Today, as the nation celebrates its freedom and a record number of fliers travel over the Fourth of July holiday, ALPA is celebrating the progress we’ve made in the fight to #KeepFlyingSafe. Thanks to more robust pilot training and qualification requirements which were passed by Congress in 2010, the U.S. has enjoyed the longest period in aviation history without a commercial airline passenger fatality. Aviation is currently the safest mode of transportation in the country.
The truth is simple: well-trained pilots save lives. Unfortunately, some special-interest groups aren’t concerned with the well-being of passengers and pilots. These groups are pushing to weaken pilot training and qualification requirements – putting your safety at risk for the sake of corporate greed. As the safety of aviation has come under attack in Congress, ALPA has made a strong and united effort to fight attempts to reverse the safety gains we’ve made.
We’ve made significant progress, but the fight isn’t over yet. There’s still much work to be done, and we need your help.
During Senate Commerce Committee consideration of the FAA Reauthorization bill, the Senate offered an amendment to reduce airline pilot training, qualification, and experience requirements. The amendment was approved, and those who supported it will be responsible for endangering the flying public, should it become law. It’s up to us to not let that happen. We will not allow companies to line their own pockets at the expense of passengers’ lives. Airline passengers want and deserve safe air transportation across the United States, including those in rural and smaller communities.
Help us fight back against these attempts to cut corners when it comes to safety. Let’s celebrate our nation’s freedom by exercising our individual freedom to speak up for what matters. Please take action now and urge your legislators to #KeepFlyingSafe. Every voice makes a difference. Together, we can work to uphold the safety of aviation in our country.