The guidance from APA to probie pilots:

Attached is the APA’s position for probationary pilots on the reserve notification issue.


For pilots on probation:



During your probationary period, you are an employee-at-will. The rights afforded in Sections 21, 22, and 23 are extended to pilots on probation for contractual grievances, but not for discipline and discharge grievances. It is in your best interest to comply with all directives from your supervisor or company representatives unless you are certain that direction is a violation of FAR117. If in doubt, get a second opinion.



We recommend that pilots on probation follow AA issued guidance on accepting reserve assignments as long as notification of that assignment meets FAR 117.21 and FAR 117.25 requirements:

1) All reserve and FDP assignments require notice that provides a 10-hour rest period with an 8-hour sleep opportunity prior to sign-in.

2) FDP assignments that begin before and operate into or the WOCL (0200-0559HBT) require 12-hours notice and a 10-hour rest period with an 8-hour sleep opportunity prior to sign-in.



Remember: Pilots that submit a date specific reserve preference ballot (RPB) are responsible to check and confirm assignments after DOTC at 1700 the day prior to the proffered sequences.



In the event a probationary pilot is given a reserve assignment where FAR 117 legality is in question, confirm the legality of the assignment using these resources:

a) APA Contract Administrators M-F 0700-1900 and S 0700-1700 at
1.800.xxx.xxxx ext xxxxx.

b) APA FT/DT Committee at 1.xxx.xxx.xxxx

c) Your domicile representatives at xxx.xxx.xxxx.

d) During normal working hours, call your base Chief pilot at
xxx.xxx.xxxx

e) After hours, call the IOC Duty Chief pilot at 1.xxx.xxx.xxxx



If any question arises within your crew, please make sure to advise your Captain that you are on probation and might not be the best suited to make this decision.