October 2018 ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: » ALPA » Undeclared » Executive Remembers 9/11 Dangerous Board Meets page 32 Goods page 24 page 44

IS THE AIRLINE INDUSTRY FINALLY SEEING A SMOOTHING OF THE BOOM/BUST CYCLE? page 17 Official Journal of the Air Line Pilots Association, International

FRONTIER PILOTS TAKE

THEIR MESSAGE ON THE ROAD page 12

TWITTER FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. twitter.com/wearealpa facebook.com/WeAreALPA instagram.com/we_are_alpa

©2018 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. All rights reserved. Member SIPC. CC1885850 (1018-8M31) ADP102250-00 (06/18) 00211049 october 2018 Contents VOLUME 87, NUMBER 8

ABOUT THE COVER Frontier pilots, along with fellow ALPA members and pilot leaders, gather in front of the Frontier mobile strike center while it makes a stop at the Association’s Herndon, Va., offices during ALPA’s recent Executive Board meeting. 32 Photo by Chris Weaver Air Line Pilot (ISSN 0002-242X) is pub lished monthly except for combined January/Feb- ruary and June/July issues by the Air Line Pilots Association, Inter national, affiliated COMMENTARY with AFL-CIO, CLC. Editorial Offices: 535 Herndon Parkway, Herndon, VA 20170. Telephone: 703-481-4460. Fax: 703-464- 5 OUR UNION 32 ‘A Remembrance and 2114. Copyright © 2018―Air Line Pilots As- Bring a Folding Chair! sociation, Inter national, all rights reserved. a Tribute’ to Lives Lost Publica tion in any form without permission is prohibited. Air Line Pilot and the ALPA logo 6 GUEST COMMENTARY and Survivors Reg. U.S. Pat. and T.M. Office. Federal I.D. ‘Pilot Shortage’: For the 36-0710830. Periodicals postage paid at 34 ALPA’s Strategic Herndon, VA 20170 and additional offices. Airline industry, It’s an Postmaster: Send address changes to Air Inside Job Line Pilot, 535 Herndon Parkway, Herndon, Plan: Two Years of VA 20170. Substantial Progress Canadian Publications Mail Agreement 7 GUEST COMMENTARY #40620579 Partnering on Safety 39 Airline Pilots Show Canada Post: Return undeliverables to P.O. 26 Box 2601, 6915 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, ON FEATURES Their Hand L4T 0A9. 17 State of the North American Airline DEPARTMENTS Industry: Is the Industry Finally Seeing 8 PREFLIGHT 46 WE ARE ALPA 42 ALPA@WORK ALPA Resources a Smoothing of the and Contact ALPA Pilots Help Others Numbers Boom/Bust Cycle? Find Their Path at OBAP 24 Executive Board 43 OUR STORIES Convenes, Debates Spirit Pilot Shares His Dues Reduction Passion for Salsa 26 Air Safety Forum Urges 8 44 THE LANDING Pilots to ‘Share What ’Check the Box’ You Know’ 44

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 3 BEYOND THE PAGE Look for these icons throughout the magazine to get access to even more information, including additional content, videos, and audio clips―or to get feedback on a question.

READ WEB VIDEO AUDIO E-MAIL MORE ADDRESS LINK LINK ADDRESS

This is the only aisle we care about.

ALPA-PAC is the most bipartisan labor PAC in the country. Conservative, liberal, or somewhere in between: we don’t care what side of the aisle they’re on, as long as they’re on our side. Back the PAC! www.ALPAPAC.org

Disclaimer: The descriptions of the Air Line Pilots Association PAC are not a solicitation to contribute to the PAC. Only ALPA members, ALPA executives, senior administrative and professional staff personnel, and their immediate family members living in the same household are eligible to contribute to ALPA-PAC. ALPA-PAC maintains and enforces a policy of refusing to accept contributions from any other source. ALPA members may learn more about ALPA-PAC and about contributing to

Photo: iStock.com Photo: ALPA-PAC by entering the members-only portion of www.alpa.org. A member service of Air Line Pilot.

4 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 Our Union

Bring a Folding Chair!

f they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a We’ll continue to work with all stakeholders to “ folding chair.” Shirley Chisholm, the first Afri- ensure a strong pilot pipeline in the United States I can-American woman elected to Congress, said with no adverse impact on safety. As part of this these words in 1968. While the topics and times effort, ALPA has laid out in a new publication our were different 50 years ago, the indisputable value policy solutions for how the U.S. airline industry of having a seat at the table in Washington, D.C., or can attract new pilots and serve small and rural Ottawa is no different today. communities (see page 9). Thanks to the expertise offered by ALPA pilots, It’s certainly true that every ALPA pilot group our union is—almost without exception—includ- receives the full weight of our union’s resources, ed in policymaker and stakeholder discussions but two of our pilot groups in negotiations are on all aviation matters. Our reputation is beyond at truly critical junctures that could affect every reproach when it comes to labor relations as well North American airline pilot. as safety, security, pilot assistance, and jumpseat The Frontier pilots’ efforts to get to a fair issues. contract are serving as the first test of the new The landmark agreement reached by Congress National Mediation Board (NMB). Backed by a $2 on a safety-centered FAA reauthorization is the million ALPA Major Contingency Fund grant, the strongest testament to date. The reauthorization pilots have pursued every possible path to a fair keeps pilot training requirements strong and contract. Despite inexcusable delays, the NMB two fully qualified pilots in the cockpit of every has finally responded with new mediation dates. Part 121 passenger and cargo aircraft. The bill The Frontier pilots will be ready, and so will their also reflects many other ALPA priorities, from union in supporting them. mandating secondary cockpit barriers on newly When WestJet pilots’ management announced manufactured passenger airliners to supporting the creation of Swoop, an ultra-low-cost, non- the authorization of pilot assistance programs union airline that would use aircraft transferred including HIMS to affirming pilot-in-command from the mainline fleet, it served as a powerful authority. reason for the pilots to join our union. Faced with While we applaud the commitment demon- an impending strike/lockout, the pilot leaders strated on both sides of the political aisle to make recently made a calculated decision to enter into a this agreement happen, we’re making clear our mediation agreement with management. The first disappointment that the FAA reauthorization does issue? Who would fly at Swoop and who would not include language passed by the U.S. House of represent them. ALPA prevailed; our WestJet pilots Representatives to ensure that flag-of-convenience prevented a nonunionized, alter-ego carrier from airlines aren’t allowed to serve the United States. existing under the carrier’s structure. Our union will never let up on our commitment Of her legacy, Congresswoman Chisholm said, “I to level the playing field, and we’ll only intensify want to be remembered as a woman who dared to our fight to protect American jobs against foreign be a catalyst of change.” ALPA members have also airlines seeking to game the system by avoiding been catalysts of change—in bargaining better their home labor, tax, and safety laws. contracts, advancing the safety and security of our In the context of the ALPA-backed language industry, and ensuring the future of our profes- contained in the reauthorization creating a FAA sion. But we know we can only drive change if we Women in Aviation Advisory Board, our union have a seat at the table—and we’ll bring a folding is also building on our decades of work to keep chair if need be. the pilot pipeline strong. After all, every member made the decision to become an airline pilot. No one understands better than we do how to inspire new talent to join our ranks. Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA President

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 5 guest commentary

individuals who want to make a career as an airline pilot? It’s here where the problem is, and it’s here ‘ PILOT SHORTAGE’: where the solutions will be found. The reason there may be shortages is that many aspiring pilots don’t see the profession as competitive with other options. FOR THE AIRLINE So it’s time we focus on the issues facing individ- uals coming into this profession. One obvious factor INDUSTRY, IT’S AN is the cost for flight training and later building the experience to be able to apply for a position at an airline. INSIDE JOB Up until the last 10 years or so, the airline industry By Michael Boyd, President, has been riding the benefits of the Cold War (and a Boyd Group International couple of hot ones) with flows of ex-military candi- dates. But that’s largely over, and now airlines need to rethink how to develop a career flow from the here’s no argument that there’s a constriction civilian world. on the flow of candidates seeking entry to the In some cases, this is being pursued but ineffec- T airline piloting profession. This is what it really tively. Hiring bonuses and incentive packages based is—a constriction in new entrants to the profession, on experience are now routine at most “regional” not a “shortage.” airlines. American Airlines’ subsidiaries are now Practically every airline has made note of it. Great claiming that a newly hired first officer will see Lakes Airlines recently shut down, ostensibly due $60,000 in his or her first year. to inability to crew airplanes. Republic filed Chap- Today, the biggest barrier to entry to the airline ter 11 bankruptcy, reporting that it couldn’t meet piloting profession isn’t the cost of gaining the requi- contracted flying for Delta and other carriers. In our site hours and qualifications. It’s the sacrifice these work, major airlines have advised us that they’re individuals must make after they’re hired. hamstrung by lack of pilot resources and can’t fly as Take the $60,000 that Envoy Air, Piedmont, and much as they want. others are promising...for the first year or maybe It’s easy to attribute the cause to the FAA’s imple- two. Then it’s back to the basic $40,000 plus bene- mentation of the “1,500 hour” rule and other changes fits, only to grow slowly until the pilot gets to tran- that have increased the experience levels necessary sition to the major carrier. It might be two years, or for prospective candidates to enter the profession. maybe five, but it’s way down the line. But this is 180 degrees from accurate. The reasons Let’s look at competing careers. In the legal for this situation have been bubbling for years, profession or the engineering profession, as well regardless of whether the minimum requirement is as others, graduates can earn immediate annual 100 hours or 100,000 hours. incomes close to or above $100,000 per year, plus Until now, most of the focus has been on airlines benefits. It makes that one-year promise of $60,000 and how they’re struggling under these conditions. look like chump change. Plus, they don’t have to do- They can’t expand as much as they want. Some micile where the airline or their seniority dictates. smaller communities aren’t getting the service levels Oh, and another thing. They’re home with their that they otherwise could support. Okay, there’s families each night. money on the table, and lack of pilots keeps airlines That’s the core reason we have insufficient num- from grabbing it. So whose responsibility is it? bers of pilots to fill airline needs. The airline indus- Airlines may be “hamstrung” by lack of pilot try’s problems are therefore mostly self-inflicted. candidates. But what about the challenges facing the Until that’s resolved, the airline industry will be at a severe disadvantage in attracting new pilots. It also won’t be able to make as much money, either. Here’s a bit of unproven—but I believe accu- “ Today, the biggest barrier to entry to the rate—heresy: if the industry immediately raised entry-level pilot compensation by 100 percent, it airline piloting profession isn’t the would likely be revenue-positive. cost of gaining the requisite hours and After all, the common refrain is that because of a lack of pilots, the industry can’t operate where it qualifications. It’s the sacrifice these knows it can make money. Get more pilots on the property and that revenue is a slam dunk. individuals must make after they’re hired.” It’s a trade-off that benefits everybody—pilots, the airline, and the consumer.

6 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 guest commentary

PARTNERING ON SAFETY By Howard “Skip” Elliott, Administrator, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

hortly after I assumed the position of adminis- nessed my colleague and former railroader Oscar trator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Munoz, now the CEO of United Airlines, make that S Safety Administration (PHMSA), I had the op- transition a few years ago. portunity to talk with ALPA at a meeting between All of us share a strong common bond with safe- Capt. Tim Canoll and Department of Transpor- ty. And from what I’ve witnessed, safety is just as tation Secretary Elaine Chao. We discussed how relevant for the engineer at the throttle of a freight PHMSA would approach its recently reassigned train pulling 200 rail cars as it is for the pilot at duties as a member of the International Civil the controls of an airliner carrying 200 passengers Aviation Organization’s Dangerous Goods Panel. or packages. ALPA’s focus on airline safety is razor sharp, and It makes perfect sense that a safety adminis- it’s been a pleasure working with so many dedi- trator should gravitate toward pilots. Certainly, cated professionals on enhancing PHMSA–ALPA to some, it seems counterintuitive that traveling collaboration and addressing the risks posed by through the air at several hundred miles per hour, the air transport of undeclared dangerous goods. tens of thousands of feet high, in a pressurized One of the many good recommendations that tube, is the safest mode of transportation. But emerged from discussions with ALPA is the need it is. Statistically, it’s about 100 times safer than to quickly provide greater industry and public traveling by car. awareness about the hazards associated with That wouldn’t be the case if not for the exper- undeclared and improperly packaged hazardous tise, the dedication, and the commitment to safety materials. of the airline industry workforce. Airline trans- At ALPA’s recent Air Safety Forum, I was pleased portation professionals are clear leaders in the to announce the rollout of an important new pursuit of both safety awareness and innovation safety awareness initiative called “Check the Box” in general, and more specifically when it includes (checkthebox.dot.gov) to address these shortcom- the risks associated with transporting hazardous ings (see page 44). Through this new campaign, materials. we hope to achieve greater public and industry This leadership and dedication are why awareness of common household items that are PHMSA, as the only U.S. safety agency charged with classified as hazardous materials and how to safe- maintaining hazardous materials safety across all ly ship them through education—including new transportation modes, values working closely with and dedicated content on our PHMA website, via and learning from organizations like ALPA. social media, and at engagement events through- I know there are many good reasons why the out the country. aviation community is considered the zenith of Cruising altitude certainly is not the place to safety and that ALPA will help get the Check the discover that you’re transporting dangerous goods. Box safety awareness initiative off the ground. Shipping dangerous goods without proper desig- This important new safety campaign wouldn’t nation, packaging, and handling instructions puts have become a reality if not for ALPA and your ab- peoples’ lives at risk. solute commitment to improving safety. I’m confi- One of PHMSA’s most consistent and important dent that together, we’ll find many other ways to messages is that achieving zero incidents isn’t collaborate that can yield tangible safety benefits impossible. Our success lies at a very thin margin. and help close glaring gaps in safety protocols. But airline safety performance illustrates that an even higher safety success rate can be attained. There are a number of very safe transportation enterprises—such as pipeline and rail—where the “This important new safety campaign risk is also heightened by the addition of hazardous materials, but the airline industry has a safety re- wouldn’t have become a reality if not cord that exceeds all other modes of transportation. As a longtime railroader, making the leap from for ALPA and your absolute commitment the bulkiness of the freight rail industry to the to improving safety.” sleekness of the airline industry wasn’t something I’d personally contemplated, although I had wit-

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 7 India’s SpiceJet airlines recently Officer program. In addition, the operated the country’s first test reauthorization permits the FAA flight powered by biojet fuel. to regulate unmanned aircraft The nearly 45-minute flight was systems flown by hobbyists, operated with a Bombardier which will enhance the safety of Q400, partially powered by biojet all who operate in the national fuel made from the Jatropha airspace. plant. “While ALPA is disappointed that the FAA reauthorization doesn’t include language passed by the U.S. House to ensure that FRONT LINES flag-of-convenience airlines aren’t allowed to threaten the ALPA Lauds Congres- U.S. airline industry, our union is sional Agreement on FAA resolute in our commitment to Reauthorization defend fair competition,” Canoll “The Air Line Pilots Association, acknowledged. “We’ll never AIRLINE INDUSTRY NEWS International salutes Congress for let up in our effort to level the reaching agreement on a biparti- playing field and protect Ameri- DOMESTIC NEWS waited less than 20 minutes for san, five-year FAA reauthorization can jobs against foreign airlines Air Transport World reported screening at standard checkpoint bill that will keep flying safe and seeking to game the system with that Chicago O’Hare Internation- lanes and 94 percent of PreCheck the piloting profession strong,” flag-of-convenience schemes to al Airport received $93 million passengers waited less than five said Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA’s avoid labor, tax, and safety laws. from the FAA’s Airport Improve- minutes. president, on September 24. “No one is more committed to ment Program. The grants will be “ALPA applauds the vision, a strong pilot pipeline than ALPA, used to rebuild the airport apron, INTERNATIONAL NEWS leadership, and commitment to and we welcome the bill’s inclu- construct a new taxiway, and pay KLM recently announced that safety that took place on both sion of a provision to establish for noise mitigation for nearby following an intensive round of sides of the political aisle to se- a Women in Aviation Advisory residences. negotiations and with the help cure agreement on this landmark Board to promote organizations of an arbitrator, the airline and bill. The bill maintains life-saving and programs that provide edu- The Denver Post reported that the Dutch Airline Pilots Associ- first officer qualification, training, cation, training, mentorship, out- the FAA’s Office of Commercial ation reached a collective labor and experience requirements reach, and recruitment of women Space Transportation awarded agreement, averting a strike by and the presence of two fully in the aviation professions. We’re a launch site operator’s license, the pilots. qualified pilots in the cockpit of also pleased by the provision to commonly referred to as a every FAR Part 121 passenger and increase funding for the Essential spaceport license, to the govern- According to Boeing, Asia-Pa- cargo aircraft, while also taking Air Service program and the Small ment of Adams County, Colo., cific airlines will need to hire the important steps to inspire the Community Air Service Develop- in mid-August for Front Range greatest number of pilots, tech- next generation to pursue airline ment Program. Airport, now called the Colorado nicians, and cabin crew over the industry careers,” observed “This bipartisan, five-year, sta- Air and Space Port. next two decades as economic Canoll. ble, long-term FAA reauthorization growth spurs travel demand. “The bipartisan measure reached by the Senate and House Per Bloomberg News, United is The region will require 240,000 mandates secondary cockpit is the culmination of years of experimenting with lie-flat seats more airline pilots, 242,000 barriers on newly manufactured hard work by ALPA to ensure that for its B-737 Max fleet. The air- technicians, and 317,000 cabin passenger airliners, a major step airline pilots’ safety, security, and line announced that it’s working crewmembers, making up more forward in aviation security. It pilot assistance priorities would on seat designs and has complet- than one-third of the total global improves the safe transport by air be reflected in this landmark ed an initial round of testing. airline workforce needed. of lithium batteries and promotes legislation,” said Canoll. “We also Per BBC News, Zambia Airways education regarding undeclared recognize the contributions of the The Transportation Security has been revived after 24 years dangerous goods. The language staff on the authorizing com- Administration (TSA) reported due to a $30 million deal with also prescribes the automatic mittees in both the House and that security officers screened Ethiopian Airlines. The airline acceptance of voluntary safety Senate, and we appreciate their nationwide a record-setting will begin flights later this year reports, includes fume event steadfast commitment to getting 253 million passengers during operating 12 aircraft to destina- reporting requirements, promotes this safety-focused bill done. the summer travel season, an tions in Africa, Asia, Europe, and oxygen mask usage harmoniza- “We urge Congress to vote increase of almost 6 percent the Middle East. tion, supports the authorization swiftly to pass this FAA reautho- from last year. According to of pilot assistance programs, and rization to safeguard passengers, the TSA, 97 percent of travelers Indian Express reported that enhances the Federal Flight Deck crews, and cargo shippers in this

