AAG(US:AAL) Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-02-12 14:27Core Viewpoint - American Airlines flight attendants are planning a protest outside the company's headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas, amid pressure from multiple unions on CEO Robert Isom due to the company's poor financial performance [1][5]. Group 1: Protest Details - The protest is an unusual action not occurring during contract negotiations [2][7]. - The flight attendants' union is demanding a change in management, citing the airline's lagging profitability and on-time performance compared to competitors Delta Air Lines and United Airlines [2][5]. - A vote of no confidence was recently cast against Isom by the flight attendants' union, marking a historic first [6][7]. Group 2: Company Performance and Management Response - CEO Robert Isom has attempted to reassure anxious employees by stating that the company expects significant profit increases this year, along with optimized flight schedules and the introduction of new cabins [2][3]. - American Airlines raised its revenue and profit forecasts for 2026, projecting adjusted earnings per share to reach up to $2.70, a significant increase from last year's $0.36 [3][7]. - The airline is undergoing a comprehensive overhaul to modernize its fleet and improve profitability, especially important given the decline in economy class fares [3][7]. Group 3: Operational Challenges - American Airlines' on-time performance for the first 11 months of the year was 73.7%, ranking eighth among competitors [3][7]. - The airline is adjusting its flight schedules to distribute flights more evenly throughout the day at its major hub, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport [3][7]. - Despite recent improvements, the airline's projected net profit for 2025 is $111 million, significantly lower than Delta's $5 billion and United's over $3.3 billion, leading to employee dissatisfaction regarding profit-sharing [3][7]. Group 4: Employee Sentiment and Future Outlook - Flight attendants expressed dissatisfaction with the airline's recovery efforts following a major winter storm, with some crew members lacking accommodation [8]. - The flight attendants' union emphasized the need for accountability, decisive action, and leadership to restore the airline's competitiveness [8]. - Isom is also focusing on uniting management support, having recently addressed around 6,000 managers about the company's future as it approaches its centennial anniversary [8][9].