Release #: 19.26
July 18, 2019

ALPA Presents Jumpseat Award to Capt. Robert Frank

[Hometown] Pilot Recognized for Contributions to Enhance Flight Deck Security

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, during its 65th Air Safety Forum in Washington, D.C., the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) presented former Air Wisconsin Capt. Robert “Rob” Frank with the Aviation Jumpseat Award. Capt. Frank, who now flies for a legacy airline, was recognized for his significant accomplishments to increase cockpit security for airline crewmembers.

“Capt. Frank’s accomplishments in the field of aviation jumpseat are a testament to his dedication to his fellow crewmembers and to advancing the piloting profession,” said Capt. Joe DePete, ALPA president. “Because of the many contributions of pilot volunteers like Capt. Frank, ALPA has been on the forefront of enacting positive change within many key aviation security programs. It is particularly meaningful that we recognize his leadership and fierce advocacy during our union’s premier safety and security event.”

One of the founding members of ALPA’s Jumpseat Council, Capt. Frank has been heavily involved in enhancing flight deck security, including several policies that are widely used throughout the industry today. As chairman of Air Wisconsin’s Jumpseat Committee, Capt. Frank worked to ensure that pilots had better access to the jumpseat while commuting. These efforts were instrumental in fostering a renewed culture among ALPA pilots that jumpseaters provide an extra level of safety and security on the flight.

“The jumpseat is one of our most relied upon and critical resources as pilots. Capt. Frank’s extensive knowledge of aviation safety and his contributions to jumpseat issues make him a leader among his industry peers,” said Capt. Rich Odbert, ALPA’s Aviation Jumpseat Chair.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents over 62,000 pilots at 35 U.S. and Canadian airlines. Visit the ALPA website at alpa.org or follow us on Twitter @WeAreALPA.

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CONTACT: ALPA Media, 703-481-4440 or Media@alpa.org