6.22.26 – APFA LAX Base Brief – LAX Base Vice President Newsletter: July 2026

Monday, June 22, 2026

Solidarity Summer is in Full Effect

Now more than ever, we must stand together, support one another, and remain committed to our Union. Protecting our hard-fought Contract requires vigilance, engagement, and a collective determination to hold the Company accountable whenever our rights are challenged.

LAX Flight Attendants are among the most hardworking, professional, loyal, and dedicated in the system. American Airlines must recognize the critical role LAX plays in the success of its operation and invest in the people who make that success possible.

While morale may be challenged by recent events, our resolve remains strong. We will continue advocating for our base, supporting our fellow Flight Attendants, and standing in solidarity with those who have been displaced. Together, we can help turn the corner and build a stronger future for LAX.

Continue showing up for one another. Continue speaking up. Continue fighting for the respect, resources, and opportunities our base deserves.

United in purpose, unwavering in commitment, and proud to call LAX home—we will continue our fight for the best base in the system.

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CALL TO ACTION!

We must stand together and continue fighting for our displaced Flight Attendants.

We have created a three-step action checklist to help you send a clear message to our new Base Manager, Cynthia Valdivia, that LAX Flight Attendants expect leadership to advocate for the return of our PORs and support the restoration of our base.

Each step includes specific action items and guidance to help make your voice heard. Please share this checklist with your friends, flying partners, and crews. We encourage everyone to meet with Cynthia in person and follow up with an email. Together, we can demonstrate that our commitment to bringing displaced Flight Attendants home remains unwavering.

Access the checklist HERE!

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On May 31 (Flight Attendant Appreciation Day), I had the opportunity to sit down with Vice President of Inflight Bobbi Wells to discuss the challenges facing LAX Flight Attendants and how American Airlines can honor its commitments and support our base. It was a lengthy, candid, and productive conversation. I remain hopeful that Bobbi will return to Skyview with a renewed commitment to the growth, success, and future of LAX.

I have also begun work on a mobile version of the LAX Quick Reference Guide, making it easier than ever for Flight Attendants to quickly access the information and resources they use most.

On June 7, I had the distinct privilege of representing APFA at the WeHo Pride Parade alongside fellow LAX Flight Attendants, Flight Attendants from other airlines, and many supportive allies. It was an incredible experience hearing spectators cheer us on, with many enthusiastically shouting, “We love Flight Attendants!” I hope we have the opportunity to participate again next year with an even larger group representing our profession and our union.

In addition, I have launched the LAX Dues Campaign with the goal of making LAX the base with the lowest dues arrears rate in the system. This is a collective effort that requires participation from all of us. Remaining dues current is critical to the strength of our union and ensures APFA can continue providing the representation, resources, and support our members rely on every day.

To learn more about the Dues Department, click HERE.

Paying Dues Online? Watch our step-by-step instructional video HERE.

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Reserve Bidding Refresher

Will you be on Reserve in July or August?

Join us for a Reserve Bidding Refresher to review bidding strategies, ask questions, and prepare for the upcoming month.

📅 June 26 at 10:00 a.m. PT – Join HERE
📅 July 28 at 10:00 a.m. PT – Join HERE

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🔹 2Q Web-Based Training (WBT) Due July 1
Don’t forget! 2Q WBTs must be completed by July 1 at 23:59 CT.

🔹 ROTA/ROTD Acknowledgement Receipts in ECS
When you acknowledge a Reserve assignment in Crew Portal, a record of that acknowledgement is automatically captured in ECS. Be sure to familiarize yourself with this process. Learn more HERE. 

🔹 Earlier Descent Procedures Now in Effect
Effective June 3, revised descent procedures were implemented to help reduce turbulence-related injuries and improve communication between the flight deck and cabin crew. Find out more HERE.

🔹 Treasurer’s Update: A Clearer View of Where Your Dues Go
APFA remains committed to transparency and accountability. Learn how your dues are being utilized to support the membership. Read more HERE.

🔹 Retirement Town Hall Recording Available
If you were unable to attend the June 10 APFA Virtual Retirement Town Hall, a recording is now available. Watch it HERE.

🔹 Known Crewmember (KCM) Program Transition to CMAP
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is preparing to launch the next evolution of the Known Crewmember program through the new Crewmember Access Point (CMAP) platform. Initial deployment begins June 22, 2026, with additional airports being added through September 2026. Learn more HERE.

🔹 APFA National Departments Budget Update & Operating Hours
Effective May 1, 2026, adjustments to staffing levels and operating hours were implemented across certain APFA National Departments as part of budget management efforts. Learn more HERE.

🔹 Support the Wings Foundation
The Wings Foundation provides critical assistance to aviation professionals facing unexpected hardships. Your support makes a difference. Learn more and make a donation HERE.

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• No question or concern is too big or too small—please feel comfortable reaching out. Don’t hesitate to rely on your leadership team; we’re here to support you.
• Want to voice a concern but want to stay anonymous? Connect via our “LAX Suggestion Box” Click HERE.
• Need a new APFA blue lanyard and pin? Reach out to me!
• IMPORTANT: When calling or texting me, please include your full name and employee number for better assistance. Additionally, messages sent to my company email may not always be received or answered.

In Solidarity,

Cody Steele
APFA LAX Base Vice President 
(909) 292-6478
[email protected]