American Air Pilots Report ‘Significant Increase’ in Safety Concerns

The Allied Pilots Association, representing about 15,000 American Airlines Group Inc. pilots, has issued a warning to its members about a concerning increase in safety- and maintenance-related issues at the carrier. In a memo sent on April 13, the union highlighted troubling trends such as tools being left in airplane wheel wells and an uptick in collisions between aircraft during towing.

The union urged pilots to prioritize safety over speed and not succumb to any pressure to compromise on safety measures. This warning comes amidst a broader focus on airline safety, following incidents like a panel blowing off an Alaska Airlines plane mid-flight and various mishaps at United Airlines Holdings Inc.

The APA emphasized that American Airlines could easily find itself under similar scrutiny if safety issues persist. The union has engaged with senior management at the carrier to address safety risks and ensure strong safety protocols are maintained.

In addition to the issues highlighted by the union, the Federal Aviation Administration has increased oversight of United Airlines, delaying certain activities as part of a safety review. Boeing Co. is also facing scrutiny over its manufacturing practices, with the FAA investigating alleged shortcuts taken on the 787 Dreamliner.

The aviation industry is under heightened scrutiny, and it is crucial for airlines to prioritize safety measures to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.