Constitution is a separate role focused on protecting the Constitution and its principles—not running the union or taking the place of elected leadership.
Q16Why should I listen to you specifically?
You shouldn’t just because it’s me. Listen because of the idea — giving Flight Attendants a real choice. Look at the work we’re doing: volunteer hours, transparency promises, studying the law so we can answer questions accurately. Judge us by actions, not by one person. Ask the hard questions. That’s how we’ll stay on track.
Q17Isn’t starting a new union risky?
Any change has some risk, but staying silent about frustrations carries its own risks too. The RLA gives us a clear, legal process. We’re following it carefully. The biggest risk is doing nothing and watching the same issues continue. I believe the reward of a member-led union is worth it.
Q18How many people are really behind this?
We’re growing every week as more Flight Attendants hear about it and sign cards or share their stories. It started small, like most grassroots efforts, but the response has been strong from people who want change. The exact number isn’t as important as the momentum and the conversations happening in terminals right now.
Q19What if this fails?
Then we learn from it and the members have spoken. I’m okay with that outcome because at least we gave people the opportunity to choose. I’d rather try and respect the vote than wonder “what if.” Either way, the effort has already sparked important conversations.
Q20Do you have endorsements or support from other unions?
We’re focused on being independent and member-led. We’re open to learning from anyone, but the decisions will come from Southwest Flight Attendants. That independence is important to a lot of people who want something built specifically for us.
Q21Is signing a card the same as joining the union?
No, not at all. Signing an authorization card is simply saying you want the opportunity to vote in a representation election. It’s not joining anything yet. The National Mediation Board looks at the number of cards to decide if there’s enough interest to hold a secret ballot election. After that, everyone gets to vote yes, no, or for another option. So it’s really just the first step to democracy — giving Flight Attendants a real say.
Q22Can I change my mind after signing a card?
Yes, absolutely. The card is not a binding contract. It’s just to show interest so we can get to an election. If you sign and later decide you prefer the current union or no union at all, you vote however you want in the secret ballot. No one is locked in. That’s one of the protections under the Railway Labor Act.
Q23How long are the authorization cards good for?
Usually they’re valid for one year from the date you sign. The NMB has rules about this to keep things current. So if we don’t get enough interest quickly, we may need to refresh cards, but the goal is to move forward as soon as we have strong support from Flight Attendants.
Q24What information is on the authorization card?
It’s simple. It basically says you authorize SWAFAA to represent you for the purpose of getting an election. Your name, employee number, signature, and date. Nothing more invasive. We protect your information carefully.
Q25Is my signature private?
Yes. The cards are handled according to NMB rules so your employer doesn’t see individual signatures. Only the total count matters for showing interest. Your privacy is protected in this process.
Q26What happens after we collect enough cards?
We file with the National Mediation Board. They verify the showing of interest (at least 50% of the craft or class) and investigate the application. If the NMB determines the requirements have been met, they will move forward with a secret ballot election. That’s where the real vote happens — mail-in or however they set it up. Everyone gets a chance to choose.
Q27How do I know the election will be fair?
The NMB is the federal agency that runs these. They have strict rules for “laboratory conditions” so the company can’t interfere. The RLA protects your right to vote freely. We’ll be watching closely too.
Q28What if I don’t sign a card?
That’s completely fine. You can still vote in the election if one is held. Signing just helps us reach the threshold to get the vote scheduled. No pressure — it’s your choice.
Q29Do I have to talk to anyone to sign?
No. You can sign online or on paper privately. We have people available in terminals if you want to ask questions, but there’s no requirement to discuss it with anyone if you don’t want to.
Q30What percentage do we need to get an election?
We need valid authorization cards from at least 50% of the eligible Flight Attendants. That’s the NMB standard under the Railway Labor Act. It’s a high bar, which is why we’re working hard to talk to people.
Q31Is this like a card-check election?
No. Under the RLA for airlines, it goes to a secret ballot election run by the NMB once we show enough interest. It’s not automatic recognition — everyone gets to vote privately.
Q32How long does the whole process take?
It varies, but from filing to election can take several months. The NMB moves at its own pace. We’ll keep everyone updated along the way.
Q33What if the company delays things?
The RLA and NMB rules are designed to prevent improper delays. If there’s interference, we can address it legally. The process is meant to protect employee choice.
Q34How are authorization cards handled?
The NMB administers the representation process and verifies authorization cards as part of determining the showing of interest. The Board explains that its process is designed to protect employee choice and ensure the selection of a representative is made by employees.
Q35What happens if we don’t reach 50%?
We keep building support and can try again later with fresh cards. No harm done — it just means we need more conversations. The effort itself raises awareness.
Q36What protects my freedom to make my own decision?
