I'm a former Air Traffic Controller at MEM -- currently assigned to AUS. While at MEM, I filed a Safety Disclosure with the United States Office of Special Counsel (OSC) regarding unsafe practices in use at MEM.
Two areas of concern regarded aircraft exiting the Class B airspace without notification (due to volume), and aircraft landing/departing with an excessive tailwind component. I was especially concerned with the tailwind issue, as this appeared to be clear example of PROFIT over SAFETY which benefited FDX Corporation.
My complaint was referred to the Department of Transportation (DOT) Office of Inspector General (OIG) for further investigation, and the investigation was recently completed. I have been afforded the opportunity to respond to the IG's investigation before it is made public.
I sent a letter to ALPA today via their web site. A copy of that letter may be found
here. This letter asks ALPA for information relating to tailwind operations.
If you are willing to provide me with any information relating to tailwind operations, I could use some help in this area. I'm looking for accident or incident reports that have been attributed to tailwind operations; company policies regarding tailwind operations; and any additional training or ALPA guidance regarding tailwind operations.
I don't want to know what you CAN do, or what you are WILLING to do -- I want to know what you are SUPPOSED to do. If you are tired of being placed in an unsafe predicament by ATC and the FAA with regards to tailwind operations -- please contact me.
Thanks,