Travel & Settling Time for Base Transfers

Travel Time vs Settling Time

Travel Time from one base to another is established based on whether a Flight Attendant elects at the time of accepting the transfer to either fly or drive to the new base location. If elected, travel time is applied before the effective date of the transfer. 

Settling Time is for the sole purpose of assisting Flight Attendants in geographically relocating due to a base transfer and is applied after the effective date of a transfer.

Note: Travel Time and Settling Time may both be used in connection with a base transfer and are not mutually exclusive.

Travel Time

Travel time is allowed for the purpose of traveling to the new base and attending orientation. Travel time is applied in consecutive days and directly preceding the effective date of the transfer. Travel time is only provided when the awarded schedule or vacation does not provide the Flight Attendant time off to travel.

Travel Time Guidelines: 

• Travel time is based upon the applicable driving or flying distance. Additional documentation may be required to verify mode of transportation.

• New Hires: Travel to the first Base is measured from where the car is located and must be taken within 30 days of assignment.

• By selecting flying or driving this may result in assignment(s)/pairing(s) being dropped should they conflict with the travel day(s).

• A Flight Attendant who voluntarily changes Bases for the first time is eligible for paid travel time. Each subsequent transfer is still entitled to travel time but will not receive pay protection.

• Travel time is based on the original awarded line.

Travel Time Process:

Flight attendants will be notified via CCS message of the awarded transfer. When submitting the acceptance, the Flight Attendant will choose if they would like to fly, drive, or not have an assignment/pairing dropped. Travel time will be applied by utilizing the chart displayed on page 5 of the FA Base Transfer Award Guide (chart and guide below). 

Settling Time

Settling Time: The period of time provided by the Company for the sole purpose of assisting Flight Attendants in geographically relocating due to a base transfer. 

• Settling time is applied after the effective date of a transfer

• Must be requested in advance by the Flight Attendant, and adhere to the guidelines below in order to be approved. 

Settling Time Guidelines: 

• Settling time is for up to 3 consecutive days (which may include scheduled days off, as well as work days) to be used within 12 months of the effective date of the transfer.

• The term “settling” implies there is an actual move between one residence and another.

• Change of residence need not be to the new base, but rather to the base from which the flight attendant intends to commute.

• The Company may require proof that a residential move either has or will take place. The request must be accompanied by proof of transfer, residential move (i.e. copy new lease or moving company contract).

• The Company may delay whatever settling time is requested by up to seven (7) days, based on anticipated coverage needs. 

Settling Time Process: 

• To request settling time, Flight Attendants must submit their request via Help Hub, providing at least seven (7) days advance notice. 

• Flight attendants can also find the request form by going to helphub.ual.com and searching for “Transfers: Settling Time”.