How do collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) affect airline flight crew employees under the FMLA?

As with all employers covered under the FMLA, an employer of an airline flight crew employee must observe any employment benefit program or plan that provides greater family or medical leave rights to employees than the rights established by the FMLA. Conversely, the rights established by the FMLA may not be diminished by any employment benefit program or plan. For example, a provision of a CBA which provides for reinstatement to a position that is not equivalent because of seniority (e.g., provides lesser pay) is superseded by FMLA.

October 2018