I N T E RV I E W Cockpit conversation Getting to know Lord Balfe and Lord Whitty By Captain Jeremy Feldman, The Log Chief Editor T he British Airline Pilots Association (BALPA) has long been a pillar of strength and advocacy for pilots across the UK, championing their rights, ensuring safety, and engaging in critical industry discussions. At the heart of its leadership are two distinguished figures: Lord Richard Balfe, Honorary President, and Lord Larry Whitty, Vice Honorary President. With extensive backgrounds in politics, trade unions and public service, they bring a wealth of experience to BALPA. This edition of Cockpit Conversations offers an insight into their careers, perspectives on aviation, and their commitment to pilots. The Log (L): You have both had fascinating careers in politics and public service. Could you share a bit about your journey and how you came to be involved with BALPA? Lord Balfe (LB): My journey began in trade unionism before entering politics. I was an MEP [Member of the European Parliament] for more than 20 years and became heavily involved in employment rights, which led me to an interest in the aviation sector. Pilots operate in a highly regulated and pressurised environment, and their representation is crucial. When I was invited to take on the honorary presidency, I saw it as an opportunity to support a profession that is vital to the UKs economy and global connectivity. Lord Whitty (LW): My background the seismic impact of the pandemic. One of the biggest concerns is job security. We saw how quickly pilots could be furloughed or made redundant during the crisis. BALPAs work in securing better protections for pilots is essential. Additionally, we must address issues such as fatigue management and worklife balance, which are crucial for both safety and wellbeing. is in the Labour Party and trade unions. I served as general secretary of the Labour Party and, later, as a minister in the House of Lords. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about workers rights, and aviation is an industry in which these issues are particularly significant. BALPA plays a crucial role in advocating for pilots, and I was honoured to become involved to help strengthen that voice. LW: I agree, and Id add that the L: Aviation has faced numerous challenges in recent years, from Covid-19 disruptions to evolving regulations. What do you see as the biggest issues facing pilots today? LB: The industry is still recovering from Pilots are highly respected and their collective input makes BALPA a formidable force regulatory environment is becoming increasingly complex. Brexit has changed the landscape for UK aviation, and we need to ensure pilots rights and career opportunities are not negatively affected. There is also a broader debate about sustainability how we balance 14 THE LOG Spring 25 pp14-15 Lords Balfe and Witty.indd 14 17/03/2025 14:12