8 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 country and affirm the United threat, including high-impact policy solutions to NEW ALPA REPS States’ international position requiring that all-cargo oper- inspire young people to become As of September 11, the Election Ballot and as the global leader in aviation ations be conducted in the SIDA airline pilots and provide air Certi cation oard certi ed safety.” regardless of aircraft size, service to small and rural com- elections results for the requiring cargo-specific munities while maintaining the following local councils: Canoll Addresses security training where it’s extraordinary level of aviation AIR WISCONSIN 51 Insider Threat in House inadequate, safety that U.S. passengers and F/O Aaron Bunnis, Subcommittee Testimony requiring fingerprint-based shippers expect and demand. Vice Chair (F/O Rep) Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA’s presi- criminal history records checks “No organization is more AIR WISCONSIN 51 dent, testified in late September for anyone with access to cargo committed than the Air Line Pilots Capt. John Lindenauer, before the U.S. House Transpor- aircraft or their cockpits, and Association, International to en- Secretary-Treasurer tation and Protective Security requiring reinforced cockpit suring we have enough qualified ENVOY AIR 83 Subcommittee of the Homeland doors and adequate secondary pilots in the United States to Capt. Kevin Wehrer, Secretary-Treasurer Security Committee regarding cockpit barriers on every cargo meet future demand,” said Capt. the ongoing “insider” threat in aircraft. Tim Canoll, ALPA’s president. ENVOY AIR 114 Capt. Gregory Masterman, aviation. He lauded the recent In response to a question “With the right policies, the U.S. Chair (Status Rep) aviation security improvements from Rep. John Katko (R-N.Y.), the government can help inspire ENVOY AIR 114 led by Congress but underscored subcommittee chair, regarding young people to become airline Capt. Jonathan Fowler, that insider threats remain a con- the mental health aspect of the pilots while making certain that Secretary-Treasurer cern to passenger and especially insider threat, Canoll highlighted air transportation in this country ENVOY AIR 126 all-cargo flight operations. programs previously in place at remains the safest in the world.” Capt. Jose Thies, Canoll defined an insider as some of ALPA’s pilot groups as ALPA’s policy solutions are Chair (Capt. Rep) “someone with authorization and well as the Association’s new Pilot especially relevant as the FAA ENVOY AIR 126 unescorted access to secured Peer Support program. recently hosted an Aviation Work- F/O Philipp von Donop, airport areas” such as the security “The United States made a force Symposium in Washington, Vice Chair (F/O Rep) identification display area (SIDA). quantum leap in aviation security D.C. ENVOY AIR 126 “Security incidents involving when the Transportation Security The union’s clear and bold plan Capt. Alejandro Sparis, insiders are rare,” he stated. Administration adopted a risk- to address pilot supply includes Secretary-Treasurer “They can result from malicious based approach to modernize key policy actions to ENVOY AIR 133 intent, complacency, or a lack of security,” Canoll said. “With the make it easier for veterans to F/O Thomas Cross, awareness.” But recent examples, continued leadership of this become pilots. Vice Chair (F/O Rep) including the theft and crash of subcommittee, I’m hopeful that encourage more women to FEDEX EXPRESS 100 a passenger jet near Seattle–Ta- regulators and industry can act become pilots. Capt. e rey elt, Vice Chair coma International Airport and quickly on ALPA’s recommenda- ensure more students can a security breach in Melbourne, tions.” afford to become pilots. MESA 85 Capt. Emmanuel Okon, Fla., show the need to focus on inspire the next generation to Vice Chair (F/O Rep) this area. ALPA Unveils Plan to become pilots. “The ever-changing threat Keep Pilot Supply Strong, “Every one of our members PIEDMONT 35 Capt. Marcelo Demelo, means we can never rest,” Canoll Air Travel Safe, and Rural has made the decision to become Chair (Capt. Rep) testified. e can, and―yes―e Passengers Flying an airline pilot, which gives ALPA must do more.” He pointed out In a letter sent to U.S. Secretary a unique understanding of what that “because of regulatory ineq- of Transportation Elaine Chao in it takes to inspire the next gen- elementary, middle, and high uity, cargo operations are more mid-September, ALPA offered eration of trained and qualified schools and at community events susceptible to insider threats, aviators to join the profession,” and museums. making them a more desirable said Canoll. attending events such as target for those with malicious For more than 30 years, ALPA AirVenture at Oshkosh, the intent.” While Canoll applauded has promoted the profession to Organization of Black Aerospace the requirement for secondary a broad range of audiences. The Professionals Convention and cockpit barriers on new passen- union’s recent activities include Career Exposition, the National ger airliners contained in the visiting 24 universities over Gay Pilots Association Industry forthcoming FAA reauthorization, the 2017–18 academic year. Expo, and the Women in Aviation he acknowledged that some car- formalizing 11 collegiate International Conference. go aircraft are not even equipped professional development/men- establishing a scholarship with a cockpit door. toring programs. program for students who are During his testimony, Canoll reaching more than 15,500 active in ACE Clubs and enrolled offered multiple recommenda- preK–12 students during the in aviation degree programs. tions to help address the insider 2017–18 academic year at launching, with others in the

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 9 FRONT LINES

aviation industry, Aviation Works Association works and setting clearing more than 100 million 4 U, a one-stop shop for exploring them up to succeed in their new crewmembers since its inception a career in aviation. roles as local council rep, a mas- in 2011. “We applaud Secretary Chao ter executive council member, The KCM program enables for leading the symposium as and a member of ALPA’s Board of Transportation Security Adminis- part of an effort to bring more Directors. Capt. Sean Creed (Spirit), an ALPA tration (TSA) security officers to qualified pilots into the best pro- As the main point of contact for executive vice president and verify the identity and employ- fession in the world,” concluded their members, these reps are the member of ALPA’s Leadership ment status of airline pilots and Canoll. “Our union stands ready, first call a pilot will make when Committee, talks to pilots during flight attendants, who already willing, and able to work with having issues with scheduling, the Association’s recent Leader- undergo thorough criminal back- anyone who is serious about hotels, pay, or irregular opera- ship Training Conference. ground and employment checks addressing the pilot-supply issue tions. The challenges ALPA reps as a condition of their employ- while keeping our passengers, face require crafting a careful Association’s financial status and ment. KCM has been a valuable crews, and cargo safe.” strategy, executing a meticulous governing bodies structure, and resource in helping to decrease approach, and utilizing the tools much more. airport congestion by providing Helping ALPA’s Newest and techniques ALPA offers. This By the conclusion of the con- alternative screening opportu- Leaders Succeed training provided these new reps ference, the Association’s newest nities for airline pilots and flight In late August, 18 new ALPA with the resources to better serve reps had learned the full scope of attendants, reducing the impact leaders, representing 12 pilot their members, which advances their responsibilities and had the on the general screening lanes groups, attended a Leadership one of the Association’s strategic ALPA tools and resources neces- used every day by the traveling Training Conference at ALPA’s goals. sary to be successful advocates public. KCM currently has 62 Herndon, Va., offices. Capt. Sean All four of ALPA’s national for the members they represent. participating airlines and operates Creed (Spirit), an ALPA executive officers gave presentations, along in 90 airports at 221 screening vice president and member of with subject-matter experts Known Crewmember locations. ALPA’s Leadership Committee, from many ALPA departments. Program Clears 100 “With the TSA’s strong support, welcomed the recently elected Attendees learned about col- Million Crewmembers KCM has proven to be a vital com- reps to the two-day conference, lective bargaining techniques, In early September, the Known ponent to a multilayered security which focused on providing them how to meet with the chief pilot, Crewmember® (KCM) program screening process that allows the an understanding of how the communications strategies, the reached a significant milestone, TSA to refocus security resources,

materials education campaign that bolsters grant, we’ve backed activities like informa- TAKING OFF ALPA’s years-long efforts to mitigate the air tional picketing, billboard and social media transport of undeclared hazardous materials. advertising, and the first-ever mobile strike Engaging with Stakeholders Unfortunately, there are a few organiza- center. ALPA also sued the company in feder- n my engagement with aviation commu- tions that only learn the lesson of the benefit al court over its bad-faith bargaining. And our nity stakeholders over the last five years, of positive engagement with ALPA the hard pilot leaders at Alaska, Delta, FedEx Express, I I’ve been impressed with ALPA’s positive way. Frontier Airlines management and the JetBlue, Spirit, and United are helping to reputation. Our union commands universal new National Mediation Board (NMB) have secure job opportunities for Frontier pilots. respect. Positive engagement and collabo- yet to recognize the need to engage with During the recent Executive Board ration with ALPA are recognized as critical ALPA. Almost three years into Section 6 meeting, Capt. Mike Maynard (Frontier), his to advancing issues related to aviation and negotiations and 16 months since pilot lead- pilot group’s vice chair, said that merging the workers’ rights. ers filed for NMB mediation, Frontier pilots Frontier Airline Pilots Association with ALPA Several examples of our engagement driv- remain the lowest-paid airline pilots in North in May 2016 was the best decision the pilots ing positive change are highlighted in this America. Yet their carrier is among the most have made. Together, they chose to fight for issue. Most significant are the safety gains profitable. For more than six months, Frontier a contract not on their own, but with ALPA’s achieved in the FAA reauthorization bill (see pilots have been waiting to be released assistance and expertise. We won’t rest until page 8). ALPA pilots and staff have worked from mediation. Meanwhile, management Frontier management and the NMB recog- tirelessly to promote our pilot-partisan agen- avoids entering into a market-rate agreement nize that engagement is the only option. In da, and our efforts have proven successful. and continues to derail negotiations. Still, the meantime, we’ll continue to provide the Another example is outlined by Howard the NMB hasn’t set a deadline to complete resources necessary to address these chal- “Skip” Elliott, administrator of the Pipeline mediation (see page 12). lenges at Frontier Airlines for the betterment and Hazardous Materials Safety Administra- ALPA’s leaders, members, and staff stead- of the pilots and our union. tion (PHMSA), in his guest column (see page fastly support the Frontier pilots. Bolstered Lori Garver, General Manager 7). PHMSA is implementing a hazardous by a $2 million Major Contingency Fund [email protected]

10 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 increase efficiency in security Kalitta team debriefed us prior to job security, and enhanced work screenings, and significantly heading home, they couldn’t say rules sought by the pilot group. reduce wait times in security lines enough about the spirit and char- “The gains we’ve achieved in ALPA for pilots and the traveling pub- acter of the pilot group. We know this agreement recognize the lic,” said Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA’s they got another good round of ExpressJet pilots’ continued NEGOTIATIONS president. “ALPA looks forward applicants in September, as only professionalism while at the to KCM’s continued expansion seven slots remained for the 80- same time giving ExpressJet UPDATE as well as further time and cost some preferential interviews.” management the secure financial The following is a summary savings as the government and Other carriers with ALPA-repre- foundation for future growth and of the status of ALPA contract industry continue to adopt risk- sented pilots have joined Kalitta expansion,” said F/O Joe Mauro, negotiations by airline as of based security.” in giving Atlantic Southeast pilots the pilots’ Master Executive September 21: “I’m a huge supporter of the a leg up in the interviewing Council chair. “The goal was to Known Crewmember program process. Delta gave all Atlantic maintain the industry-leading AIR GEORGIAN―A notice to and think it’s one of our most Southeast pilots a bump in its cornerstones of our contract bargain was sent on Feb. 22, effective risk-based initiatives,” interview process. “A big debt while achieving improvements 2017. Negotiations continue said David Pekoske, the TSA of gratitude goes to our fellow for every pilot on our seniori- October 23–26. administrator. “I thank the pilots ALPA pilot leaders and our staff, ty list, regardless of how long AIR WISCONSIN―A ection and flight attendants for their who have been instrumental in they’ve been with the airline. notice as led on ct. partnership with us in ensuring orchestrating this effort,” Smith While it wasn’t easy, I believe we 1, 2010. Air isconsin led the security of air travel…. I also observed. accomplished that.” for mediation on June 17, sincerely value our relationship The combined effect of the 2013. Pilots and management with airlines and airports. We are ExpressJet Pilots Ratify increased pay rates and earned reached a tentative agreement stronger together.” New Agreement quarterly override payments on Aug. 4, 2015. The pilots re- In late September, ExpressJet Air- is approximately $14,000 to jected the tentative agreement Atlantic Southeast and lines pilots voted to ratify a new $15,000 of additional annual on Oct. 7, 2015. The pilots and Kalitta MECs Collaborate three-year contract that includes compensation for every pilot, management reached a ten- on Preferential Hiring the market-rate wages, stronger placing ExpressJet pilots near the tative agreement on April 26, Opportunities 2018. The pilots voted against The Atlantic Southeast Master Ex- STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION the tentative agreement on ecutive Council (MEC), facing an (Act of Aug. 12, 1970: Section 3685, Title 39, United States Code) July 3, 2018. 1. Title of publication: Air Line Pilot 9. Publisher, Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l; Director airline loss of all mainline flying 2. Publication number: 0002-242X of Communications, David Weaver; Editor, Sharon ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST―ec- Bhagwandin; Managing Editor, Susan Fager, 535 Herndon by the end of the year, collabo- 3. Filing date: September 19, 2018 Parkway, Herndon, VA 20170 tion 6 negotiations resumed 4. Issue frequency: Monthly, except for combined January/ 10. Owner: Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l, 535 Herndon rated with the Kalitta Air MEC and February and June/July issues Parkway, Herndon, VA 20170 in accordance with the letter management to create a memo- 5. Number of issues published: Ten (10) 11. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security of agreeent eective Aug. , 6. Annual subscription price: $55.00 holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total randum of understanding (MOU) 7. Location of known office of publication and amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None 2017. 8. Location of headquarters of general business offices of the 12. The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization that formalizes a preferential publisher, contact person, and telephone number: and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes has not FRONTIER―A ection notice 535 Herndon Parkway, Fairfax County, Herndon, VA 20170. changed during the preceding 12 months hiring program for legacy Atlantic Sharon Bhagwandin (703) 481-4440 13. Publication name: Air Line Pilot as led on ec. , 201. An Southeast and legacy ExpressJet 14. Issue date for circulation data: October 2018 application for mediation was pilots. Under the MOU, Kalitta 15. Extent and nature of circulation: Average number Number of copies led on ept. 22, 201. edia- of copies each of single issue will interview and hire up to 150 issue preceding published nearest tion continues. 12 months to filing date pilots through Dec. 31, 2018. a. Total number copies (net press run) 86,884 88,314 TRANS STATES―A ection b. Paid and/or requested circulation “Thus far, the program has 1. Mailed outside-county paid mail subscriptions stated on notice as led on eb. , Form 3541 (include advertiser’s proof copies and exchange copies) 85,863 87,113 been a great success for both 2. Mailed in-county paid subscriptions (include paid distribution above 2018. Negotiations continue normal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) -0- -0- Atlantic Southeast and Kalitta 3. Paid distribution outside the mails including sales through dealers and October 16–18. carriers, street vendors, counter sales, and other paid distribution MECs,” said Capt. Chromer Smith, outside the USPS® -0- -0- UNITED―A ection notice 4. Paid distribution by other classes mailed through USPS the Atlantic Southeast MEC chair. (e.g., First-Class mail®) -0- -0- as led on arch 1, 2018. c. Total paid distribution 85,863 87,113 “The good news is every Atlantic d. Free or nominal rate distribution (by mail and outside the mail) WESTJET―A notice to bargain 1. Free or nominal rate outside-county copies included on PS Form 3541 2,041 2,066 Southeast pilot who wants a job 2. Free or nominal rate in-county copies included on PS Form 3541 -0- -0- as led on une , 201. 3. Free or nominal rate copies mailed at other classes through the USPS -0- -0- or needs one, while they sort out 4. Free or nominal rate distribution outside Negotiations continue. the mail (carriers or other means) -0- -0- their futures, has one.” e. Total free or nominal rate distribution 2,041 2,066 WESTJET ENCORE―A notice to f. Total distribution 87,904 89,179 The Kalitta interview team g. Copies not distributed 408 408 bargain as led on ec. 1, h. Total 88,312 89,587 scheduled two rounds of inter- i. Percent paid 97.7% 97.7% 2017. Negotiations continue views with Atlantic Southeast October 10–12, 16–19, and 16. Publication of Statement of Ownership—Publication required—Published in October 2018 issue. pilots in August and in Septem- 30–31; November 1–2 and I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading ber. “During the first session in information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including 13–16; and December 4–6 and fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties). August, Kalitta hired 36 pilots,” —Sharon Bhagwandin, Editor 11–13. Smith said. “And when the

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 11 FRONT LINES

top of the regional industry. The mobile strike bus, which Flying as United Express, left Denver, Colo., in August, is on ExpressJet is based in College a 22-city, 15-state national tour Park, Ga., and is a wholly owned that included a recent stop at subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc. The ALPA’s Herndon, Va., offices pilots had been operating under a during the Association’s Executive concessionary contract negoti- Board meeting in mid-September. ALPA pilots, lined up in front of to achieve a contract or face a ated in 2004 and had been in “Our Strike Bus is going city to the Frontier “Strike Bus,” march in strike,” Smith said. “This mobile negotiations with the company city, especially focus cities in the the Chicago Labor Day parade. strike center tells the public in since 2010. Frontier network, to let the public foot-tall letters that Frontier pilots know that Frontier pilots are fly- four months after the pilots asked are 100 percent ready to strike. Frontier Pilots Take ing the same routes and aircraft the National Mediation Board We’re ready to walk as soon as Their Fight for a Fair as other pilots―but earn ore (NMB) to declare a bargaining the NMB lets us.” Contract on the Road than 50 percent less than their impasse and release them from In addition to public visibility, The Frontier pilots’ “Strike Bus” peers,” said Capt. Tracy Smith, the mediation and a month after the mobile strike center would mobile strike center has been on a pilots’ Master Executive Council ALPA sued Frontier Airlines in U.S. also serve as a command post nationwide tour taking the pilots’ (MEC) chair. “While other groups District Court in Chicago for bad- for striking Frontier pilots if quest for a market-rate contact on have signed new agreements, faith bargaining. they’re released from medi- the road. The pilots recently drove Frontier pilots are still flying “Management’s conduct at ation and complete a 30-day the bus in Labor Day parades in under an 11-year-old bankruptcy the negotiating table has been cooling-off period. The movable Chicago, Ill., and Cleveland, Ohio, deal.” the very definition of bad-faith office could support strikers and and were joined by fellow ALPA The Frontier pilot group has bargaining. It’s clear they’ll never picketing at any one of Frontier’s members from Air Wisconsin, been in negotiations since March come to terms with the pilots un- pilot bases. CommutAir, Delta, and United. 2016. The nationwide tour began til they’re facing a hard deadline In the event of a pilot strike, share your best ‘oFFICE VIEWS’ PHOTOS: Share with us your shots of airplanes, airports, pilots, and anything else you see during your flight. Submit your high-quality prints from a developer or high-resolution digital images from your DSL, etc., to [email protected] for possible use on the cover of Air Line Pilot, inside the magazine, or in a video. ID: Tell us who you are, who you fly for, the names of the pilots in your photos, and what we’re looking at. COVER: Increase your odds of scoring the coveted cover shot: Turn your camera sideways and take a vertical shot.

Photographer: F/O Chris Duggan (First Air)

SHOOT | SUBMIT | SCORE Please remember to adhere to FARs or CARs and company policy, including regulations regarding using personal wireless devices in the cockpit, when taking photos.

12 » Air Line Pilot October 2018

the vehicle would be used to help meeting in Yellowknife, NWT, in coordinator, discussed ALPA’s track the movement of Frontier’s mid-August, which focused on the role in the merger process. http://sudoku.smike.ru - Generator Sudoku by Created aircraft, set up a call center to impending merger between First Also attending were repre- communicate with pilots, serve as Air and Canadian North. Several sentatives from FedEx Express, a rallying place for strike teams, guests provided their insights and Delta, United, and Air Canada, Solution to this month’s and be a storehouse for supplies perspectives. who briefed the group and ALPA sudoku on page 46. such as picket signs. Relying on his past experienc- shared their collective knowledge Visit frontierbadbargain.com es, Capt. Brian Shury (Jazz Avi- regarding mergers based on their 594278361 for more information about the ation), ALPA Canada vice chair, own experiences. 126534897 Frontier pilots’ fight for a fair discussed the Canada Board’s Before the two-day meeting 387196254 contract. perspective on how to complete concluded, elections were held 435867912 a successful merger. Capt. Bill for MEC officers for the two-year 912453786 First Air Holds Couette, ALPA’s vice president– term that begins on October 23. 678921543 MEC Meeting, Discusses administration/secretary, talked Capt. Peter Black was elected 741389625 Impending Merger about ALPA merger policy. Capt. MEC chair, F/O Steven Bard vice 269745138

The First Air Master Executive Joe DePete, ALPA first’s vice chair, and Capt. James Keith 853612479

Council (MEC) held its biannual president and national safety secretary-treasurer. Solution North, along with a quick update 1 9

CANADA on the Sky Regional recruitment drive. A robust discussion ensued on the ongoing efforts of the Safer 6 4 1

Skies Coalition, with a focus on

the flight-time/duty-time regula- tions before Parliament. 4 3 2 ALPA staff joined the Canada

Board to provide an update on

the Air Canada Pilots Association David Noble, left, comments on 7 and ALPA merger discussions. his experiences as an ALPA pilot 4

ALPA Canada Board The ALPA Canada Board takes time In closing the meeting, Adamus health consultant as Capt. Murray

to refl ect during ALPA’s eptem acknowledged, “I’ve never been Munro (Jazz Aviation), ALPA’s 9 2 Convenes, Discusses ber 11 Remembrance Ceremony more optimistic and excited about Canadian Pilot Assistance chair, 8

Hot-Topic Issues prior to the start of its meeting in what’s going on in Canada.” listens.

embers of ALPA’s Canada Herndon, Va. The next regular meeting of the M Board convened at ALPA Canada Board is tentatively The agenda included presenta- 5 7 9

ALPA’s Herndon, Va., offices on Veterans Affairs Committee and scheduled for November 26 in tions, open discussions, and group

