More than 600 passenger service workers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) recently unanimously ratified a new collective bargaining agreement that includes significant improvements in job safety, healthcare access, paid time off, and protections for immigrant employees.

The contract, ratified on Friday, May 16, 2025 was negotiated by an all-women bargaining team of cabin cleaners and wheelchair agents represented by SEIU6 Property Services NW.

“I feel incredibly positive about this new contract — it’s honestly the best one I’ve seen in my career,” said Hayat, a bargaining team member. “The luggage and wheelchair safety updates will help so many people who struggled before, and it means a lot to see those concerns addressed. The new vacation provisions are also a huge win. I’m really proud of what we accomplished together.”

  • Key provisions of the agreement include:
  • Stronger seniority rights for airport workers.
  • Increased flexibility to cash out or carry over paid time off.
  • New safety rules prohibiting the simultaneous handling of wheelchairs and luggage carts.
  • Protections for immigrant workers, including the right to union representation during any employment reverification process.

The new contract also lays the groundwork for wage increases beyond the minimum set by Proposition 1 and includes a commitment from employers to negotiate on healthcare standards as new policies emerge.

SEA remains the only major West Coast airport without a guaranteed standard for quality, affordable healthcare for service workers.

The Port of Seattle is currently conducting a study on the potential business impact of implementing an airport-wide healthcare requirement.