The recent announcement of the July 4th Holiday Absence Certificate requirement as well as the attendance (incentive) bonus point eligibility program, has raised questions about the interaction of these programs. In addition, questions have been received about how the use of Family Medical Leave, on an unpaid basis, to support an absence during the designated holiday period to care for a child, spouse or domestic partner interacts with these programs.
It is important to note, with the limited exception of those Flight Attendants not having had an absence in the prior twelve (12) calendar months, when using sick leave without approved Family Medical Leave, whether paid or unpaid, Flight Attendants must provide an Absence Certificate in every instance. Any absence, paid or unpaid, will result in the Flight Attendant being ineligible to receive the holiday bonus credit.
In terms of Family Medical Leave usage, the following guidelines apply:Flight Attendants using FMLA for their own personal medical situation who request sick pay for the absence are required to provide the Absence Certificate for the holiday period. This absence will result in the Flight Attendant being ineligible to receive the holiday bonus point.
Flight Attendants using FMLA for their own personal medical situation who do not receive paid sick time for the absence are not required to provide the Absence Certificate for the holiday period. This absence will result in the Flight Attendant being ineligible to receive the holiday bonus point.
Flight Attendants using FMLA to care for an eligible family member, unpaid, are not required to provide an absence certificate for the holiday period. This absence will result in the Flight Attendant being ineligible to receive the holiday bonus point.
Should you have additional questions on the interaction of Family Medical Leave with the Absence Certificate requirement or the holiday attendance bonus point program, please direct those through your Local Council Office.