The pilots’ unions have stepped in with concerns about repercussions for pilots who come forward and admit mistakes that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. They further voice concerns about these pilots being labeled reckless or irresponsible and say that despite assurances from the federal government, the pilots still stand to be disciplined and there remains the possibility of losing their positions. The unions say if some clarity were added to the guidelines the unions would most likely end the standoff and would allow the pilots to begin reporting again. It is not clear if the government intends to negotiate.
American Airlines says its own self-reporting process remains in place and has not suffered because of its pilot’s decision to rescind their participation in the federal program. Delta Airlines’ pilots withdrew first and, before long, American’s pilots followed suit. It is important to keep in mind, however, that even if the pilots with American continue with the internal program, there is less room for the anonymous reporting that has been credited with the success of the federal program. After all, the process of elimination is far easier within a company’s own walls.
The president of the Flight Safety Foundation, William Voss, reiterates the importance of this program and says, “These programs catch little problems before they become big problems.” He then goes on to say that he feels as though the unions have contributed to the ongoing deterioration of labor-management relations within the airline industry and until the big players can find a way to coexist (the big players being the pilots, unions, and airlines) and work together for the safety of fliers, these problems will continue to chip away at relations.
How does this affect those of us who love our frequent flyer miles? Are we more at risk? Has this program provided information that would not otherwise be known? Most industry analysts say although the information is vital, the problems the pilots typically report are not serious safety issues. The safety of travelers is not jeopardized because of the lack of participation and the safety guidelines are extensive and complete already. The information is invaluable, however, since suggestions which have been made and incorporated through this program affect everything from comfort to sleeping habits of the pilots.
Most would agree it is difficult even in the best situations to admit we have made an error. Even with the anonymous reporting the pilots enjoy, it is still a huge leap of faith for most. After all, they are only human. So is it realistic to expect this at all? Taking responsibility sometimes means more than one bargained for in a blame-placing society. We are a country who wants someone held accountable and for pilots to own up to mistakes is a tall order. Still, up until this latest back-out, the pilots worked well on the honor system.
With so much controversy in the airline business, this might seem to be insignificant when lawsuits are being filed regarding sick pay and other sticking points. Everyone agrees safety is the top priority, but with the black-eye collective airlines have sported the past several years, it is unlikely American and Delta will emerge better from this experience. The unions who continue to debate this program have valid points and are attempting to protect these pilots. As long as it continues to be voluntary and if the wording can be rewritten to satisfy everyone involved, it is likely this program can once again become the tool it was designed to be. In the meantime, the debate continues and the program continues, albeit without the participation of the two largest airlines, and the information garnered is being used. Hopefully, a win-win can be struck and everyone will be able to return to the business at hand—getting people to their destinations safely.
A final point: there appears to be no compromise according to the most recent reports and some say it is possible the program will fade in its entirety. Of course, there are those who disagree and insist the federal program is still alive and well and progress is being made to once again include the pilots from both American Airlines and Delta Airlines. There should be a resolution soon, whether it is complete abandonment by the airline pilots or a revised program that puts to rest the nervous unions and those they collectively represent.