September 11. Representatives Pilot Assistance programs. Capt. Ottawa, Ont. exercises. “It’s a transformative from nine Canadian pilot groups Rod Lypchuk (Jazz Aviation), ALPA program designed to boost 7 opti- 9 were in attendance for the day- Canada vice president–adminis- Canadian Pilot mal pilot performance and safety,”

long meeting. Capt. Dan Adamus tration/finance, hopes that as the Assistance Volunteers said Murray. (Jazz Aviation), ALPA Canada number of ALPA Canada members Participate in “This workshop 2 is part of the 3

president, led discussions continues to increase, the ALPA ongoing Pilot Assistance and

on hot topics, and the board national committee structure will Informative Workshop Wellness Program plan to provide revisited a number of important be enhanced to include an appro- n mid-September, ALPA Cana- additional 5 education and training 7 8 6 1 ongoing issues, including the priate Canadian presence. I dian Pilot Assistance wrapped so that Pilot Assistance volunteers need to increase numbers of Capt. Brian Shury (Jazz Avia- up a three-day “Managing the will have, if and when they require Canadian volunteers on national tion), ALPA Canada vice president, Power Curve” workshop for pilot it, a broader range of skills for committees. provided an update on the volunteers near Toronto, Ont. supporting themselves and their The board agreed to appoint a upcoming nationwide marijuana Moderated by Brian Murray, a fellow pilots,” explained Capt. Canadian representative to ALPA’s legislation and the perceived licensed mental health coun- Murray Munro (Jazz Aviation), Education Committee to focus information gap between the selor, the course examined the ALPA’s Canadian Pilot Assistance on finding the next generation of Canadian government, the public, cumulative effects of both per- chair. pilots in Canada. It also stressed and stakeholders. He also briefed sonal and professional issues on Canadian Pilot Assistance is the importance of securing more the board on the merger talks airline pilot stress and methods part of ALPA’s Air Safety Organiza- committed volunteers for the between First Air and Canadian to minimize their impact. tion Pilot Assistance Group. Left photo: Chris Weaver

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 13 FRONT LINES

EDUCATION COMMITTEE UPDATE

schools, aviation universities, In August, ALPA pilots met with and industry and community college faculty to help structure events. They also reviewed re- the program so that it bridges sources, including the Cleared to the gap between the classroom Dream website (clearedtodream. and the flight deck. org), and are working to enhance At the meeting were F/O Mark the site with information about Haley (United), ALPA’s Education Education Committee volunteers career pathways. Additional Committee chair, and F/O Steve prepare to greet aviation enthusi- activities to stimulate student Lofgren (United), local council asts at Family Fun Day. ALPA’s Education Committee interest in pursuing a pilot 171 Legislative Affairs chair, and meets to plan for the 2018–19 career are also under way. college president Dr. Rebecca (Jazz Aviation) and Stephen academic year. Riley and dean Mary Mendoza. Gesner (Jazz Aviation) talked ALPA Appointed to Board They discussed the outline with youth about the profession ALPA Pilots Prepare to Go of New Collegiate Pilot of the new program, career and encouraged them to pursue Back to School Program outlook for pilots, and resources piloting careers. LPA’s Education Committee one Star College–Montgom- available through ALPA to advise The Canadian Armed Forces, A met in August to establish an L ery in Houston, Tex., recently and support students once the NASA, and other aviation and outreach plan for the 2018–19 announced a program in which program is up and running. aerospace professionals also academic year. This two-day students can earn a professional ALPA will also serve on the spoke about careers in their meeting was held at the Associ- pilot certificate Level 1 and college’s pilot program advisory industries. In addition, specta- ation’s Herndon, Va., offices with associate of applied science de- board, which will be a multiyear tors had an opportunity to tour nearly a dozen core committee gree beginning in spring 2019. effort requiring consistent par- a Griffon helicopter and see it volunteers participating. ticipation to help prepare young take off and look at various oth- Capt. Bill Couette, ALPA’s pilots for their careers. er aircraft models and displays. vice president–administration/ Thanks to the Jazz Master secretary, who oversees the Experiencing the Thrill Executive Council, Jazz Aviation, committee, and subject-matter of Flight at Family Fun Day and the Montreal Aviation Mu- experts in ALPA’s Commu- he Montreal Aviation Mu- seum for their ongoing support nications, Engineering & Air T seum’s third annual Family of ALPA’s educational outreach. Safety, Government Affairs, and Fun Day in mid-August was ALPA’s Education Committee Strategic Member Development a tremendous success, with promotes the piloting profes- & Resources Departments were more than 1,000 attendees of sion, mentors aspiring aviators, also on hand to share their F/Os Steve Lofgren (United), left, all ages experiencing the thrill and prepares future genera- knowledge and help boost the and Mark Haley (United), right, of aviation. At the event, ALPA tions of pilots to join the ranks committee’s outreach programs. with Mary Mendoza and Rebecca Education Committee volunteers of ALPA members. For more The group discussed current Riley from Lone Star College– Capt. Andrew Schliep (Jazz Avi- information or to get involved, and future initiatives at grade Montgomery. ation) and F/Os Thomas Maheux contact [email protected].

uit―orking ogether to ways in which everyone can work Engineering, and Development ASO UPDATE Address rong urface vents― together to further reduce the Advisory Committee to explore Putting the Focus in Leesburg, Va. Dan Elwell, acting risk. Capt. Steve Jangelis (Delta), and discuss new and evolving on Airport Safety FAA administrator, informed ALPA’s ASO Aviation Safety chair, areas of airport safety research. n late August, ALPA’s Air attendees that each year there spoke on two panels at the event: On August 22, ASO and E&AS I Safety Organization (ASO) are more than 200 actual or at- “What Contributes to the Risk?” representatives took part in a and Engineering & Air Safety tempted operations on the wrong and “What Does Success Look regularly scheduled meeting (E&AS) Department represen- runway, taxiway, or airport. The Like?” of the Runway Safety Council, tatives participated in three agency has identified and put in On August 20, ASO Airport cochaired by the FAA and ALPA, separate airport/runway safety place several mitigations, but the & Ground Environment Group which examines and makes rec- events with the FAA. intent of the summit was to bring representatives participated in a ommendations concerning opera- On August 21, ALPA together leaders from govern- meeting of the Airport Subcom- tional safety needs at individual took part in the FAA Safety ment and industry to discuss mittee of the FAA’s Research, airports.

14 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 Capt. James Bates Northwest July Capt. James Bowen Eastern July IN MEMORIAM Capt. Tage Brondum Flying Tigers July Capt. David Brown Delta July “ To fly west, my friend, is a flight we Capt. Jordan Burpee Jazz Aviation July all must take for a final check. -AUTHOR UNKNOWN Capt. James Carden American July illia Cotney rani uly Capt. Todd Donohue United July Capt. Richard Emery United July Capt. Dennis Fairbrother United July Capt. William Fellinger Northwest July 2013 Capt. William Ferguson United July Capt. John Wolfe US Airways May Capt. Philip Harman United July Capt. Joseph Ivey Delta July 2016 Capt. James Jones Northwest July Capt. Benjamin Densieski TWA March Capt. Gregory Kettler United July Capt. Anthony Grzesiak US Airways April Capt. Don Linn Delta July 2017 Capt. John Lucas US Airways July Capt. Warren Wochek Eastern February Capt. John Ludington Northwest July Capt. Jim Henderson FedEx Express July Capt. Chester Martindale Delta July Capt. William Richards US Airways July F/O Daniel McConnell Envoy Air July Capt. Roger Garcia United October Capt. John Riley TWA July Capt. Ross Butler Pan American November Capt. Keith Renz Delta July Capt. Richard Fisher US Airways December Capt. Robert Rydeen Eastern July Capt. Norman Kadyschuk Canadian December Capt. Aelred Schwery Eastern July 2018 Capt. Tom Thompson Continental July obert hlenhopp rani anuary Capt. Monte Askegard Trans States August F/O Charles Price Airlift February Capt. Austin Bates Northwest August Capt. Franz Keppler US Airways March Capt. Robert Brandon Delta August erdinand rrgang rani arch Capt. Leslie Brissette Pan American August F/O Paul Antes Midway April Capt. Therman Campbell Delta August Capt. oloon yarlay rani April Capt. Mark Duxbury Delta August Capt. Jim Johnson Delta April Capt. Terry Essenpreis FedEx Express August Capt. oard Caldell rani ay Capt. Gary Gabbard Northwest August Capt. Charles Childers Eastern May Capt. Richard Gladish Northwest August Capt. Frank Davis United May Capt. Kirk Goldman United August Capt. Walter Scott Eastern May Capt. arold oan orthest August Capt. John Wanless Alaska May Capt. Edward Holcombe Eastern August Capt. Scott Agenbroad Northwest June Capt. avid uan Air ransport ntl August Capt. Howard Beckwith Northwest June Capt. Lewis Lytton Delta August Capt. arion rith rani une Capt. Harry Madsen Eastern August Capt. Gary Hutteball Northwest June Capt. Steven McGaw Delta August Capt. John Kuhn Flying Tigers/FedEx Express June Capt. Thomas Niederer Delta August Capt. Frank Mitchell Continental June Capt. Kenneth O’Connor Eastern August Capt. Roy Plattner TWA June Capt. George Purcell US Airways August F/O Bruce Ronning Eastern June Capt. Albert Stegbuchner Endeavor Air August Capt. Kermit Selvig FedEx Express June S/O Arthur Strassle FedEx Express August Capt. Mitchell Shapiro Continental June Capt. Willmore Stuart United August Capt. James Taylor Northwest June F/O Evan Trout Alaska August Capt. Larry Walker United June Capt. David Vaughter Eastern August F/O Mark Zemeck FedEx Express June Capt. Robert Wallace TWA August Capt. Robert Askins Delta July Capt. James West Delta August Capt. ohn aneld Air ransat uly Capt. Lance Hooley JetBlue September

ASO Trains Next Genera- Pilots participate in ALPA’s recent bloodborne pathogen precau- tion of Investigators Air Safety Organization Accident tions, representation of flight hirteen pilot safety representa- Investigation Course. crews, and usage of Critical Ttives from five airlines gathered Incident Response Program at ALPA’s Conference Center in Canada investigation is to bring recommendations to keep these resources, as well as responding Herndon, Va., in late August to take your perspective as a line pilot. events from happening again.” to international investigations. part in the Air Safety Organiza- That’s what makes us uniquely The four-day course covers The ASO’s capstone acci- tion’s (ASO) Accident Investigation qualified to assist in their effort. topics such as accident notifica- dent investigation course, the Course. Because when the unthinkable tion and dispatch to the site, the Advanced Accident Investigation Capt. Michael Wickboldt (Spirit), happens to our fellow pilots, every- resources available from various Course, was held September the course director, stated, “Your one involved is on the same team ALPA departments, investigative 24–27 in Grand Forks, N.D. Look role when participating in an NTSB and has the sae goals―identify- agency policies, participation for coverage in an upcoming

Photo: Christopher Freeze Photo: or Transportation Safety Board of ing any safety issues and to make in various investigative groups, issue of Air Line Pilot.

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 15 INDUSTRY STATS

U.S. DOMESTIC AIRFARE U.S. AVERAGE DOMESTIC AIRFARE INFLATION-ADJUSTED 1Q FARES (2018$) ccording to the latest data A from the U.S. Department $420 of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics, $411 $400 $407 $406 $405 the average domestic airfare $399 decreased to $346 in the first $380 quarter of 2018, down 3.7 $379 percent from $360 in the first $360 $376 quarter of 2017, on an infla- $360 tion-adjusted basis in constant $340 $ 2018 dollars. Fares are based 346 on the total ticket value, which $320 consists of the price charged by airlines plus any additional tax- $300 es and fees levied at the time Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 of purchase. Airfares include 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

only the price paid at the time Source: U.S. Department of Transportation Statistics and ALPA Economic & Financial Analysis Department of the ticket purchase and don’t include charges for optional services such as baggage fees. There is a strong negative 2012 and 2014 when airlines charges to supplement fare in- The average airfare of $346 correlation between capacity exercised more capacity disci- creases to boost total revenue for the first quarter of 2018 is growth and fare levels. The pline and supply and demand per available seat mile growth. the lowest price since the $340 substantial decrease in average were more aligned. Both JetBlue and United average airfare recorded in the airfare in the first quarter of Despite higher fuel prices recently announced that they’ll third quarter of 2017. Addition- 2018 isn’t surprising given the in the current environment, increase baggage fees from $25 ally, airfare for the first quarter current environment of elevat- airfares have been depressed to $30 per bag, a 20 percent of 2018 is down 30.9 percent ed capacity growth seen across by fare competition and remain increase. Additionally, South- from the highest first-quarter the industry. Average airfare below 2016 levels. As such, west announced it will increase fare of $501 recorded in 1999. was much higher between airlines are looking to ancillary early-bird check-in fees. MARKET WATCH AIRLINES PARENT COMPANY STOCK SYMBOL 8/31/2017 8/31/2018 % CHG. Atlantic Southeast, ExpressJet SkyWest, Inc.1 NASDAQ: SKYW $34.70 $65.30 88.18% United United Continental Holdings, Inc. 2 NYSE: UAL $61.96 $87.42 41.09% Spirit Spirit Airlines, Inc. NASDAQ: SAVE $34.05 $47.52 39.56% Delta, Endeavor Air Delta Air Lines NYSE: DAL $47.19 $58.48 23.92% Mesa Mesa Air Group, Inc.3 NASDAQ: MESA $12.00 $13.79 14.92% FedEx Express FedEx Corporation4 NYSE: FDX $214.38 $243.95 13.79% Air Transat Transat A.T., Inc. TSX: TRZ.B $9.20 $9.15 -0.54% Bearskin, Calm Air Exchange Income Corporation5 TSX: EIF $33.26 $32.33 -2.80% Hawaiian Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. NASDAQ: HA $42.85 $41.50 -3.15% JetBlue JetBlue Airways Corporation NASDAQ: JBLU $19.81 $19.08 -3.69% Jazz Aviation Chorus Aviation, Inc.6 TSX: CHR.B $8.27 $7.91 -4.35% Envoy Air, Piedmont, PSA American Airlines Group, Inc. NASDAQ: AAL $44.74 $40.48 -9.52% Alaska, Virgin America Alaska Air Group, Inc.7 NYSE: ALK $74.66 $67.49 -9.60% Air Transport International Air Transport Services Group, Inc. NASDAQ: ATSG $22.96 $20.35 -11.37% WestJet, WestJet Encore WestJet Airlines Ltd. TSX: WJA $26.63 $19.15 -28.09%

1 SkyWest, Inc. declared a quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share on Aug. 7, 2018. 4 FedEx Corporation declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.65 per share on Aug. 17, 2018. 2 United Continental Holdings, Inc. is transferring its stock exchange listing to the NASDAQ 5 Exchange Income Corporation declared eligible dividends totaling $0.1825 per share for from the NYSE. The company’s common stock began trading on the NASDAQ on Sept. 7, 2018, the month of August on Aug. 17, 2018. and will continue to be listed under the ticker symbol UAL. 6 Chorus Aviation, Inc. announced a monthly dividend of $0.04 per Class A and Class B shares esa Air roup, nc. announced the pricing of its initial public oering of ,0,000 shares for August on Aug. 22, 2018. of its coon stock at a public oering price of 12 per share. hares began trading on the 7 Alaska Air Group declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.32 per share on Aug. 8, 2018. NASDAQ on Aug. 10, 2018.

16 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 air line pilot feature article STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

STATE OF THE NORTH AMERICAN AIRLINE INDUSTRY: IS THE INDUSTRY FINALLY SEEING A SMOOTHING OF THE BOOM/BUST CYCLE? By ALPA onomi inanial Analysis Department taff

he latest North American economic and financial information indicates that airline profitability should continue for the ninth consecutive year. Years of profits are due, in part, to various airline initiatives that include more agile responses to macroeconomic changes, investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft, focusing on enhanced ancillary revenue products, strengthening balance sheets, and improving operations. After a lengthy period of industry profits Tand with the economy experiencing some of its strongest growth in years, many are wondering if the industry is strong enough to weather the next downturn. With one of the most well-respected stock investors in modern times now owning shares in four major airlines, it seems as if the airline industry is indeed more attractive as a long-term investment option. Not only have stockholders seen improved returns from the airline industry, but many employees have also reaped the benefits of pattern bargaining result- ing from sustained profitability. At the midpoint of 2018, major passenger airlines in the U.S. have earned more than $7.5 billion in pretax profits while major cargo airlines have gained more than $6.5

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 17 air line pilot feature article STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

FIGURE billion. Major Canadian airlines have earned nearly $500 million in operating 2018 MID-YEAR PROFITS STILL SOLID profits. The unique business model at $14 fee-for-departure airlines has contributed to these airlines having mixed results (see $12 Figure 1). $10 While these profit figures are signifi- cant, the industry continues to face varied $8 macroeconomic and industry-specific challenges, which means that the concept BILLIONS $6 of booms and busts can’t be discounted. $4 Trade protectionism and rising fuel costs $2 are two of the top challenges the industry faces in the near term. In the medium $0 term, the industry could struggle with 1H 1H 1H 1H 1H 1H 1H 1H 1H pilot supply (see Figure 2). (See page 9 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 for ALPA’s solutions to keeping pilot SOURCE: COMPANY REPORTS AND ALPA ECONOMIC › FINANCIAL ANALYSIS DEPARTMENT ANALYSIS supply strong.) And over the long term, the airline industry could face pressure

FIGURE  from infrastructure constraints. Despite all these challenges, the airline industry FORECASTED RETIREMENT AT U.S. MAINLINE PASSENGER AND CARGO CARRIERS is expected to produce profits for the (CUMULATIVE) remainder of 2018 and into 2019. 25,000 Much of the reason for the profitable outlook is the economic environment. 20,000 General economic trends are positive both in North America and globally. U.S. 15,000 real gross domestic product (GDP) rose 4.2 percent in the second quarter, driven by 10,000 strong consumer spending and business investment. Economists expect the solid 5,000 growth trend to continue, with full-year 2018 GDP growing 3.0 percent. If this ma- 0 terializes, it would be the biggest increase 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 in GDP since 2005. SOURCE: ALPA MEMBERSHIP DATA AND ALPA ECONOMIC › FINANCIAL ANALYSIS DEPARTMENT RESEARCH FOR NONŸALPA PILOT GROUPS The International Monetary Fund predicts that world GDP will grow 3.9 percent in both 2018 and 2019. Canada’s

FIGURE  GDP is expected to increase 2.1 percent in 2018, while Mexico’s output will grow 2.3 REAL GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT GROWTH AND FORECASTS percent. Growth in the EU and Japan is ex-   P P pected to slow, while Asia’s growth should WORLD 3.2% 3.7% 3.9% 3.9% average 6.5 percent. China’s growth will Advanced Economies 1.7% 2.4% 2.4% 2.2% moderate from 6.6 percent to 6.4 per- United States 1.5% 2.3% 2.9% 2.7% cent, and India’s growth rate will be 7.3 Canada 1.4% 3.0% 2.1% 2.0% percent. Latin America will see modest Euro Area 1.8% 2.4% 2.2% 1.9% growth of 1.6 percent in 2018, moving to- United Kingdom 1.8% 1.7% 1.4% 1.5% Japan 1.0% 1.7% 1.0% 0.9% ward 2.6 percent in 2019. Both Argentina EMERGING & DEVELOPING ECONOMIES 4.4% 4.7% 4.9% 5.1% and Brazil have seen moderate currency Developing Asia 6.5% 6.5% 6.5% 6.5% depreciation as recovery in these areas Sub-Saharan Africa 1.5% 2.8% 3.4% 3.8% has slowed and political tensions have Commonwealth of Independent States 0.4% 2.1% 2.3% 2.2% risen (see Figure 3). Middle East/North Africa 5.0% 2.2% 3.5% 3.9% Trade tensions are beginning to present Latin America & Caribbean -0.6% 1.3% 1.6% 2.6% some downside risk to the global eco- Developing Europe 3.2% 5.8% 4.3% 3.7% nomic outlook. Besides already impacting SOURCE: INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND

