Sun Country Airlines Flight Attendants Ratify New Contract After Strike Threat

MINNEAPOLIS, March 3, 2025 — Flight attendants at Sun Country Airlines have ratified a new five-year contract with significant wage increases and enhanced benefits, successfully averting a potential strike. The agreement was reached following extensive negotiations led by Teamsters Local 120, which represents over 700 flight attendants.

The new contract includes an immediate 21% wage increase and a projected total increase of up to 58% by the end of the contract term. Additionally, changes to retirement plan contributions and improved scheduling for holiday work were part of the negotiations.

“Sun Country Teamsters fought hard to secure a deal that improves their quality of life, reflects their value, and rewards their hard work,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien. “They never backed down from this fight. They persevered and won big.”

The new agreement also entails a significant reduction in the time required to reach top-of-scale pay, dropping it by 14 years. This milestone reflects the union’s efforts to enhance workplace standards and ensure fair compensation for their members.

Tom Erickson, President of Teamsters Local 120, emphasized the improvements gained through the contract, stating, “Our members fought hard for decency and respect from the company through this new contract. This agreement sets a new standard at Sun Country.”

Flight attendant Elaine Rishovd, a 30-year veteran with Sun Country, expressed her satisfaction with the agreement. “This is one of the best contracts we have won since I joined Sun Country. It restores our pride in working for this airline and gives us the means to support our families,” she said.

Last August, the flight attendants voted to authorize a strike, which spurred negotiations. The previous contract proposal was rejected in 2023, leading the union to pursue better terms for their members. The new deal, which was overwhelmingly ratified by the membership, reflects a significant turnaround from last year’s discussions.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents more than 1.3 million members across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, focusing on advocating for high labor standards and fair employment practices.