US flight attendants push to be paid when planes aren’t in the air: ‘Most of our passengers have no idea’

Cabin crews across North America aren’t paid for work done before takeoff, but new Air Canada deal has raised hope

As you board the plane, the flight attendant welcomes you on board. They point you to your seat and help with your luggage, before giving the safety demonstration, and preparing the plane for takeoff. And there’s a good chance they have done it all for free.

But a tentative deal between Air Canada and thousands of flight attendants has sparked hope more airlines will end a little-known reality for many North American cabin crews – and pay flight attendants when planes are not moving.