Packrat

Again, ALPA had zero (ZERO!) say in Age 65. It was strictly a Congressional mandate driven by ICAO. All ALPA could do was minimize the damage to pensions/retirement issues.

Anyone who doesn't/can't remember how the whole thing went down is either ignorant or obtuse.

So which one are you?

BoilerUP

Here's what I remember how the whole thing went down:





ALPA combined "drop opposition" and "modify policy" to say a majority of members supported the retirement age change.

Also, how exactly did ALPA "Minimize the damage"?

727C47

Neither, the anger of the many was the result of the perception of the rolling over by the few ( National) instead of fighting the good fight that the rank and file wished to be waged. Keep the insults coming though they are really helping your argument, and yes, I'm just as guilty and I will try to keep to the facts.

ShyGuy

That wasn't ALPA's argument................

" If not for how this legislation impacts the safety of the airspace in which our members fly, ALPA would not weigh in on this matter."

"This legislation has the potential to allow medically unfit pilots unfettered access to the national airspace at altitudes up to 18,000 feet with aircraft large enough to accommodate 6 occupants, at speeds up to 250 knots, in airspace which includes commercial airline traffic carrying passengers and cargo."

Seggy

Just because they didn't mention it means it is an invalid argument.

cardiomd

I think there is a lot of unnecessary fear here... This is *third* class medical, relatively easy to obtain, and relatively easy to get special, as long as it is something that you honestly should not be flying.

The alternative is basically no medical examination whatsoever ("reform" buzzword should be "repeal.")

If it had no potential implication for first class medical, would you as a professional support it? I do believe that medically unfit pilots would make the airspace less safe. Most would be single pilot crashes.

Most elderly people stop driving after a very minor crash or incident. I see this all the time as a doc, usually a scrape against a mailbox or lamppost and then kids or grandkids make them turn in the keys. Who examines for license renewals in most states? Nobody. You can keep driving until something happens.

I really don't see the impetus for the third class repeal other than the self interest of aging AOPA group, of which I am a member, but do not really agree with a significant amount of their positions.

727C47

Well and cogently stated Doc. We may have some differences of opinion but you make a good argument .

Nevets

AOPA is conducting a three question survey of ALPA pilots.

http://aopa.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/fo...g0sHMWp4F?MS=M

ManFlex

My Union speaks for me. No need to respond to that.

Nevets

And sometimes our union speaks the wrong words.