Allied Pilots Association supports American Airlines’ dispatchers in fuel load controversy

by PegNews wire

FORT WORTH — The Allied Pilots Association, certified collective bargaining agent for the 12,000 pilots of American Airlines, expressed its support for the airline’s dispatchers today in an ongoing controversy over aircraft fuel loads.

“Dispatchers should not be subject to discipline for using their judgment to help the captain determine the appropriate fuel load for a given flight,” said APA President Captain Lloyd Hill. “Any attempt by airline management to inappropriately influence or intimidate the dispatchers is extremely misguided.”

“We are concerned about what appears to be a drive toward minimum standards by our airline and others,” Hill said. “Until now, American Airlines has never been an airline that has been satisfied with meeting only federally mandated minimums.”

Hill pointed out that one consequence of carrying less fuel would be an increased number of flights that are diverted from their intended destination when unexpected delays occur.

“American Airlines already suffers from industry-trailing reliability,” Hill said. “It’s hard to imagine that our airline’s management would consider doing anything that further compromises our operational reliability. They should instead be focused on finding ways to serve our customers better.”

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 1,970 pilots on furlough.

Source: Allied Pilots Association