ALPA's Board of Directors Takes Decisive Action

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ALPA’s Board of Directors Takes Decisive Action (Read 44 Takeaways, page 17)

Just How Damaging Were the NFL Replacement Refs? (Check out the infographic on page 36)

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November 2012 Air Line Pilot 1 Stay Connected ALPA has many ways to keep you up-to-date on everything ALPA.

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RSS Feeds To learn more, visit www.alpa.org/stayconnected A member service of Air Line Pilot. NOVEMBER 2012 • Volume 81, Number 9

17 32 About the Cover 6 Photo of Mt. Baker in Washington state taken by Capt. Bradley Kirk (CanJet). Download a QR reader to your smartphone, scan the code, and read the magazine.

Air Line Pilot (ISSN 0002-242X) is published monthly, except for the combined January/February and 25 June/July issues, by the Air Line Pilots Association, International, affiliated with AFL-CIO, CLC. Editorial Offices: 535 Herndon Parkway, PO Box 1169, Herndon, VA 20172-1169. Telephone: 703-481-4460. COMMENTARY Fax: 703-464-2114. Copyright © 2012—Air Line Pilots Association, International, all 4 Take Note rights reserved. Publication in any form without permission is prohibited. Air Line Beyond the Drama Pilot and the ALPA logo Reg. U.S. Pat. 28 ALPA Helps 30 Pilot Musings and T.M. Office. Federal I.D. 36-0710830. 5 Aviation Matters Usher in a New Era A Ride on the B-787: A Periodicals postage paid at Herndon, VA 20172, and additional offices. Winds of Change of Aviation Security Perspective from Economy Postmaster: Send address changes to Class Air Line Pilot, PO Box 1169, Herndon, VA 20172-1169. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement FEATURES DEPARTMENTS 32 ALPA Toolbox #40620579: Return undeliverable maga- Toolbox for Tinkickers zines sent to Canadian addresses to 2835 17 44 Takeaways from Kew Drive, Windsor, ON, Canada N8T 3B7. 6 Preflight the Board of Directors Facts, Figures, and Info 34 Health Watch Meeting Refractive Eye Surgery, Part 2 25 Comair Flies West 36 The Landing Replacement Refs by the 27 Pinnacle Pilots Numbers Stand Strong at 1113 Hearing with 7 38 We Are ALPA an Abundance of ALPA Resources and Support Contact Numbers

30 Ta ke HOT TOPICS Note IN THIS ISSUE Beyond the Drama ALPA’s Board This month, the movie Flight came to theaters, starring Denzel Washington as of Directors a pilot who saves his passengers under Meeting extreme circumstances. During these Turn to page 17 for 44 139 minutes, the film takeaways from this captures the drastic portrayals of pilots seen year’s meeting. in the news media—as heroes and as villains. Lost in all this dra- The B-787 matic rubber-necking Flip to “Pilot Musings,” page 30, to get is the fact that pilots a pilot’s take on flying economy class on perform tens of thousands of flights every the new Boeing airliner. day safely without incident, without fan- fare, and without any cameras watching. Despite numerous portrayals in the news media of pilots who are tragically flawed Pinnacle Pilots Take on or comically inept, the members of the Air Management in New York City Line Pilots Association, International, do Get the details on page 27. their jobs safely, securely, and with the highest levels of professionalism. Through training, Security professional develop- Check out page 28 for the latest ment, and ongoing info on risked-based security certification and test- screening and the new TSA ing, the skills of every office dedicated to it. pilot are honed to a degree rarely seen in any industry—and seldom acknowledged State-of-the-Art Technology by the news media. In addition to See what ALPA engineers are up to in the being expert aviators who carry more Engineering and Air Safety Department’s than 2 million passengers and 50 tons of cargo every day safely and securely to their sophisticated accident investigation lab (page 32). destinations, pilots serve as the last and best line of defense against attacks Farewell Comair on their airplanes. Read about the hurdles the pilot As pilots, you are held to a higher stan- group faced and the airline’s dard, and you consistently and confidently final flight onpage 25. meet this standard. The pilots of ALPA continue to demonstrate their professionalism every day on every flight. It may not make a good movie or a good headline, but it does make an Replacement Refs exceptional story. A story that my staff and Flip to “The Landing,” I will continue to tell to members of the page 36, to get the (not- news media, to our aviation partners in so-great) numbers on NFL Washington and abroad, and, to the extent replacement refs. we can, Hollywood.

Marie Schwartz Director, ALPA Communications [email protected]

4 Air Line Pilot November 2012 AviationMatters Winds of Change

cies. Expanding rapidly, they are steadily adding U.S. destina- hat will it take for you, tions and have pro-aviation policies backing them. As I mentioned in last month’s column, these airlines will gain my fellow ALPA members, access to our flying through code-sharing and Open Skies agree- Wto engage? ments. Given the long-term vision of the Persian Gulf airlines, it’s Because, I have to tell you, we are in the fight of our lives. only a matter of time before they become big competitors. And if we don’t engage now, we run the risk of losing our Last month, the European Union stated that it will again careers and ultimately our industry. attack our laws on foreign ownership and control to enable How can this be? foreign investors from around the world—corporations, Since deregulation of the U.S. airlines, and even countries—to buy and take control of our airline industry in 1978, we’ve seen airlines. that a cyclical change (e.g., such as A change like this could be catastrophic for our carriers and that resulting from the 2002 SARS our careers—just when some of our airlines are finally recover- outbreak) can break an airline just as ing from the misery of the last decade. easily as a long-term, fundamental Once they have control, foreign investors, including state- change (e.g., the lasting shift to high owned airlines in the EU, China, and the Gulf, can take over fuel prices). Learning from these expe- our foreign flying, merely by reversing the destination and riences will help us overcome other changes that will continue origination points of a flight, so that what was once ORD– to challenge us. SIN–ORD will become SIN–ORD–SIN. The crews will be Mergers have reduced the number of airlines and competi- foreign-based and operating under a totally different set of tion in most segments of the industry. The trend has spread safety and security rules. to fee-for-departure, supplemental, and cargo airlines. I think The domino effect will inevitably lead to this: Aviation in this consolidation will continue in North America and globally, and country will go the way of the maritime industry, and we’ll be we must continue to engage efficiently and creatively in that finished. environment. I believe that airline mergers create more profit- We have been gearing up for this fight, but we have much to able companies, making contract gains possible. do, and we must do it together. Success on the international level is now key to a healthy If we are united, we’ll overcome this challenge, again. If we airline industry, regardless of the type of flying we do. That’s are divided, we will fail, and our jobs will be taken from us, why we pay so much attention to Chinese and Persian Gulf permanently. airlines. We can’t change the way they do business, so we must Our lack of a comprehensive aviation policy hinders our change the way we do business. ability to achieve economic and competitive viability. We need We have proved that constructive, stable, and mutually aviation policy. We need our governments to help us compete beneficial relationships with management are possible. But in the global marketplace. managements must respect our union and share our interest We need investments in air transportation infrastructure. in developing and maintaining that kind of relationship. They NextGen promises increased efficiency and capacity, but the must deal with our issues, reach equitable agreements, and FAA has mandated aircraft equipage for government benefit at resolve disputes efficiently. airlines’ expense. If the government will benefit, it should share Our companies will succeed only when they realize that the cost. And while we fight over who’ll pay for NextGen, Asian we are the linchpins of their success. Our countries and our and Persian Gulf countries are investing billions of dollars in economies will flourish only if we have a healthy industry. aviation infrastructure and equipment. Don’t look at your fellow union member as your competitor. ALPA won’t stand by while the U.S. government ignores Look outside North America to see how others are trying to foreign airlines’ unfair competitive advantage. We won’t stand take our jobs. by while our airlines are burdened with unfair taxes and fees. The Persian Gulf airlines are based in countries where Labor, management, and government must work together to labor unions are illegal; therefore, strikes can never happen. develop solutions and advance them vigorously. They do not have financial transparency or pay income or We must engage. And do so now. corporate taxes, and they fly from government-owned airports and facilities. The Persian Gulf airlines purchased their fleets with help from the U.S. Export-Import Bank and European credit agen- Capt. Lee Moak, ALPA President

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 5 F acts, Figures, and Info n Airline Industry Update

 According to Bloomberg, tion of wear, poor design, and Airlines have expanded their FedEx Corp. is working to cut spilled drinks seeping into employee ranks because of costs and increase profits by seat tracks caused pins to an increase in air travel over $1.7 billion during the next pop out of the grooves. The the past year. three years to reposition fix consisted of installing an  Southwest Airlines and the company as consumers additional locking mechanism the Transport Workers choose less-expensive ship- that American’s engineers Union, representing about ping options. designed and the FAA 8,500 ground workers, have

 Per the Associated Press, approved. requested assistance from AMR, parent company of  The Wall Street Journal the National Mediation American Airlines, has reported that preliminary Board, according to the Star- retrofitted all of its recently data from the Department Telegram. Union officials said ing the company’s environ- refurbished B-757s with new of Transportation’s Bureau they were frustrated by the mental, economic, social, and seat-clamping mechanisms of Transportation Statistics lack of progress in 14 months community sustainability after seats popped loose on indicate a decrease in the of negotiations. Outstanding efforts, the company is on three of its airplanes. The workforce of U.S. airlines in issues include pay, sick leave, track to increase its return airline said that a combina- July compared with June’s and job outsourcing. on invested capital, improve

numbers. But the data also  Per the Puget Sound customer satisfaction scores, show that overall Business Journal, Alaska Air add to its pension funds, and employment was Group, parent company of expand philanthropic efforts.

higher for Alaska Airlines and Horizon  Bloomberg.com reported July than it Air, recycled 230 tons of alu- that United is the firstU .S. was for the minum last year—enough airline to take delivery of a same month to build three new airplanes. B-787. The airline received last year. According to a report detail- the airplane on September MarketWatch Airlines Parent Company Stock Symbol 8/31/11 8/31/12 % Chg. Piedmont, PSA US Airways Group, Inc. NYSE: LCC $5.50 $10.46 90.2% Spirit Spirit Airlines, Inc. NASDAQ: SAVE $12.50 $17.08 36.6% Hawaiian Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. NASDAQ: HA $4.21 $5.59 32.8% Bearskin, Calm Air Exchange Income Corporation TSX: EIF $19.02 $25.04 31.7% FedEx Express FedEx Corporation1 NYSE: FDX $67.26 $84.62 25.8% Alaska Alaska Holdings, Inc. NSYE: ALK $28.15 $35.06 24.5% Comair, Delta Delta Air Lines NYSE: DAL $7.50 $9.16 22.1% AirTran Southwest Airlines NSYE: LUV $8.01 $8.77 9.5% Air Transport Int’l, Capital Cargo Int’l Air Transport Services Group, Inc. NASDAQ: ATSG $4.33 $4.41 1.8% Continental, United United Continental Holdings, Inc. NSYE: UAL $19.38 $19.50 0.6% Jazz Air Chorus Aviation TSX: CHR.B $3.84 $3.80 -1.0% Atlantic Southeast, ExpressJet SkyWest, Inc.2 NASDAQ: SKYW $11.32 $10.33 -8.7% Air Transat Transat A.T., Inc. TSX: TRZ.B $7.44 $5.25 -29.4% American Eagle AMR Corp.3 OTC: AAMR.Q $2.96 $0.37 -87.5% Colgan Air, Mesaba, Pinnacle Pinnacle Airlines Corp4 OTC: PNCL.Q $2.93 $0.03 -99.0%

1 FedEx had a dividend payout of 0.14 per share on 9/6/2012. 2 SkyWest had a dividend payout of $0.04 per share on 9/26/2012. 3 AMR stock is no longer traded on the NYSE. The price shown is the over-the-counter traded value. 4 Pinnacle stock is no longer traded on the NASDAQ. The price shown is the over-the-counter traded value.

6 Air Line Pilot November 2012 24 and has 50 more on Rocky Mountains. count has surpassed Dulles’s USA Today reported. An an- order. United expects to take  Nunatsiaq Online re- in four out of seven months nual survey by the Physicians delivery of five B-787s this ported that the Makivvik so far this year, and BWI has Committee for Responsible year. Boeing delivered the first Corporation will not sell First seen 13.36 million passengers Medicine indicated that 83 B-787 to Japan Airlines last Air to Norterra or any other through July, compared to percent of restaurants in the year (see page 30). buyer, Makivvik’s board said 13.26 million at Dulles. nation’s 15 largest airports

 On November 6, Spirit in an October 3 statement.  Restaurants in major have at least one healthy

Airlines will implement a NCAR “After a rigorous review of its airports across the U.S. menu item, up from 57 per- new $100 fee for carry-on strategic options, the board are offering more healthy cent a decade ago. bags paid for at the board- confirmed its decision to choices on their menus in re-  According to The Kansas ing gate, nearly doubling retain full ownership of this sponse to increased demand, City Star, the TWA Museum, the current charge of $45, important investment,” the which has been located at reported AviationPros.com. corporation said. several local spots during

 According to Philadelphia  Per the Washington the last 25 years, is now com News, the National Center Business Journal, Baltimore/ . housed inside the airline’s olia for Atmospheric Research Washington International ot original corporate headquar- (BWI) Thurgood Marshall — F ters at 10 Richards Road,

Airport is on track to top udziska in the southeast corner of D Washington Dulles Interna Wheeler Downtown Airport in arbara

tional Airport for number of © B Kansas City, Mo. l passengers this year, after an all-time record for passengers in July. Dulles had

NCAR 2,095,237 million passengers (NCAR) has developed a pass through the airport in turbulence-avoidance sys- July, tem for use in flight, allow- down 6 ing pilots to better detect percent and avoid air turbulence. from The FAA commissioned 2011. NCAR to develop the system, BWI had OS COURTESY THE TWA MUSEUM THE TWA OS COURTESY which is being used at Juneau 2,222,329 PHOT International Airport. The million developers are working to passengers, The TWA Museum is housed adapt the system for other up 0.8 per- inside the airline’s original Dulles airports with severe turbu- cent. BWI’s BWI corporate headquarters in

passengers lence, including those in the passenger 13.26 million Kansas City, Mo. passengers 13.36 million n FrontLines n KCM Bar Code Cards disseminated to their pilots into KCM as of October 1, Expedite Security to expedite the screening KCM entry access—and the The number of airlines process. The pilot can register potential for crewmembers’ that have subscribed to the the bar code card/tag at waiting in lines—is expected Known Crewmember® (KCM) mykcmsupport.com. Once it’s to grow significantly in the program has grown from zero registered, the pilot can use A pilot checks in at next several months. in early July to more than 40 it at any KCM access point the KCM portal at Any problems encoun- as of press time, and ALPA is around the country. LAX (above). ALPA tered with registering or working to include its mem- ALPA recommends that recommends that using a bar code card/tag at bers’ final few nonparticipat- pilots register and use the bar pilots register and use an access point should be ing airlines. As part of the code cards/tags because, with the bar code cards/tags brought to the attention of program, bar code cards and the Transportation Security because lines are expected to the program’s sponsors via tags are being provided to Administration’s decision increase with the addition of e-mail at kcmsupport@arinc.

all subscribing airlines to be to permit flight attendants flight attendants. com. 