The Railway Labor Act protects employee choice. The NMB states that the representation process must occur without carrier interference, influence, or coercion. SWAFAA believes every conversation should follow that same principle: give Flight Attendants the information, time, and space to make their own decision.
Q37Can I sign a card for more than one group?
Yes. You can sign an authorization card for more than one union or organization. Signing a card does not mean you have made your final choice, committed yourself to that organization, or lost your right to vote for someone else. It also does not mean you will be represented by every organization whose card you sign.
Think of the authorization card as saying: “I support giving the Flight Attendants the opportunity to vote.” You can sign a card for SWAFAA and still sign a card for another organization. If an election is held, your actual vote is private, and that is when you make your final choice. You can vote for whichever option you want at that time, regardless of which authorization cards you previously signed.
Signing an authorization card does not automatically vote for SWAFAA or guarantee that SWAFAA will win. The election ballot is where your final decision is made.
Q38What’s the difference between a card and a vote?
The card is like saying “I want an election.” The vote in the NMB election is the real decision — for SWAFAA, for the current union, or no union. Big difference.
Q39Will there be campaigning before the election?
Yes, both sides can campaign respectfully. We’ll focus on facts, our vision, and answering questions. The NMB oversees to keep it fair.
Q40Why is the process so complicated?
The Railway Labor Act is old and designed to avoid disruptions in transportation. That’s why there are specific steps. But it does protect your right to choose, and we’re following it carefully so everything is legitimate.
Q41How much will dues be?
We haven’t locked in a number yet because we want member input on that. The goal is to set fair dues that support strong representation without being a burden. We’ll look at what other unions charge and what Flight Attendants think is reasonable. If SWAFAA gets elected, the members — not just leadership — will have a real say in setting and reviewing dues. Transparency from the beginning is key.
Q42Will dues be higher than what people pay now?
I can’t promise they’ll be lower, but we will be very careful with every dollar. The focus will be on efficiency and delivering real value — better communication, faster grievance handling, and negotiations that reflect what you want. Many people feel they’re not getting enough value today, so we aim to change that. Members will help decide the structure so it makes sense.
Q43What about financial transparency?
This is one of the biggest things I’ve heard. SWAFAA will publish regular, easy-to-understand financial reports to all members. Where the money comes from, where it goes — legal, operations, representation, everything. If we can’t explain it clearly, we shouldn’t be asking for it. That’s the standard we’re setting from day one.
Q44Will I have to pay dues if I don’t support SWAFAA?
Under the Railway Labor Act, there can be union security agreements once a union is certified. But we will work to make sure the value is there so people want to support it. The exact rules will be decided with member input. No one should feel forced — the goal is strong, voluntary support through good representation.
Q45Where will the dues money actually go?
Primarily to representation: negotiators, legal support, grievance handling, communication, and training volunteers. There won’t be waste on fancy offices or unnecessary extras. We’ll keep overhead low because we’re starting member-led. Full reports will show exactly where every dollar goes so you can hold us accountable.
Q46Who decides how dues are spent?
The members. Through elected leadership and transparent processes, you’ll have input and visibility. We’re building bylaws and governance that give Flight Attendants real oversight, not just a rubber stamp. That’s the difference we’re aiming for.
Q47What if I can’t afford dues?
We’ll explore options like hardship provisions or payment plans, just like many unions do. The last thing we want is to create financial stress. Representation should help improve your life, not make it harder.
Q48How do you plan to handle union finances responsibly?
By starting small, documenting everything, and having independent reviews. No one person controls the money. We’ll have clear policies and member oversight from the start. I’ve seen the complaints about finances elsewhere, and we’re determined not to repeat those mistakes.
Q49Will there be dues check-off?
That’s something we can negotiate with the company if elected. It’s common and convenient, but again — decided with member input and full transparency on how it works.
Q50What happens to dues during negotiations?
Dues support the team working on your contract. They don’t stop during bargaining. But the money is used directly for getting you the best possible agreement. We’ll keep members updated on progress so you see the value.
Q51Are there initiation fees?
We’ll keep any initiation or joining fees minimal or waived where possible. The focus is on ongoing representation, not upfront costs. Details will be clear before anyone is asked to pay.
Q52How will you prevent misuse of funds?
Strong internal controls, regular audits, and member access to records. Leadership will be elected and recallable. If something doesn’t look right, members can act. Accountability is built in, not optional.
Q53Will retirees pay dues?
That’s a member decision. Some unions have different structures for retirees. We’ll listen to what Flight Attendants think is fair.
Q54What about political spending?
Any political or charitable spending will be completely transparent and member-approved. Many people are sensitive about where dues go, so we’ll respect that and give clear opt-out options where legally possible.
Q55How soon after certification would dues start?
We’d work with the NMB and company on a smooth transition. Dues wouldn’t start until representation is official and members have been informed. No surprises.
Q56Can I see a sample budget?
