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The following information is from Jetnet Team Member Services Leaves and Returns. Always check Jetnet for any updates.
FMLA policy changes coming Feb. 1
What’s new: We’re changing our recertification process for intermittent or reduced schedule leaves of absence taken under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Team members will begin providing supporting documentation every six months rather than once a year.
These updates apply to leave requests submitted on or after Feb. 1. Leaves requested before Feb. 1 will follow the timelines outlined in the current policy.
Why it matters: The updated process helps us to check in with team members to assess whether their caregiving or medical needs have changed. It also brings American in line with practices used at many other organizations.
Next steps: Leave requests can be submitted through AbsenceTracker on Jetnet.
Around six months after your request is approved, you’ll receive email and mail notifications from the ARC requesting updated documentation to recertify your leave.
You can upload the documentation to your case in AbsenceTracker.
Go deeper: For more information, check out our list of frequently asked questions on the Leaves and Returns page on Jetnet.
Team members who submit a request for an intermittent leave of absence under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) on or after Feb. 1, 2025, will need to recertify their leave every six months instead of once a year, if the condition lasts longer than six months.
Here is a list of frequently asked questions about this updated policy. If you have additional questions not answered here, please speak to your supervisor or your people business partner or email arc.loa@aa.com.
What is FMLA recertification?
FMLA recertification is the process of updating your medical certification to verify the continued need for FMLA leave. Recertification involves providing new or updated supporting documentation from your health care provider to the Absence and Return Center (ARC). This process helps confirm that the condition still qualifies under FMLA guidelines.
What type of leaves will the six-month recertification apply to?
The six-month recertification will apply to intermittent and reduced work schedule leave types.
Intermittent leaves are those taken in separate blocks of time (e.g., two to three days each month) for a single reason.
Reduced schedule leaves are those that reduce the usual number of hours a team member works per day or per week (e.g., a typical eight-hour day is reduced to six hours).
How will I know if I’ll need to submit recertification after six months?
Any team member who requests a leave on or after Feb. 1 will need to recertify their leave every six months instead of once a year regardless of when the leave is approved to begin. The chart below breaks down when you’ll need to provide recertification based on the date you requested your leave.
Case request date
(When you created your AbsenceTracker case)
Leave start date
(When your leave is set to begin)
Will you need to recertify in six months?
On or before Jan. 31
On or before Jan. 31
No
On or before Jan. 31
On or after Feb. 1
No
On or after Feb. 1
On or before Jan. 31
Yes
On or after Feb. 1
On or after Feb. 1
Yes
Why do I need to submit a recertification?
Providing documentation for recertification helps to ensure your leave remains protected and aligns with FMLA requirements.
When is my recertification due?
Your recertification documents must be submitted within 15 calendar days of receiving a recertification request. You will receive this recertification request by email and postal mail about six months after your leave starts.
What happens if I don’t submit my recertification on time?
Failure to provide a recertification may result in the loss of FMLA protections for your leave. In that case, applicable absence and attendance policies may apply.
How do I complete the recertification process?
Six months after your leave begins, you will receive a letter via email and postal mail notifying you of the need to recertify. The form will be sent along with that letter or can be found in AbsenceTracker on Jetnet by clicking Attachments on your case.
Take the form to your health care provider for completion. Ensure they provide all required details about your condition and the need for your leave.
Once you have completed the form, you may upload it to your case in AbsenceTracker or fax to the ARC at 412-324-3426.
What if my condition hasn’t changed?
Even if your condition hasn’t changed, updated documentation is required for recertification. Your health care provider must confirm your ongoing need for FMLA leave.
Will my FMLA leave continue during the recertification process?
Yes, your leave will typically remain protected as long as you meet the recertification deadline and provide the necessary documentation.
Can my employer ask for additional information during recertification?
Yes, employers may request clarification or authentication of your medical certification but cannot require more information than allowed under FMLA regulations.
What if my health care provider charges a fee to complete the recertification form?
You are responsible for any fees your health care provider may charge to complete the form. Check with your provider in advance to understand their policy.
What if I need more time to submit my recertification?
If you’re unable to meet the deadline, contact the Absence and Return Center at arc.loa@aa.comimmediately to request an extension and provide an explanation.