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 7 n FrontLines (continued) In related news, on October 25, and “The ASTAR Story,” reject the pilots’ collective September 17 and 18, with 2 San Francisco International October, page 29) and those bargaining agreement. the goal of achieving a new Airport (SFO) became the at Pinnacle who are facing agreement that addressed 24th airport to offer pilots potential furloughs. Aviation n North American Pilots some of the pilots’ concerns KCM access. Those using recruitment experts provided Ratify Revised TA about the initial TA. After the alternative screening résumé tips and interview North American Airlines intense bargaining over a 36- process included pilots advice. During the six days in pilots ratified a revised hour period, the Negotiating from Alaska, Delta, SkyWest, three cities, almost 200 pilots tentative agreement (TA) Committee, with help from United, and Virgin America. took advantage of the free on September 24. Of the 96 ALPA’s Representation and SFO offers KCM checkpoints workshops. percent of pilots who cast Economic and Financial in its International Terminal “These workshops helped ballots, 76 percent voted in Analysis Departments, suc- (Boarding Area A) as well me fine-tune my résumé to favor of the agreement. cessfully negotiated several as in Terminals 1, 2, and 3. today’s job market and be “The results of this vote improvements to the initial On October 9, Los Angeles better prepared for my inter- underscore the North failed TA. International Airport (LAX) views,” said F/O Mark Rado American pilots’ unity, resolve, “North American pilots became the 25th airport to (Comair), who attended the and commitment to our goal understand that this is a criti- offer crewmembers KCM. LAX workshops. of preserving our jobs and our cal and fragile time for our has KCM portals in Terminals Discussions included ev- carrier,” said Capt. Rob Lewis, company, and we stand ready 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 operating erything from résumé format- the pilots’ Master Executive to work closely with our man- from 5:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. ting to what to wear to an Council chairman. agement to help our compa- each day. interview. It also gave pilots The airline’s parent ny regain its financial viability On October 11, Honolulu facing similar circumstances company, Global Aviation and advance our mutual goals International Airport (HNL) a chance to meet, compare Holdings, filed for protection for the future,” Lewis said. “To became the 26th airport to notes, and make contacts. under Chapter 11 of the achieve success, however, our n United, Continental provide pilots KCM access. “They went over sample bankruptcy code in February. management must fulfill the Those using the KCM access questions that may come Under threat of a Section commitments it made to our points included crews from up in an interview,” said F/O 1113 filing, the pilots engaged pilots in this agreement. With multiple ALPA pilot groups. Patrick Kraft (Pinnacle). “Just in bankruptcy concessionary ALPA’s support and assis- HNL offers KCM at Security knowing what might be asked negotiations but rejected the tance, we will work to ensure Checkpoint 2, between will allow me to prepare and initial tentative agreement. our management meets its Lobbies 4 and 5, operating be more confident when As a result, management obligations to our pilots.” from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. interviewing with another signaled its intent to file a each day. airline.” motion to reject the pilots’ n ATI, CCI Crewmembers For information on the ASTAR shut down on contract unless a new consen- Ratify Joint CBA new KCM airports and to see August 4 and Comair on sual TA was reached. Air Transport International checkpoint locations, select September 29. Pinnacle filed The pilots’ Negotiating (ATI) and Capital Cargo (CCI) the KCM tab on the ALPA a motion with the bankruptcy Committee went back to crewmembers ratified a joint smartphone app or visit www. court on September 14 to the bargaining table on collective bargaining agree- knowncrewmember.org. ment (JCBA) on September 24. With 89 percent of the n ALPA Sponsors Résumé combined members partici- Workshops in Cincinnati, pating in the vote, 63 percent Detroit, Orlando voted for the JCBA. Throughout September, ALPA “Our future is at ATI, and sponsored full-day résumé it is time to move forward. and interviewing workshops The crewmembers of Capital for pilots at Comair and Cargo and ATI provided ASTAR who are dealing with management with the means the shutdown of their airlines Pilots attend ALPA-sponsored résumé workshops. to run a single, secure airline (see “Comair Flies West,” page with room for growth,” said

8 Air Line Pilot November 2012 n First Air Crewmembers sionary contract,” said F/O Request Arbitration Devin Lyall, the group’s MEC Negotiators for First Air cock- chairman. pit crewmembers say they are First Air began negotiating deadlocked after almost two in late 2010. The parties will F/O Chuck Hill, CCI MEC chairman, gives a presentation years at the bargaining table now enter an interest-based during a road show about the joint CBA. and will seek arbitration to arbitration process in which secure a new agreement with the arbitrator hears presenta- F/O Chuck Hill, the Capital crewmembers who voted management. tions from both sides and Cargo Master Executive supported the letter of agree- Negotiators and the First can either mediate the talks Council (MEC) chairman. ment (LOA), which is intended Air Master Executive Council further or craft an arbitration “Let there be no misunder- to help the bankrupt airline’s (MEC) reached the decision award using elements from standing—an unmistakable restructuring efforts while after talks using a federally both union and management message was sent today, a preserving as many pilot jobs appointed conciliator broke proposals. message that we will stand as possible. down in late September. strong. Our focus now will be “These revisions to our Under the current contract, n Eagle Pilots Approve enforcing our contract and contract are a major benefit both sides are required to Restructuring Agreement welcoming our brothers and for crewmembers, as they enter arbitration if face-to- American Eagle pilots sisters from Capital Cargo reduce or, in some cases, face talks fail. have ratified a bankruptcy into the ATI family,” said Capt. eliminate the pay reductions The crewmembers are seek- restructuring agreement that Brendan Twomey, the ATI due to transitions, streamline ing industry-standard cost-of- both the pilots and manage- MEC chairman. many of the procedures, and living increases and higher per ment tentatively agreed to The next step in the merger give greater flexibility,” said diems. Many live and work in in August. With more than process continued with the Capt. Erik Sparks, the pilots’ Arctic communities with high 85 percent of eligible pilots integrated seniority list (ISL) Master Executive Council living costs, but management casting ballots, 75 percent negotiations that began in chairman. “They allow more wants lower cost-of-living of the pilots voted in favor September. An agreement was crewmembers the opportunity adjustments that would move of the agreement. The pilots’ not reached on an ISL, so the to end up where they would the crewmembers below the Master Executive Council parties began the mediation- most like to be, all while bring- industry standard. (MEC) approved the tentative arbitration process in October ing us ever closer to a system “We believe anything that agreement in September and and submitted their final argu- of straight seniority.” makes a crewmember’s dollar sent it out for a ratification ment and supporting documen- Ryan is in a state of transi- less valuable is concessionary, vote to all Eagle pilots. tation to Arbitrator Richard tion due to the elimination of and we’ve told management “We are pleased with the... Bloch on October 15. A deci- much of its fleet and a series from the very beginning that result of the vote,” said Capt. sion on the ISL is expected to of furloughs. The contract we will not consider a conces- Tony Gutierrez, the pilots’  be out within 30 days from changes streamline language the submission date. for reductions in positions, furloughs, and filling vacancies. n Ryan Crewmembers Crewmembers who are Approve LOA to Ease Status involuntarily forced to change Changes aircraft or status to keep their Ryan International flightcrew jobs will no longer suffer pay members overwhelmingly cuts unless they have been approved contract changes with the airline for four years that will make it easier for or less. Seat locks have also them to transition between been shortened or eliminated aircraft types and cash out altogether, and crewmembers vacation time if they are can cash out any or all of Capt. Tony Gutierrez, American Eagle’s MEC chairman, talks furloughed. their vacation time 180 days about the tentative agreement with Eagle pilots during a series Almost 95 percent of the after being furloughed. of road shows conducted before the close of voting.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 9 Canada n Canada Board Urges Parliament to Oppose C-377 n (continued) FrontLines The first session of the 41st MEC chairman. “Emerging Parliament resumed on from bankruptcy with the September 17, and one of majority of our hard-won the bills at the top of ALPA’s contract in place is a major made regarding pay, retire- walked in alternating 20-min- pilot partisan agenda—Bill achievement in helping ment, and insurance. ute shifts at MSP’s Terminal C-377, An Act to Amend ensure that Eagle remains a “It has been more than 2. Virtually every Sun Country the Income Tax Act viable career choice for both three years since PSA pilots pilot not flying or on other (Requirements for Labour existing and future pilots. The received a cost-of-living raise, duty participated. Organizations)—is before hard work is not yet over, but and management’s pay “Our airline has gone the Finance Committee. a massive piece of this pro- proposals have not reflected through some tough times in Since first introduced, the cess is now complete, and we that reality,” said Capt. Jesse past years, and the pilots have Association has aggressively look forward to expeditious Coeling, the pilots’ Master endured them along with worked to defeat the bill, approval from the court.” Executive Council chairman. the other employees. Now which would place unwar- The newly ratified contract “Our Negotiating Committee that Sun Country is making ranted, onerous monetary will now be submitted to the is working to reach an agree- money, the owners should reporting requirements on Bankruptcy Court for the ment that will help PSA share that success with the labour organizations such as Southern District of New York maintain its competitiveness people who got them there,” ALPA. for final approval. in the US Airways system, but said Capt. Dennis Vanatta, “This bill will not only not at the costs management the pilots’ Master Executive impose increased financial n PSA Pilots Receive $1 is proposing,” he added. Council chairman. obligations on all labour Million MCF Grant “Both ALPA and manage- The pilots have gone seven organizations, but will also ALPA’s Executive Board ment have a mutual goal years without an increase in impose onerous financial ob- recently approved a $1 mil- to attract future employees, pay rates, and are among the ligations on Canadian taxpay- lion grant from its Major while continuing to run lowest-paid pilots in the in- ers,” said Capt. Dan Adamus Contingency Fund (MCF) one of the best-performing dustry flying similar airplanes. (Jazz), ALPA’s Canada Board to PSA pilots for strategic express operations in the Once a small-town vacation president, in letters sent preparedness. US Airways system,” Coeling carrier, the airline now has on behalf of ALPA’s 2,800 “As the PSA pilots head commented. “But we believe global ambitions, flying Canadian pilots to members into endgame negotiations, that the current company internationally and vying for of Parliament urging them to they have the unwavering proposals will endanger both military charter business to oppose C-377. support of their union and of these goals and start PSA far-reaching destinations. The bill, which Conserva their fellow ALPA pilots,” said down a path that will severely “We are not looking for tive Party members of Capt. Lee Moak, ALPA’s presi- hinder its ability to attract top-tier pay, but we would at Parliament support, seeks to dent. “PSA pilots are commit- new pilots and to retain cur- least like to have some par- amend the Income Tax Act ted to achieving a consensual rent pilots.” ity with our peers,” Vanatta to require labour organiza- agreement. But they demand said. “Right now some of our tions to make very detailed a fair, improved contract that n Sun Country Pilots Conduct pilots are paid half of what a annual financial filings recognizes the vital role PSA Informational Picketing Southwest pilot with similar covering salaries, revenues, pilots play in their airline’s Sun Country pilots conducted experience earns for flying loans, disbursements, and continued success. ALPA is informational picketing on the same airplane.” assets. fully committed to helping September 19 at Minneapolis– Before Sun Country The purported rationale them achieve that goal.” St. Paul International Airport entered bankruptcy in 2008, of the bill is to provide The pilots, who fly under to urge management to recog- employees endured 50 “transparency” to the the US Airways Express brand, nize the pilots’ past sacrifices percent pay cuts for a brief general public in return for have been in negotiations and to compensate them on period to help keep the the tax deductible status of with management since June par with the rest of the industry airline in business. The pilots union dues. However, ALPA 2009. The parties have been now that the airline is and management entered members already have the working with a federal media- profitable. contract negotiations in 2010 right under the labour code tor since October 2011. To More than 100 of the and are now working with a to ALPA’s financial state- date, little progress has been airline’s 160 active pilots federal mediator. l

