The Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) today released We Keep America Flying, a policy solution white paper to present airline pilots’ priorities on issues from infrastructure and safety to the supply of pilots as part of its commitment to ensuring that U.S. airlines and U.S. aviation workers can compete and prosper now and in the future.
“We welcome the Trump administration’s focus on strengthening the nation’s transportation infrastructure to make the United States even more competitive on the world stage,” said Capt. Canoll, ALPA’s president. “U.S. airlines’ competitiveness is key to the future of our industry and to securing jobs for U.S. workers.”
At a news briefing held today, Capt. Canoll highlighted many of ALPA’s top safety, security, and international issues, including
- Enforcing open and fair skies.
- Ensuring the safe shipment of hazardous materials and dangerous goods.
- Maintaining the current minimum first officer qualifications.
- Attracting the next generation of airline pilots.
- Safely integrating unmanned aircraft systems.
- Strengthening voluntary safety reporting programs.
- Addressing cargo safety and security.
- Installing secondary cockpit barriers on commercial aircraft.
- Improving support for the Federal Flight Deck Officer program.
- Addressing cybersecurity on aircraft.
“The most important safety feature on any flight is a well-trained, highly experienced, and qualified airline pilot,” concluded Capt. Canoll.
“ALPA is working with the administration, Congress, and regulators to advance the future of air transportation by fostering a competitive, safe, and secure North American airline industry. Whether it’s a cargo, mainline, or regional flight operation, ALPA pilots keep America flying.”