by Jolene Toves

Guam - United Airlines is offering its flight attendants a lump sum payout of up to $100,000 as part of an enhanced early out program. The program is a result of discussions between United and the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA). The early out program allows participants a one-time opportunity to voluntarily separate from the company and receive a severance payment.

Flight attendants - even those based on Guam - who apply for the early out must meet certain service and eligibility requirements. According to a media release, the company will award early outs in seniority order. The company has also announced that it is recalling all flight attendants who are on voluntary and involuntary furlough.

According to the AFA website the unprecedented early out benefits for flights attendants is intended to resolve staffing issues at the airline and promote a landscape that supports the expedited negotiations underway for a joint contract.

The early out program is designed to provide flight attendants the unique opportunity to continue moving up the seniority list and furthering their careers, while providing the ability to pursue other endeavors to those who choose.