10 Air Line Pilot November 2012 Canada ments in sufficient detail to Working Group. for fiscal year 2011–2012 disclose the financial condi- The working was 0.6 percent higher than tion and operations of the group’s report in fiscal year 2010–2011. Association. will be discussed NAV CANADA’s fiscal year Confidentiality and privacy at the Special runs from September 1 to concerns were also cited as CARAC Technical August 31. Excluding the reasons to oppose the bill. Committee meeting effect of leap year, fiscal year C-377 would require a detailed Newly reelected Canada on November 6–7. After the 2011–2012 traffic grew by breakdown of expenditures Board members are, from meeting, there will be a public 0.3 percent. for specific activities such as left, Capt. Georges Dawood comment period. Transport Commemorating 15 years labour relations, collective (Jazz), Capt. Dan Adamus Canada will then evaluate the as Canada’s private-sector bargaining, organizing, and (Jazz), and Capt. Bradley recommendations included civil air navigation ser- political lobbying. Information Small (Air Transat). in the report along with the vices provider, NAV CANADA from those filings would then public comments for regula- provides air traffic control, be posted on the Canada that further ALPA’s strategic tory consideration. aeronautical information Revenue Agency (CRA) web- goals. As Canada Board The report was coauthored services, weather briefings, site as public information. president, he also serves as by the working group’s co flight information, airport In urging members of ALPA executive vice president chairs, advisory services, and elec- Parliament to vote against of Group C and member of Capt. Dan tronic aids to navigation. this bill, Adamus stressed the Association’s Executive Adamus that C-377 “is discriminatory Council. As Canada Board vice (Jazz), n Air Transat to Serve against members of labour president, Small also serves ALPA El Salvador organizations, its reporting as IFALPA director for ALPA Canada The Honourable Denis To read Transport functions are contrary to the Canada. Canada’s fatigue Board Lebel, minister of Transport, privacy policy of the Income As the leading advocate management report, president; Infrastructure and Tax Act, and its enactment for Canadian professional scan the QR code. and Communities, recently an- would cost Canadian taxpayers pilots, the Canada Board’s top Jacqueline Booth, chief of nounced that Air Transat has substantial funds to adminis- strategic priorities include Technical Program Evaluation been designated to operate ter a program no one wants.” • promoting ALPA’s pilot and Coordination, Standards, scheduled international air ALPA is coordinating its partisan agenda to the TCCA. services between Canada efforts to oppose C-377 Canadian government and and El Salvador, providing with the Canadian Labour other institutions, n NAV CANADA Reports more flight options for Congress. • advancing the goal of up- August 2012 and Year-End travelers. dating flight-time/duty-time Traffic Figures “The designation of Air n Canada Board Elections regulations for Canadian In mid-September, NAV Transat to serve El Salvador Take Place pilots, and CANADA announced its traf- will contribute to the growth Capt. Dan Adamus (Jazz) was • enhancing aviation safety fic figures for the month of and competitiveness of the reelected to serve a fourth and security. August 2012, and for the fis- Canadian airline industry term as Canada Board presi- cal year 2011–2012, as mea- and provide more choices dent during ALPA’s recent n Transport Canada sured in weighted charging for travelers with additional, Board of Directors meeting. Fatigue Management units for enroute, terminal, direct flight options to El Capt. Bradley Small (Air Report Now Public and oceanic air navigation Salvador,” said Minister Transat) was reelected vice Pilot fatigue mitigation con- services, in comparison to Lebel. “It demonstrates president, and Capt. Georges tinues to be one of ALPA’s top the last fiscal year. Weighted Canada’s commitment to Dawood (Jazz) was reelected strategic priorities. In Canada, charging units represent a supporting travel and trade secretary-treasurer. The new the process for creating new traffic measure that reflects links with Central America.” terms for the three Canada flight-/duty-time regulations the number of flights, aircraft Under Canada’s Multiple Board officers begin on Jan. took another step forward as size, and distance flown in Designation Policy, any 1, 2013. Transport Canada made pub- Canadian airspace. Canadian airline can apply Adamus is responsible for lic the report of the Canadian The traffic in August 2012 to the minister of Transport planning, coordinating, and Aviation Regulation Advisory was lower by an average of for designation to operate administering the Board’s Council (CARAC) Flight 0.1 percent compared to the scheduled international air activities and initiatives Crew Fatigue Management same month in 2011. Traffic services. l

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 11 LegislativeUpdate n Senate Passes EU ETS els, and NextGen procedures. U.S.-manufactured aircraft Legislation Labor and industry can work to foreign airlines places ALPA hailed the recent pas- together, and these efforts U.S. airlines at a competitive sage by the U.S. Senate of the are the true solution to doing disadvantage and is working European Union Emissions even more to reduce aircraft to address ALPA’s concerns. Trading Scheme Prohibition emissions.” Scott was also thoroughly Act of 2012 (S. 1956), which briefed on ALPA’s effort to provides the U.S. Secretary n Delta Council 44 Pilots eliminate the cargo airline of Transportation with the Meet with Congressman carveout regarding FAR Part authority to protect U.S. Delta’s Council 44 elected 117 flight-time/duty-time airline operators and their officers and Government regulations. employees from the market- Affairs and Legislative Affairs Council 44 pilots appreci- distorting effects of the Committee chairs recently ate the time Scott spent with European Union’s emissions met with Rep. David Scott them and look forward to trading scheme. (D-Ga.) to discuss aviation- working together to advance F/O Bill Secord (FedEx), right, “Protecting U.S. airlines related issues, communicate policies that promote U.S. meets with Rep. Gowdy and their employees from the Association’s goals, airlines and the airline pilot- (R-S.C.). this harmful tax has been and offer their services and ing profession. an extremely high prior- support. partisan legislative priorities. ity for ALPA because of the Congressman Scott is a n Pilot “Advocates” “Meeting with my scheme’s potential to cost senior member of the U.S. Take Action representative in his home U.S. airlines $3.1 billion over House of Representatives This past August, ALPA district offered a convenient the next eight years and Committee on Financial launched its newest grass- way for me to be involved in threaten airline pilots’ jobs,” Services, which positions him roots program, “August politics without traveling far said Capt. Lee Moak, ALPA’s to weigh in on issues such as Advocates.” Since then, ALPA from home,” said Capt. Leah president. “ALPA thanks Export-Import Bank financing volunteers have attended Morgenthau (ExpressJet), her Senators John Thune (R-S.D.) of widebody airplanes to for- meetings around the country group’s pilot and legislative and Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) eign airlines. He understands with their state representa- coordinator, about her visit to for their steadfast leadership that offering subsidized tives to discuss top pilot Rep. John Yarmuth’s (D-Ky.) in advancing this bill. Kentucky office. “For years, ALPA has col- “Setting up the meeting laborated with the airlines was easy, and I felt like both and regulators to reduce the member and his staff aircraft emissions, and were concerned about all the our industry has achieved issues we touched on. I was remarkable results. We are proud to be able to voice the committed to pursuing inter- concerns of other ALPA pilots national guidelines through directly to my representative.” the International Civil Pilots interested in doing Aviation Organization and to advocacy work with federal continuing to engage in work Delta’s Council 44 elected officers and Government Affairs representatives in their state to advance high-tech engines and Legislative Affairs Committee chairs meet with Rep. David should contact Carly Hepola and airframes, alternative fu- Scott (D-Ga.) in his Jonesboro office. at [email protected]. l

12 Air Line Pilot November 2012 AnNegotiations ALP Update The following is a summary an agreement-in-principle (AIP) Negotiations are under way. the pilots have reached an of the status of ALPA contract with United Continental Holdings, Mesa—A Section 6 notice agreement-in-principle (AIP) negotiations by airline as of Oct. Inc., on major economic issues. was filed on Sept. 10, 2010. with United Continental 5, 2012: While some details of an agree- Negotiations continue November Holdings, Inc., on major ment still remain open, the pilots 13–15 and December 4–6. economic issues. While some Air Wisconsin—A Section are confident a final AIP can be Piedmont—A Section 6 notice details of an agreement still 6 notice was filed on Oct. worked out soon. was sent on March 13, 2009. An remain open, the pilots are 1, 2010. Negotiations con- Evergreen—Negotiations began application for mediation was confident a final AIP can be tinue November 13–16 and in December 2004. ALPA became filed with the NMB on April 21, worked out soon. l December 4–7 and 18–21. the pilots’ bargaining agent in 2010. Mediation is under way. Atlantic Southeast—A Section November 2007. A tentative PSA—A Section 6 notice was *Editor’s note: ALPA negotiators 6 notice was filed on May 20, agreement was reached on April sent on Jan. 19, 2009. A joint ap- at this Canadian airline have 2010. A joint Section 6 notice 16, 2010. The pilots voted against plication for mediation was filed experienced many delays in was filed on March 28, 2011. ratification on Aug. 16, 2010. on July 12, 2011. Negotiations bargaining because of manage- Negotiations are under way Mediation continues. continue. ment shakeups and the loss of for the Atlantic Southeast/ ExpressJet—A Section 6 notice Ryan—A Section 6 notice Flight 6560. Since bargaining ExpressJet joint collective was received on May 28, 2010. A was sent on Sept. 2, 2011. opened in 2010, the pilot bargaining agreement. joint Section 6 notice was filed Negotiations are under way. group has had two CEOs, three CanJet—A notice to bargain on March 28, 2011. Negotiations Sun Country—A Section 6 notice vice presidents of flight opera- was filed on Dec. 1, 2011. are under way for the Atlantic was sent on Feb. 23, 2010. Sun tions, and four company lead Negotiations continue. Southeast/ExpressJet joint collec- Country filed for mediation on negotiators. However, the team Continental—With the assis- tive bargaining agreement. May 9, 2012. members remain confident they tance of the National Mediation *First Air—A notice to bargain United—With the assistance of will make progress in the com- Board, the pilots have reached was filed on Oct. 1, 2010. the National Mediation Board, ing sessions.

A member service of the Air Line Pilot.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 13 n Engineering & Air Safety Update n ALPA Addresses Safety and the public on the ground Airlines for America, held Threat from Laser Attacks below at risk,” said Capt. an international conference On Airplanes Lee Moak, ALPA’s president. titled “Laser Illumination of ALPA joined regulatory, “Today’s event is just one Aircraft: A Growing Threat” military, federal, state, and example of the enhanced to help raise awareness local law enforcement cooperation among the FAA; among key government and representatives at a Trenton, federal, state, and local law industry decision-makers. N.J., news conference on enforcement; and airline “The public needs to September 19 to underscore pilots to combat this danger- know that individuals who the safety threat posed by ous aviation security threat.” shine lasers at aircraft are laser attacks on aircraft and In January 2010, ALPA jeopardizing the safety of highlight the public’s need released a regulatory, legisla- air transportation and will to be aware of the danger tive, and public awareness be prosecuted to the maxi- and the legal consequences action plan to safeguard the mum extent of the law,” of deliberately or uninten- skies from laser attacks. In said Capt. Robert Hamilton tionally shining a laser at an February 2012, President (PSA), who currently chairs aircraft. Capt. Robert Hamilton Obama signed into law ALPA’s Security Council “Attacking an aircraft (PSA), who currently serves language that made shining a and who has been lased with a laser can create a as ALPA’s Security Council laser at an aircraft or its flight while flying an airplane. major distraction in the chairman, speaks at a path a specific federal crime, “Intentional or not, these cockpit, injure the pilots Trenton, N.J., news conference which is a key component of laser strikes are no joke operating the flight, and on the safety threat posed by ALPA’s action plan. In 2011, and have serious conse- put both passengers aboard laser attacks on aircraft. ALPA, in partnership with quences.” l

Education Committee Update ACE Clubs Gear Up at led ALPA ACE Clubs. of Prescott’s ACE Club took should contact ALPA Embry-Riddle Campuses; The ACE Club in Daytona place on October 3 with the Education Committee Volunteers Needed began its third year with evening’s presentation focus- member Capt. George ALPA Education Commit more than 70 students ing on a typical day in the life Burnette (Delta) at George. tee members recently signing up to join the club. of an airline pilot. [email protected]. visited the Embry-Riddle More than 50 participants The Education Committee An ALPA ACE Club is a Aeronautical University attended the “A Day in the is looking for ERAU Prescott student-led organization (ERAU) campuses in Life of an Airline Pilot” pre- alumni who would be that features monthly Daytona Beach, Fla., and sentation given by ALPA pilot interested in volunteering presentations by subject- Prescott, Ariz., for the start volunteers. to attend ALPA-sponsored matter experts arranged of the fall semester to Approximately 70 Prescott presentations at the Prescott by ALPA Education ramp up the student- students flooded the ALPA campus during this school Committee members on table at the year. Topics at ACE Club various aviation-related Student meeting address safety, secu- topics. ACE Club members Organization rity, professional standards, receive information from Fair to sign up human factors, legislative ALPA, including select for the newly issues, accident Investigation, Air Line Pilot articles, pay formed ACE international operations, how rates, hiring requirements Club this fall to get a job, and cargo and and networking opportuni- semester. The charter operations. ties with current ALPA first meeting Interested volunteers pilots. l

14 Air Line Pilot November 2012 n PRASM Starting to Slide Recent data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics crisis. Latin PRASM has fallen considerably from the highs show that passenger revenue per available seat mile of 2011, although the region still shows some PRASM (PRASM) has been declining since earlier this year. With strength. The trend for Pacific travel shows increasing the economic recovery stalling and many businesses PRASM, as the emerging economies of that region continue concerned with the “fiscal cliff” that may occur in January, to grow. l travel demand has slowed. This decline is expected to continue as the economy tries to find solid footing in de- termining what Congress might do to address the upcom- Regional PRASM—YOY Percent Change ing spending cuts by the federal government. Even more concerning is that the decline is continuing in the face of rising fuel costs. In 2011, when fuel costs rose, airlines were able to pass along fare increases without suffering lower revenue because of strong demand. That ability has been rare in 2012. The decline in PRASM is most noticeable in domestic travel but can be seen in international travel as well. The PRASM trends in international regions are consis- tent with those regions’ economies. PRASM trends across the Atlantic have decelerated with the continued Eurozone Source: BTS, Schedule P1-2 and Schedule T-2. Data are from U.S. major airlines, as well as from Allegiant, Frontier, Hawaiian, Midwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and Virgin America. YOY Change in Passenger Revenue—Systemwide YOY Percent Change in PRASM International PRASM—YOY Change

Source: BTS, Schedule P1-2 and Schedule T-2. Data are from U.S. major airlines, as well as from Allegiant, Frontier, Hawaiian, Midwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and Virgin America. Source: BTS, Schedule P1-2 and Schedule T-2. Data are from U.S. major airlines, as well as from Allegiant, Frontier, Hawaiian, Midwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and Virgin America.

