“We fully support the FAA’s stated goal of holding ultra-long-range flying to the highest standards of safety”

The Allied Pilots Association (APA), collective bargaining agent for the 12,000 pilots of American Airlines, recently participated in a two-day roundtable meeting at FAA headquarters in Washington, D.C. as part of efforts to develop new rules that will govern ultra-long-range flying.

Discussions centered on the numerous issues associated with ultra-long-range flying such as flight time-duty time, crew complement, on-board rest facilities and diversion airports. Ultra-long-range flying is defined as flights of more than 16 hours in duration.

“Given the increasing number of ultra-long-range routes being operated by our nation’s airlines, it’s imperative that the FAA develop rules addressing the unique issues that arise with this type of flying,” said APA President Captain Lloyd Hill. “We fully support the FAA’s stated goal of holding ultra-long-range flying to the highest standards of safety and are pleased to be participating in the development of these standards.”

Along with APA, numerous other airline industry stakeholders also participated in the two-day meeting, including the Air Line Pilots Association and the Air Transport Association.

Founded in 1963, the Allied Pilots Association—the largest independent pilot union in the U.S.—is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. APA represents the 12,000 pilots of American Airlines, including 2,043 pilots on furlough. The furloughs began shortly after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Also, several hundred American Airlines pilots are on full-time military leave of absence serving in the armed forces.

FMI: www.alliedpilots.org