After years of contentious negotiations, Sun Country Airlines and the flight attendants’ union, Teamsters Local 120, have reached a landmark agreement, marking a significant victory for over 700 flight attendants.
The deal, ratified on March 3, 2025, brings substantial improvements to wages and working conditions while averting a potential strike.
Key Highlights of the Agreement:
-
Wage Increases: Flight attendants will see an immediate 21% pay raise, with total increases reaching up to 58% over the five-year contract term.
-
Enhanced Benefits: The agreement boosts Sun Country’s contributions to retirement plans and includes stronger protections for holiday scheduling.
-
Accelerated Pay Scale: The time required to reach top-of-scale pay has been significantly reduced, addressing long-standing concerns about wage progression.
A Long Road to Resolution
Negotiations began in 2019 when the previous collective bargaining agreement became amendable. However, progress stalled for years, with flight attendants working under a 2014 contract amended in 2016.
Frustrations culminated in August 2024 when union members overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike, citing stagnant wages and subpar conditions compared to industry peers.
Union officials had long criticized Sun Country for lagging behind competitors in compensation. Entry-level wages started at $21.53 per hour, with top rates taking decades to achieve.
The new contract addresses these disparities, bringing Sun Country closer to industry standards.
Reactions
Union representatives hailed the agreement as a transformative step forward. “This contract is a testament to the determination and unity of our members,” said Rich Fredrick, a Teamsters Local 120 business agent.
Sun Country also expressed gratitude for its flight attendants’ contributions, with Vice President Matt Hoiness stating, “We are committed to ensuring our employees are fairly compensated for their hard work.”
The deal not only resolves years of labor strife but also sets a new precedent for employee relations at Sun Country Airlines.
With improved wages and benefits, the airline aims to retain talent and enhance operational stability as it continues to grow in the competitive low-cost carrier market.
Also Read