However, pilots don’t spend their entire life cruising at Have You Read? 35,000 feet. Eventually they land. How pilots spend their time Dangerous Lessons and Guardian out of the cockpit can involve a wide range of activities. When Angels: An Airline Pilot’s Story not aviating, Capt. Spivack tells of his love of fishing, boating, By Capt. P.J. Spivack (Capitol, Ret.) scuba diving, and exploring shipwreck sites. True to his ap- Capt. Spivack has a lifetime of stories to tell, and he does parent ability to lure danger and excitement in flight, he is just this in Dangerous Lessons and Guardian Angels. equally as capable on land and water. The reader will wonder It’s a day-in-the-life sort of book, but one that if danger and excitement follow him or if he seeks out all the spans 40 years of this pilot’s career. You’ll read peril and adventure that come his way. short stories of equipment malfunctions and Capt. Spivack ends his personal narrative by providing the near-miss crashes; aircraft engine troubles so har- aspiring pilot with a well-rounded list of personal qualifica- rowing that by surviving Capt. Spivack has defied tions, as well as educational requirements, that the applicant death; mean-spirited industry folk with mali- should possess to pursue a career in aviation. His list goes cious intentions; and kind “guardian angels” beyond the ABCs of the typical outline, and it is here that seemingly placed on Earth to keep the author Capt. Spivack most convincingly proves his love, passion, and free from harm. I believe these guardian angels are respect for the airline industry.—Reviewed by Kari Cantrell, the reason why Capt. Spivack has been able to tell his story. ALPA Communications Department

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 15 n In Memoriam “To fly west, my friend, is a flight we all must take for a final check.”—Author unknown

2011 S/O Jerry Cowan United September Capt. Ray P. Koehn, Sr. Northwest May Capt. Richard W. Friberg TWA September Capt. J.W. Holton US Airways August Capt. Fairley R. Gooch Delta September Capt. Donald W. Hand Pan American September Capt. Ronald L. Jackson Eastern/US Airways September Capt. George S. Locke, Jr. Northwest September 2012 F/O M.L. Lund Northwest September Capt. Orval L. Burns US Airways March Capt. Ross H. McCort Eastern September Capt. Richard R. Beckner TWA April Capt. Arthur E. Kelly TWA September F/O Pierce G. Johnston, Jr. Eastern April Capt. Patrick A. Murphy Pinnacle September Capt. John M. Smith Pan American April Capt. Michael O. Harron Northwest September Capt. Thomas R. Luce Capitol May Capt. Robert G. Roberts America West September Capt. Eugene L. McClure TWA May Capt. L.V. Sabrowsky Eastern September Capt. Mark V. Hogan Delta June Capt. R. Doane Thomas Delta September F/O Ernest F. Lowe Ryan June Capt. David E. Wilson Delta September Capt. James I. Moore TWA July Capt. William T. Woolfolk, Jr. United September Capt. Ralph A. Bedley Delta August F/O Charles D. Yates Delta September Capt. Robert W. Fulkerson Delta August F/O James R. Young Jazz September Capt. Richard P. Long TWA August Capt. Jim R. Dalton Delta October Capt. Ronald F. May American Eagle August Capt. R.J. Sherron, Jr. Pan American August n Compiled from information provided by ALPA’s Membership Capt. J.A. Bishop Delta September and Council Services Department

Air Line Pilot STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION (Act of Aug. 12, 1970: Section 3685, Title 39, United States Code) Wants Your Photos 1. Title of publication: Air Line Pilot Share your photos from the line, and let us see what you see. Give 2. Publication number: 0002-242X us some details as well—where the photo was taken, when, by 3. Filing date: Oct. 4, 2012 whom, and any other pertinent info. 4. Issue frequency: Monthly except for January/February and June/July Air Line Pilot encourages you to submit your high-quality prints 5. Number of issues published: Ten (10) from a developer or high-resolution digital images. Your photos 6. Annual subscription price: $50.00 could be featured in a future issue! 7. Location of known office of publication and 8. Location of headquarters of general business offices of the publisher, contact person, and telephone number: Send your photos to [email protected]. 535 Herndon Parkway, Fairfax County, P.O. Box 1169, Herndon, VA 20172-1169. Sharon B. Vereb (703) 481-4440 9. Publisher, Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l; Director of Communications, Marie Schwartz; Editor, Sharon B. Vereb; Managing Editor, none available, 535 Herndon Parkway, P.O. Box 1169, Herndon, VA 20172-1169 10. Owner: Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l, 535 Herndon Parkway, P.O. Box 1169, Herndon, VA 20172-1169 11. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None 12. The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax Mailbag purposes has not changed during the preceding 12 months. 13. Publication name: Air Line Pilot 14. Issue date for circulation data: November 2012 Market Watch 31, 2011, figure for Alaska 15. Extent and nature of circulation: Average number Actual number of copies each of single issue The Market Watch chart was indeed incorrect. The issue during published nearest preceding to filing in the October issue is in figure shown for 08/31/2011, 12 months date error regarding the Alaska $57.73, should have been a. Total number copies (net press run) 78,666 78,821 b. Paid and/or requested circulation Airlines stock quote. Alaska $28.86 to account for the 1. Mailed outside-county paid mail subscriptions stated on Form 3541 (include advertiser’s proof copies and exchange copies) 75,899 75,476 Air Group (ALK) stock split stock split in March 2012. 2. Mailed in-county paid subscriptions (include paid distribution above normal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) -0- -0- two for one in March 2012. The annual change for the 3. Paid distribution outside the mails including sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales, and other paid distribution The split adjusted price on stock in August 2012 was outside the USPS® -0- -0- 4. Paid distribution by other classes mailed through USPS Aug. 31, 2011, should be 16.2 percent higher. l (e.g. First-Class mail®) -0- -0- c. Total paid distribution 75,899 75,476 $28.87, therefore yielding d. Free or nominal rate distribution (by mail and outside the mail) 1. Free or nominal rate outside-country copies included on PS Form 3541 1,391 1,467 a gain of 16 percent for the Letters to the editor may 2. Free or nominal rate in-country copies included on PS Form 3541 -0- -0-  3. Free or nominal rate copies mailed at other classes through the USPS -0- -0- 12 months ending Aug. 31, be submitted via regular 4. Free or nominal rate distribution outside the mail (carriers or other means) -0- -0- 2012. mail to Air Line Pilot, Let- e. Total free or nominal rate distribution 1,391 1,467 f. Total distribution 77,290 76,943 Capt. Terry Mason ters to the Editor, 535 Hern- g. Copies not distributed 423 438 h. Total 77,713 77,381 (Alaska, Ret.) don Parkway, P.O. Box 1169, i. Percent paid 98% 98% Herndon, VA 20172-1169, 16. Publication of Statement of Ownership—Publication required—Published in November 2012 issue. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false Editor’s note: In last month’s or by e-mail to Magazine@ or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties). Market Watch table, the Aug. ALPA.org. —Sharon B. Vereb, Editor

16 Air Line Pilot November 2012 Takeaways44 From the Board of Directors Meeting Every two years, the elected representatives of the Air Line Pilots Association, International, meet to discuss, deliberate, and debate the issues facing the aviation industry and how they affect their members. They set the priorities for ALPA, and they have spoken. Turn the page for 44 takeaways (in no particular order) from this year’s 44th Board of Directors (BOD) meeting, including how your ALPA representative voted on the top issues.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 17 5Governments. Policy. Change. ALPA must continue to promote the “Unity” is more than just a five-letter establishment of national aviation policies to word. Pilot unity within ALPA, as well level the playing field for ALPA airlines and to 1as bringing into ALPA the thousands promote financially stable U.S. and Canadian of members of independent unions, will airline industries. The Board of Directors help to advance the interests of present instructed the union to

and future generations of airline pilots with  promote a rational, commonsense aviation management, industry, government, and taxation policy and pursue reforming global entities. In 2000, the BOD affirmed “passenger protection” regulations and new- the Pilot Unity Resolution. Unity is strength. entrant requirements.  maintain the current foreign ownership and BOD reps elected nine executive vice presidents cabotage restrictions. who represent different groups within the  remedy the cargo carveout of Association (see #21 to find where you fit in— the FAR 117 FT/DT regulations once you find your group, scan the rest of the list to find your EVP). All nine EVPs will take and raise the safety and security 2office on Jan. 1, 2013, and will serve two-year terms. bar internationally.  pursue legislative changes A FERRY A FERRY

ESIC to Section 1113 of the federal j

O bankruptcy code to return it to age , P , its original intent. urke B

ill B  support legislative efforts to by

GRAPHICS BY ERIC DAVIS AND ERIC DAVIS BY GRAPHICS crack down on oil speculation. hotos P INFO  maintain the current U.S. retirement age The dues of 65 and oppose any future increase in pilot exemption retirement age. 3for 401(k) and Buck tradition. RRSP deferrals will be MEC eliminated on 4negotiating Dec 31, 2014. committees should However, for 2014, a master use emerging bargaining trends 6 401(k) executive ALPA is helping individuals interested in council (MEC) to reach effective becoming airline pilots to learn about the negotiating goals, whose pilots are eligible profession and how to achieve their career for the exemption has proposals, and time the option to extend the lines to achieve goals at www.ClearedtoDream.org. exemption for pilots at maximum results. that airline until Jan. 1, ALPA will develop 2015, by using a portion and promote new of its MEC funds to bargaining strategies help fund shared union and models that resources during 2014. recognize and adapt Find more details on Agenda Item #17, which to the changing the BOD passed by a environment of the 78-percent margin, airline industry, go to www.ALPA. including the new org/BOD2012 or ask flight-time/duty-time your rep. (FT/DT) regulations.

18 Air Line Pilot November 2012 Make a plan. Reps agree that Lower dues! all MECs should establish 7 Starting on Jan. 1, 10 and maintain strategic plans 2014, the dues rate for using ALPA’s Resource Planning Team active members will be 1.90 for advice and support. percent—a reduction of .05 percent. It’s the first reduction in dues since 1994 and $ establishes the lowest dues rate ALPA pilots have paid since 1985.

In his national officer report, Capt. Lee Moak, ALPA’s presi- 8dent, said one of the most urgent challenges ahead is the fight to level the playing field and end the unfair competitive advantages of foreign support struc- tures, as highlighted in the Future of Aviation video. To see the video, scan the QR code or visit youtube.com/wearealpa.

ALPA promotes One Level of Safety and Security for all airline Protect the brand. operations and advocates ALPA will further 9 strengthen the  implementing science-based FT/DT regulations for ALL U.S. and Canadian union’s brand by pilots, including FRMP and FRMS. The 11implementing and expanding union will pursue all legislative and the ALPA Brand Guidelines regulatory processes to include cargo and strictly monitoring its use. airline operations in FAR 117.

 regulating the carriage of hazardous materials, including lithium batteries.

 installing secondary cockpit barriers on ALL airline aircraft. developing pilot training, qualification,  12 and health standards to ensure the highest Reps elected levels of safety and professionalism. F/O Scott Smetana

 enhancing jumpseat access to improve (Delta) to a first safety and security. term as Group A EVP.

 implementing threatened airspace management to increase the level of security.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 19 16 The BOD directed the Professional Development Group, in coordination with other ALPA committees and departments, 13 Define fair. to research the effect that the retirements of The BOD supports the 10,000+ ALPA pilots who turn age 65 in implementing ALPA the next 10 policy and Constitution years will and By-Laws changes have on the that create a fair and industry and balanced dues struc- We’ve gone to robustly mobile. ture and ensure the promote Download Association’s contin- 14 ALPA to the ALPA mobile ued financial strength future pilots. and future viability. app to your smart phone for ALPA news and resources, including jumpseat Be an ALPA information and ambassador. Known Crewmember 15 ALPA is the checkpoint locations. recognized voice of airline pilots and helps to make the profession In his national officer report, Capt. Sean safer and more secure 17 Cassidy, ALPA’s first vice president, cele- in the air and on the brated ALPA’s role as the largest nongovernmental ground; negotiates safety organization in the world, collective bargaining as highlighted in the Air Safety Forum video shown during his agreements and remarks. To see the video, scan enforces those hard- the QR code. won rights; advocates for the profession in government and industry efforts at home and abroad; and provides unmatched services and programs Protect the nest egg. tailored to meet ALPA recognizes that the needs of ALPA the Major Contingency members. The BOD 18 Fund (MCF) is one of resolved to enhance the Association’s most member awareness important strategic assets about the resources the and endorses initiatives to Association provides protect it by continuing to and to empower pursue budgeting prac- members to become tices and policies to reduce more involved in their demands on the MCF and union. to improve its funding.

