In a bold move, American Airlines flight attendants have requested to be released from ongoing negotiations with the airline, potentially paving the way for a strike. While the union insists that this move is aimed at applying pressure for a favorable deal, the National Mediation Board will need to assess whether further mediation will be constructive.

According to the union, the airline has not made any significant improvements to the economic terms of their offer during the most recent bargaining session. American Airlines, on the other hand, argues that progress has been made on other aspects of the contract, indicating no impasse.

Unlike Southwest Airlines pilots who were not released from negotiations over the summer, the National Mediation Board has the authority to determine whether further mediated negotiations are likely to yield positive results.

The union has raised the specter of a strike during the Christmas season as part of their messaging. However, experts believe that the likelihood of this occurring is minimal, considering the potential consequences it would have on passengers and the pressure it would place on the airline.

A potential strike could force the President of the United States to make a difficult choice. They would have to either permit the strike to proceed, taking personal responsibility for the disruption to holiday travel plans, or appoint a Presidential Emergency Board to study the issue. The latter option would likely result in a 30-day delay and reduce leverage for the labor union, potentially angering the labor movement.

Amidst rising tensions, some flight attendants are preparing for a battle. However, it is noteworthy that the union is referencing the 1993 strike as a guide for their actions, despite its contrasting outcome.

In 1993, American Airlines flight attendants went on strike, causing uncertainty about the operation of flights initially. The airline responded by training replacement crews and offering base transfers for employees who returned to work. In a bid to encourage employees to return, the airline threatened to staple the seniority of those who didn't come back below the replacement workers who were hired. On the fourth day, President Clinton intervened and mediated a binding arbitration agreement that yielded limited wage increases for the union and favorable work rule changes for the airline.

Meanwhile, the flight attendants union at American Airlines has hinted that a traditional strike may not be their preferred course of action. Instead, their focus may be on the upcoming re-election of union officers, possibly driving the need to sound tough and fulfill promised commitments to flight attendants.

The merger between American Airlines and US Airways has significantly impacted the union's demands. Union officers, who supported the merger, received substantial pay increases and additional benefits. Consequently, flight attendants are now seeking pay raises exceeding those of any other cabin crew in the industry.

As negotiations continue, American Airlines is offering economic terms that would provide cabin crew with raises comparable to those at Delta Air Lines, including boarding pay. However, the union is pushing for even higher compensation, setting a precedent that would surpass industry standards. It remains to be seen if American Airlines flight attendants will strike or hold out for a potential better deal, while keeping an eye on United's flight attendants who are also engaged in negotiations for a possible benchmark agreement.

Considering the financial challenges facing American Airlines relative to its competitors, achieving a favorable outcome in negotiations will require a formidable fight from the flight attendants.