NEWS Upfront The latest in aviation and industrial news from around the world In the corridors of power BALPA is committed to ensuring the voice of pilots is heard at the highest levels. We met the Aviation Minister, Robert Courts MP, to brief him on a range of issues affecting the industry. Executive President Paul Naylor, General Secretary Martin Chalk, and Honorary President Lord Richard Balfe launched BALPAs Aviation Recovery Plan. BALPA called for: An acknowledgement that border restrictions damage our industry, but do little to inhibit the spread of the latest coronavirus variant A proportionate approach to future variants, with any future rules to be evidence-based, simple and consistent For Government to recognise the importance of aviation and to support our sector as we decarbonise and lead the world in sustainable connectivity READ MORE Executive Presidents welcome BALPA Executive President Paul Naylor said: Pilots have a great understanding of not only the challenges facing the aviation industry, but also of the value of UK aviation to our economy. We want the Government to use our expertise and listen to industry voices as it shapes the supportive environment for our collective future. Aviation Minister Robert Courts MP said: It was a pleasure to meet BALPA, and I thank them for a constructive meeting and for the helpful report. We have stood side by side with the aviation sector throughout COVID-19, and I look forward to working even more closely together in the months and years ahead as we restore UK aviation to its world-leading position. Media spotlight From handling aircraft in the grips of storm Eunice, to weathering the most difficult of industrial storms, BALPA members have been in the spotlight a lot in recent weeks. BALPA ensured that the media storm surrounding Storm Eunice was focused on the professionalism and skill of pilots in the difficult conditions, by engaging with media outlets, taking on interviews, and responding to the BIGJETTV social media trend. BALPA used the interest in Storm Eunice to reinforce messaging about the professionalism of pilots BALPA Company Council BALPAs strength and unity was also featured in a campaign by the TUC. Over the course of the pandemic, BALPA members have faced a myriad of challenges. Each airline faced unique trials, but time and again we saw reps and members stand shoulder to shoulder to support each other, and find a way through the crisis. This TUC video highlighted the unity, strength and power of the BALPA piloting community, telling the story of how one BALPA Company Council rallied members to achieve what some thought was impossible and save hundreds of jobs. Click to play the TUC video READ MORE Executive Presidents welcome As our eyes focus towards summer 2022 and recovery in the sector, you could be forgiven for thinking all was again well in the world. Of course, we know it isnt, with a war in Europe, challenging economic conditions and a pandemic that hasnt really gone away, but is drifting down the headlines. In the workplace, our airlines are pushing ahead with plans for a full-on summer. How much of it is new business and how much has been rescheduled from the past two years remains to be seen, but it looks as if we are going to be very busy. The industry is suffering from resourcing issues in many areas, which will inevitably lead to some challenges. With problems come delays and, when placed on busy schedules, these can lead to fatigue issues. With that in mind, this edition makes a timely revisit to the matter of fatigue. Despite the challenges of the past few years, the association has developed and expanded work in several quarters. One area of significant focus has been the environment. Electric cars are largely seen as part of the overall environmental solution, with huge advances in their technology happening at pace. Electric-powered aircraft will undoubtedly have a role to play, too. In this issue, we take a look at some of the intricacies of electric flight. As I write, we are just completing a move to new premises at One Heathrow Boulevard. This will be our headquarters for the next few years. The smaller, modernised office better reflects new working practices and delivers considerable savings on the old building which, in turn, can be used to develop our membership offering going forward. Our industry is changing and will throw us some considerable challenges. Fortunately, were in a good position now to tackle whatever lies ahead. Safe flying, Paul Naylor, BALPA NEC Executive President and easyJet captain