20 Air Line Pilot November 2012 19 Serving his first term as EVP for Group B3, reps elected F/O William Hanna (ExpressJet). Share, share, share. 22Information sharing and pilot alliances within and between network, ALPA supports all members, cargo, and fee-for-departure carriers, as well including those on furlough. Via as international pilot group alliances and the Furloughed Pilots Support carriers, play a key role in supporting the 20Network, ALPA provides help with résumé and principles of career protection, progression, interview preparation and job search and contract and professional standards. assistance via a partnership with FAPA.aero. ALPA also offers products through 24 Capt. Moak ALF-CIO’s Union Plus, unveiled the “Key Men including help with Society,” an ALPA-PAC car and mortgage award that honors those insurance, mortgage Reps pilot groups that are payment assistance, reelected leading us into a better and scholarships for 23 future by exceeding 24 Capt. Larry Beck children in college. (Continental) as percent PAC participation Group A EVP. at their local councils. Aptly named for the 24 brave men who formed ALPA 81 years 21 ago, the following What group does your airline fall into? Here’s the 2013 group guide: councils Group A: Continental, Delta, FedEx, and United qualified for the inaugural Group B1: American Eagle, Atlantic Southeast, Compass, award: Delta Mesa Air Group, Ryan, and Sun Country Council Group B2: Alaska, Capital Cargo, Evergreen, Piedmont, Pinnacle, 81; FedEx and Spirit Express Councils 79, Group B3: Air Wisconsin, ExpressJet, CommutAir, Hawaiian, Island Air, and Trans States 100, and 123; and United Group B4: AirTran, Air Transport International, North American, Council 27. and PSA Group C: Air Transat, Bearskin, Calm Air, Canadian North, CanJet, First Air, Jazz Air, Kelowna Flightcraft, and Wasaya

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 21

ALPA pilots and staff, spearheaded by the Delta Pilots Charitable Fund, 28 raised $27,000 for the Rally Foundation, a 501(c)(3) 25 nonprofit organization that ALPA promotes NextGen and national airspace empowers volunteers system (NAS) modernization to improve aviation across the country to raise safety and efficiency. This includes ensuring the awareness and funds for safe integration of unmanned aerial systems and childhood cancer research to remotely piloted aircraft find better treatments with (UAS/RPA) into the NAS fewer long-term side effects and implementing and, ultimately, cures. You can precision approach help raise money for Rally, too. Visit capability at all airports. Acting rallyfoundation.org and share its new music on recommendations from the new video on Facebook—with every “share” or President’s Committee for Remote Operations, “like,” a partner charity donates another $1. the BOD also added a priority calling for precision approach capabilities at all runways from which ALPA pilots fly. The BOD will also continue to In Group promote the expansion of NextGen throughout B1, pilots North America and demand that any UAS/RPA reelected integration bring with it the same level of safety 29 Capt. Tom Maxwell . that crews and passengers currently enjoy. Go Paperless (American Eagle) Air Line Pilot, as EVP. 30 Flying the Line, and other ALPA publications are available electronically at www.ALPA.org/epubs.

26 In his national officer report, Capt. Bill Couette, ALPA’s vice president– administration/secretary, updated the BOD on ALPA’s membership numbers, including the loss of ASTAR and Comair, and tied together two unlikely ALPA volunteers. To watch, visit youtube.com/wearealpa.

In Group B2, pilots 31 reelected Reps elected Capt. Mark Nagel Capt. Joe (Pinnacle) EVP. 27 DePete (FedEx Express) to his first term as Group A EVP.

22 Air Line Pilot November 2012 Reps reelected 35 F/O Michael Hamilton (United) as EVP of Group A.

The Board of Directors recommended 32Finding ALPA online just implementing a risk-based security system got easier. Instead of using your member 36 that places increased emphasis number to log in, you now can set your own on screening for hostile and criminal login ID and password intent and recognizes that pilots are part for the ALPA website. of the solution, not the problem. This To set up an alternate includes continued expansion of Known login for your existing Crewmember®, ongoing improvements ALPA account, access to the FFDO program, and aggressively advocating helpdesk.alpa.org and for secondary cockpit barriers on all airliners. Pilots choose the Change My Password link. From should have greater access to cockpit jumpseats to there, follow the alternate login option. enhance safety and security, and the U.S., Canada, and other countries should promote threatened airspace ALPA will continue to improve safety management programs to alert crewmembers to reporting systems and expand potential problems while in flight. 33 protections to prevent safety data from being used in discipline or punitive actions. But there are more and more ways that data are being collected during operations than just voluntarily submitted error reports. A new ALPA priority seeks to protect pilots from discipline or administrative actions for data that are downloaded, recorded, streamed, or otherwise made available to management or regulators. 37In his national officer report, Capt. Randy Helling, vice president–finance/ Pilot treasurer, reported that the union has achieved leaders greater financial stability. Watch his full reelected 34 remarks, filled with the latest

F/O Todd Ortscheid ALPA financial update, at (AirTran) as EVP of youtube.com/wearealpa. Group B4.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 23

42ALPA’s insurance products have you Pilot volunteers on the ALPA covered and now save Emergency Relief Fund board you money, too. ALPA raised AERF awareness and has found cost savings 38 for insurance products asked pilots to support one another when disasters strike. Watch the offered to members video and donate online at while improving the www.ALPA.org/relieffund. level of service provided. For information about all of the insurance products ALPA provides, visit memberinsurance.alpa.org.

43 All but five U.S. BOD members back ALPA-PAC. Join the trend and donate to the PAC today at alpa.org/alpapac. Need more convincing? Go to the website to watch the video.

39 The ALPA Advantage. Organizing is an integral component to helping the Association realize its objective of representing all airline pilots in the U.S. and Canada. The BOD reaffirmed ALPA’s Organizing Task Force, which was established in 2008, including its structure, and ALPA’s organizing metrics, 44 criteria, and methods. ALPA can help. From contract interpretation to discipline issues to medical concerns, if you have a question that Reps involves or affects your 40 reelected career, there’s someone Insurance pays. Capt. at ALPA you can call. Information about ALPA’s ALPA stresses the 41 robust committee structure, staff of experts, Dan Adamus (Jazz) importance of as Group C EVP. and resources available to you as an ALPA maintaining Kitty member can be found at www.alpa.org. Hawk insurance and reinsurance to protect For more coverage, visit the Association. www.ALPA.org/BOD2012.

24 Air Line Pilot November 2012 Comair Flies West By Jen Lofquist, ALPA Senior Communications Specialist

s night fell in Cincinnati on began severance negotiations with September 29, a lone the company. By the middle of A CRJ700 made its final September, a severance package approach into Cincinnati/ was in place that provided the Northern Kentucky Airport. pilots 11 weeks of pay and paid Although Comair Airlines had out both sick and vacation leave. flown thousands of flight into In addition, the company would and out of CVG, this one was pay COBRA fees, which could special—it was the last. be a staggering amount, for the In the airplane sat Shannon pilots and their families for Kramer, proudly wearing a shirt three months. Working with bearing a photo of the captain of the ALPA, the group was also able flight, Tim Mullane. Above his photo to secure an agreement that were the words “My Dad.” Kramer had would allow pilots with 401(k) accompanied her father on the last loans to continue paying flight of Comair into Cincinnati, riding monthly installments, rather on the trip down that afternoon into Pilots of the than the loan being immediately due Houston and returning that night. As last Comair flight were with hefty tax implications. the airplane touched down in a textbook Capt. Tim Mullane, left, and Concern was not limited to financial landing, Kramer smiled with pride while F/O Tim Edwards. issues, as pilots were anxious about re- her eyes filled with tears. entering the job market after being with Mullane, three months shy of his 65th and F/O Tim Edwards came up the jetway. Comair for years or even decades. Many birthday, made his last landing at the “We weren’t just a company, we were had expected to retire from Comair, so airport that was his home for the past a family,” said Capt. Erik Jensen, the they needed to retool their résumés and 34 years. pilots’ Master Executive Council (MEC) prepare for interviews. In September, On the tarmac, the airplane was hosed chairman. “We couldn’t let this flight ALPA arranged for résumé preparation down by fire trucks, as is customary when come in without recognizing the 35 years workshops in Cincinnati, Detroit, and a pilot makes his or her final flight. Inside of Comair. And though we were saying Orlando. More than 150 pilots turned the terminal, more than 250 Comair our good-byes to our airline, the family out for six days of workshops in the three pilots, flight attendants, and employees that Comair created will continue.” cities. Comair pilots, as part of ALPA’s cheered as each passenger deplaned, the Furloughed Pilots Support Program, will cheering reaching a crescendo as Mullane The final two months also have free access to job fairs and job Just this summer, the Comair family search services. seemed destined to have a long future “It’s only been two months since we together. Rumors circulating about the found out Comair was closing,” said F/O Recognition at the BOD airline’s closure appeared to be base- Mark Rado (Comair), who attended the During ALPA’s 44th less. In May, the Comair Negotiating workshops. “These workshops helped Board of Directors Committee put together a comprehen- me fine-tune my résumé to today’s job (BOD) meeting, sive proposal to management that would market and be better prepared for my Capt. Lee Moak, save more than $10 million annually— interviews. The facilitators met with each ALPA’s president, and potentially much more. attendee one-on-one to make sure we paid tribute to However, on July 17, 2012, the closure put our best foot forward.” Comair and ASTAR pilots. Scan the QR rumor hit the local news media in code to watch his remarks. Cincinnati, and this time there were A turbulent history Don’t have a smart phone? View sources. Ten days later, Delta Air Lines, Comair’s shutdown closes a turbulent the video, along with more coverage which had bought the airline in 1999, an- chapter in U.S. airline history, including of the BOD meeting, at www.alpa. nounced that Comair would shut down fleet reductions, furloughs, bankruptcy, org/BOD2012 or go to YouTube and on September 29. and a strike lasting 89 days. On Sept. search for We Are ALPA. Immediately, the MEC, supported 1, 2010, the company had announced by ALPA’s Representation Department, plans to reduce Comair’s fleet from 93

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 25 Farewell airplanes to just 44 by the end of 2012. This action would reduce the pilot group By Capt. Erik Jensen (Comair) Besides Comair’s demise, we also from more than 1,100 to just 500. Master Executive Council see American Eagle and Pinnacle in This announcement came only nine Chairman bankruptcy, facing major restructuring months after Comair had canceled that threatens to set their bargaining planned furloughs. Delta had allocated (Editor’s note: The following are ex- back several cycles. Other groups like additional flying to Comair, resulting in cerpts from Capt. Jensen’s remarks to Mesa have been on a rollercoaster what the pilot group referred to as “a ALPA’s 111th regular Executive Board ride of profitability and are struggling game of musical domiciles.” Responding meeting held in September.) to survive. And let’s not forget our to decreased flying out of Cincinnati, brothers and sisters to the north at Comair management based a number I will start by saying how honored Jazz, who can look at Comair and of pilots in New York, only to reverse I am to be an ALPA pilot. Since the think that they are staring into a mir- that decision less than a year later and announcement on July 27 of Comair’s ror that could be showing them their close the JFK Airport base and relocate closure, the outpouring of concern not-too-distant future. those same pilots back to Cincinnati or by you, my fellow master executive Thanks to all of you for your help. Detroit. This action made it difficult for council (MEC) chairmen, has been My pilot group, my MEC, and I will pilots to find commuting schedules or truly overwhelming. I am touched miss all of you as we land at other car- even space on the limited number of and humbled by how this union has riers. With your help, I hope they will flights between Cincinnati, New York, banded together to help my pilot all be ALPA carriers because this group, and Detroit. group during this very difficult transi- when they put their collective strength tion. But as Comair leaves this col- together, cannot be beaten. I wish all lective group, our voice and our push of you smooth flying and tailwinds, toward solving the problems does not and I appreciate being able to address end here. you as my airline flies west.

contentious negotiations that included pilots went on strike. For 89 days the a strike authorization vote, an imposed pilots held firm, refusing to bow to in- contract, and a controversial decision by creasing pressure from management and a bankruptcy court judge that stripped a collective loss of almost $13 million Comair pilots of their right to self-help. in wages. At the end of June, the pilots Eventually, after difficult negotiations, agreed to a 5-year contract that included the pilot group agreed to a contract that 19 percent pay raises in just the first year gave further concessions totaling tens of as well as substantial scope and work Capt. Mullane, millions of dollars. rule improvements. left, with his daughter, Throughout all of the upheaval, the Shannon Kramer, who flew with 89-day strike that occurred in 2001 re- The end of an era him on his last flight. mains the pilot group’s milestone. In July Starting with just two Piper Navajo 1999, after more than a year of negotia- airplanes in 1977, Comair grew into a In 2005, the pilot group had faced an tions, federal mediators were brought regional powerhouse that earned sub- enormous hurdle as Delta filed for bank- to the table to help move negotiations stantial profits. Yet over time, it struggled ruptcy, forcing Comair to file alongside its along. Later that year, Delta, which had with upheaval in the industry, changing parent company. In response to the bank- purchased 20 percent of Comair in 1986, ownership, and bankruptcy. However, ruptcy, the pilots agreed to more than $11 bought the airline for more than $2 until the last wheel touched down, the million in annual concessions to help the billion. By February 2001, it was obvious pilots of Comair remained professional company gain financial stability. However, that an impasse had been reached, and and dedicated to their company. Up Comair management insisted that these the National Mediation Board started until the announcement of July 27, the concessions simply weren’t enough to get the 30-day cooling-off period, which Comair pilots were still offering deep the company into the black. ended on March 26. concessions, hoping that the Comair This set off a year and a half of On March 26, 2001, 1,400 Comair family could stay together.

