On behalf of more than 58,000 pilots of the Air Line Pilots Association, International, ALPA applauds the Department of Transportation and Secretary Elaine Chao’s commitment to making it easier for our veterans to work in the best industry in the world. Many of ALPA’s members have proudly served our country in uniform, and the union stands ready to assist others in breaking down barriers that may impede them from pursuing carriers in aviation, all while maintaining the highest levels of safety.

Air Wisconsin pilots recently marked two significant milestones:

1. #FlyingHome to their roots with United Airlines, once again serving passengers in the Midwest via Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
2. Reaching the seventh anniversary of opening negotiations for a new working agreement.

While the recent capacity purchase agreement with United Airlines marks the continuation of Air Wisconsin flying, which was previously in question,reaching seven years without a new contract brings continued frustration for the hard-working pilots.

No one is more committed to ensuring we have enough qualified and experienced pilots to keep commercial aviation safe than the Air Line Pilots Association. The good news is that we currently have more fully qualified pilots in the United States than there are positions available, and air travel is the safest mode of transportation in the world due to our commitment to schedule with safety. However, we do need to make sure we have an adequate future supply of qualified pilots – earning good salaries – and guard against efforts to reduce safety, especially as it relates to pilot training and qualifications. That’s why the Air Line Pilots Association has worked for many years to mentor and inspire the next generation of pilots and advocate for loan forgiveness programs and other incentives to make it more affordable to become an airline pilot. .

The most important safety feature of any airline operation is a well-trained, highly experienced and qualified professional pilot. And the best way to attract and retain these pilots is to pay them competitive wages and offer a solid career progression.

Capt. Paul Ryder, ALPA’s national resource coordinator, told the Alaska Dispatch News this week that there isn’t currently a lack of pilots in the United States, but rather an issue with airlines offering competitive pay.