10.17.25 – 2026 Benefits: GLP-1 Medication Changes

2026 Benefits: GLP-1 Medication Changes

Friday, October 17, 2025

American Airlines has made a material change to our 2026 healthcare coverage for all American Airlines employees that will significantly impact members who rely on GLP-1 medications for their health and well-being.

Beginning January 1, 2026, the company’s health plan will only cover GLP-1 medications for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Within that group, coverage will be limited only to Ozempic® and Mounjaro®. This means that Wegovy® and Saxenda® will be completely excluded from coverage, even if medically necessary or prescribed by your physician.

Upon notification of this change, APFA immediately informed management that this change raises serious concerns for our Members and that reasonable alternatives are available to preserve Member access to these medications while addressing cost management, including:

• Implementation of copay caps to limit out-of-pocket exposure for Members.
• Use of prior authorization requirements to ensure medical necessity.
• Adoption of step therapy protocols, allowing use of preferred lower-cost alternatives.

The company has chosen to bypass these alternatives and pursue outright exclusion for all employees, even with the growing recognition of obesity as a chronic disease.

This decision was made unilaterally by American Airlines. This change reduces the value of your healthcare coverage and strips treatment options Members rely on for prevention and quality of life. Your Union will continue to fight to have these medications covered for weight management.

We are urging all affected Members and those who stand in solidarity to contact the following company representatives directly. Voice your concerns about this decision. Share how this change impacts you, your family, or your ability to manage your health. Every message matters.

• Pankaj Kadam ([email protected]), Managing Director Benefits, Retirement, and Shared Services, and
• Rebecca Brogan ([email protected]), Director, Benefits Planning and Performance.
• Please copy in [email protected].

Collective action and visibility are key in showing the company that these cuts are unacceptable.

In Solidarity,

Hayley Brewer
APFA National Health Department Chair
[email protected]