26 Air Line Pilot November 2012 ilot unity was Wychor said. “There are other testimony, ALPA showed that proposals enable our pilots never more regional carriers with similar the pilots are committed to to become more efficient P evident than it pilot costs that are not in reaching an agreement and while maintaining accept- was in the United bankruptcy. This bankruptcy have brought intense energy able health-care provisions States Bankruptcy Court is a result of gross misman- and creativity to that effort. and other benefits that are Southern District of New York agement, not a result of The Pinnacle Negotiating essential to attracting and on October 16 when more employee compensation.” Committee has offered maintaining a high-quality, than 45 uniformed pilots At the start of the hearing, proposals that include wage experienced pilot group.” filled the courtroom on day Judge Robert Gerber dis- cuts and other concessions “This is what ALPA one of the Pinnacle Airlines pensed with opening remarks that provide the annual sav- is all about,” said Capt. 1113 bankruptcy hearing. and provided both sides ings the company demanded Rick Bernskoetter, the Pinnacle Master Executive with a series of questions he in May. Atlantic Southeast MEC Council (MEC) officers and wanted answered during the “We have offered the Communications Committee most of its representatives hearing. Gerber reiterated his company a reduced compen- chairman, when he spoke were joined for the four days desire that both sides strive sation package that meets to the pilots gathered in the of testimony by pilots from to reach an agreement on the labor savings targeted overflow courtroom for a American Eagle, Atlantic their own. by the company in the first debrief after the second day’s Southeast, and Delta, as well During the four days of ask,” Wychor continued. “Our hearing. “Thank you for the as pilot representatives from unity and strength you bring Republic and Shuttle America. to these proceedings.” Capt. Lee Moak, ALPA’s Pinnacle’s six witnesses president, flew to New York testified on days one and two. after the close of the Board of Pinnacle Pilots During the cross-examination Directors meeting to attend of the company witnesses, the last day of the hearing. Stand Strong ALPA’s counsel solicited “I am humbled by the testimony that the company’s support expressed this week consultants believed in May from pilots at ALPA and At 1113 Hearing that the term sheet cost non-ALPA carriers,” said Capt. savings demanded at that Tom Wychor, the Pinnacle time were adequate to pro- MEC chairman. “It’s obvious With an vide Pinnacle with the relief that pilots understand the needed to exit bankruptcy ramifications of the ruling Abundance and be profitable. Moreover, that comes out of these pro- during testimony Delta repre- ceedings. Pinnacle pilots want sentatives refused to provide to negotiate a deal that meets Of Support data to support the alleged the needs of management, cost gaps. but we can’t and won’t start a By Kimberly Seitz, ALPA Senior “The arguments we’ve race to the bottom that would Communications Specialist heard during the hearing undermine industry standards are eerily similar to what for our colleagues at other our Negotiating Committee carriers.” is hearing,” said F/O Dan Pinnacle filed bankruptcy Silbaugh (Republic), Executive in April 2012 and in May pre- Board recording secretary for sented the pilot group with a Teamsters Local No. 357. “We term sheet requesting $33.2 understand the importance million in annual conces- of moral support during times sions. After several weeks of like these because we all have negotiations, followed by an the same goals.” eight-week company-initiated “We’ve been where hiatus, Pinnacle presented the you are,” said Capt. Reed pilots a second term sheet in McDonald (Delta), a former August that included a $59.6 MEC captain rep. “Unity is million dollar demand—an the only weapon we have that

increase of 80 percent over SEITZ KIMBERLY is universal.” the initial request. The judge has until mid- “We were not part of the November to review the cause of the bankruptcy, but Pinnacle pilots, committee volunteers, officers, and elected testimony and supporting we understand that we need leaders gather outside the courthouse during the 1113 documents before issuing a to be part of the solution,” bankruptcy hearing in Manhattan. ruling.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 27 he Known Crewmember® (KCM) less security, long lines, frustrated travel- program has arrived and is an ers, invasions of physical privacy, and the undisputed success. Not only loss of airline passengers to other modes T do pilots love it, but it has also of transportation. An official of the gained strong support from the Trans- Transportation Security Administration’s portation Security Administration (TSA) (TSA) Office of Security Capabilities ALPA Helps and many airlines and airport operators. recently cautioned airport authorities After years of ALPA lobbying and work- that as air travel grows—approximately 5 ing with legislators, regulators, and the percent growth per year is forecast—not Usher in a airline industry, KCM creates an alterna- enough space in airport terminals will tive security screening methodology that exist to fit ever more security screening leverages the unique status and trustwor- lanes and longer passenger queues. thiness of airline pilots. With KCM, pilots Beginning in the 1990s and continu- New Era are quickly vetted by TSA screening ing to the present, ALPA has urged the officers who confirm their identities and U.S. government to adopt what is now verify their employment status in just a called “risk-based” security (RBS). ALPA’s Of Aviation few seconds. Then they and their belong- then president, Capt. Randy Babbitt, ings are cleared into secured areas of testified before the Gore Commission on airport terminals without further delay. Airline Safety and Security—established The larger story behind this success, in 1996 following the crash of TWA Security however, is that the U.S. government has, 800—and argued in favor of using avail- after years of ALPA advocacy, officially able information about passengers to By Jerry Wright, Manager, recognized that one-size-fits-all security “determine who might pose a security Aviation Safety and Security, ALPA Engineering and Air Safety must be replaced with a more effective risk [and] improve the odds over the Department and efficient security model, of which current ‘needle in a haystack’ approach KCM is one important component. to security screening.” He noted that Northwest Airlines was developing what ALPA advocates for risk-based came to be called the Computer Assisted security Passenger Pre-Screening (CAPPS) Passenger screening in North America program to help identify security risks, dates back to the Cuban hijacking crisis which could be further enhanced by of the 1960s and early 1970s and has using trained security personnel. historically been devoted solely to detect- Following the attacks of 9/11, the TSA ing and confiscating threat objects (e.g., was formed in late 2001 to, among other guns, knives, and improvised explosive things, assume responsibility from the devices). This type of screening worked fairly well for its intended purposes but was no match for suicidal terrorists on 9/11. Well before the tragic events of RBS Expanding Around the World that day, however, ALPA recognized and promoted the idea that governments In September 2012, the U.S. and adopted a plan in September 2012 should use what can be known about Canada announced an agreement for to modernize airport screening that passengers to their advantage. By prop- Canadian NEXUS members to use closely resembles the International erly identifying low-risk individuals and PreCheck at U.S. Air Transport Association’s (IATA’s) processing them more quickly, more time airports. In addition “checkpoint of the future.” The IATA can be spent on screening those passen- to the U.S. and initiative is designed to use biomet- gers about whom less is known and/or Canada, other rics and passenger information to who may pose a greater risk. The aged, countries and improve the security process; testing the very young, members of Congress international is being conducted at Geneva and and Parliament, and, of course, airline organizations London Heathrow airports. ALPA pilots are just a few examples of low-risk are now actively will continue to advocate for RBS in individuals. In this data-rich era, a great pursuing risk-based security (RBS) conjunction with the Transportation deal is known about most travelers on as a solution to outmoded secu- Security Administration, Transport North American airlines that can be used rity systems. The International Canada, and other organizations to enhance security. Failure to use this Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) around the world. information to best advantage means

28 Air Line Pilot November 2012 airlines for airline passenger screening. security screening and adopting a system concept to a more risk-based approach. But the focus remained on detecting that focuses on detecting hostile intent. “Any time we can reduce the size of a threat objects, not detecting persons The paper was well received by policy haystack in which a terrorist can hide,” with hostile intent. Over the next decade, makers in North America and abroad. Pistole stated, “that gives us better however, the agency began adding ad- ALPA representatives met with numer- security.” The TSA has recognized KCM ditional layers of security—including ous government and industry officials, as its first RBS program; but subsequent Secure Flight, a data-mining program including congressional staff and the to testing alternative security screening used to detect higher-risk passengers; office of the secretary of homeland for pilots beginning in 2008, other RBS the Federal Flight Deck Officer program; security, to promote a security philoso- initiatives have been created—the best the Cockpit Access Security System; phy that would not only facilitate airline known of which is PreCheck, which risk-based cargo security measures; and traffic growth but also improve security. started in 2011. PreCheck exempts en- others—making it much more difficult Before long, due in part to ALPA’s efforts, rolled, low-risk passengers from certain for terrorists to bring down an airplane. risk-based security screening began security procedures, such as removing The attempted terrorist attack taking shape. shoes and taking laptops out of bags, to in December 2009 by Umar Farouk speed up the security screening process. Abdulmutallab, the infamous “under- TSA adopts RBS philosophy As an indication of how seriously the wear bomber,” brought greater attention Speaking to the TSA’s Aviation Security agency is taking its adoption of RBS, in to the need for better understanding Advisory Committee in December September the TSA announced the for- passenger risk. In January 2010, ALPA 2011, TSA Administrator John Pistole mation of the new Office of Risk Based published a white paper on “trust-based” emphasized that he wanted the agency Security to be headed by an assistant security, which called for revamping to move away from a one-size-fits-all administrator. Q&A with Hofsass Air Line Pilot recently met with Doug Air Line Pilot: Known Crewmember at the TSA was a significant milestone Hofsass, the new assistant administra- is a partnership among ALPA, Airlines in adopting RBS since he came from tor of the Transportation Security for America, and the TSA. How is that an intelligence and counterterrorism Administration’s (TSA) Office of Risk partnership working as far as the TSA is background. In 2011–2012, we began Based Security, to discuss the role of concerned? tying everything together. There had the RBS office and RBS programs. Hofsass: KCM is extremely successful. been “pockets” of RBS in the past, It is one of our most successful partner- such as airport workers and law en- Air Line Pilot: Contrast the prior TSA ships ever at the TSA and the first one forcement officers not being required security paradigm with RBS. What is to take individuals out of the passenger to go through passenger screening the same, and what has changed? screening lanes. It is now at 26 airports each time they entered the secure Hofsass: RBS and 40-plus airlines and counting. Flight area. These kinds of allowances were moves us away attendants are being added, and we’re based on background checks and per- from one-size-fits- up to 70,000 KCM entries each week. petually vetted security threat assess- all security, as was We’ve had more than 2 million alterna- ments (STAs) of these individuals, but argued for in the tive screenings with this program since the pockets weren’t mapped together ALPA white paper CrewPASS, KCM’s forerunner, began in a cohesive and strategic way. The and other sources. testing in 2008. The program is begin- TSA really sees the biggest advances RBS security is ning to pay real dividends, including in security screening in which numer- more efficient and shorter passenger queues. As flight ous RBS programs are collocated—for Doug Hofsass effective than the attendants outnumber pilots by more instance, an airport that has KCM, former security model. Any new TSA than two to one, significantly greater PreCheck, and alternative security security initiative now has to meet efficiencies will be realized when they screening for active military person- three criteria: (1) improve security, (2) are added to KCM. nel and those over 75 and under 12. create efficiencies in the system, and The new RBS office is responsible for (3) reduce the burden on operators Air Line Pilot: What were the milestones leading an effort across the agency to and travelers. In the past, security for adopting and implementing the RBS enable and facilitate RBS programs improvements didn’t adequately philosophy? to include better security of inbound consider stakeholder inputs, and we Hofsass: The TSA committed to RBS in cargo, and additional RBS programs are working to address that issue. early 2011. Administrator Pistole’s arrival are under development.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 29 Pilot usings A RideM on the B-787: A Perspective from Economy Class

country. It wasn’t always this is tinted electronically, with By F/O Patrick Smith (Delta) way, but following a decade a push button. It never fully t’s the pointy end of a of major renovations, includ- turns opaque; and at full tint, spiffy new jet that piques ing an expanded Terminal the effect is a bit like being Ithe interest of most pilots. E and the construction of under water. You can make There’s no denying that the Delta’s Terminal A, Logan has out certain details, but most B-787 has a great-looking emerged as one of the most of the color and sunlight cockpit and some fascinating modern and functional major are filtered away. The world systems architecture, and I airports in North America. It’s is rendered in a leaden can’t imagine there’s a pilot clean, bright, easy to navigate, bluish-grey. out there who wouldn’t want and who doesn’t love the It’s a nice idea in that to fly one. inter-terminal connector walk- you always have a view. However, I figure the ways, with their skyline views Unfortunately, in direct sun,

various aviation magazines and inlaid sea-life mosaics? PHOTO AUTHOR much of the heat passes and websites have the jet’s Japan Airlines Flight 007 B-787 cabin window. Note the through, even at maximum gizmos and plumbing cov- leaves from Terminal E. When tinting button at the bottom. tint. My window pane ered well enough. (Plus, I’m I was a kid, this was called the became painfully hot to the protesting the glacially slow John A. Volpe International legroom in economy, for a touch, and the radiant heat progress of cockpit ergonom- Terminal, named after the total of only 186 seats— grew uncomfortable. At one ics. It’s been how many former Massachusetts gover- about 20 fewer than the point, I stuck one of the seat- years, and we still don’t have nor. The building has doubled average B-767. pocket briefing cards into an FMS interface with a in size. The check-in hall is The sidewalls and consoles the frame to help stay cool. QWERTY keyboard?) entirely new and arguably the are sculpted in that rounded, When a flight attendant saw So instead, here’s a critique airport’s handsomest spot. organic, vaguely futuristic style this, she came over and gave of the B-787 from a passen- The spacious, wood-panel that reminds me of the caves me a black, self-stick window ger’s point of view. interior is softly lit and, unlike of Turkish Cappadocia (think blotter. Apparently I’m not I was fortunate to catch most U.S. airports, blissfully of Eero Saarinen’s landmark the only one to find this a recent ride from Boston quiet—free of the incessant TWA terminal at JFK). The bothersome. Logan to Tokyo Narita on PA announcements and tele- mid-cabin lavatory is big In addition, the tinting is one of Japan Airlines’ newly vision monitors that plague enough to hold a party in— not instantaneous. When the delivered ships. America’s terminals. with moonlighting to boot. airplane banks and suddenly The airline’s BOS–NRT The airline’s Recaro you’ve got the sun bearing flights were launched last The B-787 economy seats have gener- down on you, it takes several spring—the first-ever non- Flight 007 left from Gate 8. I ous legroom, 11-inch video seconds for the glass to go stop service between Boston was in 23A, a window seat in screens (Ethiopian’s are 15 dark. and Asia, and the first sched- the second row of economy. inches), cup holders, coat The electronic system uled B-787 service anywhere The B-787 isn’t as large as hooks, AC power ports, and a strikes me as a novelty— in the U.S. (Ethiopian Airlines most widebodies, and I was USB connection. technology for the sake of will soon launch the airplane surprised by the stubbiness of The B-787’s cabin windows on its popular route between the cabin. In terms of range are a good 40 percent bigger Washington Dulles and Addis and capacity, the airplane than normal. They’re of equal Ababa.) falls between the B-767 and width, but almost double the Some impressions. B-777. But it feels a lot closer height of typical windows. to the former, albeit with These skinny ovals are per- The airport B-777-style overhead bins and haps the most distinctively Call me a hometown cheer- a bevy of new accoutrements. shaped cabin windows since leader (I live and grew up in Though it can hold up those of the DC-8 or the the Boston area), but Boston to 300 passengers, Japan Caravelle, 45 years ago. Logan has to be the most Airlines uses a roomy, two- Instead of a traditional underrated airport in the class layout, with extended draw-down shade, the glass BOEING

