6.01.26 – APFA Secures Improvements to the 2026-2027 CQ Program

Monday, June 1, 2026

APFA Secures Improvements to the 2026-2027 CQ Program

American Airlines Inflight management has imposed changes to the 2026-2027 Flight Attendant Continuing Qualification (CQ) program. These changes significantly narrowed the margin for error, allowing a single difficult CQ experience to quickly escalate into Final Targeted Training (FTT). (Click here to read the April 30, 2026, hotline).

In response, APFA National President Julie Hedrick and representatives from the APFA Safety and Security Department met with management to immediately address the issues creating unnecessary challenges for Flight Attendants and to push for solutions that protect our careers. As a result of those discussions, the following improvements to the 2026–2027 CQ program will be implemented:

Issue #1: “You Know the Drill” not offered for Airbus aircraft

APFA raised concerns that Flight Attendants were not being given the same opportunity to participate in the “You Know the Drill” session for the Airbus as is available on other aircraft types. Following discussions with management, the Airbus “You Know the Drill” session is planned to return in June. The training department will communicate once the change is implemented.

Issue #2: Discontinued drill walkthrough for Final Targeted Training 

APFA raised concerns regarding the discontinuation of instructor walkthroughs before a Flight Attendant’s final drill attempt. As a result, Flight Attendants who proceed to Final Targeted Training (FTT) for any drill will once again receive a walkthrough from the instructor and have the opportunity to ask questions before making their final attempt.

Issue #3: Removing trips in the current and future months after a failed third attempt

APFA raised serious concerns over the previous practice of removing all trips in both the current and future months after a Flight Attendant failed a third attempt during CQ. Management has now changed this process. Going forward, only trips between the time of the failed third attempt and the completion of the fourth attempt at FTT within the seven-day window will be removed. This change significantly reduces the financial impact on Flight Attendants while allowing them the opportunity to complete the required FTT.

Issue #4: Streamlined scheduling and paperwork following a failed end-of-day attempt

APFA also addressed concerns about the confusion and delays Flight Attendants experienced after a failed end-of-day attempt.

Flight Attendants will now receive all accompanying paperwork outlining the next steps before leaving CQ following a failed end-of-day attempt. They will then return home, and the Training Department will reach out the following day to schedule Final Targeted Training (FTT), allowing time to process the information and consider scheduling needs before moving forward.

APFA Support During Final Targeted Training (FTT)

APFA understands the stress and uncertainty that can come with being assigned to Final Targeted Training. If you are placed into FTT, APFA will proactively send you a notification with information on how to access support and assistance throughout the process.

Need additional support?

APFA Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
(833) 214‑2002
[email protected]

American Airlines Member Assistance Program (MAP)
(833) 721‑2322
my.aa.com/map

APFA Safety Department
[email protected]

APFA Base Representatives
www.apfa.org/bases/