What To Do If You’re Under Investigation By Your Airline

Step 1: Don’t panic — get grounded and document everything

The first hours matter. Slow down, breathe, and start gathering facts so the story doesn’t get rewritten later.

• Write down dates, times, who contacted you, and exactly what was said.
• Save every email, text, write-up, schedule screenshot (WFS/Withheld From Service), and investigation notice.
• Keep a private folder—cloud drive or notebook—just for this case. Back it up somewhere only you control.
• Never alter or destroy company records. Preserve them as-is so they retain evidentiary value.

Step 2: Ask for representation and know your contract

Most flight attendants are unionized under the Railway Labor Act. Your Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) spells out investigation procedures, discipline timelines, and appeal rights.

• Request a union representative (AFA or your specific union) before or during any investigatory meeting.
• Review CBA sections covering investigations, discipline, and grievances. Flag deadlines and required forms.
• Remember: under the RLA, the contractual process is usually the “first court” you must go through before external action.

Step 3: Show up to the investigation — but don’t go alone

Missing meetings or refusing to participate can be used against you. Attend, stay calm, and keep your support system present.

• Only skip a meeting if your rep or attorney gives that instruction in writing.
• Ask for time to review documents and request questions in writing whenever possible.
• Answer truthfully, but avoid speculation or offering extra theories. “I don’t know” or “I need to review my records” are valid responses.
• Take notes immediately afterward while details are fresh.

Step 4: Use the grievance and appeal process — do not decline it

Union contracts typically include multi-step grievance systems (hearing, appeal, System Board, etc.). Exhausting those steps is critical even if you plan to seek outside counsel later.

Step 5: Deadlines, deadlines, deadlines

Each contract step—and many leave laws—have strict timelines measured in days, not weeks.

• Ask your rep or check the CBA for exact filing deadlines for grievances, appeals, and external complaints.
• Submit paperwork early and keep written proof (email receipts, fax confirmations, screenshots).
• Set calendar reminders for every step so nothing slips past while you’re juggling trips or medical care.

Step 6: Run parallel paths — union process and outside legal help

Filing a grievance does not stop you from consulting an outside employment attorney. In fact, most attorneys will ask whether you filed and appealed.

• Keep your grievance moving while you seek outside advice. They complement one another.
• For Colorado FAMLI, FMLA, ADA, or CADA issues, external remedies may exist—but they sit on top of the contractual process, not instead of it.
• Share your documentation packet with any attorney so they can see the history quickly.

Step 7: Protect yourself personally

Investigations are stressful. Guard your privacy and your mental health while things unfold.

• Avoid posting or venting about the case on social media, group chats, or crash-pad message boards.
• Keep conversations with reps, therapists, or attorneys confidential and away from company channels.
• Lean on trusted friends, family, therapy, or peer-support resources for emotional backup—sleep, hydration, and grounding rituals matter.

When to contact FALDF or an employment lawyer

Reach out for help early if any of the following apply:

• You’re being investigated for using approved Colorado FAMLI, FMLA, or other protected medical leave.
• Management claims your leave “wasn’t legitimate” even though you submitted certification.
• You’re facing termination, demotion, or major discipline tied to protected leave or a disability accommodation.
• A supervisor pressures you to resign, repay benefits, or waive your grievance rights.

FALDF is not a law firm, but we can help you understand the process, share resources, suggest questions for your union, and in some cases help connect you with attorneys or case-cost support. Submit an intake at faldf.com/#apply or ask your union safety/leave chair for a referral.

Closing thoughts + disclaimer

You are not alone. Flight attendants have a long tradition of standing up for one another, and the Railway Labor Act gives you tools to fight back—even when the process feels slow. Stay organized, keep every deadline, and reach out for help sooner than later.

This guide provides general information and is not legal advice. Laws, contracts, and deadlines vary by airline, base, and state. For guidance about your specific situation, talk with your union representative or an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.