18 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 FIGURE U.S. JOB GROWTH STRENGTHING IN 2018 JOBS CREATED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE (RIGHT-HAND SCALE) 400,000 10.0% “ JOB CREATION CONTINUES, 350,000 9.9% 8.0% WITH THE U.S. RECORDING 95 300,000 7.0% MONTHS OF CONSECUTIVE JOB 250,000 6.0% GROWTH THROUGH AUGUST. 200,000 5.0% 4.0% THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE 150,000 3.0% HAS STOOD AT 3.9 PERCENT, 100,000 2.0% 50,000 1.0% THE LOWEST IT’S BEEN IN 0.0% TWO DECADES.” JAN JAN JAN JAN JAN JAN JAN JAN 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 SOURCE: U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS the stock markets, increasing restrictive trade measures could hinder investment, expected to remain while supply disrup- as businesses wait to see what other prod- Oil prices pressuring margins tion risks continue in the Middle East. ucts and goods could be affected. In recent conomic growth is a key demand The average fuel price per gallon was months, the U.S. has imposed tariffs on driver for the industry, but the price up 25 percent from a year ago through steel, aluminum, washing machines, solar E of oil also has a significant impact the first six months of 2018, causing a panels, and a variety of imported goods on the financial results the industry $4.1 billion increase in fuel expense for from China, including aircraft mainte- expects. Through August, crude oil prices the industry. While hedges can soften nance parts. In addition to the new tariffs increased 40 percent and 65 percent from the impact of some of the increase, between the U.S. and China, among others, comparable periods in 2017 and 2016, only a few airlines maintain significant the North American Free Trade Agree- respectively. There was some downward hedge portfolios. Fuel has always been ment (NAFTA) is being renegotiated, as are movement in prices in late July, as most one of the biggest expenses for airlines; the economic arrangements between the members of OPEC, Russia, and other and with the significant increase so far UK and the rest of the EU. Many econo- exporting countries started to increase this year, it’s now roughly 24 percent of mists agree that the slowing of tradable production. In addition, a faster-than-ex- total operating expenses. With such a goods causes inflation, slows the spread pected return of Libyan crude oil produc- significant increase in one of the largest of new technologies, and could lower tion following August’s unplanned supply expense categories, it’s not surprising productivity. outage could put further downward pres- that profit margins are being pressured Despite all the recent trade headlines, sure on crude oil prices. Volatility can be (see Figure 5). world trade remains strong for now, and tariffs have had minimal impact on the passenger and cargo airline industries, FIGURE as many other economic indicators are FUEL PRICES REMAIN ELEVATED BUT EXPECTED TO FALL INTO 2019 strong. Job creation continues, with the WTI BRENT GULF COAST FUEL WTI FORWARD CURVE (9/7/18) U.S. recording 95 months of consecutive $140 job growth through August. The unem- ployment rate has stood at 3.9 percent, the $120 lowest it’s been in two decades (see Figure $100 4). Interest rates remain low but have started to rise as inflation picks up. House- $80 holds are recording higher net worth, and $60 average nominal earnings are up nearly 3 percent in the past year. Fortunately, $40 consumer confidence remains near its $20 highest point in 18 years, as consumers have yet to be deterred by rising inflation BARREL) (PER PRICES FUEL JET & OIL CRUDE $0 and have yet to reduce their spending. 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 SOURCE: U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION AGENCY AND CME GROUP

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 19 air line pilot feature article STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

FIGURE U.S. mainline airlines POSITIVE CHANGE IN PRASM he industry continues to generate YEAR-OVER-YEAR CHANGE IN PRASM YEAR-OVER-YEAR CHANGE IN CAPACITY healthy margins, but profitability 8.0% T is down from the last three years. 6.0% Through the first two quarters of 2018, the industry posted an 8.8 percent profit 4.0% margin. While this was down from 11.9 2.0% percent and 15.9 percent from 2017 and 0.0% 2016, respectively, it’s still strong. The industry generated more than $87 billion -2.0% in revenue through the first half of the year, -4.0%

with topline revenues posting a 6.5 percent CHANGE % YEAR-OVER-YEAR increase. The increase in revenues came not -6.0% only from higher ticket fares, but also from -8.0% Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 airlines’ ancillary revenue initiatives. Ancillary revenues have fast become a 2015 2015 2015 2015 2016 2016 2016 2016 2017 2017 2017 2017 2018 2018 permanent part of the flying experience. SOURCE: COMPANY REPORTS AND ALPA ECONOMIC › FINANCIAL ANALYSIS DEPARTMENT ANALYSIS From basic economy fares to paying for revenue and other revenue, the industry both 2018 and 2019, as airlines continue to bags, seat upgrades, front-of-the-line continues to post year-over-year gains in focus on ancillary revenue initiatives. This boarding, Wi-Fi connections, and onboard unit revenue, despite increases in capacity. is good news and will help expand margins food and drink purchases, the industry Total unit revenue was up 2.1 percent from in 2019. has become more and more resourceful last year, while PRASM (passenger revenue CASM (cost per available seat mile), ex- at generating additional revenue. Ameri- per available seat mile) was up 1.6 percent, cluding fuel, for U.S. carriers increased 2.0 can Airlines estimates its rollout of basic with improvements in both the domestic percent through the first half of 2018. This economy and premium economy products and international sectors (see Figure 6). cost increase is slower than the increase can add approximately $800 million to $1 Domestic PRASM trends have increased seen in 2017 for the same period, as the billion in incremental revenue. since mid-2017, and international PRASM initial cost increases of many of the labor Other lucrative revenue streams come in recently posted strong improvements, es- agreements—such as signing bonuses— the form of mileage and credit card loyalty pecially in the transatlantic region—which reached in 2017 won’t reoccur in 2018. In programs. In fact, this source of other rev- continues to benefit from strong premium addition, as more carriers are emphasizing enue is up 15 percent already in 2018. Delta cabin and leisure demand. The Latin region running smooth and on-time operations, recently commented that its relationship is seeing some stronger business demand, costs related to disruptions have decreased. with American Express will drive more which should help yields; however, demand Keeping unit costs stable will be a challenge than $3.5 billion of additional revenue and for some beach destinations has dropped as more airlines look to pare capacity in the value to the airline this year. Meanwhile, due to security concerns. In addition, the wake of rising fuel prices. Alaska expects its mileage program to residual effects of currency devaluations in U.S. capacity was up 4.1 percent through generate approximately $1 billion in annual Argentina and Brazil could also inhibit that June 2018. Domestic capacity is expected to revenue in 2018, a 17 percent compounded region’s rebound. increase 5 percent this year while interna- annual growth rate since 2013. Overall, total unit revenues are expected tional capacity is expected to grow by 2.6 With increases in both passenger to increase approximately 2.2 percent in percent. On an industrywide basis, total capacity is expected to be up 4.5 percent FIGURE in 2018 and 3.8 percent in 2019. However, as fuel and other operating expenses rise, CAPACITY TRENDS EXPECTED TO MODERATE some airlines have reduced capacity growth H  H  ¢ CHANGE for the remainder of 2018 and into 2019. American 138,717 136,083 1.9% But do these reductions go far enough? The United 132,679 127,275 4.2% lack of meaningful capacity cuts could be Delta 127,967 124,098 3.1% one reason airline stocks haven’t recently Southwest 78,859 76,871 2.6% shown more pep. Investors could be con- Alaska 32,313 30,006 7.7% JetBlue 29,162 27,826 4.8% cerned that oversupply could be too much Spirit 17,925 14,170 26.5% in an environment of rising fuel prices, Hawaiian 9,751 9,256 5.3% trade disputes, and political tensions. Allegiant 7,651 6,961 9.9% Oversupply has been one of the main Frontier (data only through 1Q) 5,910 4,882 21.0% reasons airlines have struggled to earn prof- SOURCE: COMPANY REPORTS

20 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 its in an industry downturn. Airlines are and Air Canada were impacted by a stron- system ASM growth is projected to be 6.3 using more information-technology tools ger Canadian dollar, while WestJet was percent for Air Canada and 4.2 percent for to track passenger behavior. With these affected by higher expenses resulting from WestJet, while GDP is expected to grow only tools, airlines can now pick and choose increased capacity and the threat of a pilot 2.3 percent in the second half of this year. which specific route and frequencies are strike. Jazz benefited from an increase in Adding to fare challenges are the detracting the most from overall profitabil- controllable revenue under a capacity pur- new-entrant ultra-low-cost carriers trying ity and remove these. This ability to exit chase agreement; and although Air Transat to make a mark on the Canadian market. failing markets and concentrate on markets posted an operating loss, it was less than in The latest competitor, Flair, has entered of strength, thereby controlling capacity 2017 due to higher average selling prices. several markets out of Edmonton, Alb., creep, should help smooth the industry The Canadian domestic market is and has now doubled its capacity in a year. profitability cycle (see Figure 7). dominated by Air Canada and WestJet. Meanwhile, domestic capacity at smaller Capacity at Canada’s two largest airlines domestic airlines continues to grow as well. grew 7.2 percent through the first half of Bearskin’s scheduled capacity was up near- Canadian industry the year. Air Canada’s capacity growth is ly 6 percent year to date in June, while Calm he Canadian economy has gained mo- consistent with the airline’s objective of Air had a 7.9 percent increase in capacity. mentum despite concerns over U.S.-im- increasing global international-to-interna- ASMs at First Air and Canadian North, T posed tariffs. Consumer spending, wage tional connecting traffic through its major which recently announced their intent to growth, and business investment are all Canadian hubs. WestJet’s capacity growth merge, were up 47 percent and 18 percent, moving in a positive direction. While the is attributable to new international routes respectively. economic growth rate for 2018 is expected and destinations, a shift in fleet mix to With such significant growth rates, to be about 2.1 percent, it’s somewhat less larger narrowbody aircraft, and the launch it’s not surprising that the domestic fare than the 3.0 percent growth experienced in of air service for both Swoop and WestJet environment is very competitive. The lack 2017. The impact so far from U.S.-imposed Link in June. of purchasing power has many analysts tariffs on Canada’s steel and aluminum What’s concerning is the amount each questioning Air Canada’s and WestJet’s imports (industries that account for only carrier has increased capacity above growth strategies into 2019, and the stock 0.5 percent of Canadian GDP and jobs) has Canadian GDP growth. With Canada’s values of these two companies reflect that been relatively small. Fears over trade and GDP expected to grow just 2.1 percent in negativity. the slow pace of NAFTA negotiations hav- 2018, the carriers’ 7.2 percent total capacity While Exchange Income Corporation en’t dissuaded Canadian companies from growth is 3.4 times that of GDP growth, and continues to post strong EBITDA earn- using their capital this year to reinvest in their expected 6.4 percent domestic capac- ings, the company is facing recruitment their businesses (see Figure 8). ity growth is approximately 3.1 times that challenges and, in response, has recently For the first half of the year, results for of GDP growth. While WestJet announced implemented a pilot pathways program, Canadian airlines were mixed. The two a modest capacity cut for the second half which was spearheaded by the acquisition largest airlines in Canada have added so of this year, Air Canada has yet to reduce of Moncton Flight College, the largest much capacity that some analysts are call- capacity. The second half of 2018 scheduled flight-training college in Canada. ing it a “turf war.” As a result, insufficient pricing power coupled with rising fuel costs FIGURE  are leading to operating margins that are consistently lower than those of U.S. coun- CANADIAN GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT VS. CAPACITY GROWTH terparts. Together, Air Canada and WestJet REAL GDP % GROWTH YEAR-OVER-YEAR CHANGE IN ASMs posted just a 2.2 percent operating margin 18.00% through June 2018 (with WestJet posting its 16.00% first operating loss in 13 years for the sec- 14.00% ond quarter of this year), while Air Transat 12.00% recorded an operating loss. Jazz Aviation 10.00% saw a 9.9 percent pretax profit margin, and Exchange Income Corporation, the parent 8.00% company of Bearskin, Calm Air, Keewatin, 6.00% and Perimeter, had a 26.9 percent EBITDA 4.00% (earnings before interest, taxes, deprecia- 2.00% tion, and amortization) profit margin. And 0.00% like the performance of U.S. airlines, 2018 -2.00% results were lower than 2017 for the major -4.00% Canadian carriers, while Jazz’s performance Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3EQ4E was better. Exchange Income Corporation 2013 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2014 2014 2015 2015 2015 2015 2016 2016 2016 2016 2017 2017 2017 2017 2018 2018 2018 2018 SOURCE: STATISTICS CANADA, COMPANY REPORTS, AND OAG

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 21 air line pilot feature article STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

Fee-for-departure industry FIGURE  he fee-for-departure (FFD) sector’s unique business model continues ESTIMATED AVERAGE FIRST-YEAR FEE-FOR-DEPARTURE SALARY T to face challenges, but there’s been $40,000 some improvement in recent years. This $35,000 sector’s airlines consist of two publicly $35,603 $30,000 $33,438 traded companies, five wholly owned $31,099 $25,000 companies, and six privately owned com- $26,146 panies. While all these companies com- $20,000 pete for flying, their financial constraints $22,228 $22,709 $15,000 are much different. In addition, because so many of these operators have con- $10,000 strained growth opportunities, rumors of $5,000 consolidation continue. $0 As mentioned, the industry is facing a 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 large number of upcoming pilot retire- SOURCE: COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS AND ALPA ECONOMIC › FINANCIAL ANALYSIS DEPARTMENT ANALYSIS. NOTE: BASED ON RESERVE GUARANTEE FOR ments at major airlines. As FFD pilots FIRST YEAR. INCLUDES MESA, SKYWEST, GO JET, TRANS STATES, AIR WISCONSIN, ENDEAVOR AIR, ENVOY AIR, PSA, PIEDMONT, EXPRESSJET, COMPASS, AND COMMUTAIR move up to major airlines due to these retirements, FFD airlines are offering bonuses to attract pilots. While this has of 5 percent matching contributions, on jets with 70-plus seats. helped provide temporary relief, some while some have maximum matching A closer look at the FFD sector shows FFD airlines are finally recognizing that contributions of 10 percent or more. that the fleet distribution number putting money toward higher pay rates Just four years ago, several FFD carriers between aircraft with 50 seats or fewer has an even greater impact on addressing didn’t offer any level of matching 401(k) and larger regional jets has effectively pilot supply issues. In addition, many FFD contributions. flipped. Aircraft with 50 seats and fewer airlines have established career pro- The industry continues to see the move represented 63 percent of the FFD fleet gression paths with their major airline to larger regional jets, as mainline car- in 2013; last year, larger regional aircraft partners, which also helps to address riers try to maintain brand quality and represented 59 percent. In 2013, the aver- pilot supply challenges. Airlines that have look to make the travel experience seam- age FFD flight had 56 seats. Last year, it implemented these initiatives continue to less between FFD and mainline carriers. was 63 seats. This is a 12 percent increase remain competitive (see Figure 9). This move to a more seamless experi- in seats per aircraft (see Figure 10). This FFD pilots are also starting to see some ence includes offering premium cabins, change from 50 to 70 seats will become improvement in their retirement benefits. upgraded food and beverage options, and more important in 2021, when seat limita- Many FFD 401(k) plans now offer upward large overhead bin space—all items found tions on regional jets are lifted at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, allowing airlines to add capacity without

FIGURE  the need for additional hulls. Recent changes in capacity purchase U.S. FIRST-YEAR FEE-FOR-DEPARTURE FLEET MIX CHANGING agreements, including extensions and AS MAINLINE PARTNERS SEEK LARGER AIRCRAFT new partnerships, are changing the 50 OR FEWER SEATS MORE THAN 50 SEATS performance results for many airlines in this sector. However, increased labor 100% costs that are required to attract and 90% retain pilots will put pressure on FFD 80% 37% carriers while they seek to remain cost 59% 70% competitive. In this environment, FFD 60% airlines that have invested in aircraft 50% themselves could face tail risk—having 40% lease payments beyond the terms of the 30% 63% capacity purchase agreements. There 20% 41% are different options to combat tail risk, 10% including buying these aircraft off lease, 0% but the necessary funds to do so could be 2013 2017 prohibitive. SOURCE: U.S. BUREAU OF TRANSPORTATION STATISTICS

22 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 Cargo industry FIGURE ajor air cargo airlines reported near- NORTH AMERICA FREIGHT TRAFFIC VS. FREIGHT SUPPLY ly $6.5 billion in pretax profits for NORTH AMERICAN CARGO TRAFFIC NORTH AMERICAN CARGO SUPPLY M the first six months of 2018. The per- formance in the air cargo market hasn’t 16.0% fallen as much as in the passenger market. 14.0% At the end of the first of half of this year, 12.0% air cargo airlines posted a combined 9.3 10.0% percent pretax margin, 0.9 percentage 8.0% points less than the same period in 2017, 6.0% while major U.S. passenger airlines posted a combined 8.8 percent pretax margin, 4.0% down 3.0 percentage points from the first 2.0% half of 2017. 0.0% E-commerce and distributed manufac- -2.0% turing trends are creating demand for -4.0% new express networks. Industry experts JAN APR JUL OCT JAN APR JUL believe e-commerce retail sales could 2017 2017 2017 2017 2018 2018 2018 reach $5 trillion by 2021, up from $2.3 SOURCE: INTERNATIONAL AIR TRANSPORT ASSOCIATION trillion in 2017. This suggests that demand for freight aircraft should remain strong well beyond 2021. Amazon, for example, recently expanded its Cincinnati, Ohio, ly aren’t transported as air freight. In will materialize in fuel prices remains to hub to include space for 100 aircraft. addition, ongoing economic momentum, be seen. Continued refleeting toward more Growth in industrywide air freight particularly strong consumer confidence, fuel-efficient aircraft will help the indus- traffic was up 4.3 percent year to date July and further signs of bottlenecks in global try contend with any rising oil prices, 2018, while air freight capacity, measured supply chains should continue to support but all airlines will have to deal with the in available air freight tons, has grown demand for air freight in the near term. continued volatility seen in prices. 4.8 percent year to date through July 2018. Liquidity is a good indicator of how well Load factors were down 0.2 percent to 44.4 Will the industry come an airline can absorb any ups and downs percent. International load factors were that occur in the cycle, as well as any sud- slightly better at 48.3 percent. Cargo yields through the next downturn? den shocks to the system. With more than are up more than 16 percent from a year ll sectors of the airline industry are nine years of sustained profits, many air- ago, as strong demand for e-commerce very closely tied to economic trends. lines have been able to accumulate strong continues (See Figure 11). A Currently, the outlook for the econo- levels of cash. Generally, airlines should Air freight volumes flown by U.S. car- my in North America is positive. Yet some seek to maintain approximately 15 to 20 riers have risen at a double-digit annual- issues could cloud the horizon, such as percent of annual revenue in liquidity. At ized pace in the last few months. Strong rising inflation from trade tensions and the midpoint of 2018, major U.S. passenger consumer demand and a stronger dollar is rising fuel prices, as well as geopolitical airlines had a combined $30 billion in boosting inbound air cargo. North Amer- tensions. In addition, the industry needs cash and short-term investments, nearly ican freight traffic is up 4.8 percent while to be watchful of its own actions that 18 percent of annual industry revenue. capacity is up 4.3 percent. Asia-Pacific air could be detrimental to financial well-be- Clearly, with a strong liquidity base and freight carriers have seen a 4.0 percent in- ing, such as excessive capacity growth. information-technology tools to monitor crease in traffic on a 6.8 percent increase Since the end of June, several reports passenger behavior, airlines can adapt in capacity, while European carriers have from major airlines have indicated that to changing trends. With the ability to had a 3.9 percent increase in traffic versus the pricing environment is strong. This, adapt quicker, hopefully long-term capital a 4.8 percent increase in capacity. Asia-Pa- coupled with modest capacity cuts, bodes expenditure plans will better reflect cycle cific, the largest air freight-carrying a positive outcome for the remainder of demands, so that new aircraft deliveries region—accounting for almost one-third 2018. This constant attention to fares and come during a peak instead of during of the global total—is most exposed to any capacity should lead to margin expansion a trough. Indeed, perhaps the previous impact from rising trade tensions. in 2019. If so, it would be the first time in cycles of recovery, expansion, descent, and At this point, trade impacts on U.S. four years that profit margins expanded. contraction will be replaced with mod- carriers should be relatively small, as most The futures curve on oil prices shows erate growth, moderate expansion, little of the commodities in question typical- a slightly downward trend. Whether this descent, and no contraction.

