Release #: 18.27
August 02, 2018

ALPA Presents Inaugural Jumpseat Award to United Airlines First Officer James Berzon

Castle Rock Pilot Recognized for Contributions to Enhance Flight Deck Security

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, in conjunction with its 64th Air Safety Forum in Washington, D.C., the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) presented United Airlines First Officer James Berzon with the Aviation Jumpseat Award. First Officer Berzon was recognized for his significant accomplishments to increase cockpit security for airline crewmembers.

“First Officer Berzon’s dedication to his fellow crewmembers is a testament to his commitment to advancing the piloting profession,” said Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA president. “Because of the many contributions of pilot volunteers like First Officer Berzon, ALPA has been on the forefront of enacting positive change within many key aviation security programs. It is particularly meaningful that we recognize his tremendous leadership and fierce advocacy for his fellow crewmembers during our union’s premier safety and security event.”

Serving as ALPA’s Jumpseat Council vice chairman, First Officer Berzon has been involved in enhancing flight deck security, including several policies that are widely used throughout the industry today. First Officer Berzon was an early advocate and strong proponent for the development and implementation of several high-profile security programs such as Known Crewmember and the Cockpit Access Security System (CASS). His professional experience and knowledge have served as valuable resources for many top-level decision makers and helped establish ALPA as the prominent authority and definitive voice for jumpseat administration across the U.S. aviation industry.

“The jumpseat is one of our most relied upon and critical resources as a pilot. First Officer Berzon’s extensive knowledge of aviation safety and his contribution to jumpseat issues make him a leader among his industry peers,” said Capt. Todd Insler, chairman of the United unit of ALPA.

After becoming involved in jumpseat issues at Continental Airlines in 2008, First Officer Berzon has been influential in the continued expansion of CASS across the industry and has led efforts to implement this valuable resource internationally as well.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents over 60,000 pilots at 34 U.S. and Canadian airlines. Visit the ALPA website at alpa.org or follow us on Twitter @WeAreALPA.

-###-

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