That is the whole point. The change is inevitable!. The FAA doesn't hold NPRMs if they don't intend to change things. With over 60 ICAO Pilots already flying into the US from Abroad, you can't honestly think it won't change.

This is a Hotbed issue, no doubt. just look at this message board volleys. Yes it will effect seniority negatively............It will help some while negatively affecting many.
JetJok hit the nail on the Head......you might not like it but it is time to get the head out of the sand and get in the game. We can all sit around and ***** about it but if thats it, your going to get alot of Bitching practice.

The hope is that ALPA we be able to influence some of the language to lessen the blow of seniority (retrospective vs prospective) and hopefully protect Pension, Medical and training issues that could effect us ALL equally and potentialy very negatively.

 

I agree also it's inevitable. I'd just rather ALPA come out and say it's going to happen and we're going to be a part of it rather than try to engineer the poll to later say "the membership overwhelmingly supported our position...blah blah blah"

I'm squarely on the fence about the issue. I agree it's going to change, it's inevitable. As for me, at age 33, the whole thing seems very far away for me. I can't say that I'm eager to work until 65, though I do have some sympathy for those pilots who lost pensions, were furloughed, hired late, etc. As far as delayed upgrades, sure, I'm not happy about it, but there's nothing I can do about it, either. I have to agree with Jetjok - deal with it, get over it, try to find something positive about it.

 

No it is not and it is also not the first time someone has been ribbed about it. I am sure senility would have been questioned if it was a senior member.

 

True dat!!

 

That must be why we don't have to wear the O2 mask any more when the other pilot leaves his seat above FL250. Oh wait, that one was a done deal too.

It isn't over until its over.

 

Why is ALPA so eager to give up on the age 60 rule? ALPA's stated policy for many years, based on polling and the wishes of it's membership, has been to oppose any change to the age 60 rule. Now, ALPA wants to change it's policy, and many on this forum seem to agree, and embrace the change in retirement age to 65. The theory goes that unless we embrace this inevitable change we will have very little input to the new rule. I think this is a cop out. It's throwing in the towel before the battle even begins. ALPA needs a win. We've been taking it in the shorts for too long. Unless ALPA is willing to put the issue to a vote of the membership and officially change their policy, they should fight the age 60 rule change to the bitter end.

 

Amen Beaver.

 

Didn't say it's over........just said we need to take the blinders off and ensure we are on the train that has already left the station...............

Personally, I oppose any change, but I also see the writing on the wall.

 

We are in violent agreement there.

I just think we can continue to OPPOSE while we "manage" the possible changes and provide input to the NPRM process.

 

Beav, I don't think ALPA is necessarily Eager to give up anything. Another question is : Who is ALPA?
ALPA is us. The survey is out. Wait until the results come in and see what "WE" as a group think. It wasn't a landslide opposing the 60 issue last time and my bet is it will probably be closer this time.....


And as far as ALPA copping out. How many times has a have you witnessed the NPRM process? Generally when the FAA issues an NPRM, it is almost a forgone conclusion. ALPA is at least involved.

Like I said before, personally I am opposed to the change, but I am also opposed to MGT using Bankrupcty laws to void contracts. I am opposed to MGT terminating Pensions. I was opposed to Open skies without getting something in return for it. I was opposed to Cargo Cabotage through ANC.

Should ALPA (by democratic the process) elect to continue to oppose change to Age 60, what should all who wish it to change do..........quit?....................and likewise, if ALPA changes it's position, should all who want Age 60 to remain respond in kind?
...............You can never please everyone in a Democracy, that is just the way it is.