Contract Education Series

Article 14 – Meal Periods

Let’s break it down in plain language 

 Meal Length

• Meal periods are 30 minutes

• Longer meals only if both sides agree

 When Your Meal Must Happen

• No earlier than 3 hours into your shift

• No later than 5½ hours into your shift

• Time starts from the beginning of your regular shift

 Law vs Contract

• If state or local law is more generous,

 you get the better protection

 Missed or Late Meal

• If your meal isn’t provided on time:

• You can take a full 30-minute uninterrupted meal

• You are owed 30 minutes of pay at time-and-a-half

 Flight Ops Exception

• You may be required to finish an assignment first

• BUT your meal cannot start after the 6th hour

 Know Your Rights

If your meal period is delayed or denied, document it and contact a shop steward.

 Knowledge is power. More contract breakdowns coming soon.