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 23 24 F By ohn Perkinson, enior taff Writer taff enior Perkinson, ohn By REDUCTION DEBATES DUES CONVENES, BOARD EXECUTIVE » change from1.90percentofgrossmonth- mended thattheBODconsideradues resolution, theExecutive Board recom- tion’s strategicplanningprocess. group updatesandcontinuedtheAssocia- executive council(MEC) chairsheardpilot cers, executive vicepresidents,andmaster requests. Inaddition,ALPA’s nationaloffi- from policyadjustmentstospecialbudget members actedon16resolutions,ranging convenes laterthismonth.Theboard when theunion’shighestgoverning body authorize amemberduesratereduction air line pilot line air Air Line Pilot October 2018 In deliberatingover thedues-reduction ation’s Board ofDirectors (BOD) recommending thattheAssoci- tember, approved aresolution 123rd regularmeetinginmid-Sep - bate, ALPA’s Executive Board, atits ollowing muchdiscussionandde- feature article article feature EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING 1.95 percent to 1.9 percent. 1.95 percentto1.9percent. January 2014,when theratedroppedfrom s finances,and the Association’sservices, undertake acomprehensive review of president toestablishacommittee tion, theExecutive Board directedALPA’s the decreasedincomestream.Inaddi- pilot groupsaren’tadversely affectedby among MECs tohelpensure thatsmaller the formulasforallocatingduesincome effect Jan. 1,2020. language, ifenactedasis,would gointo members to1.85percent.Theproposed ly earningsforactive andexecutive active The Executive Board meetingbeganwith OFFICERREPORTS NATIONAL tructure. tructure. ALPA’s duesratewas last reducedin The proposalincludesrevisions to

acting onresolutions. ALPA’s ecutive oard meeting ineptember, holds itsrd regular

the entireairline industry.” opportunities, and advocating on behalf of and managingrisks,takingadvantage of Forum work andtheextraordinary of cussed theAssociation’srecentAirSafety dent andnationalsafetycoordinator,dis- chair togetone.” at thetable—andwe’ll bringafolding we canonly drive changeifwe have aseat Congress, Canollnoted,“ALPA pilotsknow rican-American woman electedtotheU.S. former Rep. Shirley Chisholm, thefirstAf- operations. Alludingtoafamousquoteby part ofany publicdiscussiononairline underscoring theneedforALPA tobea views heardinthedebate,”saidCanoll, sion, it’sincumbentonustomake our andourprofes- future ofourindustry clearly jeopardizesafety(see which ALPA strongly opposesasitwould cockpit operationsonall-cargoflights, a six-month studytopromotesingle-pilot However, theHouse version alsocallsfor barriers onnew passengerairliners. cockpit batteries; andrequiringsecondary guidelines fortheairtransportoflithium requirements; implementingstronger qualification, training,andexperience maintaining minimumfirstofficer ALPA haslonglobbiedfor,including coordinator national safet president and first vice DePete, ALPA Capt. Joe ALPA president apt. imanoll, “ Capt. Joe DePete, ALPA’s firstvicepresi- “ As decisionmakers determinethe In thelasttwo years, we’ve accom -

are currently experienc- line pilotingprofession andtheair- our industry the event. “Even though zation, which supported ALPA’s AirSafetyOrgani- threats, understanding threats, understanding vigilant, watching for “We mustremainever the horizon,”saidDePete. challenges thatloomon be preparedforthe and blueskies,we must ing favorable conditions includes several actions version ofthelegislation resentatives. TheHouse the U.S. House ofRep- language proposedby reauthorization billand the imminentFAA president, talked about Capt. Tim Canoll,ALPA’s national officerreports. page5).

Photos: Chris Weaver plished great things together,” observed Capt. Capt. Stuart Morrison (Spirit) Bill Couette, ALPA’s vice president–adminis- PILOTS HELPING PILOTS tration/secretary, who During the Execute Board meeting when master executive council (MEC) chairs pro- added, “We’ve grown and vided briefings on pilot group activities, Capt. Stuart Morrison (Spirit), his pilot group’s expanded the union with MEC chair, shared a poignant story. This summer a Spirit pilot at Houston George Bush Capt. Bill improved products and Intercontinental Airport became incapacitated and had to be transported on a gurney Couette, ALPA services.” Couette talked to a local hospital. A Delta pilot witnessing the incident followed the Spirit pilot to the vice president– about ALPA’s infrastruc- hospital to monitor his condition. The Delta pilot soon contacted F/O Ellen Brinks (Del- administration/ ture improvements that ta), ALPA’s Aeromedical Group chair, who lives in Houston, Tex., and she also went to the secretary are part of the union’s hospital to check on the Spirit pilot. Project AMBER and the Morrison commented that these gestures are a clear testament to the bonds that expansion of Professional Development exist among ALPA members and personally thanked Capt. Bill Bartels (Delta), his pilot Group outreach efforts to further ALPA’s group’s MEC chair, for the Delta pilots’ support. strategic plan. “We continue to promote the piloting profession and secure its fu- ture. But our work isn’t finished. We must forward. Helling told Executive Board give voting proxies to other attending continue the strategic planning process to members, “Remember, it’s hard enough to members. The Executive Board also for- determine where we go for the next two spend money wisely when you don’t have warded a resolution to the BOD to consid- years and beyond,” he said. any, but it’s even harder to spend money er the authorization/use of electronic local Capt. Randy Helling, ALPA’s vice presi- wisely when you do. Thank you once council officer nominations. dent–finance/treasurer, again for being good stewards of your While in delegate committees, Execu- commented, “ALPA is on pilots’ hard-earned dues dollars.” tive Board members reviewed the final strong financial footing progress report of the Association’s 2016 because of each and PLENARY SESSION strategic plan goals, objectives, and ini- every one of you, and During plenary, the Executive Board tiatives. ALPA national committee chairs your fellow volunteers,” addressed numerous resolutions including and subject-matter experts also presented crediting ALPA’s leaders a Major Contingency Fund grant of C$1 proposed 2018 strategic plan language for Capt. Randy for keeping the Associ- million to the pilots of Air Georgian for the input before it moves onto the BOD. All Helling, ALPA ation in good standing. endgame of their contract negotiations. ALPA pilots are encouraged to sign onto vice president– He reviewed the status The body voted to pass a measure along to the members-only portion of the website finance/ of the Association’s the BOD that calls for departure proxies, at www.alpa.org/strategicplan to see the treasurer finances and how they’re making it possible for pilots attending union’s most recent strategic plan (see being budgeted moving local council meetings to leave early and page 34).

GET ON THE BUS The Frontier pilots’ “Strike Bus,” a mobile strike center, was at ALPA’s offices in Herndon, Va., for the Association’s Executive Board meeting, providing photo opportunities and giving tours to pilots and staff alike. The pilots are on a national tour to help communicate to the public that Frontier pilots and management are at an impasse after nearly three years of contract negotiations (see page 12).

or to be with the greatest safety unmanned aircraft systems automatic dependent surveil- organization in the world,” he and last month’s FAA’s Aviation lance-broadcast (ADS-B) capa- Dan Elwell, said, adding, “Without you, your Workforce Symposium, which ble by Jan. 1, 2020. When Capt. FAA acting administrator efforts, and your participation, focused on how to best attract Mike Sterling (Air Transport we wouldn’t have the [safety] young people to the aviation International), his pilot group’s ACTING FAA record we have today.” industry and improve the quali- Master Executive Council chair, ADMINISTRATOR Elwell talked about the 28 ty and efficiency of training. asked about the proposed extensions reauthorizing the Elwell also took questions single-pilot cockpit study in ADDRESSES BOARD FAA in recent years and how from the Executive Board, the House version of the FAA FAA Acting Administrator Dan these short-term solutions do which touched on topics like reauthorization bill, Elwell as- Elwell, a former airline pilot, little more than fund existing commercial space and whether sured Sterling that any changes served as keynote speaker for programs. He noted the large regional airlines will be ready the agency incorporates would ALPA’s Executive Board meet- amount of time his agency is to comply with the agency’s have to maintain or improve ing. “It’s a pleasure and an hon- spending on the oversight of mandate that U.S. airliners be current safety levels.

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 25 26 » ALPA’s prioritieseven further. their nowledge toadvance president, urges pilotstoshare orum, apt. imanoll, ALPA’s During thisear’s Airafet ‘ Air Line Pilot October 2018 SHARE WHAT SHARE YOU KNOW AIR FORUM SAFETY URGES PILOTS TO air line pilot line air By Air Line Pilot Staff Pilot Line Air article feature AIR SAFETY FORUM PRIVATE DAYS SAFETY AIR ’ T the airlineindustr andorthAmericansies. reps for their eorts tomaintainthesafet of and nationalsafet coordinator, thanspilot apt. oeDePete, ALPA’s fi rst vice president you forwhat you do.” successful andproductive forum.Thank as it’syour energy thatwillmake thisa crewmembers toyour Association’sflight, ity andexpertise….You’re allessential example ofourAssociation’screditabil- that “Every volunteer hereisashining “heart, body, andsoul”ofALPA, noting eve colleagues toadvance theALPA’s priorities to “sharewhat you know” thisyear with we’ve accomplished,”and urgedpilots room shouldtake enormousprideinwhat andNorth Americanskies. try efforts tomaintainthesafetyofindus- pilot representatives fortheirindividual started thetwo days ofmeetingsthanking president andnationalsafetycoordinator, and Capt.Joe DePete, ALPA’s firstvice tives, Capt.Tim Canoll,ALPA’s president, common interest. ally andcollectively todiscussmattersof them theopportunitytogatherindividu- ALPA’s annualAirSafetyForum gives Aviation Jumpseat Groupsmeetregularly, Aviation Security, Pilot Assistance,and industry. AlthoughtheAviation Safety, DePete referredtotheattendeesas Canoll remarked, “Eachpersoninthis Welcoming the225ASOrepresenta- n further. the safetyadvocate intheairline to maintainitsleadingroleas (ASO) enablestheAssociation in ALPA’s AirSafetyOrganization hundreds ofpilotrepresentatives he committeework conductedby

Photos: Chris Weaver tionship between terrorism and aviation started and has evolved over the decades. Steve Alterman, president of the Cargo Airlines Association and chair of the TSA’s Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC), and Elizabeth Merritt, chair of the ASAC’s Air Cargo Subcommittee, updated attendees on the committee’s efforts to prioritize air cargo security. Staff Sergeant David Falls and Corpo- apt. olfgang och Delta, ALPA’s Aviation ral Lee Murray of the Royal Canadian teven oates, a fl ight inspector for the AA, ecurit chair, moderates the twoda Aviation Mounted Police highlighted the recent left, outlines regulations addressing fl ight dec orum titled ver igilant, Alwas Prepared.” actions and initiatives of the Canadian access as apt. Rich dbert ed press, Air Carrier Protective Program, including ALPA’s Aviation umpseat chair, listens. the increased focus on airport security, nonpassenger screening, and unmanned SECURITY PLANS, aircraft systems (UAS) activity. PROJECTS, AND INITIATIVES Russ Travers, acting director of the them, and The ASO’s Aviation Security Group met National Counter Terrorism Center, ad- appropriate procedures and training to discuss security plans, projects, and dressed the current threats to civil aviation are upheld to protect the safety and secu- initiatives, including several of a poten- and shared some of the proven strategies rity of the flight deck. tially sensitive nature. Moderated by Capt. the agency has used to identify and count- DePete welcomed the Aviation Jump- Wolfgang Koch (Delta), ALPA’s Aviation er these threats in their early stages. seat Group as the fourth pillar of the ASO. Security chair, the two-day Aviation Secu- ALPA’s Aviation Security Council, made Capt. Rich Odbert (FedEx Express), the rity Forum, titled “Ever Vigilant, Always up of the security chairs from each of the Aviation Jumpseat Group chair, provided Prepared,” featured presentations and Association’s 34 pilot groups, assembled a brief review of the forum’s extensive panel discussions from a wide array of key to hear updates from committee represen- agenda before premiering a video titled air transportation security stakeholders. tatives. Capt. Eric Herman (Sun Country), “Jumpseat Etiquette? Yes, Please!” (See Norman Robinson, director of the ALPA’s Aviation Security Council chair, jumpseatinfo.org.) Referencing the last Transportation Security Administration’s led the meeting and reviewed recently line of the video, Odbert remarked, “We’re (TSA) Flight Operations Division of the launched initiatives such as ALPA’s Avia- all professionals; let’s keep the jumpseat Office of Law Enforcement/Federal Air tion Security Incident Reporting Program, professional.” Marshal Service, and Kim Johnson, that the Onboard Security Working Group, and In addition to the video, Capt. Keith office’s Aviation Programs Branch manag- guidance being developed for managing McClanahan (JetBlue), ALPA’s Jumpseat er, briefed attendees on emerging threats unruly passengers, in addition to hearing Council vice chair, led a panel discussion to in-flight security. presentations from ALPA staff and com- highlighting the Association’s recent Patricia Wolfhope, a biometrics expert mittee members. efforts to produce a new jumpseat guide, and program manager for the Depart- which was published in July 2018. The ment of Homeland Security’s Science and JUMPSEAT FORUM HIGHLIGHTS guide covers the role of the captain, pro- Technology Directorate, showcased new NEW VIDEO, GUIDE cedures to follow, information about inter- developments in video and image-process- The ASO’s Aviation Jumpseat Group pre- national jumpseating, and other pertinent ing technology and discussed how these sented its two-day Jumpseat Forum as part information. advancements are being used to improve of ALPA’s ongoing effort to serve as the Steven Moates, a flight inspector for security by identifying potential threats airline industry lead for all things related the FAA, discussed the terms and intent early. to flight deck access to the jumpseat. Titled of FAR 121.547, which specifies who has Representatives from the FBI’s Civil “Command, Authority, and Leadership,” access to the flight deck. In addition, he Aviation Security Program spoke about the forum featured presentations and noted that FAR 91.3 explains that the the geopolitical environment and how the panel discussions outlining the group’s pilot-in-command is the final authority agency works with other groups to assess mission to ensure regarding the operation of the aircraft. and respond to aviation threats. pilot-in-command authority over “The captain needs to know who is on his William Murray, an intelligence analyst flight deck access and use of the jumpseat, or her aircraft. The captain needs to be a and consultant for the Alphom Group, flight deck jumpseats remain avail- part of the process,” he asserted. presented a historic look at how the rela- able to all individuals authorized to use In another presentation, Capt. Mark

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 27 air line pilot feature article AIR SAFETY FORUM PRIVATE DAYS

evin Psuta, ALPA’s safet and securit / odd Lisa etlue, ALPA’s raining apt. teve angelis Delta, ALPA’s Aviation representative, discusses safet developments ouncil chair, right, acnowledges di erences afet chair, briefs afet ouncil and raining in anada, including the ransportation afet in nonnormal operations procedures at di erent ouncil members on ALPA’s Air afet rgani oard of anada’s updated atchlist for . airlines. ation priorities.

Gaertner (Air Transat), the ASO’s jumpseat (First Air), the President’s Committee for to new airlines may carry unconscious subject-matter expert, led an exchange Remote Operations chair. biases from their old carriers that the about the status of CAN–CASS (Canadian Candace Kolander, ALPA’s occupational hiring airline needs to attempt to identify Cockpit Access Security System). health, safety, and security specialist, gave and address in training regimens. F/O James Berzon (United), the Aviation an update on the Association’s efforts re- Capt. Ken Plunkett (Delta), a member of Jumpseat Group vice chair, moderated a garding fume events. She highlighted the ALPA’s Human Factors & Training Group, panel with ALPA’s Government Affairs need for more data collection and reports provided an update on an ALPA–Volpe sur- representatives to discuss how FAA reau- from pilots and the work that ALPA is vey regarding electronic flight bags. Kevin thorization and other legislative activity doing do facilitate this. Comstock, ALPA’s senior training and could impact jumpseat access. In addition, Kevin Psutka, ALPA’s safety and security qualification specialist, briefed meeting Scott Armstrong, a senior trainer for the representative, updated council members attendees on an FAA Aviation Rulemaking U.S. Federal Air Marshal Service, briefed on activities in Canada. He discussed the Committee examining training issues. At- forum attendees on the Crew Member Transportation Safety Board of Canada’s tendees spent the balance of the meeting Self-Defense Training Program, which to updated Watchlist for 2018 and recom- discussing challenges and successes at date has trained nearly 14,000 individuals. mendations to include fatigue man- their respective training committees. Other Jumpseat Forum presentations agement, undeclared hazardous goods, reviewed protocols and policies, main UAS, and lasers. He also shared draft TRAINING, SAFETY COUNCILS HOLD cabin issues that could affect a jumpseat- regulations for new flight- and duty-time/ JOINT MEETING er, benefits and opportunities created by fatigue rules, as well as proposed UAS After spending a day in separate sessions, allowing air traffic controllers to jump- operating rules and bans on certain lasers the ASO Safety and Training Councils seat, and developments in international near major Canadian airports. The council assembled for a joint meeting moderated flight deck access. concluded with a joint meeting of the ASO by Lisak and Moynihan that examined Safety and Training Councils. issues that overlap the two disciplines. SAFETY COUNCIL SHARES EXPERIENCES The meeting began with a briefing from AND SOLUTIONS TRAINING COUNCIL REVIEWS Jangelis, who acknowledged that airspace Central Air Safety Committee chairs NONNORMAL OPERATIONAL POLICIES access and data are two of aviation safety’s (CASC) from ALPA’s 34 pilot groups con- The ASO’s Training Council, which consists current hot-button topics. He talked about vened a meeting of the ASO’s Safety Coun- of Training Committee chairs from each congressional efforts to reduce crew com- cil during the opening days of the forum. ALPA pilot group, gathered during the Air plement, efforts to revise the ASO policy Capt. Brian Moynihan (Alaska), ALPA’s Safety Forum to discuss how airline pilots manual to include information about the Safety Council chair, led the proceedings. manage nonnormal flight deck operations Aviation Jumpseat Group, and recent work CASCs used the opportunity to discuss and the differences in procedures and pol- on the ASO website. events at their respective properties and icies at different carriers. Nonnormal ops Capt. Bryan Burks (Alaska), his pilot receive input from fellow members on are an important part of pilot training and group’s Training Committee vice chair, led possible best practices. evaluation and include determining which a discussion about upset prevention and The meeting included presentations and flightcrew member flies the aircraft and recovery training and the new flight simu- updates from several ALPA groups, com- which one addresses the irregularity. lation training requirements the FAA has mittees, and officers, including DePete; F/O Todd Lisak (JetBlue), the ASO’s mandated to be in place by March 12, 2019. Capt. Steve Jangelis (Delta), the ASO’s Avi- Training Council chair, moderated the Plunkett talked about the challenges of ation Safety chair; and Capt. Peter Black meeting, noting that pilots transitioning transitioning from paper quick reference

28 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 have developed individualized TRAINING PILOT PEERS peer support programs and Canadian ALPA members have DR H PRA DA of had a peer program since the this year’s Air Safety Forum, 1970s, ensuring access to a several ALPA pilot volunteers network of trained pilot peer who will administer the Air support volunteers for all U.S. Safety Organization’s (ASO) ALPA pilots, regardless of size Pilot Peer Support program or resources, was the driving participated in an initial force behind establishing / llen rins Delta, ALPA’s training course. Born from the the program. Aeromedical roup chair and Pi and outside of the Association published recommendations Pilot Peer Support train- lot Peer upport course director, and discussed ethical practices of the FAA’s 2015 Pilot Fitness ers included F/O John Taylor reviews the ALPA” plan with such as necessary protections Aviation Rulemaking Commit- (United), ALPA’s Pilot Assistance Pilot Peer upport volunteers. for the peer volunteer. tee, Pilot Peer Support comple- Group chair; F/O Ellen Brinks Brinks, who serves as the ments the Association’s existing (Delta), ALPA’s Aeromedical course director, provided Pilot Assistance programs, Group chair; F/O Travis Ludwig for taking part in the training participants with the “ALPA” providing ALPA members with (United), Pilot Assistance Group and noted the importance of plan, regarding how Pilot Peer a network of fellow pilots they vice chair; F/O Steve Savidge this program. Support works can contact for assistance with (Alaska), Aeromedical Group The curriculum consisted of Assess for needs both work- and nonwork-re- vice chair; Capt. Paul Westfield presentations, open discus- and safety, lated issues such as family or (FedEx Express), the ASO’s aero- sions, instructional videos, and Listen nonjudgmentally, financial stressors. medical subject-matter expert; roleplay exercises. Pilots built Provide hope and encour- In its recommendations, Marque Malan, ALPA’s aeromed- their core competencies for agement, and the committee observed, “The ical and human performance peer support by learning about Assess appropriate trusting relationship with a specialist; Suzanne Kalfus, an tools such as active-listening resources. fellow pilot in a peer-supported ALPA senior attorney; and Dr. techniques. They developed an ASO’s Aeromedical Group program may provide the best Quay Snyder, ALPA’s aeromedi- understanding of the effects of will implement the Pilot Peer opportunity to identify and cal advisor. stress, anxiety, depression, and Support program when it’s engage an individual requiring Capt. Joe DePete, ALPA’s first other conditions and what each made available later this assistance.” vice president and national may mean for medical certifi- year. To learn more about the While the Delta, FedEx Ex- safety coordinator, thanked cation. They also learned about training, visit www.alpa.org/ press, and United pilot groups the 30 participating pilots resources available both inside PPScourse.