As we grow, we’ll share projected budgets so you can see the plan. Right now everything is donation and volunteer funded. We’re proving we can be responsible before asking for more.
Q57What if members don’t like how dues are used?
Then we change it. Elected leadership, regular meetings, and voting on major issues. This is your union — not mine. Feedback and adjustments will be part of how we operate.
Q58How does this compare to other unions’ dues?
We’ll benchmark against industry standards and aim to deliver better value. Some unions have high dues with strong contracts; others less so. Our focus is maximum value for what Flight Attendants pay.
Q59Will there be special assessments?
We’ll avoid them if possible by budgeting responsibly. If ever needed for something big like a major negotiation, it would require member approval and full explanation.
Q60Why should I trust you with my dues money?
Because we’re starting with nothing but volunteer effort and full transparency promises. Watch how we handle the small stuff now — donations, spending reports, open communication. If we can’t get that right, we don’t deserve your trust later. Hold us accountable every step.
Q61Will we have to renegotiate everything from scratch?
No. That’s a common worry, but it’s not how it works. The existing contract stays in full force when representation changes. The National Mediation Board has made this clear. The new representative steps in and can bargain for improvements or changes going forward. Nobody loses what they already have the day after certification.
Q62How will negotiations be different with SWAFAA?
We’ll prioritize member surveys and input before going to the table. Priorities will come from the line — not just leadership. We’ll communicate openly during the process so you know what’s happening. The goal is a contract that actually reflects what Flight Attendants care about most.
Q63How long will it take to get a new contract?
The Railway Labor Act process can take time — that’s just the reality of airline bargaining. But we’ll keep members informed every step and push hard for a fair deal. We won’t drag things out unnecessarily. Past experience shows good preparation leads to better outcomes.
Q64What if negotiations go badly?
We’ll use all the tools under the RLA — mediation if needed. The important thing is having strong member support behind us. Self-help (like strikes) is a last resort and heavily regulated. We’ll keep you updated so everyone understands the process.
Q65Will current benefits disappear?
No. The contract remains in effect. Wages, hours, working conditions — everything stays the same until a new agreement is reached. That’s a key protection under the RLA.
Q66Can SWAFAA improve the current contract?
Yes. Once certified, we can open negotiations for amendments or a full new agreement. We’ll focus on the issues Flight Attendants tell us matter most — scheduling, pay, quality of life, etc.
Q67What about scope and job protections?
Those are major priorities. We’ll fight to strengthen protections so the work stays with Southwest Flight Attendants. Member input will guide exactly what we push for.
Q68How will reserve rules be handled?
We’ll listen to what reserves and lineholders actually experience and negotiate improvements. The current contract is the floor — we want to build on it based on real feedback.
Q69Will vacation and bidding be protected?
Absolutely. Existing provisions stay in place. We can negotiate enhancements based on what people want. Seniority and bidding fairness will be respected.
Q70What about grievance handling?
We’ll build a strong network of trained volunteers and representatives so issues get addressed faster and more fairly. The duty of fair representation applies to everyone. No one gets left behind.
Q71Can the company cancel the contract if we change unions?
No. That’s not allowed under the Railway Labor Act. The agreement remains binding on the carrier until amended or a new one is negotiated.
Q72What is the difference between major and minor disputes?
Minor disputes (grievances over the current contract) go to arbitration. Major disputes (contract changes) follow the full RLA bargaining process with mediation. We’ll explain this clearly so everyone understands their rights.
Q73Will SWAFAA support strikes if needed?
Only as a last resort after all RLA processes are exhausted. Strikes are heavily regulated in our industry. The focus will always be on getting the best deal through preparation and solidarity.
Q74How will you communicate during negotiations?
Regular updates, town halls (virtual and in-person), and clear summaries of proposals. No secrets. Members will know what’s on the table and have opportunities to give feedback.
Q75What if we don’t like the tentative agreement?
You vote on it. If it doesn’t pass, we go back to the table. Leadership works for you — not the other way around. Ratification is your decision.
Q76How will leadership be chosen?
Through elections by the members. We’ll set up fair, democratic processes with term limits so no one stays in power forever. The goal is real representation from the line — people who are still flying or have recent experience. Leadership serves the members, not the other way around.
Q77Will there be term limits?
Yes. We believe fresh perspectives keep things healthy. Term limits prevent entrenchment and make sure leadership stays connected to the day-to-day realities of the job. Details will be voted on by members.
Q78How can members remove bad leadership?
We’ll build recall processes and regular elections into the bylaws. If leadership isn’t delivering, members will have a clear way to vote them out. That accountability is non-negotiable.
Q79Who makes the big decisions?
The membership. Through elected officers, board votes, and direct input on major issues like contract priorities and dues. This won’t be top-down. We’re designing it to keep power with the Flight Attendants.
