Conference Highlights Rule Implementation Date Of January 4, 2014

The Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), hosted a special meeting this week bringing together representatives from government agencies, airlines, and aviation labor groups to ensure that all parties involved in the implementation of new pilot fatigue rules next year are coordinated.

“For decades, ALPA has been fully engaged in efforts to change the flight-time/ duty-time regulations to reduce fatigue and enhance aviation safety for all,” said ALPA president Capt. Lee Moak. “With the final rule set to go into effect on January 4, 2014, we thought it was imperative to bring key people together to ensure an ‘on-time arrival’ of this essential change in regulations.”

More than 200 people attended the “Part 117: A Path to Implementation” conference. Wide-ranging discussions included a thorough overview of the new rule, all aspects of implementing the new flight- and duty-time regulations and minimum rest requirements, and available software tools.

“While we commend the FAA for its actions in proceeding toward implementation of Part 117, we are disappointed that cargo pilots will continue to be subject to antiquated fatigue rules,” said Moak. “ALPA will continue to work tirelessly and strongly advocate for One Level of Safety for all types of flight operations and across the airline industry.”

ALPA says it will continue to work with the airlines and FAA to ensure the rule is properly implemented in a timely manner.

FMI: www.alpa.org