handbooks, which include procedures for across the country. Capt. Brian Shury urged Transport Canada to issue strong, emergency situations, to electronic hand- (Jazz Aviation), ALPA Canada vice presi- science-based pilot fatigue rules. books. Capt. Dave McKenney (United), dent, joined by ALPA staff, helped lead a Participants also received an exten- ALPA’s Human Factors & Training Group conversation regarding several important sive briefing from NAV CANADA on the director of pilot training, commented on initiatives. progress of several ongoing collaborative improvements to flight path management “Right now, Canada has the opportunity projects such as the expansion of the training procedures and policies to emerge as a world leader in aviation space-based surveillance program and the The joint Safety and Training Councils safety,” said Shury. “As key stakeholders, revamped Runway Incursion Action Team. meeting also featured briefings from each ALPA has been actively working with of the ASO’s Aviation Safety technical government and regulators to implement ACCIDENT ANALYSIS & PREVENTION working group chairs. safety-forward measures that would help WORKSHOP EXAMINES ALPA’S DATA ensure an economically strong Canadian PROTECTION EFFORTS CANADA SAFETY AND SECURITY airline industry, promote aviation safety The Air Safety Forum’s Accident Analysis WORKSHOP and security, and foster quality careers for & Prevention Workshop offered attendees Safety and security representatives from Canadian pilots, now and in the future.” a glimpse of how the union continues to ALPA’s Canadian pilot groups, along with One of the top issues in Canada con- fine-tune its role in accident and incident representatives from the Air Canada Pilots tinues to be the government’s expected investigations while contributing to the de- Association and NAV CANADA, gathered release of proposed flight- and duty-time velopment of effective prevention strategies. for a breakout session at this year’s forum regulations. Through the Safer Skies “We want to know what data is being to discuss numerous issues affecting pilots campaign, pilots across the country have collected off our aircraft, how it’s being

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 29 air line pilot feature article AIR SAFETY FORUM PRIVATE DAYS

apt. e Perin pirit, ALPA’s Accident Anal / ran Leso nited, ALPA’s Aircraft ALPA’s Airport round nvironment roup sis Prevention roup chair, tals about the Design/perations roup chair, far right, leads brainstorms was to recruit and train new collection and use of aviation data. a discussion on electronic fl ight bags. airport safet liaisons.

protected, and where it’s going,” said Capt. testing of new aircraft and aircraft sys- while explaining that the group’s need for Jeff Perin (Spirit), the ASO’s Accident Anal- tems. “We want to make sure airplanes new volunteers prompted the discussion. ysis & Prevention Group chair, talking are safe before our pilots operate them,” The group also reviewed its organi- about the efforts of the Association’s Data explained Lesko. zational structure, talked about current Protection Working Group and the recent Attendees discussed electronic flight issues at various airports, reviewed recent survey it conducted. Capt. Dan Coogan bags, UAS, wake turbulence, ALPA’s recent successes (such as new approach and (Delta), the ASO’s Safety Information visit to Boeing to tour the B-737 MAX and departure signage and installation of Analysis Programs director, expounded on future tours, master minimum equipment EMAS), and heard from representatives Perin’s remarks, providing a look at ALPA lists, and more. Attendees heard about the of the American Association of Airport pilot group participation regarding data work being done by the FAA’s Flight Test Executives about how the two groups can collection programs like ASAP, FOQA, and Harmonization Working Group, the FAA’s best work together. safety management systems (SMS). Low Speed Awareness Aviation Rulemak- “I want to thank all the active ASLs for The half-day workshop featured reports ing Committee, the FAA’s Datacomm the work they do at our airports,” said from F/O Jeff Mee (United), ALPA’s Acci- Working Group, and IFALPA. The group Sedin, “and all those who provided input dent Investigation Board chair, who talked discussed new aircraft technologies, this week on the future of the Airport & about information the NTSB has released including folding wings, advancements Ground Environment Group.” on the Southwest Airlines Flight 1380 acci- in headset development, and the contin- dent, which occurred in April. Capt. Scott ued integration of UAS into the national AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES GROUP FOCUSES Schwartz (FedEx Express), ALPA’s Danger- airspace system. Group members then ON PROJECT UPDATES AND POLICY REVIEW ous Goods Programs director, provided an joined the Air Traffic Services Group for a Capt. Marc Henegar (Alaska), the Air overview of ALPA’s work to ensure the safe combined discussion. Traffic Services Group chair, facilitated air transport of hazardous materials, like “This has been the best and most pro- a discussion in which group members lithium batteries. ductive Air Safety Forum in 10 years,” said provided project updates on FAA safety Workshop attendees also discussed the Lesko, “because of all of you in this room.” risk management panels, RTCA Special International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Committees, runway safety, datacomm im- Associations (IFALPA) current accident AIRPORT & GROUND ENVIRONMENT plementation, performance-based naviga- analysis and prevention priorities, includ- GROUP: ASLS NEEDED tion, and charting/instrument procedure ing its ongoing efforts around the globe to The Airport & Ground Environment Group development. He noted that the group has prevent the criminalization of accidents. spent time at this year’s Air Safety Forum been heavily involved in developing regu- primarily examining the need to recruit lations and promoting the safe integration AIRCRAFT DESIGN/OPERATIONS GROUP more volunteers to the Airport Safely of commercial space operations into the WORKS TO KEEP AIRCRAFT SAFE Liaison (ASL) program and ways to attract, national airspace system without lowering The ASO’s Aircraft Design/Operations train, and then retain interested pilots. the current level of safety. Group, led by F/O Bryan Lesko (United), Capt. Jeff Sedin (United), the Airport & Air Traffic Services Group members the group’s chair, tackled a wide variety Ground Environment Group chair, led a and representatives from the National Air of topics during the Air Safety Forum, re- review of the current ASL training course Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) viewing current priorities and discussing and discussed potential changes to the discussed how to improve communication future plans. training curriculum and communications and understanding between pilots and air The group covers a wide variety of to prospective ASLs. He noted that any traffic controllers. In one example, the Air areas, including the development and change must be approved by ASO leaders, Traffic Services Group addressed several

30 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 Representatives from ALPA’s Air ra c ervices embers of ALPA’s Dangerous oods Program apt. ichael chil Delta, ALPA’s A team roup provide proect updates and review and President’s ommittee for argo view a leader, standing center, reviews the Aviation policies. presentation. afet nformation Analsis and haring Program.

incidents of ambiguous ATC clearances lithium batteries; flight deck access; and Coogan discussed ongoing projects and that led to accidents and terrain warn- Section 744 language in the U.S. House of reviewed recent activities. ings and their work with NATCA to solve Representatives FAA reauthorization bill. In the ongoing effort to prevent acci- the issue. It was noted that ATC facilities The goal, said Hughey, is to highlight dents and incidents, the aviation com- have been experiencing high turnover in vulnerabilities and risks that are either munity applies a proactive approach that staffing and that participation on familiar- unique to cargo or different from passen- integrates analysis of multiple streams of ization rides—which gives controllers the ger travel and find appropriate solutions. data with NTSB findings, including volun- opportunity to experience the pilot work Schwartz provided an update on the tarily submitted data and reports. environment—is still low. Dangerous Goods Program’s efforts Capt. Michael Schilz (Delta), the ASO’s and concerns. He noted that the group FOQA team leader, explained how pilots CHIEF ACCIDENT INVESTIGATOR is working with organizations such as and airlines are sharing this information “REFRESHER COURSE” the United Nations, the International through the Aviation Safety Information Mee and Chris Heck, an ALPA senior staff Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and Analysis and Sharing Program (ASIAS). engineer, conducted a refresher course SAE International and highlighted work Aggregate data is used to better focus re- for ALPA’s chief accident investigators, regarding lithium batteries, personal sources on operational risk areas. Through reviewing several recent investigations, electronic devices, remotely piloted its ability to perform integrated queries the investigative methods used, and the aircraft, and more. He described ALPA’s across multiple program databases, ASIAS lesson learned. Representatives from involvement at ICAO toward a risk-as- offers a better grasp of problem areas. Airbus and Boeing also participated in the sessment requirement of items carried The FAA continues to promote effective course. During a closed-door meeting of in cargo compartments for both all-cargo SMS, and Coogan talked about the agency’s ALPA’s Accident Investigation Board, Mee and passenger aircraft. latest draft advisory circular, AC 120.66C. discussed the status of current and recent- The two groups heard from represen- He discussed some of the challenges mov- ly closed accident and incident investiga- tatives from the FAA, the NTSB, and the ing forward with ASAP and how data from tions in addition to board membership, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety this program is used to support SMS. training, and communication. Administration. Many of the conversa- ALPA’s 65th Air Safety Forum will take tions reflected ALPA’s current emphasis place July 15–18, 2019, at the Washington WORKING TOWARD ONE LEVEL on data sharing and how to best use the Hilton in Washington, D.C. Mark your cal- OF SAFETY information gleaned from that data. endars now and make your plans to attend Members of ALPA’s Dangerous Goods to share what you know in the areas of Program and the President’s Committee PUTTING AVIATION SAFETY DATA safety, security, pilot assistance, and the for Cargo (PCFC) met jointly at the Air TO WORK jumpseat. Safety Forum to discuss their shared Continuing discussions from the Accident priorities and work toward ALPA’s overall Analysis & Prevention Workshop, the goal of one level of safety. Safety Information Analysis Programs MORE AIR SAFETY “The lopsided nature of the cargo acci- (SIAP) meeting looked at the practice of dent rate is our top issue,” explained Capt. safety data collection and analysis, which FORUM COVERAGE Rich Hughey (FedEx Express), the PCFC has significantly contributed to the airline or aitional inormation, photos, chair. The committee is also focused on industry’s remarkable safety record. SIAP an ieo rom this years Air aety flight-time/duty-time issues; the safe air is a component of the Accident Analysis orm, isit safetyforum.alpa.org. transport of hazardous materials, such as & Prevention Group, and both Perin and

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 31 32 C » it’s day ornightwhen we fly, themembers matter ourbearing intheskyorwhether night.’” AndCanollthenpromised, “No sky’ and‘printedontheceiling ofthe “saying thatthey are‘writtenin thepale will beforever remembered,”saidCanoll, their lives onthatterribleday. workers, mothers,andfatherswho lost poem recalledthenamesofcitizens, United States Billy Collins,who inthe air line pilot line air ‘A REMEMBRANCE AND ATRIBUTE’ Air Line Pilot October 2018 “He assuresusthat thevictims’names TO LIVES LOST AND SURVIVORS from former poet laureate of the from formerpoetlaureateofthe fices onSeptember 11by quoting Association’s Herndon, Va., of- Remembrance Gardenatthe dent, openedaceremony inthe apt. Tim Canoll,ALPA’s presi- feature article article feature 9/11 CEREMONY REMEMBRANCE er, place awreath atthe9/11memorial. Helling, ALPA’s vice president–finance/treasur- ministration/secretary, left,andCapt. Randy Capt. BillCouette, ALPA’s vice president–ad- By Kevin Cuddihy, Contributing Writer Contributing Cuddihy, Kevin By Crewmember sengers, cargo,crews, andcommunities.” to advance safetyand securityforourpas- together withothersacrossour industry than 60,000ALPA membershave worked again. Since 9/11,Canoll stated,“Ourmore ensure thatsuchanattacknever happens and discussedALPA’s ongoingwork to victims’ memoriesandultimatesacrifice across theindustry, Canollhonoredthe and staff,aswell ascolleaguesfrom years ago.” colleagues who fellthatSeptember day 17 er forgetthefamily members,friends,and of theAirLinePilots Associationwillnev Those advances includetheKnown Speaking beforeacrowd ofALPA pilots ® andFederal Flight Deck -

Photos: Chris Weaver Opposite page, top left: Capt. Tim Canoll, Ceremony attendees remember and honor all ALPA’s president, front, speaks to the those those who lost their lives during the terrorist gathered for the commemorative ceremony in attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. ALPA’s Remembrance Garden as Ron Rind- fl eisch, a member of ALPA’s Representation Department, looks on. Upper right: Capt. Joe secretary, and Capt. Randy Helling, ALPA’s DePete, ALPA’s fi rst vice president, rings a bell vice president–finance/treasurer. Also following the reading of each crewmember’s in attendance were members of ALPA’s and employee’s name. Lower right: Capt. Bob Executive Board and ALPA Canada, former Fox (United) addresses the crowd, noting, national officers, and representatives from “These ceremonies are today and will always the Association of Flight Attendants–CWA be a remembrance and a tribute to those who and the Association of Professional Flight survived and those who have fl own west.” again how ordinary human beings living Attendants. ordinary lives reacted with extraordinary Jody Krazeise, an ALPA Communica- heroism when, without warning and in tions Department staff member, led the Officer programs, the ongoing efforts an instant, they were thrown face to face group in singing both “Amazing Grace” for hardened cockpit doors on passenger with the most fundamental questions of and “America the Beautiful,” while Ron and cargo airliners, and the installation human existence.” Rindfleisch, a Representation Department of secondary cockpit barriers. Capt. Bob Fox highlighted the bravery of those staff member, spoke to the crowd, urging Fox (United), who was invited to address on United Flight 93; the example of them to let love and respect triumph over the gathering, recalled flying with Capt. “humanity at its finest” in the generosity hatred before sharing a prayer he adapted Victor Saracini and Capt. Jason Dahl, two of Gander, Newfoundland, as the com- for the occasion. United pilots who lost their lives that day, munity hosted 6,700 passengers stranded “The names of our states, our provinc- and pledged to continue the fight in their by the grounding of all flights; the loyalty es, our cultures, and our languages may honor for secondary cockpit barriers and of New York City Fire Department as differ,” said Canoll. “But this day is an op- one level of safety and security for cargo firefighters searched for fallen colleagues; portunity for unity in its elemental form. operations. and the courage of those pilots and flight By coming together, we are acting to truly “These solemn ceremonies on Sep- attendants who took back the skies and make certain the future is safer and more tember 11 will always be more than a returned to flying the line. secure. This is our timeless eulogy for our remembrance of the past, more than a The ceremony included honoring each fallen family, friends, and colleagues.” tribute to lives lost,” explained Fox. “These crewmember from the four flights with ceremonies are today and will always be a bell toll by Capt. Joe DePete, ALPA’s REMEMBERING 9/11 To view a video a remembrance and a tribute to those first vice president, and the laying of a of ALPA’s 9/11 ceremony, go to who survived and those who have flown memorial wreath by Capt. Bill Couette, www.alpa.org/911ceremony. west.” He stated, “We also remember once ALPA’s vice president–administration/ IN MEMORIAM: SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 UNITED FLIGHT 93 UNITED FLIGHT 175 AMERICAN FLIGHT 11 AMERICAN FLIGHT 77 Capt. Jason Dahl Capt. Victor Saracini Capt. John Ogonowski Capt. Charles Burlingame F/O LeRoy Homer, Jr. F/O Michael Horrocks F/O Thomas McGuiness F/O David Charlebois Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Lorraine Bay Robert Fangman Barbara Arestegui Michele Heidenberger Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Amy Jarret Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Sandra Bradshaw Flight Attendant Amy King Jeffrey Collman Jennifer Lewis Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Sara Low Flight Attendant Wanda Green Kathryn Laborie Flight Attendant Karen Martin Kenneth Lewis Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Flight Attendant CeeCee Lyles Alfred Marchand Kathleen Nicosia Renee May Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Flight Attendant Betty Ong Deborah Welsh Michael Tarrou Flight Attendant Jean Roger Flight Attendant Alicia Titus Flight Attendant Customer Service Agent Dianne Snyder Marianne MacFarlane Flight Attendant WE WILL Customer Service Agent Madeline “Amy” Sweeney Jesus Sanchez NEVER FORGET

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 33 air line pilot feature article STRATEGIC PLAN

ENABLING GOALS

stewardship excellence and expetitse content and engagement growth direct member services

ALPA’S STRATEGIC PLAN: TWO YEARS OF SUBSTANTIAL PROGRESS By Lydia Jakub, Strategic Planning and Resources Specialist, Strategic Member Development & Resources Department

LPA is stronger today than ever every action on achieving the Association’s before. This is the result of a ro- collective goals and objectives. To prepare bust strategic plan, established for these discussions, BOD members by the Board of Directors (BOD) reviewed the current strategic plan as well and implemented by hundreds as the progress that’s been made over the of ALPA pilot leaders, sub- last two years. Aject-matter experts, and professional staff. In 2016, the BOD restructured the stra- The BOD will convene this month in tegic plan to include goals, objectives, and Washington, D.C., for its biennial meeting. initiatives in eight areas: pilot representa- One of the agenda items will be to craft tion; the future of the profession; safety, the Association’s next two-year strategic security, and pilot assistance; stewardship; plan. This plan will continue to be an in- excellence and expertise; content and valuable guide for ALPA’s leaders, focusing engagement; growth; and direct member

34 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 STRATEGIC GOALS

Safety, Security, Pilot Assistance, and Jumpseat

Pilot Representation

Future of the Profession

services. Each topic was assigned to a also bargained meaningful midterm im- rocked briefly this year by a last-minute corresponding delegate committee at the provements to their agreements. addition to the FAA reauthorization bill in BOD meeting. At any given time, approximately a the U.S. House of Representatives, which Since then, ALPA’s Strategic Planning third of ALPA’s pilot groups are involved in would potentially eliminate pilot jobs Committee has provided the BOD with a some form of contract negotiations. Stra- from the flight deck. ALPA’s immediate comprehensive progress report each spring tegic planning has become an essential and powerful response to this threat has and fall. The final update on the 2016 stra- tool for master executive councils (MECs) left the Association stronger for what tegic plan was delivered last month, and during their normal course of business. is certain to be a long war. The bill also the results are astounding. ALPA has made In addition, annual negotiations and included ALPA-supported H.R. 2150, the significant progress in each of the eight grievance training seminars were held to Flags of Convenience Don’t Fly Here Act, key areas—not only enhancing the current provide pilots with the knowledge, skills, which would restore the integrity of environment but also making steady ad- and expertise for bargaining and griev- U.S. Open Skies agreements and prevent vancements toward future success. ance processing. flag-of-convenience business models from Let’s look at a few of ALPA’s accomplish- Pilot collaboration is key to continued proliferating in the U.S. airline industry, ments over the past two years. To view progress at the bargaining table. As such, among other ALPA priorities (see page 8). the full report, log on to www.alpa.org/ ALPA held bargaining roundtables for ALPA’s Legal Department strongly opposed strategicplan. large-jet pilot groups and meetings for the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) fee-for-departure pilot groups. ALPA’s approval of Norwegian Air International’s Fee-for-Departure Committee also held a application for a U.S. foreign air carrier Pilot total of 10 application and interview work- permit, filing a petition for review of the shops, preparing 150 pilots for career-ad- DOT’s order with the D.C. Court of Appeals, Representation vancement opportunities. which the court denied in May 2018. A pilot’s collective bargaining agreement Legislative summits were held annually sets standards and establishes a process to to educate members about the Associa- ensure that the terms are enforced. Dele- Future of tion’s political agenda and give them the gate Committee 5 at the 2016 BOD meeting tools to speak about how these issues addressed pilot representation issues to the Profession affect their careers. Pilots also visited Capi- advance ALPA members’ careers. ALPA made great strides in its work to tol Hill to put their newfound skills to use Key results: ALPA successfully conclud- secure the future of the profession per the in meetings with Members of Congress. In ed major negotiations with significant 2016 BOD’s direction, which was discussed 2017, ALPA’s Political Action Committee improvements in pay, benefits, working in Delegate Committee 7. (ALPA-PAC) raised $2.23 million and sup- conditions, and job security at eight pilot Key results: While the profession ported 363 pilot-partisan candidates and groups. Several other pilot groups have continues to get stronger, its future was committees across the country. ALPA-PAC

