Dallas, Texas, February 10, 2026
In a historic move, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) has unanimously voted no confidence in CEO Robert Isom. The decision comes amid concerns over financial performance, with American Airlines trailing behind competitors, and significant operational disruptions during Winter Storm Fern. The APFA is demanding leadership change and improved support for its flight attendants who faced severe challenges during this period. This vote reflects deep dissatisfaction with the management’s handling of critical issues affecting the airline’s employees and operations.
Dallas, Texas – American Airlines Flight Attendants Pass No-Confidence Vote in CEO Robert Isom
Dallas, Texas – In an unprecedented move, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), representing over 28,000 American Airlines flight attendants, has issued a unanimous vote of no confidence in CEO Robert Isom. This marks the first time in the union’s history that such a vote has been cast against an American Airlines CEO.
Reasons for the Vote
The APFA cited several factors leading to this decision:
- Financial Performance: The airline reported a net income of $111 million in 2025, trailing behind competitors like United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, which reported profits of $3.4 billion and $5.0 billion, respectively.
- Operational Challenges: During Winter Storm Fern, American Airlines faced significant operational disruptions, including over 9,000 flight cancellations. Flight attendants were reportedly left sleeping on airport floors, with Isom’s response being that it was “just ‘part of our job.”
- Strategic Missteps: The airline’s corporate sales strategy, which aimed to reduce distribution costs by moving away from corporate and travel agency sales channels, was reversed in 2024 after costing the company an estimated $1.5 billion in revenue.
Union’s Demands
The APFA is calling for:
- Leadership Change: A change in leadership to restore operational stability and customer confidence.
- Accountability: Management to take responsibility for the airline’s underperformance and operational failures.
- Improved Support: Enhanced operational support for frontline workers to prevent future disruptions.
Background Context
American Airlines has faced increasing pressure to improve its financial performance and operational reliability. In 2025, the airline’s net income was significantly lower than its competitors, raising concerns among employees and unions about the company’s direction and leadership.
The APFA’s vote of no confidence reflects deep dissatisfaction with the current management and a call for substantial changes to address the airline’s challenges.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Union Involved | Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) |
| Number of Members | Over 28,000 flight attendants |
| CEO Targeted | Robert Isom |
| Financial Performance in 2025 | Net income of $111 million |
| Operational Disruptions | Over 9,000 flight cancellations during Winter Storm Fern |
| Strategic Missteps | Failed corporate sales strategy costing an estimated $1.5 billion in revenue |
| APFA’s Demands | Leadership change, accountability, improved operational support |
Conclusion
In summary, the unanimous vote of no confidence by the APFA against CEO Robert Isom symbolizes a pivotal moment for American Airlines, as employee concerns around financial performance, operational challenges, and strategic missteps come to the forefront. The calls for leadership change, accountability from management, and better support for frontline workers highlight critical areas that need addressing. As Dallas continues to nurture its ongoing economic development, local stakeholders will be observing how American Airlines responds to this significant moment and whether it can adapt to meet the expectations of its employees and customers alike.
Support for local businesses and engagement in conversations about corporate governance can help ensure a thriving business environment in Dallas. Staying informed and involved will be vital as we witness the unfolding of this situation and its impact on the broader Dallas County economy.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
