SAN DIEGO — Alaska Airlines flight attendants say they're not being paid or treated fairly.
On Monday, dozens of flight attendants picketed outside Terminal Two at San Diego International Airport.
They haven't had a new contract in nine years, saying they're underpaid, and in some cases, even when they’re working, they're not paid at all.
"Our last major contract was in 2014, almost nine years ago. We've had very little modifications since then, so it's now time we get our fair share and the work rules we deserve," said James Bozanich, who has been with the company for 14 years.
One of the significant changes he and others are fighting for is boarding pay, saying flight attendants don't get paid until an airplane door is shut.
"So, I want you to think about the last flight you've been on. All those things that have happened where you can't find a place for your bag, seat duplications, they might have to assist a guest with special needs. We're doing all this additional work we're not getting compensated for. This has been like this since the dawn of aviation, and it's time for a change," said Bozanich.
Flight attendants also want better work rules regarding hours and layover times. Company-wide, they represent the most significant portion of Alaska Airlines, with nearly 7,000 flight attendants. They're picketing now after negotiations between their union and the airline fell apart.
“We got to the financial part at the very end, and we were steaming along; it was going great, and they just bailed on us as far as the compensation part of our package, so, of course, we're outraged,” said Melanie Buker, vice president of the union's local chapter.
Buker is hopeful negotiations will continue, saying it could get to that point while no one is on strike.
"We're hoping the company returns to the table and will pay us, but it can progress to a strike. But, we're not there yet," said Buker.
They are now joining flight attendants from around the United States, who also picketed Monday.
A more significant event is planned for August 15.
In a statement, Alaska Airlines told CBS 8:
“Most of our frontline employees are represented by a union, and our union partners make us a stronger company. Some off-duty Alaska flight attendants may be participating in informational picketing this week. We respect their protected right to engage in these activities and do not expect any disruption to our operation as a result.”
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