The 78th Conference of the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) opened on Friday, 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."