American Airlines responds to Allied Pilots Association over FAA crew-rest lawsuit

by PegNews wire

The company filed suit against the FAA over increased rest for pilots.

FORT WORTH — Regarding the Allied Pilots Association's critique over their lawsuit against the FAA over crew-rest rules, Fort Worth-based American Airlines has opted to issue a response of their own.

The airlines responded to the union, saying, “The safety of our employees and customers is — and always will be — American Airlines' highest priority. That includes flying long international routes, which we have done safely and consistently for years under existing FAA regulations. The collective opposition by this group of carriers — American, Continental, JetBlue, United, US Airways and others — to the FAA’s imposition of long-haul flying rules reinforces this commitment to safety. By following an established and proven rulemaking process, the FAA can make the best-informed decision possible.”

American added that their objection is related to the process that is followed when developing new safety rules, not about the airline’s intention to place those rules.

“American and the group of carriers believe that the FAA should follow the accepted and legally required process of providing public notice and inviting comment to the industry and public,” American said. “ We believe that the normal rulemaking process as provided for by federal statute, the Administrative Procedures Act, provides the best process for making rules for carriers. By asking for comment, the FAA will receive comments from all interested parties concerning their proposed rule, including experts within the fields of fatigue and rest, aircraft manufacturers, unions representing crew members, carriers themselves and members of the general public. We believe that the safest rules come from that process because the FAA itself becomes more knowledgeable and better-educated through the comment period."

Source: American Airlines