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 35 air line pilot feature article STRATEGIC PLAN

is currently on track to meet its 2018 goal dangerous goods/unsafe lithium battery for all-cargo—In the U.S., ALPA continues of $2.4 million. transport—Ongoing efforts include to advocate for flight- and duty-time In addition to ALPA’s government ALPA’s recent partnership with the rules for all-cargo operations that are affairs work in this area, the Education Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety equivalent to those of passenger-carrying Committee has been successful in its Administration to develop an outreach airlines. In Canada, ALPA has been exten- expanded efforts to inspire, educate, and program (checkthebox.dot.gov) to educate sively involved in the development of the mentor the next generation of pilots. The both commercial and public shippers revised rules since 2010, teaming with oth- Association is connecting young peo- on the dangers of undeclared hazardous er pilot unions in 2017 to provide a unified ple with the airline piloting profession materials shipments. position on the proposed rule as well as through classroom visits, community and One level of safety and security for educate politicians and the public on the industry events, and formal alliances with passenger and all-cargo operations—ALPA urgent need to implement science-based university flight programs. Over the last successfully lobbied for the formation of fatigue rules. As of the conclusion of the two years, memorandums of understand- a cargo work group under the Joint Imple- parliamentary session in June 2018, final ing were signed with two universities, mentation Monitoring and Data Analysis new fatigue-management regulations marking ALPA’s 11th formalized profes- Team, which ALPA co-leads, to identify the have still not been published. sional development/mentoring program differences in risk between passenger and Pilot Assistance—Recently, ALPA cre- at the collegiate level. During the 2017–18 cargo operations. ated the Pilot Peer Support (PPS) program academic year, ALPA’s Education Commit- Safe integration of unmanned air- to help U.S. ALPA members dealing with tee volunteers spoke with approximately craft systems into the national airspace nonwork-related issues of a personal or 1,800 collegiate aviators at 24 universities. system—ALPA continues its participation emotional nature. Administered by the ALPA pilots also reached more than 15,500 in industry and government groups, Association’s Aeromedical Group, the elementary, middle, and high school stu- including two Aviation Rulemaking inaugural training for PPS volunteers was dents at more than 140 events in the U.S. Committees, to ensure the safe integration held during ALPA’s 64th Air Safety Forum and Canada. of unmanned aircraft systems into the in August and is slated to go active during national airspace system. the fourth quarter of 2018. Safety reporting programs—ASO Jumpseat—In creating the Aviation Safety, Security, representatives and ALPA staff supported Jumpseat pillar, ALPA is maintaining a multiple MECs in their efforts to implement focus on promoting pilot-in-command au- Pilot Assistance, and sustain viable Aviation Safety Action thority over the jumpseat. The new group and Jumpseat Programs (ASAP) and Flight Operations created a training video for new hires and Quality Assurance programs. An ASAP is working with Canadian airlines to con- Championing aviation safety, security, workshop will be held in October in Minne- duct a feasibility study on a cockpit access pilot assistance, and jumpseat remains at apolis, Minn. In addition, ALPA has stressed security system. the core of ALPA’s priorities. In 2016, Del- the importance of these programs for egate Committee 3’s discussions centered increasing aviation safety to Members of on attaining the safest and most secure Congress. The resultant U.S. House of Repre- air transportation system for passen- sentatives FAA reauthorization bill directs gers, pilots, and cargo and achieving and the FAA to modify ASAP so that all reports Stewardship maintaining the safest and most secure are automatically accepted. This provision ALPA’s resources, while unrivaled, are operating environment. The following is pending as an amendment to the Senate not unlimited. In 2016, BOD Delegate year, in October 2017, a fourth pillar—Avi- version of the bill as well (see page 5). Committee 1 looked at ways to allocate re- ation Jumpseat—was added to the safety, Known Crewmember® program—The sources effectively, operate with increased security, and pilot assistance structure of program, which ALPA cosponsors, has transparency, and employ appropriate ALPA’s Air Safety Organization (ASO). grown to 90 airports, likely saving flight risk-management practices to ensure the Additional key results: crews more than one million hours of to- highest level of stewardship over Associa- Pilot training and qualification tal “passenger screening” time each year. tion resources. standards—ALPA’s advocacy over more In Canada, ALPA continues to advocate Key results: The Association’s finan- than two years has blocked any rollbacks for a similar program to provide relief cial position is sound and continues to or changes to rules related to first officer for screening facilities that are near or at improve as dues revenue has exceeded qualification, training, and experience capacity. spending. In fact, the 2018 BOD will requirements. Working toward science-based flight- consider the possibility of a dues reduc- Safeguarding against undeclared and duty-time regulations in Canada and tion per the recommendation of ALPA’s

36 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 Executive Board (see page 24). The Association also successfully com- pleted the ALPA Membership & Business “THE ASSOCIATION’S FINANCIAL POSITION IS Enterprise Resource Project to streamline its operational systems. Among the many SOUND AND CONTINUES TO IMPROVE AS DUES enhancements, this program provided for REVENUE HAS EXCEEDED SPENDING. IN FACT, improved transparency and reporting on ALPA’s resources, an online membership THE 2018 BOD WILL CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITY application, and a portal for member insurance. OF A DUES REDUCTION PER THE RECOMMENDATION Furthermore, the Association contin- ues to augment the Major Contingency OF ALPA’S EXECUTIVE BOARD.” Fund and Kitty Hawk to protect itself and its members against future threats. The vigorous defense of ALPA in duty of fair representation and other significant law- signed to provide continuity as longtime on behalf of the piloting profession and suits has resulted in no new cases being staff moves toward retirement and to helped advance its key advocacy, represen- filed and the dismissal or settlements of add more resources in areas like technol- tation, and safety goals. many others. ogy services where there’s tremendous Additional strategic communica- demand. An all-employee meeting with tion tactics were employed to support training and development opportunities collective bargaining, legislative, and Excellence focused on enhancing the employee expe- other efforts in the U.S. and Canada. Each and Expertise rience at ALPA was held in February 2018; included a tailored social media plan to feedback from that meeting is being used amplify messages. The high-profile paid ALPA has the highest caliber of pilot to drive and prioritize the Association’s and earned media campaigns at Frontier, volunteers and staff working to protect engagement strategy. Hawaiian, JetBlue, Spirit, and WestJet are and advance the profession. Recognizing just a few recent examples. the need to ensure that the Association’s Innovative, responsive websites such human resources remain unmatched, the Content as ALPA’s Cleared to Dream site (cleared- 2016 BOD Delegate Committee 2 priori- and Engagement todream.org), which launched in 2017, tized developing and maintaining their contain enhanced information for a more expertise. Initiatives focused on recruiting Engaging members is key to successfully robust viewing experience. Microsites on and retaining highly skilled pilot volun- achieving the union’s desired goals and issues ranging from pilot supply to the teers and staff, training to enhance their objectives; it requires two-way commit- status of MEC negotiations also provide skills, and providing them with effective ment and communication between the platforms from which to leverage public tools to support their efforts. leaders and its members as well as a relations campaigns and connect with the Key results: The Strategic Preparedness mechanism for measuring effectiveness traveling public. To date, ALPA supports and Strike Committee (SPSC) exemplifies and acting upon member feedback. The more than 150 national, MEC, local these efforts, working one-on-one with 2016 BOD Delegate Committee 4 focused council, committee, and other websites. MECs to mentor and train SPSC volun- on these and other methods for engaging A website audit was conducted to assess teers and assist them in achieving their members and stakeholders. the development and implementation bargaining, contract enforcement, and Key results: Through a multipronged process, and steps are being taken to other goals. It also hosted its biennial communications strategy on issues streamline the operations and deliver the workshop in November 2017 for MEC spanning the breadth of the Association, highest-quality digital presence possible. SPSC, Pilot-to-Pilot®, Family Awareness, ALPA expanded its outreach to members and Communications volunteers to and stakeholders. Emphasis was placed on share ideas and sharpen their skills in incorporating new technologies into more their areas of expertise. Due to workshop traditional methods, soliciting feedback, Growth feedback, a new volunteer database was and making adjustments as needed. There’s immeasurable strength and created to help facilitate collaboration ALPA’s “Trained for Life” branding cam- power in numbers. In 2016, BOD Delegate among ALPA’s pilot groups. paign, for example, succeeded in increas- Committee 6 set out a path to preserve In addition, a staffing plan was de- ing public awareness of ALPA’s efforts and grow ALPA’s membership through

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 37 air line pilot feature article STRATEGIC PLAN

focusing on internal organizing and strategically assessing external organiz- ing drives. Since then, the Association’s “ALPA REMAINS OUT IN FRONT OF ITS MEMBERS Organizing Task Force has met quarterly to carry out that direction and prioritize THROUGH A COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAM THAT potential organizing opportunities. Key results: Over the past two years, INCLUDES INTERNAL TRAINING FORUMS, INDUSTRY ALPA has welcomed four new pilot groups EVENTS, COMMUNICATIONS, AND OTHER and more than 2,500 new members. This in- cludes more than 230 pilots from Air Geor- METHODS TO DEVELOP AND DELIVER EFFECTIVE gian in January 2017, over 1,400 pilots from WestJet in May 2017, approximately 500 DIRECT MEMBER SERVICES. ” pilots from WestJet Encore in November 2017, and nearly 400 flightdeck crewmem- bers from Kalitta Air in February 2018. In addition to the recent successful program that includes internal training were debuted at the seminar. drives, ALPA is making progress with forums, industry events, communications, The Furloughed Pilots Support Network other potential growth opportunities. and other methods to develop and deliver (FPSN) developed checklists for MECs and Most notably, ALPA is currently in formal effective direct member services. affected members to use in the event of a merger discussions with the Air Canada ALPA’s Membership and Education furlough or shutdown. These documents Pilots Association, and the Association be- Committees continue to promote the were provided, along with the support of gan collecting cards at Air Canada Express profession and engage with members at the FPSN, to the pilots at Island Air and carrier Sky Regional in May 2018. events such as the International Women Kelowna Flightcraft. in Aviation Conference, Organization of In 2018, the Association held its Black Aerospace Professionals Conven- first-ever Veterans Affairs Seminar and Direct tion and Career Exposition, National Gay published the Guide to the Uniformed Member Services Pilots Association Industry Expo, and EAA Services Employment and Reemployment AirVenture. In addition, a newly created Rights Act—a useful resource for members Membership has its privileges. To ensure Women’s Working Group is tasked with who currently serve or have served in the the most effective member services, the considering certain aspects facing female military. 2016 BOD Delegate Committee 8 focused pilots in the airline industry. At ALPA’s Leadership Training Confer- on delivering individual pilot services, In September 2017, ALPA’s Membership ences, local council representatives and providing products that enhance member Seminar brought together MEC Mem- officers were provided with the resources well-being, equipping pilot leaders with bership Committee volunteers to discuss and support they need to carry out their the tools and skills to represent their administrative details and resources jobs effectively. A series of computer-based pilots, and strengthening the connection available to all members. An updated training modules were also produced to between ALPA and its membership. new-hire presentation adaptable by U.S. assist pilot leaders who missed the confer- Key results: ALPA remains out in front and Canadian pilot groups and a welcome ence, were elected out of cycle, or needed of its members through a comprehensive video message from ALPA’s president a refresher in specific areas.

GET TO KNOW ALPA’S STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE

The Strategic Planning Com- (Atlantic Southeast). tives from master executive coordinating the develop- mittee is composed of five The committee is tasked with councils, ALPA committee ment of tools and tactics to members―Capt. Tim Canoll, identifying major issues, chairs, subject-matter experts, achieve the Board of Directors’ ALPA’s president, who serves trends, risks, and opportunities and staff; strategic plan goals; and as its chair, and Capts. Ron that span the breadth of the making recommendations providing semiannual prog- Abel (United), Tony Hauserman Association; to ALPA’s governing bodies ress reports, which are also (FedEx Express), Chris Hazleton soliciting input on the regarding the Association’s available online to all ALPA (Delta), and Dave Nieuwenhuis proposed goals and objec- strategic plan goals; members.

38 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 air line pilot feature article ATYPICAL EMPLOYMENT MODELS

AIRLINE PILOTS Companies also use them to avoid tax, labor, and safety laws and regulations to compete unfairly in the international SHOW THEIR HAND marketplace. RYANAIR “People ask how we can have such low UNIONISM BEST PROTECTION fares. I tell them our pilots work for noth- ing,” said O’Leary in a September 2016 story in The Telegraph. At Ryanair, an Irish AGAINST COMPANIES’ ATYPICAL low-cost carrier, pilots were originally hired under individual contracts with the EMPLOYMENT MODELS company, but over time increasing num- bers were hired by employment agencies By Capt. Don Wykoff (Delta), Chair, ALPA International Affairs Committee that then “rented’ them to the airline. In some instances, Ryanair pilots have been required to set up and become “directors” of stand-alone companies that e’d rather cut off his own are the same: an unstable work environ- sign service provision contracts with the “ hands than sign a deal with ment without sick leave or work rules and airline. This “self-employment” model dra- a union,” has said Michael a job that may disappear rather than a matically undermines the pilots’ ability O’Leary, Ryanair CEO, career pilots can count on. to organize and negotiate fair terms and according to The Irish Times. “These atypical employment models conditions of employment and appears to Nevertheless, Ryanair has are simply a method to shift risk from be tantamount to the deliberate circum- recentlyH negotiated a collective bargaining the employer to the employee,” explains vention of the rules designed to protect agreement with its pilots. Capt. Ron Abel (United), president of employees. “The Ryanair pilots’ dauntless efforts the International Federation of Air Line Capt. Otjan de Bruijn, vice president to unionize forced their company’s Pilots’ Associations. The pilots’ expecta- of the European Cockpit Association, about-face from an atypical employment tions in terms of improving pay, working stated in the magazine Trouw in February model designed to exploit workers,” said conditions, and career progression are 2017, “The employment relationship is so Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA’s president. “But diminished or nonexistent, along with complex in order to prevent pilots from Ryanair’s bid won’t be the last atypical em- the pilots’ ability to come forward with being seen as employees. Ryanair does this ployment model to surface in the interna- aviation safety issues without fear of to keep labor costs as low as possible. By tional airline industry—and North Ameri- retribution. pretending that their pilots are entre- can pilots should be watching closely.” For airline managements, the atypi- preneurs, they do not have to pay them For decades, ALPA members have built cal employment models allow them to sick pay. They also do not pay any other collective agreements and advanced our leverage a murky international labor law employer’s expenses, such as pension members’ careers by bargaining directly environment to exploit their workers. premiums. And it allows Ryanair to pay as with employers based on established na- tional labor law. Now with globalization, some transnational and international air- lines are attempting to work around this “FOR AIRLINE MANAGEMENTS, THE ATYPICAL once-clear calculus for protecting workers by using so-called “atypical employment EMPLOYMENT MODELS ALLOW THEM TO LEVERAGE models.” The result not only harms individual pilots, but also jeopardizes A MURKY INTERNATIONAL LABOR LAW ENVIRON- fair competition for all North American airline workers. MENT TO EXPLOIT THEIR WORKERS. COMPANIES For individual pilots, atypical em- ALSO USE THEM TO AVOID TAX, LABOR, AND SAFETY ployment models can come in different forms such as working under individual LAWS AND REGULATIONS TO COMPETE UNFAIRLY IN temporary contracts with an airline or an employment agency, or under a self-em- THE INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE.” ployment construct. However, the effects

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 39 air line pilot feature article ATYPICAL EMPLOYMENT MODELS

little tax as possible.” three key ways by establishing procedures safety-culture reporting environment that Atypical employment models in trans- for interacting with the employer, fellow ensures the highest standards of safety.” national airlines like Ryanair leave airline pilots, and even themselves. Not only employees particularly vulnerable. With does a collectively bargained agreement PILOTS DEMONSTRATE UNITY more than 85 bases, Ryanair pilots are do- allow pilots to bargain wages, work rules, When IALPA pilots went on strike earlier miciled, based, and work in multiple coun- benefits, and career progression, it affords this year, 100 percent of the union pilots tries under different laws and regulations. protections in the form of process and participated. The experience of the This lack of a single legal framework for legal representation. Ryanair pilots and ALPA’s more than 85 workers, such as the one that exists in the A collective agreement allows pilots to years of history demonstrate the tremen- United States and Canada, allows transna- challenge legally a proposed practice by dous value of unionism and the integral tional companies to attempt to “divide and management that may not be safe or that role that collective action plays in the conquer” pilots when negotiating. While may violate a contract or law. As a result, a world’s airline pilots’ abilities to achieve management may bargain separately with collectively bargained agreement not only fair wages, working conditions, and bene- each country’s pilot groups or with pilots protects an individual pilot, but also acts fits while advancing safety, security, pilot individually, its goal is often to reach the as a deterrent for the future. assistance, and jumpseating. lowest common denominator for pay and In addition, a union contract gives working conditions. structure to a pilot’s relationship with his ALPA MAKES OPPOSITION CLEAR On Sept. 5, 2018, the Irish Airline Pilots’ or her fellow pilots, governing everything In October 2017, ALPA’s Executive Board Association (IALPA) announced that its from bidding schedules to maintaining voted unanimously to provide financial, Ryanair pilot members had unanimously seniority lists, and it helps pilots focus logistical, and staff support for the recent voted to accept the collective agreement on the big picture and best practices in unionization efforts by pilots at Europe’s reached with management on August 23. stressful situations. Ryanair, stating that, “We remain stead- The agreement includes provisions on fast in our opposition to airline operations leave, promotion, and base transfers. SAFETY A CONCERN that avoid the direct employment of pilots In the agreement, IALPA reported that In 2015, research from the University by utilizing brokers that act as employers the company and the pilots agreed how of Ghent showed that one in five airline or requiring pilots to create their own seniority is to be determined and to allow pilots in Europe no longer has a direct em- companies that then rent themselves out every pilot to see their position on the se- ployment contract with an airline. “The to the airline. If these atypical employ- niority list in relation to every other pilot. Ghent study and our conversations with ment models are allowed to proliferate, The agreement also allows pilots to bid for pilots reveal that the high workload, long they will ultimately erode high labor vacancies for promotion, base transfer, days, the financial uncertainty, and lack of standards.” and leave. IALPA’s statement noted the oversight and accountability of employers importance of the pilots having a choice [created] by setting up complicated bogus FIRST BUT NOT THE LAST and that pilots can now exercise control self-employment structures lead to unsafe Ryanair will not be the last foreign airline over their careers rather than their man- situations. Pilots no longer dare to call in to attempt to do business with an atypical agement exercising sole control. sick, out of fear of losing their jobs, and employment model. Other airlines may “While our members fully respect Ry- they fly when they are actually too tired do the same and seek to serve the North anair’s operational model, they no longer to do so,” states a September 2016 report American market, which will put U.S. and accept the company’s highly problematic titled “Shut up or you’re fired,” published Canadian pilots and our companies at risk employment model,” said Capt. Joe May, a in De Groene Amsterdammer, an indepen- from unfair competition and lower labor spokesperson for IALPA, in a September 5 dent Dutch newspaper. standards. news release. “After decades of declining “Safety regulators must look at an If the pilots involved are based in the terms and conditions, pilots in Ryanair airline’s employment model when they United States or Canada and fall under have now firmly found a unified voice.” consider whether it’s a safe operation,” these countries’ labor laws, securing the said Abel. “While systems are in place to benefits of union representation will be BENEFITS OF CONTRACT PROTECTIONS assess the technical safety of an airline, an essential counter to their companies’ BUILT ON HISTORY they don’t consider pressure that’s put on attempts at exploitation. Unionism will In North America, from the earliest days the employees that can undermine the always give airline pilots an upper hand. of legal protections for collective bargain- ing rights through the addition of airlines to the Railway Labor Act in 1936 in the United States and the Wartime Labour “SAFETY REGULATORS MUST LOOK AT AN AIRLINE’S Relations Regulations of 1944 in Canada, a collective agreement or contract provid- EMPLOYMENT MODEL WHEN THEY CONSIDER ed a model for protecting workers and advancing their careers. WHETHER IT’S A SAFE OPERATION.” Today, labor contracts affect pilots in

40 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 Professional Training » Proven Graduate Success

Airline Career Pilot Program Airline Career Pilot Program Locations ATP is your fast track airline career solution – proven by thousands of graduates now fl ying for regional and major airlines. ê Certifi cation through Commercial and CFI (Multi, SIngle, Instrument) ê Fast track, fi xed cost, airline-oriented training from day one ê Reach airline minimums in about 2 years with guaranteed CFI job

Start with Credit for Private Pilot ATP CTP ê Dallas, TX $ Month Housing 58,995 6 FAST TRACK Option Available ê Classes start every Wednesday & Friday Start From Private Pilot ê Add $200 for ATM Knowledge Prep & Test $ Month Housing $ 75,995 9 FAST TRACK Option Available 4,895 / 7 Days  $11,000 Airline Tuition Reimbursement + Full Financing Available Airline Discounts Available  GI Bill Accepted

Call or text (872) 215-2877 ATPFlightSchool.com All prices offered through October 31, 2018. Check ATPFlightSchool.com for details and eligibility requirements.

