The Allied Pilots Association, a union representing pilots at American Airlines, has reported a significant increase in safety issues on flights. These issues include tools being left in aircraft wheel wells, collisions involving planes being towed on the ground, and pressure to return aircraft to service quickly to maintain on-time performance. The union is urging its members to report any problems they encounter and to resist any attempts to rush or intimidate them.
The spotlight on commercial flights in the US and abroad has intensified following a door plug blowout on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 on January 5. There have been roughly a dozen incidents on United Airlines flights within the last month, prompting CEO Scott Kirby to send out a safety message to customers. The union’s safety committee is emphasizing the importance of pilots being the final link in the safety chain, as passengers and crew rely on them to ensure safety.
The union’s safety message comes at a time when public and government scrutiny is focused on United Airlines, but American Airlines could easily find itself under similar scrutiny. American Airlines has emphasized that safety is its top priority and that it has a robust safety program guided by an industry-leading safety management system. The company has collaborative programs in place with the FAA and all its unions, including the Allied Pilots Association, to continuously enhance its safety record and culture.
The Allied Pilots Association continues to remind its members to prioritize safety above all else and to be vigilant in reporting any safety concerns they encounter. The union acknowledges the pressure on pilots to maintain on-time performance but insists that safety should always come first. American Airlines has reiterated its commitment to safety and its ongoing efforts to collaborate with regulatory agencies and unions to enhance safety practices and protocols.
With safety being the top priority for American Airlines, the union’s safety committee is urging its members to remain vigilant and report any issues they encounter. The company’s safety management system and collaboration with the FAA and unions demonstrate its commitment to maintaining a strong safety record and continuously improving its safety culture. Pilots are encouraged to prioritize safety and resist any pressure or intimidation that may compromise safety standards.
The recent spike in safety issues reported by the Allied Pilots Association highlights the importance of prioritizing safety in the aviation industry. As commercial flights face increased scrutiny, both American Airlines and United Airlines are focused on enhancing their safety practices to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew. Pilots play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards, and the union’s message emphasizes the need for vigilance and reporting of any safety concerns. By working together with regulatory agencies and unions, airlines can enhance their safety programs and create a culture of safety excellence.
