ALPA Guidance
Divorce is never easy. ALPA is available to help you during this difficult time. While many airlines do not have specific guidance pertaining to divorce, you might want to consider some of the issues that may arise as a result of change in your company status due to divorce. Please reach out to the trained ALPA professionals listed below for support, along with your trusted friends and family members.
Some issues pertaining to a divorce may include but are not limited to:
- Leaves and time off
- Name and address change(s)
- Emergency contact change
- Medical and pass benefits
- Retirement assets
- Beneficiary changes
Emotional Health
Divorce can be major source of stress that can affect your fitness to fly. Taking time off from work might be necessary depending on the situation. Make sure you seek out friends, family, and professionals for emotional support. ALPA has several resources to help you get through this difficult time, including our Pilot Peer Support (PPS) network.
PPS connects ALPA members with trained pilot peers to talk about any personal or professional problems you may be experiencing. PPS volunteers listen and offer confidential, nonjudgmental support. Speak with a PPS peer about any concerns that may threaten your medical certificate, career, and life. Peers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact PPS.
If you are looking for a counselor, read our article "Choosing a Licensed Counselor or Therapist."
Family Status Change
You should keep your personal information updated in your airline's system.
Divorce is usually considered a qualifying life event under group health plans. You have 31 days from the divorce date to remove your spouse from any healthcare coverages. You can usually make this change online at your company’s benefits website or by calling your Human Resources Department.
Check with your company for specific rules and regulations for reporting requirements. In many cases, you can update personal information including name, address, phone numbers, emergency contact, and marital status online. You may need to fill out a family status change form (spouse/domestic partner status change).
Beneficiary Changes
Update your beneficiaries with your current family situation, including but not limited to, life insurance, pass privileges, and 401(k).
ALPA Membership
Update ALPA information by sending an e-mail to Membership@alpa.org, or call 888-FLY-ALPA, option 3, then 3.
Remember: You Are Not Alone
Reach out to trusted pilots, neighbors, family, and friends to seek recommendations. ALPA is here to help you through good and bad times.