IFALPA, The Global Voice of Pilots, Opens Conference in Mexico City
10 Mayo 2024 - 2:20PM
Business Wire
The 78th Conference of the International Federation of Air Line
Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) opened today in Mexico City. Hosted
by IFALPA and ASPA de México, the Conference brings together the
IFALPA Executive Board and hundreds of pilot leaders representing
their national Member Associations from all regions of the world to
deliberate on crucial decisions for the Federation and present key
activities and campaigns.
Invited to provide a State of the industry, Mr. Christopher
Barks, ICAO Regional Director North American, Central American, and
Caribbean discussed the history and 80th anniversary of ICAO,
problems and issues around the introduction of the concepts of
Reduced Crew Operations, (RCO), and Single Pilot Operations (SiPO),
new challenges of integration of new UAS+ technologies and
stakeholders into shared airspace, and meteorological issues and
turbulence in the context of climate change.
Highlighting the importance of IFALPA’s strategic partnerships
in the world of work, Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the
International Labour Organization (ILO) addressed the opening
plenary underscoring the unprecedented challenges faced by the
aviation sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic and highlighting the
need for sustainable and just recovery policies. Emphasizing the
importance of collaboration between the ILO and ICAO to ensure a
green and inclusive future for aviation, Houngbo closed with
hopeful words; “I would like to welcome you onboard as we aim to
cruise at the higher altitude to attain a better social justice for
all."
Cpt Gilberto Lopez Meyer, Senior Vice-President, Corporate
Safety and Security for Aeromexico explained; “The voice of
pilots is essential – we need to reinforce the participation of
IFALPA in all international fora… but we must strive for equal
levels of safety and security in all regions in the world – not
just the more resourced and developed areas. IFALPA has been doing
a good job focusing on this and must continue to do so.”
Captain Humberto Gual-Angeles, Secretary General of ASPA de
México welcomed the Global Pilot Community to Mexico City and
delivered an inspiring speech to the crowd. He underscored the
vital importance of international collaboration and the power of
pilot solidarity; “It is important to recognize that, in an
industry as complex and constantly evolving as aviation, unity and
collaboration between unions, organizations, and governments is
essential to ensure sustainable growth and safe
operations.”
IFALPA President Cpt Amornvaj (Ben) Mansumitchai delivered his
State of the Federation address and officially opened the
Conference; “As I reflect on this past year, it is evident that
with these opportunities also comes a significant responsibility to
ensure accountability and transparency in all our actions. I am
immensely proud of the progress we have made together and remain
committed to guiding IFALPA towards continued success in the
future.”
Some of these great achievements are addressed in the Year in
Review report highlighting several significant events and messages
championed by the Federation. Thought not exhaustive, it emphasizes
the potency and impact of the Global Voice of Pilots on a worldwide
scale.
The IFALPA Conference marks a year characterized by steady
advancement within the Federation, emphasizing enhancements in
administration, membership, financial operations, and the
fine-tuning of strategic objectives. Moreover, there have been
concentrated efforts to advance technical initiatives and
strengthen ties with stakeholders, including increased engagement
at ICAO and tailored support for Member Associations on industrial
matters.
Amidst these developments, the commitment to promoting global
aviation safety and advocacy for pilots remains unwavering.
Celebrating its 76th anniversary as the Global Voice of Pilots,
IFALPA continues its mission to offer representation, services, and
support to its members and the broader aviation sector.
Note to Editors:
The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations
represents more than 120,000 pilots in nearly 100 countries. The
mission of IFALPA is to promote the highest level of aviation
safety worldwide and to be the global advocate of the piloting
profession, providing representation, services, and support to both
our members and the aviation industry.
©2024 The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’
Associations. This publication is provided for information purposes
only, in all cases pilots should follow their company’s guidance
and procedures. In the interest of flight safety, reproduction of
this publication in whole or in part is encouraged. It may not be
offered for sale or used commercially. All reprints must credit
IFALPA.
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Emily Bitting, Senior Communications Specialist,
emilybitting@ifalpa.org