2018-10-atp-alpa-fp-map.indd 1 8/27/18 8:00 AM ADVANCING ALPA THE PROFESSION… @work PILOTS & STAFF

to the pilots in the cockpit. Not ALPA Pilots only did he meet them, he rode the jumpseat on the flight from Nigeria to Heathrow Airport. Help Others After that flight, Tabet would regularly go to the airport in Jamaica to watch airplanes take Find Their off and land. “At this stage in my career, I see the benefits of Path at OBAP networking at OBAP and being involved with ALPA,” acknowl- s part of ALPA’s mission edged Tabet. “I didn’t have a to secure the future of the role model or mentor to help Aairline piloting profes- me find my way. If I had known sion, pilot volunteers recently about or had the opportunity to attended the Organization of join OBAP when I was young- Black Aerospace Professionals er, I may have gotten started (OBAP) 42nd Convention and on my aviation career earlier. Career Exposition in Houston, I want to help others find Tex. Representing the Asso- their path.” ciation during the conven- ture aviation professionals. Capt. J.G. “Paco” Sulmers F/O Curtis Jackson’s (PSA) tion’s career exposition, the Although Capt. J.G. “Paco” (United, Ret.) and Ashley mother was an Eastern Airlines volunteers and ALPA staff had Sulmers (United, Ret.) left his Young at the recent Organi- flight attendant; and despite his the opportunity to connect airline more than 12 years zation of Black Aerospace everyday exposure to aviation, with current and former ALPA ago, he continues to inspire Professionals Convention and he can pinpoint the one event members, other aviation pro- future generations of aviators. Career Exposition. that led him down the path to fessionals, and future aviators A member of OBAP for more becoming an airline pilot. At alike. than 30 years, he’s mentored expects to become a flight four years of age, Jackson was OBAP and its members focus countless pilots. Sulmers’ most instructor by January 2019 and on a flight with his mother. Be- on promoting diversity within recent success story began then plans to obtain her air fore the flight took off, he met the aviation and aerospace in- with a simple conversation. transport pilot certificate and the crew and was allowed to flip dustries and paying it forward. On a flight in September 2017, type ratings. a switch in the cockpit. That ac- In addition to ALPA’s pres- he crossed paths with Ashley Attending her first OBAP tion also flipped a switch with- ence, the convention featured Young, a Delta flight attendant convention, she said, “The in him. By the time Jackson was various airlines, branches of the who asked him questions about conference is inspiring and 15, he was involved with OBAP, military, and aviation-related flying. Always eager to share has opened avenues to a whole attending and volunteering at vendors with presentations fo- his love of flying, he invited her other side of aviation that I OBAP’s ACE academies while in cused on career advancement. and another flight attendant to thought was out of reach.” high school and later in college. The connections made experience flight firsthand in Grateful for the support she’s Even then he recognized the through OBAP are often the right seat of a small aircraft. receiving, Young’s already benefit of networking. “My life-changing. Most conversa- Young’s passion for travel paying it forward by guid- mentor felt that I would be a tions at OBAP conventions be- led her to pursue a career in avi- ing another flight attendant good candidate for the Edward gin with “How can I help?” and ation, working in baggage ser- through the process so that she Horne scholarship,” Jackson end with “Keep in touch and vice, as a ticketing agent, and as can achieve her dreams. said. “With his encouragement, call me if you need anything.” a flight attendant, Young’s chat An OBAP member since I applied and was awarded the At this year’s convention, ALPA with Sulmers was the defining 2013, Capt. John Tabet (Spirit) scholarship, which paid for my members who are also mem- moment when she knew she recalled a unique flight experi- instrument rating. His recog- bers of OBAP had the opportu- wanted to become an airline pi- ence at age four that influenced nition of my dedication helped nity to share their stories and lot. Within nine months of her his career ambitions. In the me get to where I am today.” experiences and help inspire flight with Sulmers, she earned 1970s he was on a British Air- and motivate current and fu- her private pilot license. Young ways flight and was introduced —ALPA Staff

PAY IT FORWARD If you’re interested in inspiring and mentoring the next generation of airline pilots, contact ALPA’s Education Committee at [email protected] or go to clearedtodream.org for more information.

42 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 Photos courtesy of F/O Willie Morales (Spirit) W es fromwell-wishers, asking received thousandsofmessag- viral and,inshortorder,he the impromptuconcertwent Dream”). Cell-phonefootageof Borincano” (“A PuertoRican’s Johnny Vegas’s “Sueño deun pit, Morales sangaversion of departed. for themaincabinbeforethey suggested Morales perform company e-mailtoemployees, performing viaalinkin seen avideoofthesinger His captain,who hadrecently ment” formorethan10years. pilot tothe“IslandofEnchant- hadn’t flown asanairline originally fromPuertoRico, Morales, whose parentsare derdale, Fla.,toSanJuan, P.R. flying atripfromFort Lau- acclaim thissummerwhen Gravedad (DefyingGravity). first-ever album,Desafiandola this pastJune producedhis as aprofessionalsingerand been moonlightingforyears Tex.-based A320pilothas an FMradio.TheDallas, him singingsalsamusicon you’re justaslikely tohear air trafficcontrolairwaves, casting flightpositionover taff Writer Senior Perkinson, John By For Salsa Passion His Shares Pilot Spirit www.alpa.org/ourstories Stories Our Standing outsidethecock- He received someadded on any given day broad- Willie Morales (Spirit) hile you may hearF/O watch?v=Xt_GiDVBPUE. Footage of hisJuneSpiritAirlinesperformance canbeviewed athttps://dailym.ai/2xDbOiE. SALSA, PLEASEWatch andhearF/O WillieMorales (Spirit)record thelively “SiSeAcabo ElAmor” atwww.youtube.com/ a pair of those plastic wings. a pairofthoseplasticwings. in theleftseatandgave me “The captaininvited metosit he was boardingthe airplane. rales peeredintothecockpitas er. Ononeparticulartrip,Mo- routinely traveled onthecarri- he said,notingthathisfamily favorite airlinewas Eastern,” passions—flying andsinging. would become histwo great exposing Morales towhat had anunintendedoutcome, However, thetwo settings master EnglishandSpanish. tions would helpthembetter their childreninbothloca- parents believed thatraising was born,andAñasco,P.R. His between Chicago,Ill.,where he bouncing backandforth became anairlinepilot. about hismusictohow he questions rangingfromdetails “In thosedays, my dad’s Morales spenthisyouth sometimes singbackuporplay go tohispracticesandwould in theChicagoarea.“Iusedto Rudy, sangforseveral groups in hisfamily, andhisbrother, rales’s only love. Music runs at Spirit. Security beforegettinghired U.S. DepartmentofHomeland as aflightinstructorforthe carrier. Morales laterworked first airlineflying jobwiththe tal inhelpingMorales landhis San Juan andwas instrumen- American Eagleoperationsin good friendswiththeheadof school where heworked was The directoroftheflight became aflightinstructor. for flying lessonsandlater jobs hecouldfindtohelppay the love ofmy life,”hesaid. point onIknew aviation was I was fascinated.From that However, flying wasn’t Mo- Morales pursuedwhatever television show UnNuevoDía. of theTelemundo (Miami,Fla.) performs withabandontheset ( the albumDesafiando laGravedad sion station.Right:Thecover of independent PuertoRicantelevi- after aninterview withWAPA, an Left: F/O WillieMorales (Spirit) expected toattend. where tensofthousands are Midtown Park on October27, can Fest 2018,”atHouston’s Rican, Cuban,andDomini- talks toperformat“Puerto goes topress,Morales isin more togive.” “I love what I doandhave alot Houston, Tex., area,heshared, of morethan36years inthe careers. Living withhiswife tocontinuingboth forward all therecentattention,looks also bepurchasedonline. and Amazon,theCDcan platforms like iTunes, CDBaby, songs areavailable onvirtual Venezuela, andPeru. The12 from New York, PuertoRico, Tampa, Fla.,withmusicians he recordedinNew York and Desafiando laGravedad, which on theCaribbeanisland. also attendedamusicschool with differentlocalgroups.He numerous musiciansandsang lates tomusic.Morales met Latin dishesandhow ittrans- spiciness commoninmany means “sauce”—hintingatthe and North American jazz, salsa with Afro-Cubanpercussion Spanish canciónandguitar Latin musicalgenresthatfuse ly popular.Acombinationof where salsamusicisextreme- moved backtoPuertoRico father retired,thefamily school’s chorus. adding thathealsosanginhis percussion,” Morales recalled, Defying Gravity). Below: Morales As thisissueofAirLinePilot Morales, who isflatteredby Last June, Morales released In 1976when Morales’s Air Line Pilot October 2018 Air Line

» 43 ‘ CHECK THE BOX’ ‘Check the Box’ to Avoid Improperly Shipping D angerous Goods Shippers and their customers must declare that a package contains hazardous materials if any of these following items are included: Explosives, including fireworks, pyrotechnics, flares, guns, and ammunition Gases, including fire extinguish- ers, lighters, compressed air, and hairspray Flammable liquids, including paint, gasoline, kerosene, nail polish, and perfume Flammable solids, including PHMSA LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO HELP CURB matches Oxidizing substances and SHIPMENT OF UNDECLARED HAZARDOUS MATERIALS organic peroxides, including fertilizer compounds and am- monium nitrate fertilizers t this year’s Air Safety Forum, ALPA’s package includes hazardous material. Toxic and infectious substances, efforts to curtail the air transport “ALPA is grateful for the opportunity to including medical waste and of undeclared hazardous materials partner on this important issue. PHMSA’s chloroform received a major boost. Howard “Skip” leadership and commitment to collabora- Radioactive materials, including A Elliott, the administrator of the Pipe- tion will help enhance aviation safety for enhanced uranium line and Hazardous Materials Safety Adminis- passenger and cargo operations across the Corrosives, including batteries, tration (PHMSA), unveiled a new public educa- entire industry,” said Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA’s battery fluid, and paint tion campaign geared toward alerting industry president. and the public about the dangers involved with Department of Transportation statistics Miscellaneous dangerous sub- stances and articles, including inappropriately shipping lithium batteries and have shown that, each year, hundreds of dry ice, lithium batteries, and other hazardous materials (see page 7). hazmat incidents result from the shipment of magnets The new safety awareness initiative “Check undeclared hazardous materials. Shortly after the Box” (checkthebox.dot.gov) aims to educate Administrator Elliott took office, ALPA began the industry and the public about potential working with the federal agency to address shipping dangers, noting that “Certain items the risks posed by the air transport of that are essential to our daily lives—such as undeclared hazardous materials. This batteries and common household items—may new initiative is designed to advance edu- seem harmless, but they can be toxic, corro- cation about the existing laws, as well as the sive, and even explosive if handled inappro- importance of proper labeling and packaging. priately. That’s why it’s important to always ALPA expects to see positive results from this Check the Box and make sure your package is and the Association’s other ongoing efforts to safe to send.” The website includes checklists, eliminate the risk of these potentially danger- FAQs, and resources to help determine if a ous shipments.

44 » Air Line Pilot October 2018 Watch Headset Video

Visit Us At NBAA, Booth #3611 Enter to WIN a DC PRO-X

The lightest, full-featured ANR headset in its class

for commercial pilots. HYBRID

The DC PRO-X ultra-lightweight headset offers reliable performance and a more comfortable, rest-on-ear design for commercial airline and transport pilots. Featuring Hybrid electronic noise cancelling for best-in-class active noise reduction and a rugged, yet feather-light (just 7.5 ounces) alloy suspension system. Backed by a 30-Day, Money Back Guarantee.

Order yours online at www.GO-DCPRO.com, or call 1-800-298-6235. Single ear and Airbus compatible models available.

© 2018 David Clark Company Incorporated An Employee Owned ® Green headset domes are a David Clark registered trademark. WWW.DAVIDCLARK.COM American Company

230-33918REV PRO-X 825X10875AP.indd 1 8/27/18 1:28 PM ALPA Resources & Contact Numbers National Executive Vice Presidents For more information on which pilot groups executive vice presidents represent, visit Officers www.alpa.org/evp.. For complete biographical information on ALPA’s national o er iit www.alpa.org/leaders.

F/O Mike Capt. Andrew Capt. Russell Capt. Mike Capt. Richard Capt. Sean Creed Capt. Dan Hamilton Massey Sklenka McMackin Meier (Spirit) Adamus (United) (Delta) (FedEx Express) (JetBlue) (ExpressJet) Air Wisconsin, (Jazz Aviation) Endeavor Air, Atlantic Alaska, Air Georgian, Air Envoy Air, Frontier, Southeast, CommutAir, Transat, Bearskin, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Compass, Ex- Kalitta Air, Mesa, Calm Air, Canadian Piedmont, Air pressJet, PSA, Sun Spirit, Trans States North, First Air, Transport Country, Virgin Jazz Aviation, Capt. Tim Canoll Capt. Joe DePete International America Kelowna Flight- President First Vice craft, Wasaya, WestJet, WestJet President Encore

ALPA Sudoku (http://download.cnet.com/Sudoku-Generator/3000-2111_4-10733911.html)

Complete the sudoku puzzle so that each column, The solution to this month’s ALPA sudoku can each row, and each of the nine 3×3 sub-grids be found on page 13. that compose the grid contain all the digits from Prefer other puzzle types? Tell us what you 1 to 9. think. E-mail [email protected]. Capt. William Capt. Randy Couette Helling Vice President– Vice President– Administration/ Finance/ Secretary Treasurer 1 6 8 7 5 3 2 9 7 Capt. Rick Dominguez (Delta) 9 7 5 Executive Administrator 8 2 9 4 7 2 3 4 1 4 6 9 1

46 » Air Line Pilot October 2018

Solution 853612479

269745138

741389625

678921543

912453786

435867912

387196254

126534897 594278361

Created by Sudoku Generator - http://sudoku.smike.ru Air Line PilOt ALPA Information Numbers The following ALPA resources may be reached by e-mail or by dialing, toll-free, 1-888-359-2572 Editor in Chief Sharon R. Bhagwandin (1-888-FLY-ALPA). Once connected, press the # key on your phone and dial the last four digits of the Associate Managing & Production Editor number listed below. However, the ALPA main number, ASPEN, Member Insurance, and Membership Susan Fager Administration numbers need to be dialed directly. Senior Staff Writer John Perkinson Accident Investigation Discipline and Discharge Membership Administration Senior Advocacy Writer Linda Shotwell ([email protected]) ([email protected]) ([email protected]) 703-689-4312 703-689-4235 1-888-359-2572 Senior Aviation Technical Writer (1-888-FLY-ALPA), option 3 Christopher Freeze Accounting and Finance Economic and Financial Analysis ([email protected]) ([email protected]) IT Operations and Services Magazine/Graphic Designer Dit Rutland 703-689-4144 703-689-4289 ([email protected]) Web Coordinators Chris Weaver, Suzi Fenton 703-689-4245 Air Line Pilot Election Dates LEC/MEC Supervisor, Multimedia Productions Eric Davis ([email protected]) 703-689-4212 Organizing 703-481-4460 ([email protected]) Supervisor, Creative Services Kelly Barrett Engineering and Air Safety 703-689-4179 ALPA Aeromedical Office ([email protected]) Contributing Writers Kevin Cuddihy, 303-341-4435 703-689-4200 Publishing and Design Services Corey Kuhn ([email protected]) ALPA Main Number FAA Enforcement or Medical ePublishing Coordinator Mary Kennedy 703-481-4441 703-689-2270 Certificate Action Social Media Coordinators Sam Ahn, Tressa Mattingly ([email protected]) Purchasing ([email protected]) ALPA Memorabilia 703-689-4235 703-689-4319 Director of Communications David Weaver ([email protected]) 703-481-4458 Government Affairs Representation ([email protected]) General Manager Lori Garver ([email protected]) 703-689-4235 ALPA-PAC 202-797-4033 202-797-4033 Real Estate ASPEN 703-689-4220 Air Line Pilot is not responsible for unsolicited manu- Human Resources ([email protected]) scripts, photographs, or other materials. Unsolicited Balloting ([email protected]) ([email protected]) 703-689-4105 materials will be returned only if submitted with 703-689-4173 703-689-4262 Retirement and Insurance a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Opinions Cashiering Information Technology ([email protected]) expressed by authors do not necessarily represent ([email protected]) and Services 703-689-4114 official ALPA position or policy. 703-689-4385 ([email protected]) Subscriptions: Subscription rate for pilot members, Strategic Member Development $27.50, included in ALPA member ship dues; for Communications 703-689-4134 and Resources students, $41; for U.S. nonmembers, $55; for foreign, ([email protected]) Legal ([email protected]) ([email protected]) $71.50. Residents of the state of Washington must add 703-481-4440 202-797-4096 703-481-4467 8.8 percent sales tax. To subscribe go to 703-689-4326 Computer Help Line System Board of Adjustment www.alpa.org/subscriptions or call 703-481-4460. ([email protected]) Member Insurance ([email protected]) Advertising: Any advertising appearing in Air Line Pilot 703-689-4357 ([email protected]) 703-689-4235 cannot be construed as being an endorsement by the Council Services ([email protected]) 1-800-746-2572 Air Line Pilots Association, International or its members. 703-689-4173 The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue, or edit any advertisement. For advertising information, contact [email protected]. Address Changes: To report address changes, contact Membership Administration [email protected] or call 1-888-359-2572 To obtain membership account information or to update your records or your postal or e-mail address via the (1-888-FLY-ALPA) and choose menu option 3, 3. Internet, go to the My ALPA area of www.alpa.org/memberaccount; or dial the toll-free number 1-888-359- Air Line Pilot is printed in the United States and 2572 (1-888-FLY-ALPA) and choose menu option 3,3. Listed below are the telephone numbers of MEC offices. published for professional airline pilots in the United States and Canada who are members of the Air Line Air Georgian–GGN MEC Delta–DAL MEC Kelowna Flightcraft–KFC MEC Pilots Association, International. 204-997-1732 404-763-4925 877-373-3131, ext. 6225 ALPA Headquarters: 1625 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Air Transat–TSC MEC Endeavor Air–EDV MEC Mesa–MAG MEC Washington, DC 20036 1-888-337-2033 1-833-EDV-ALPA 602-306-1116 Postmaster: Send address changes to Air Line Pilot, 535 Herndon Parkway, Herndon, VA 20170-5226 Air Transport International– Envoy Air–ENY MEC Piedmont–PDT MEC ATI MEC 817-685-7474 339-987-1277 Other Organizations 404-763-4973 ALPA Aeromedical Office 303-341-4435 ExpressJet–XJT MEC PSA–PSA MEC Connexus Credit Union 1-800-845-5025 Air Wisconsin–ARW MEC 281-987-3636 703-481-4444 1-800-ALPA-ARW FedEx Express–FDX MEC Spirit–SPA MEC ALPA Accident/Serious Incident Hotline If you are involved in an accident, incident, or alleged Alaska–ALA MEC 206-241-3138 901-752-8749 1-855-SPA-ALPA violation of a federal aviation regulation, contact your Atlantic Southeast–ASA MEC First Air–FAB MEC Sun Country–SCA MEC local or central air safety chairman, regional safety chair- 404-209-8566 1-877-459-3272 952-853-2393 man, or the worldwide ALPA accident/serious incident Bearskin–BRS MEC Frontier–FFT MEC Trans States–TSA MEC hotline at 202-797-4180 (collect calls are accepted) for 807-628-5683 303-373-2572 412-780-9036 an immediate response 24 hours per day. As a backup number, call 703-892-4180. Calm Air–CMA MEC Hawaiian–HAL MEC United–UAL MEC To report a safety problem or airspace system defi- 204-461-4331 808-836-2572 847-292-1700 ciency, call 1-800-424-2470 or e-mail Canadian North–CNP MEC *Island Air–AIS MEC Virgin America–VRD MEC [email protected]. 780-691-8989 808-838-0188 435-962-0951 2018 EBCB Schedule CommutAir–CMT MEC Jazz Aviation–JAZ MEC Wasaya–WSG MEC The Association’s Election and Ballot Certification 518-332-7494 1-800-561-9576 807-624-7270 Board’s schedule for counting ballots is October 10, November 9, and December 10. Compass–CPZ MEC JetBlue–JBU MEC WestJet–WJA MEC Any ALPA member in good standing may be present 952-853-2373 603-303-2195 403-464-3599 as an observer during any meeting. Contact the Associ- Kalitta Air–CKS MEC WestJet Encore–WEN MEC ation’s Membership and Council Services Department 734-754-6728 867-445-1756 for scheduling. *Pilot group in custodianship

October 2018 Air Line Pilot » 47 Attention Customers: Step Up Is Back and Better Than Ever!

Beginning November 1, 2018, the ALPA Member Insurance Step Up Program for Loss of License* plans will be open year-round. No more waiting for the annual enrollment period— you are automatically eligible to increase up to the next benefit level after 12 months at your To Step current level of Up Today: coverage. 1. Visit memberinsurance.alpa.org and click “Manage Your Coverage” 2. Log into the Member Benefits Management Portal (new users click “Register”) 3. Click your event: Add/Drop/Change or Other Qualifying Life Events

* Step Up Eligible Programs: Monthly LOL, LOL-Plus, Lump Sum LOL. All plans underwritten by The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America.

Check your e-mail AIR LINE PILOTS for more details. ASSOCIATION, INT’L A member service of Air Line Pilot.