Flying the Line
Summary: Recount an exciting chapter in aviation history and the beginnings of the Air Line Pilots Association, the world’s largest pilot union and nongovernmental air safety organization, through an abridged retelling of the book by George E. Hopkins, ”Flying the Line.” Volume 1 narrated by Corey Kuhn. Volume 2 narrated by Gina Leahy.
- Visit Website
- RSS
- Artist: Air Line Pilots Association, International
- Copyright: Copyright 2019-2023 All rights reserved, Air Line Pilots Association, International
Podcasts:
The Airmail Pilots' Strike of 1919 was one of the earliest organized actions taken by pilots. This 4-day strike led to concessions by Post Office management to eliminate the practice of "weather pushing" and to increase safety for airmail pilots. The roots of modern-day pilots' unions can be traced back to this important event in aviation history.
This week, we’ll hear about how the deadly practice of “pilot pushing” played a huge role in Capt. David Behncke’s drive to organize his fellow brother pilots.
This week, hear about the 24 "key men" who saw themselves as good "company men" but were labeled as "troublemakers" by their airline management. ALPA's Key Men faced much opposition from both management and other line pilots, but persevered in their work for labor protections, safe working conditions, and benefits, all of which are enjoyed by ALPA members today.
ALPA has a long history of accomplishments from organizing and bargaining to critical improvements in aviation safety and security . . . but how did it all start? Join us in retracing the fascinating and, at times, tragic journey of ALPA’s history in our new podcast, Flying the Line! Flying the Line chronicles the time before labor protections, safe working environments, and employee benefits that we enjoy as commercial pilots today. It’s the story of Capt. Behncke and his 24 “Key Men” joining together to form ALPA, fighting their opponents every step of the way.
