IFALPA Conference Statement: Global Pilots on Deteriorating Labour Conditions in the Asian Region

MONTREAL & SINGAPORE–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA), the Global Voice of Pilots, held its 76th Conference in Singapore this week.

The Federation would like to draw global attention to deteriorating labour standards affecting pilots in many parts of Asia. Most States in the region have ratified International Labour Organization (ILO) fundamental Conventions 87 and 98: the Freedom of Association and the Right to Organize Convention, and the Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining Convention, respectively. Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Association, to form unions and engage in collective bargaining are guaranteed under these conventions.

The management of several national carriers and private airlines, generally supported by their States, continue to deny these basic rights through intimidation, threats, and unlawful dismissals of pilots and pilot union leaders. The eroding of the labour rights of pilots is a troubling tendency in the aviation industry worldwide.

This repressive labour environment coincides with a negative trend in positive safety culture. Active pilot participation within a healthy safety culture which respects open reporting of safety issues without fear of punitive measures has been identified as key to continuous safety improvements and effective safety risk management.

The IFALPA Conference calls on all airlines and the States in which they operate to respect the rights of pilots to free speech, to organize, and to bargain collectively. We insist upon the immediate reinstatement of all pilots and pilot leaders who have been unjustly terminated for exercising these rights.

Note to Editors:

The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations represents more than 100,000 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.

©2022 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.
Contacts
Emily Bitting, Senior Communications Specialist, emilybitting@ifalpa.org