CA Johnathan Benton, longtime APA Government Affairs Committee Chair and a tireless pilots' advocate, was killed in an aircraft accident on Jan. 16 at the far too young age of 53. He was one of two people on a Piper that crashed shortly after taking off from Wiley Post Airport in Bethany, Oklahoma. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the accident.

We have received word that management representatives have been attempting to intimidate pilots who are complying with their obligations to take the time necessary to review new AOM procedures, including issuing Missed Trip (MT) removals. APA leadership stands by its pilots as they take all necessary steps to ensure that they are fully prepared to operate their flights safely. If you are removed from a trip because you exercised your right and responsibility to review the new AOM changes prior to departure, APA will support you, represent you, and advocate for you to be paid. APA will push back against management intimidation in any form.

American Airlines Flight Operations management is attempting to circumvent robust safety-related pilot training by unilaterally imposing operational changes via bulletin. While APA does not oppose fleet harmonization, we are steadfast in our commitment that pilots must be properly trained BEFORE operating with passengers. This training must be developed in a stakeholder safety culture that acknowledges and addresses concerns raised by APA.