In an interview with Politico, ALPA President Capt. Tim Canoll, discussed ALPA's opposition of the inclusion of Section 744 into the House FAA reauthorization bill. Section 744 authorizes a study to explore single-pilot flight operation on cargo aircraft.

100 years ago today, on May 15, 1918, the first U.S. airmail service flight traveled from New York to Washington, D.C., in what became a new way to transport mail aside from steamboats and railroads, and ultimately changed how people and businesses received their mail in the United States. ALPA’s founders and early members had a long history with airmail service, with many of them flying as airmail carriers. In 1931, Capt. Dave Behncke, ALPA’s first president, set out to advocate to protect and enhance the working conditions of line pilots.

As lawmakers and regulators are examining the safe expansion and integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) into the national airspace, ALPA reminded the United States Senate that ensuring the safety of airline passengers and crews remains the highest priority.  

Since the early twentieth century, pilots have played an integral role in the transport of air mail. Acknowledging this rich history, two new stamps were officially unveiled today by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that celebrate the 100th anniversary of the start of air mail service. During a special ceremony at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, the USPS announced that the first stamp would be released today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the start of air mail service, and the second would be released later this year to commemorate the 100th anniversary of air mail being recognized as an official service of the USPS. 

ALPA pilots express our heartfelt condolences to the family of the passenger who lost her life aboard Southwest Airlines Flight 1380 and our support for all who have been affected by this accident. Our union stands in solidarity and has offered any assistance we can provide to our brothers and sisters at the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) as well as to the Southwest Airlines flight attendants’ union.