This week in Washington, D.C., stakeholders across the North American aviation industry gathered to discuss all things aviation safety and security at ALPA’s 64th Air Safety Forum.
ALPA president Capt. Tim Canoll opened the Forum’s public session on Wednesday by highlighting the results of a recent poll indicating that more than 80 percent of the American public say that they are not ready for pilotless airplanes. Even when offered airline ticket prices 30 percent lower than current fares, two-thirds said they would not take the deal to fly on a pilotless airplane. And nearly 70 percent stated that they opposed the proposed regulations providing for a government-funded study regarding the idea. Canoll framed the decision as “save a buck or save a life” and said that these poll results show clearly that the American public sides with ALPA's focus on safety in this important issue.
Throughout the two-day event, panel discussions covered aviation’s hot topics, including hazards posed by lithium batteries in carry-on luggage, current aeromedical issues, a new pilot support program, commercial space operations, disruptive passengers, and more.
In addition, participants heard important keynote addresses from U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth and Bob Casey, FAA Acting Administrator Dan Elwell, TTD Former President Ed Wytkind, and NATCA President Paul Rinaldi. ALPA’s continuing commitment to bringing leading experts together to tackle today’s industry issues makes the Air Safety Forum one of the premier safety and security events.
Each day, pilot volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that ALPA, as the largest nongovernmental aviation safety organization in the world, continues to be at the forefront of advancements in aviation safety and security. At the culmination of the Air Safety Forum this evening, the most outstanding accomplishments of our members and volunteers are being recognized at our annual awards banquet. ALPA members who have made significant contributions to making aviation safer and more secure, assisted fellow pilots in need, and worked to make our jumpseats safe, secure, and accessible will be honored.