I N D US T RY I N S I G H TS IFALPA in Mexico Report from the 78th IFALPA Conference and Global Pilot Symposium, Mexico City T he 78th IFALPA Conference was hosted by the Mexican pilot association, ASPA de Mxico, in Mexico City from 9-12th May. As in previous years, the conference was preceded by a day of technical presentations and discussions under the auspices of the IFALPA Global Pilot Symposium (GPS). BALPA was represented by a strong delegation consisting of the General Secretary, Executive President, Executive Vice-President, IFALPA Director and International Affairs Coordinator, Head of Flight Safety, and a BALPA representative of the One-world Cockpit Crew Coalition. The conference offered the opportunity to network with hundreds of pilot colleagues representing more than 50 member associations from around the world, with many shared issues: challenging terms and conditions, fatiguing rosters, lack of positive safety culture, and the looming spectre of Reduced Crew Operations (RCO). There were also helpful industry presentations and panel discussions on subjects such as flight operations, air traffic services, safety management, pilot fatigue, and dangerous goods. Arguably the most insightful session was provided by Captain Ian Knowles, Chief of ICAOs Operational Safety Section. He spoke about the workings of ICAO, the formulation of international regulatory standards, and how pilots can influence decision-making effectively to ensure operational considerations are embedded in the regulatory framework. Furthermore, he declared that no state or agency had yet formally approached ICAO about the implementation of RCO within the Annexes, nor was 16 THE LOG Sum 24 pp16-17 IFALPA.indd 16 13/06/2024 12:57