30 Air Line Pilot November 2012 than their U.S. counterparts is that service is a continuous thing. Whether it’s premium class or economy, you don’t hand out a meal and then go hide for seven hours. The flight attendants made

AUTHOR PHOTO AUTHOR continuous rounds, serving Wing view, somewhere over Canada. beverages, collecting trash, etc. There were two hot towel itself—and something that, in air recirculation systems are services: one after takeoff the end, isn’t as useful or reli- designed to maintain higher and a second one about an

able as the good old manual humidity levels and lower hour before landing. Yes, in PHOTO AUTHOR version. cabin altitudes than are economy. Economy class. On the brighter side, as customary. (The airplane’s But if you ask me, the it were, the B-787’s cabin composite construction coolest thing about the Similar to the A380, the is whisper quiet thanks to ensures that cabin moisture airline’s B-787 isn’t on the lines of the B-787 give it a advanced insulation and an won’t be corrosive.) These inside, but on the outside. somewhat animal-like profile. active noise-reduction system. are welcome changes, but I’m talking about the airline’s But while the A380 looks like This makes long flights less after landing at Narita I’m reintroduction of the tsuru- a steroidal beluga, the B-787 fatiguing, saves battery life on not sure that I felt any less maru, the circular red-and- is a sleeker species. your iPod, and makes it easier weary or dehydrated than I white logo first used in 1960. The tail is awkwardly to hear the movies. It also normally do after a 13-hour Possibly the most elegant undersized, but those scal- amplifies the conversations of journey. airline logo ever conceived, loped engine nacelles (for your neighbors and the wails The airline’s onboard it’s a stylized depiction of noise reduction, similar to of nearby children. service was very good overall, the crane, lifting its wings those on the new B-747-8) The pressurization and if not quite on the level of into the circular suggestion and sharply tapered wingtips other leading airlines from of the Japanese rising sun. are definitely cool. Asia, Europe, or the Middle Beginning in 2002 this If you haven’t caught a East. There were two hot ageless symbol was phased glimpse of the B-787 yet, you meals and a snack service. out—a terrible decision on will soon. Boeing’s order book During the in-between hours, aesthetic merits alone, and stands at more than 800. a buffet was set up in the mid still worse considering the and rear galleys with snacks crane’s cultural importance Stayed tuned for an article and bottled water. in Japan. Apparently enough on the B-787 from One thing that Japan people complained, how- the cockpit perspec-

AUTHOR PHOTO AUTHOR Airlines and other non-U.S. ever, and the tsurumaru tive in an upcoming Inflight meal. airlines understand better has been resurrected. issue.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 31 ALPAToolbox Toolbox for Tinkickers

tremendously to the point tion has these capabilities,” our members have the full By Jan W. Steenblik where we now see the Baum continued. “One of the benefit of the experience and Technical Editor capability to obtain, store, strengths of ALPA is that we technology we have.” LPA’s Engineering and and analyze hundreds of have the depth of resources Staff engineer Steve Air Safety Depart- parameters captured many to continue making use of Serur, who has extensive Ament’s accident in- times each second for days of the lab’s capability no matter background as an air traffic vestigation lab on the second flight operations. what else is going on. An controller, offered this illustra- floor of the union’s Herndon, ongoing investigation is top tion. “A detailed, accurate Va., building is a quiet work- State-of-the-art tools priority, but we can provide transcript of pilot-controller space, in stark contrast with As technology evolved, the trained staff engineers to communications can take as the destruction and tragedy capabilities of ALPA’s ac- use the lab to support the long as an hour per recorded memorialized in photos on minute of data,” he explained. the walls with captions detail- The accident investigation lab and, “With the sound analysis soft- ing ALPA’s participation in ware we have, we can listen accident investigation over more importantly, the ALPA staff to even a brief exchange over many years. Memorable and over, speed it up, slow it events, known frequently only engineers trained to use the down, filter out background by flight numbers—Simmons equipment represent a resource noise, and in the end develop 4184, Atlantic Southeast 529, a very clear record of what Colgan 3407, USAir 1016, available to support ALPA master was actually said during a Aloha 243, TWA 800, FedEx pilot’s exchange with ATC, 1406—frame ALPA’s contri- executive council safety work. even on a busy, congested bution to improving safety cident investigation lab have investigation and provide full frequency. We can also use through painstaking analyses kept pace. The Association technical support to the ALPA ALPA’s ATC radar track of data. maintains sophisticated team and still cover all of the analysis software to look at ALPA has recognized the audio equipment to analyze other responsibilities we have. separation between aircraft, safety value of data recorded ATC conversations, computer “The capability to perform and even marry that up with in real-world operations for hardware and software to in-depth analysis on behalf the voice data to get a better decades. Next to state-of-the analyze both ATC radar of ALPA members extends picture of an event.” art computer-driven flight data and digital flight data beyond accident and incident Baum continued, “Although path reconstruction work recorder (DFDR) data, and investigation,” said Baum. we developed this capability stations, ALPA’s accident large-format printers for data “Aviation Safety Action primarily for investigations, investigation lab proudly dis- plots, diagrams, and illustrat- Programs [ASAPs] have signif- we have seen benefit in plays a relic of the beginnings ing other results of analyses. icantly reduced the number using the lab’s capability for of flight data recording and Chris Baum, a manager in of certificate action cases, but safety training. The ability to analysis—a roll of steel foil on ALPA’s Engineering and Air ALPA attorneys still occasion- quickly and accurately display which a stylus traced a record Safety Department, explained, ally need Engineering and Air data in a wide variety of of the airplane’s heading, “ALPA’s accident investigation Safety Department technical ways—multiple plots, flight altitude, airspeed, and vertical lab has four major areas of support for an enforcement path animations overlaid on acceleration. A magnifying capability—flight data analy- or disciplinary case. Since aeronautical charts, radar and glass was the tool of choice sis, flight path reconstruction, ASAP has become so preva- voice together—can be a very for analysis. Such was the ATC radar track analysis, and lent, the number of cases has powerful tool for illustrating relatively primitive beginning ATC voice analysis. The lab gone down, but the complex- the severity and/or complex- of flight data recording, one and, more importantly, the ity of those not addressed ity of an event. Looking that amazingly survived in ALPA staff engineers trained through ASAP has gone up. at columns of figures and North American airline opera- to use the equipment repre- With our depth of resources, nothing else may be accurate, tions into the 1980s. sent a resource available to though, we can take the time but that just doesn’t have the Since that beginning, the support ALPA master execu- to dig deep—sometimes same impact.” technology to record and tive council safety work. really deep—to make sure To be able to do that, ALPA analyze data has advanced “No other pilot associa- every angle is looked at and has acquired state-of-the-art

32 Air Line Pilot November 2012 primarily for presentations,” Balentine said, “not primarily for analysis. We can show the primary flight instruments, yoke or stick position and movement, engine gauges, and rudder pedals along with the orientation of the airplane and the position of its control surfaces. It’s a great tool, but we have to be ALPA staff engineer John careful that it’s used correctly. White (above) prints a The visual image can be very data plot on a large-format powerful, and people tend printer while staff engineer to look at it as a movie of Chris Heck (left) creates an the event. But it’s still only animation from DFDR data. as good as the data that are available and fed into it.” position, and vertical g speaks Airline safety in North volumes. “At the time of that America has improved accident, producing that kind dramatically since the dawn of illustration would have of the civil jet age, and use of taken a considerable amount ALPA’s accident investigation of time. Any changes to it lab has changed accordingly. PHOTOS BY CHRIS WEAVER BY PHOTOS would mean that we had to But ALPA staff engineers still software—the same as or aircraft-specific engineering start the whole process over,” use the sophisticated soft- similar to that used by major units—knots, feet, degrees, Baum added. “Now we have ware and hardware at their governments’ aviation acci psi, and so forth. “We don’t the capability to quickly and disposal on a regular basis dent investigation organiza- routinely plot all the data accurately depict exactly for incidents, for training, and tions around the world—to just because we can,” Heck what is needed to support a for technical support they conduct FDR analysis and added. “For example, if the concept that needs to be il- provide to ALPA’s attorneys, flight path reconstruction with landing gear was retracted lustrated for the investigation, all of which allows them to an “extremely high degree of throughout an event, there’s and just as quickly adapt it stay current and maintain fidelity on a par with industry no point in depicting that on to the changing needs of the the skills they need when the leaders,” noted Baum. the data plot. We’re looking ALPA team.” unwelcome call comes via for changes, the sequence of Heck and senior staff engi- the 24-hour ALPA accident/ FDR data and flight events, the timing of those neer Chad Balentine are adept incident hotline (202-797- path reconstruction events, and rates of change.” at using ALPA’s animation 4180) in the middle of the A flow chart on one wall of A plot on display in the software to create an anima- night. Balentine summed it the lab shows how data are lab illustrates the point: For tion of an accident or incident. up, “The whole industry is transferred and made avail- Simmons Flight 4184, an However, they don’t produce moving away from relying able for analysis during an ATR 72 that crashed after an animation for every ac- on forensic investigation to accident investigation. “Of suffering wing icing and cident or incident. While Heck ‘solve’ accidents that we’ve course, it starts out as raw rolling out of control, a single and Balentine can develop already had and toward using data—zeros and ones,” said page depicting indicated a desired plot of pertinent the massive amounts of data staff engineer Chris Heck. airspeed, heading, wing angle parameters within a few min- that are now available from Then there’s a lot of process- of attack, pitch, prop rpm, utes, creating an animation line operations to do detailed ing done by the NTSB or the engine torque, autopilot can require a few weeks of a analysis, identify potential Transportation Safety Board engage/disconnect, altitude, staff engineer’s time. safety problems, and prevent of Canada to turn that into left aileron position, elevator “We create animations accidents.”

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 33 HealthWatch Refractive Eye Surgery, Part 2

excellent article comparing cornea, may preclude most improve over several weeks to By Dr. Quay Snyder average prices per eye for types of refractive surgery. months after surgery. ALPA Aeromedical Advisor various techniques is avail- Middle-aged nearsighted Editor’s note: This column, the able at http://www.allabout- Risks people who can read without com second of two on vision correc- vision.com/visionsurgery/ Immediately after surgery, the glasses should expect to need .

tion surgery, is adapted from cost.htm. corneal flap may not adhere reading glasses after surgery. otolia —F an article available at www. properly to the underlying Younger people having AviationMedicine.com. Preoperative cornea, and infections may corneal refractive surgery will elphimages

considerations also occur. need reading glasses several © D ctober’s “Health Most ophthalmologists will A significant disadvantage years earlier than they would Watch” examined prohibit patients from wear- of laser vision correction is without surgery. Osurgery available to ing contact lenses for several potential loss of one or two Rarely, surgical complica- improve visual acuity without weeks before refractive sur- lines on the vision chart of tions cause permanent vision glasses or contact lenses. This gery so that the contacts best corrected visual acuity. loss. month, we’ll look at the risks won’t change the corneas’ The pilot may note a decrease versus advantages of these natural shape and distort the in best vision, particularly Relative advantages procedures plus FAA and laser ablation effectiveness. when scanning for distant air- Newer corneal refractive airline policies about them. Younger people whose refrac- craft. Studies show that 0.52 technologies provide more None of these surgical tion has not stabilized should percent of LASIK patients precise correction of refrac- procedures is risk-free. delay surgery until their lose two or more lines of best tion and astigmatism, less Complications can refraction remains unchanged visual acuity after surgery, but scarring, glare, and weakening permanently affect for a year. Some diseases, fewer than 0.5 percent have of the cornea, quicker healing, vision and may particularly suboptimally best corrected visual acuity of and less discomfort. LASIK medically disqualify controlled diabetes, may 20/40 or less. has the added advantages of a pilot. Flightcrew cause fluctuations in corneal For patients whose best (1) minimal central haziness, members consider- shape. visual acuity does not reach because the epithelium is For more information ing refractive eye Steroid eye drops and 20/20, several options exist. intact, and (2) the procedure on aeromedical issues, scan the QR code. surgery should con- systemic steroids will affect One is to wear glasses when can be performed on both sult an ophthalmologist who corneal shape, delay healing, 20/20 vision is required (when eyes at once. An outcome has substantial experience and increase the risk of infec- flying) and tolerate lower closer to 20/20 is expected, in performing the particular tion after surgery. People with visual acuity when acceptable. and no overcorrecting for procedure—usually, more chronically dry eyes may have Most surgeons offer “enhance- future remolding of the than 500 surgeries. increased discomfort after sur- ment” surgery to try to reach cornea is required. Revisions gery and require frequent drops 20/20 if the initial surgery are needed less often. The Costs to moisturize the cornea. overcorrects or undercorrects potential downside to LASIK Cost of the surgery, which Naturally large pupils can the baseline refraction. is flap instability that persists insurance may not cover, exacerbate postoperative ef- Another potential disad- for extended periods of time. varies widely. Prices are fects such as glare, flare, and vantage of laser eye surgery Not needing glasses for stabilizing as competition halos at night. The eye may is decreased night vision. In distance vision is a plus when increases and technology try to focus light hitting the preliminary British studies, performing a variety of activi- improves, but the surgeon’s cornea outside the diameter 30–60 percent of people ties. And for a pilot faced with experience is a valuable treated with refractive surgery, with moderate to severe asset. Expect to pay causing these phenomena. myopia before surgery had a ALPA members can $1,000–$3,500 per eye. Refractive surgery may significant decrease in night contact the Aeromedical The price is related to the provide only limited correc- vision after surgery. Most Office at 303-341-4435, type of technology used, the tion for people with very ophthalmologists report very Monday-Friday, 8:30 inclusiveness of follow-up thin corneas and those with few problems with loss of a.m. to 4:00 p.m. moun- care, and local competition. very high refractive errors. night visual acuity, other than tain time, or at www. Do not look for a “bargain Keratoconus, a condition with glare, halo, starburst, and flare AviationMedicine.com. price” for this surgery. An thinning and “tenting” of the phenomena. These gradually