Q80Will there be a constitution or bylaws?
Yes, and members will have the chance to review and approve them. They’ll include transparency requirements, election rules, and member rights. Nothing hidden.
Q81How will bases or domiciles be represented?
Fairly. We want representatives from across the system so every base has a voice. No single domicile dominates. System-wide but locally informed.
Q82Will there be paid staff?
Some professional staff for legal, negotiations, and admin as we grow — that’s normal. But we’ll also rely heavily on trained member volunteers to keep costs down and connection strong.
Q83How do I run for a position?
Clear, fair nomination and election rules. Any member in good standing can participate. We’ll make the process open and accessible.
Q84What about diversity of opinions on the board?
We want it. Different viewpoints make us stronger. As long as everyone is committed to the mission and follows democratic rules, there’s room for healthy debate.
Q85How will you prevent corruption or power abuse?
Strong financial controls, regular audits, term limits, recall options, and full transparency. Members will have access to information. We’re learning from past examples and building safeguards from the start.
Q86Will there be committees for different issues?
Yes — scheduling, safety, grievances, negotiations, etc. Member volunteers can get involved in areas they care about. This spreads the work and brings more voices in.
Q87How often will there be elections?
Regular cycles — probably every 2–4 years depending on the position, as decided by members. Consistent accountability keeps everyone working hard.
Q88Can regular lineholders participate in governance?
Absolutely. That’s the point. We don’t want it run only by full-time union people disconnected from the job. Flying FAs will be encouraged and supported to participate.
Q89What role will I have as a regular member?
Vote in elections, give feedback on contracts, volunteer on committees, attend meetings, and hold leadership accountable. Your voice matters at every level.
Q90How do we make sure SWAFAA stays member-led long-term?
By baking it into the structure: bylaws, term limits, transparency rules, and a culture of asking hard questions. It won’t be perfect, but we’ll keep working at it. The members are the union.
Q91What protections exist for employee choice?
The Railway Labor Act protects employees' right to organize and choose their representative. The NMB explains that carriers may not interfere with, influence, or coerce employees in that choice, and the Board administers the representation process. Knowing where those protections come from gives Flight Attendants a stronger foundation for making informed decisions.
Q92Isn’t this just going to be divisive?
Choice isn’t division — it’s democracy. Flight Attendants deserve options. Healthy competition makes every representative better. We respect people who want to stay with the current union. This is about giving everyone a real voice, not forcing sides.
Q93What happens to current union staff and resources?
There would be a professional transition. Some staff might stay if they want to support the new direction. The focus is on continuity for members while building something better. No chaos — just a smooth handoff under NMB guidance.
Q94How do we know SWAFAA won’t become just like the current union?
That’s the best question. We’ve built in strong protections from the start: term limits, regular membership votes on major issues, financial transparency reports, recall processes, and checks and balances so no small group can take control. I won’t stay in a day-to-day president’s role forever — I plan to step back and serve as the Guardian, the ultimate oversight voice watching for any signs of decay, rot, dishonesty, or the problems that happened before. SWAFAA is structurally different because the membership has the real power.
Q95What if leadership starts making bad decisions?
Membership votes and recall options kick in. We have checks and balances written into the structure. No one person or small group gets unchecked power. You’ll see regular reports and opportunities to vote. The Guardian role will help catch issues early.
Q96Will there be the same problems with finances or transparency?
Not if we do what we’re promising now. Full public reports, member oversight, independent reviews, and clear bylaws. I’m personally committed to this, and after I step back from daily leadership, the Guardian oversight will help keep everyone honest. We’re proving it with how we operate today — built by volunteers, with no personal financial gain, and with transparency from the start.
Q97What if SWAFAA gets corrupted over time?
We have built-in protections against decay and rot: term limits, membership votes on everything important, financial audits, and a culture that encourages hard questions. As the Guardian, I’ll stay involved to call out problems early. The ultimate power stays with the members, not any individual. That’s how we stay different long-term.
Q98How do we make sure the membership really has the power?
By putting major decisions — dues, contracts, bylaws changes — to membership votes. Elected board with real accountability. No rubber-stamp system. We’re designing it so Flight Attendants control their union, not the other way around.
Q99What if I disagree with the direction SWAFAA takes?
That’s okay. You can speak up, vote, run for positions, or even push for changes. Dissent is healthy. The structure protects minority voices while moving forward with majority decisions. No one gets silenced.
Q100Why should I trust that this time will be different?
Because we’re building it differently from the ground up with protections against the problems you’ve seen before. Checks and balances, membership votes on everything important, term limits, transparency, and my commitment to step back from the president’s role while serving as the Guardian. I’ve put in the volunteer work with no personal gain. Watch what we do now, hold us accountable, and help shape it. This belongs to the Flight Attendants.
SWAFAA / THE PEOPLE