34 Air Line Pilot November 2012 Aeromedical Office can report even for monocular vision. the surgery directly to the Obtaining a SODA requires FAA Aeromedical Certification an observation period and Division and obtain a letter of a medical flight test with an eligibility. FAA operations inspector. . com otolia The FAA’s policy on waiting The physicians at ALPA’s times before returning to Aeromedical Office can assist flight duties after refrac- with coordinating and acquir-

© D elphimages —F tive surgery varies with the ing a SODA. Studies show that 0.52 percent of LASIK patients procedure. For most refractive surgeries, intrastromal corneal Airline policies lose two or more lines of best visual acuity after rings, and phakic intraocular Airlines now hire pilots who surgery, but fewer than 0.5 percent have best lenses, two exams demonstrat- have had refractive surgery. All corrected visual acuity of 20/40 or less. ing stable vision one week require pilots to have visual apart are usually sufficient. acuity, corrected or uncorrect- an emergency with smoke and situation may ultimately be Multifocal intraocular lenses ed, that meets FAA first-class fumes in the cockpit or experi- resolved in the pilot’s favor, (IOLs), collamer IOLs, and medical standards—20/20 in encing severe turbulence, not it’s better to avoid these accommodating IOLs (such as each eye at a distance, with having to deal with misplaced administrative hassles. the Crystalens) require waiting or without correction, and or fogged glasses is beneficial. The pilot can exercise three months. Conductive 20/40 or better in each eye at two options—(1) continue keratoplasty requires waiting near. For pilots over age 50, FAA policy to carry glasses when flying 12 months and may require a the intermediate standard The FAA will allow pilots to until his or her next medical medical flight test. Advanced for visual acuity is also 20/40 fly after undergoing refractive certificate is issued without surface ablation is not autho- or better in each eye, with or eye surgery. After the pilot’s any vision limitations or (2) rized. Corneal transplants may without correction. Airlines vision stabilizes (at least two complete FAA Form 8500-7 also be considered for medical also require pilots to have exams a week apart without and mail it to the FAA, which qualification depending on properly reported their surgery changes in acuity), the oph- will respond with a letter the result and the underlying to the FAA. thalmologist should complete acknowledging that the vi- cause triggering the transplant. Additional information FAA Form 8500-7, Report of sion limitation is no longer The FAA allows pilots who on the potential risks of Eye Evaluation. If the distant required on the medical receive monovision refractive refractive eye surgery can vision is 20/20 or better in certificate. surgery to fly with glasses that be found on the Food and each eye and the pilot has This may take several weeks correct for distant and near Drug Administration’s no complications from the but will make the next physical vision for the first six months website at http://www.fda. surgery (corneal scarring, exam much more straightfor- after surgery. After the six- gov/medicaldevices/prod- night glare, haziness of vision, ward with the aviation medical month adaptation period, uctsandmedicalprocedures/ fluctuating visual acuity), he examiner (AME). The pilot will pilots may then fly without surgeryandlifesupport/lasik/ or she may return to flying be able to present the letter glasses, assuming one eye cor- default.htm. and report the surgery at his from the FAA to the AME, rects to distant standards and or her next FAA physical. removing any doubts about the other eye corrects to near Solution to this month’s ALPA sudoku on page 38. The pilot’s original medical whether the AME can issue a vision standards. However, the certificate, however, will still medical certificate. FAA does not allow flight with 1 5 6 7 8 3 9 2 4 say, “Must wear corrective An AME who is not certain monovision contact lenses. 9 8 3 4 2 1 5 7 6 lenses.” In a ramp check by an may defer the medical to the For pilots who have serious 4 2 7 6 9 5 1 3 8 2 9 8 1 5 6 3 4 7 FAA inspector, even though FAA and leave the pilot with- complications of surgery that 7 6 4 8 3 9 2 1 5 the pilot meets the FAA stan- out a medical certificate for preclude 20/20 vision in one 5 3 1 2 7 4 6 8 9 dards for vision without cor- several months while await- eye, the FAA will consider 3 7 2 5 6 8 4 9 1 ing a decision and processing granting a statement of dem- rection, the inspector has no 6 4 9 3 1 7 8 5 2 by the FAA. If a pilot has way of verifying that and may onstrated ability (SODA) for 8 1 5 9 4 2 7 6 3 issue a violation. Although the concerns about this, the ALPA substandard visual acuity or

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 35 photo

oeing B RESEARCHED BY JEN LOFQUIST, INFOGRAPHIC BY JESICA FERRY JESICA BY INFOGRAPHIC JEN LOFQUIST, BY RESEARCHED

36 Air Line Pilot November 2012 November 2012 Air Line Pilot 37 ALPA Resources and Contact Numbers National Officers These photos were taken at the April 2012 ALPA Executive Board For complete biographical Capt. Lee Moak President meeting. Governing Bodes Coordinator Maggie Erzen, in yellow, information on ALPA’s national served as meeting secretary. Photos by Chris Weaver. officers, visit www.ALPA.org or scan the QR code. Capt. Randy Helling Capt. William Couette Capt. Sean Cassidy Vice President–Finance/ Vice President– First Vice President Treasurer Administration/Secretary

Executive Vice Presidents F/O Michael Hamilton Capt. Bill Patterson For more information on which pilot groups executive Capt. Mark Nagel United Air Wisconsin, Evergreen, Air Transport Int’l, vice presidents represent, visit www.ALPA.org/evp. Capt. Dan Adamus ExpressJet, Hawaiian, Atlantic Southeast, Capt. Thomas Maxwell Air Transat, Bearskin, Island Air, Sun Country Calm Air, Canadian CommutAir, Pinnacle, Alaska, American Capt. Larry Beck F/O Todd Ortscheid Capt. Joe Fagone North, CanJet, First PSA Eagle, Mesa Air Group, Continental AirTran, Capital Cargo, FedEx Express Air, Jazz Air, Kelowna Piedmont, Ryan, Capt. Tim Canoll Compass, North Flightcraft, Wasaya Capt. Bill Bartels Trans States Executive Administrator American, Spirit Delta

Want to know more about ALPA’s EVPs? Scan the QR code.

ALPA Sudoku (© paulspages.co.uk) 1 5 6 7 8 3 9 2 4 Complete the sudoku puzzle so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 9 8 3 4 2 1 5 7 6 3×3 sub-grids that compose the grid contain all the digits from 1 to 9. The solution to this month’s ALPA 4 2 7 6 9 5 1 3 8 sudoku can be found on page 35. Too easy, too difficult? Tell us what you 2 9 8 1 5 6 3 4 7 think. E-mail [email protected].

7 6 4 8 3 9 2 1 5 Have You Moved? Please call Membership Services at 1-888-359-2572, e-mail your new address to [email protected], or clip out this form—along with the mailing label 5 3 1 2 7 4 6 8 9 on the back cover—and send it to ALPA Membership Services PO Box 1169, Herndon, VA 20172-1169 Name______3 7 2 5 6 8 4 9 1 Member #______

Airline______

New address______6 4 9 3 1 7 8 5 2

Apt.______City______State______Zip______8 1 5 9 4 2 7 6 3

38 Air Line Pilot November 2012 ALPA Information Numbers

The following ALPA resources may be Communications ([email protected]) Membership Insurance (Insurance@ALPA. reached by e-mail or by dialing, toll-free, 703-481-4440 org) 1-800-746-2572 1-888-359-2572 (1-888-FLY-ALPA). Once Computer Help Line ([email protected]) Membership Services connected, press the # key on your phone 703-689-4357 ([email protected]) and dial the last four digits of the num- Council Services ([email protected]) 1-888-359-2572 (1-888-FLY-ALPA), ber listed below. However, the ALPA Main 703-689-4311 option 3 Number, ASPEN, the Membership and IT Operations and Services ([email protected]) Insurance toll-free number, and Member- Discipline and Discharge ([email protected]) 703-689-4245 ship Services number need to be dialed 703-689-4226 directly. Economic and Financial Analysis Organizing ([email protected]) 703-689-4179 Accident Investigation ([email protected]) ([email protected]) 703-689-4289 703-689-4312 Election dates LEC/MEC 703-689-4212 Publishing Services ([email protected]) 703-481-4441 Accounting and Finance ([email protected]) Engineering and Air Safety ([email protected]) 703-689-4144 703-689-4200 Purchasing ([email protected]) 703-689-4319 Air Line Pilot ([email protected]) FAA Enforcement or Medical Certificate 703-481-4460 Action ([email protected]) 703-689-4226 Representation ([email protected]) 703-689-4375 ALPA Main Number 703-689-2270 Government Affairs Real Estate ([email protected]) 202-797-4033 ([email protected]) 202-797-4033 ALPA‑PAC 703-689-4105 ASPEN 703-689-4220 Human Resources ([email protected]) 703-689-4262 Retirement and Insurance ([email protected]) Balloting ([email protected]) 703-689-4115 703-689-4173 Information Technology and Services ([email protected]) 703-689-4223 System Board of Adjustment Cashiering ([email protected]) Capt. Tim Canoll ([email protected]) 703-689-4226 703-689-4385 Legal ([email protected]) 202-797-4096 Executive Administrator 703-689-4326

Membership Services

To obtain membership account information Kelowna Flightcraft–KFC MEC Spirit–SPA MEC 765-481-9033 or to update your records or your postal or 250-878-7950 Sun Country–SCA MEC 952-853-2393 e-mail address via the Internet, go to the My Mesa–MAG MEC 602-306-1116 Trans States–TSA MEC 610-805-5387 ALPA area of Crewroom.ALPA.org; or dial the North American–NAA MEC 732-778-6969 toll-free number 1-888-359-2572 (1-888-FLY- United–UAL MEC 847-292-1700 ALPA) and choose menu option 3. Piedmont–PDT MEC 339-987-1277 Wasaya–WSG MEC 807-624-7270 Pinnacle–PCL MEC 901-527-0355 Listed below are the telephone numbers *Pilot group in custodianship of MEC offices. PSA–PSA MEC 616-405-3962 Ryan–RYN MEC 1-800-292-ALPA AirTran–ATN MEC 404-763-5165 Air Transat–TSC MEC 1-888-337-2033 Air Transport International–ATI MEC ALPA Headquarters: 1625 Massachusetts Ave., NW, 505-263-8838 Washington, DC 20036 Air Wisconsin–ARW MEC 317-697-5113 Postmaster: Send address changes to Air Line Pilot, PO Alaska–ALA MEC 206-241-3138 Director of Communications Box 1169, Herndon, VA 20172-1169. Marie Schwartz American Eagle–EGL MEC 817-685-7474 Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #40620579: Editor Sharon B. Vereb Return undeliverable magazines sent to Canadian ad- *ASTAR Air Cargo–DHL MEC Technical Editor Jan W. Steenblik dresses to 2835 Kew Drive, Windsor, ON, Canada N8T 3B7. 859-282-1475 Associate Managing Editor Susan Fager Atlantic Southeast–ASA MEC Design and Production Editor William A. Ford Other Organizations 404-209-8566 Staff Writer John Perkinson ALPA Aeromedical Office 303-341-4435 Bearskin–BRS MEC 807-628-5683 Contributing Writer Linda Shotwell ALPA Federal Credit Union 1-800-747-2349 Calm Air–CMA MEC 204-471-1000 Special Projects Molly Martin Motion Graphics Specialist Eric Davis ALPA Accident/Incident Hotline Canadian North–CNP MEC 780-718-6012 ePublishing Editor Jesica Ferry CanJet–CJA MEC 1-800-959-1751 If you are involved in an accident, incident, or alleged Web Coordinators Cicely Jenkins, violation of a federal aviation regulation, contact your Capital Cargo–CCI MEC 256-289-0428 Chris Weaver local or central air safety chairman, regional safety chairman, or the worldwide ALPA accident/incident *Comair–CMR MEC 859-282-9016 Air Line Pilot is not responsible for unsolicited manu hotline at 202-797-4180 (collect calls are accepted) for scripts, photographs, or other materials. Unsolicited an immediate response 24 hours per day. As a backup CommutAir–CMT MEC 440-985-8579 materials will be returned only if submitted with a self- number, call 703-892-4180. addressed, stamped envelope. Opinions expressed by Compass–CPZ MEC 952-853-2373 To report a safety problem or airspace system defi authors do not necessarily represent official ALPA ciency, call 1-800-424-2470 or e-mail [email protected]. Continental–CAL MEC 281-987-3636 position or policy. Delta–DAL MEC 404-763-4925 Subscriptions: Subscription rate for pilot members, Evergreen–EIA MEC 503-474-3880 $25, included in ALPA membership dues; for students, 2012 EBCB Schedule $37; for U.S. nonmembers, $50; for foreign, $65. Resi- The Association’s Election and Ballot Certification ExpressJet–XJT MEC 281-987-3636 dents of the state of Washington must add 8.8 percent Board’s schedule for counting ballots is November 12 FedEx Express–FDX MEC 901-752-8749 sales tax. To subscribe online go to www.ALPA.org/ and December 10. subscriptions or call 703-481-4460. To request address Any ALPA member in good standing may be present First Air–FAB MEC 1-877-459-3272 changes, call 703-689-4311. as an observer during any meeting. Contact the Associa- tion’s Membership and Council Services Department Freedom–MAG MEC 602-306-1116 Address Changes for Members for scheduling. Hawaiian–HAL MEC 808-836-2572 Only: E-mail to [email protected]. Air Line Pilot is printed in the United States and pub- Island Air–AIS MEC 808-838-0188 lished for professional airline pilots in the United States Jazz–JAZ MEC 1-800-561-9576 and Canada who are members of the Air Line Pilots Association, International.

November 2012 Air Line Pilot 39 take care of your ground crew Introducing GROUP term life coverage No exam. More Value. guaranteed enrollment.*

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40 Air Line Pilot November 2012