the history of the pre-flight checklistthe history of the pre-flight checklist how one man helped...

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The History of the Pre-flight Checklist

How one man helped ensure the safety of the entire aviation industry

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J u m p t o e a c h s e c t i o n B e l o w b y c l i c k i n g o n t h e t i t l e o r p h o t o.

24 36

28 40

30 Also Featuring:Letter from the Publisher

Aviator Bulletins

Common Podiatry Problems Experienced by Cabin Crew

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10

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August 2019 | 5

LegacyAlaska Airlines

American Airlines

Delta Air Lines

Hawaiian Airlines

United Airlines

MajorAllegiant Air

Frontier Airlines

JetBlue Airways

Southwest Airlines

Spirit Airlines

Sun Country Airlines

Virgin America

CargoABX Air

Ameriflight

Atlas Air

FedEx Express

Kalitta Air

Omni Air

UPS

RegionalAir Wisconsin

Cape Air

Compass Airlines

Corvus Airways

CommutAir

Endeavor Air

Envoy

ExpressJet Airlines

GoJet Airlines

Horizon Air

Island Air

Mesa Airlines

Republic Airways

Seaborne Airlines

Skywest Airlines

Silver Airways

Trans States Airlines

PSA Airlines

Piedmont Airlines

the grid

The Flight Attendant Grid 66

General InformationWork RulesAdditional Compensation Details

The Mainline Grid 50Legacy, Major, Cargo & International Airlines

General InformationWork RulesAdditional Compensation DetailsAirline Base Map

The Regional Grid 58

General InformationWork RulesAdditional Compensation DetailsAirline Base Map

New Airline Updated Flight Attendant

Aero Crew News & LogTen Pro Photo Contest

Winning photo on Aero Crew News Cover & 3 Years LogTen Pro!

Wanna Join In? See Details Below!

Grand Prize: $100 usd, a 3 year subscription to LogTen Pro and your

photo on the November 2019 cover of Aero Crew News!

Second Prize: $75 usd and a 2 year subscription to LogTen Pro

Third Prize: $50 usd and a 1 year subscription to LogTen Pro

Prizes 4 through 10: An #EveryFlightCounts t-shirt

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Shortlist chosen by Aero Crew News/Coradine early September.

Public vote on shortlisted entries will occur late September, 2019

with winners chosen in October 2019.

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Your comments are always welcome at [email protected].

I am constantly amazed at the amount of information that we have been able to

provide to our readers – from history lessons to the future of aviation! This month,

we feature the story of Major Ployer P. Hill, the grandfather of a friend to my father.

My father, Delos Pieper, meet Doug Hill in 1974, when both served in United States

Air Force 15th Military Airlift Squadron at Norton Air Force Base in California. By 1979

they had transitioned into the United States Air Force Reserve 728th MAS. My father

was hired by Continental Airlines in 1978 and was able to help Doug be hired in 1979.

Unfortunately, both were furloughed within a couple of years and after several years

of airline struggles in the early 2000s, my father retired from Continental Airlines in

2007. Doug retired from United Airlines in 2014.

As a young child, I meet Doug, but my memory of our meeting is vague. But, a few

years ago, I started to get to know Doug as he was instrumental in my own aviation

career. From him, I learned the story of his grandfather’s contribution to aviation.

During my primary flight training, I remember my flight instructor telling me that

FARs are “written in blood.” Major Hill’s story is proof of the metaphor. Flight control

checks are part of every flight and we can remember the ultimate sacrifice Doug’s

grandfather made to advance aviation safety.

Plus, I’m calling on all photographers! Aero Crew News and LogTen Pro have

joined forces to gather your best shots for our photo contest. The winning photo will

be presented on Aero Crew News’ cover, garner a $100 cash prize and five years of

LogTen Pro! Second through 10th places earn prizes too! See full details here.

Fly safe,

Craig D. Pieper

About the Publisher

Craig Pieper is the Publisher and Founder of Aero Crew News. Craig obtained his Bachelors of Science in Aeronautical Science, along with a minor in Aviation Weather, from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2001. Craig is also a First Officer for a major airline with a type rating in the Boeing 737 & Embraer 145 and has logged over 8,000 hours of flying time since his introductory flight on November 14th, 1992.

Dear readers,

Craig D. Pieper

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August 2019 | 9

Last month, Aero Crew News is pleased to feature some terrific good news from the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals. Learn about its history, growth and the good works the organization does to promote education and careers throughout our industry. Squall Lines explains the frightening profile of the derecho weather phenomenon. I witnessed my first and only during AirVenture some years ago. It was truly unforgettable and did a lot of damage to planes and displays. On the health and fitness front, we present a number of resources for better crews. Our Fitness column introduces you to five invaluable resources to help with diet, exercise and mental health. We also bring you the story of an emerging vocation – aviation podiatry. You might be thinking, “It’s about time!” There is an interesting article titled, Achieving Perfection in Sport that examines a couple of Eastern philosophies that can be the foundation for accomplishing goals in sport or other endeavors. This month’s Perspectives column is about embracing today’s boom in aviation with the warning that it can’t, it won’t last forever. And, as always, the Money column contains valuable suggestions for advancing your wealth for today and into the future. We always welcome your ideas for articles, columns or products that can enrich the lives of those whose “office” is miles above the rest. Write us anytime at [email protected].

To view this and previous issues, visit our archive at aerocrewnews.com/category/issues/

CREDITS

July 2019

© 2019 Aero Crew News, All Rights Reserved.

Publisher / Founder Craig Pieper

Aero Crew Solutions, CEOScott Rehn

Editor Deborah Bandy

Layout Design Michelle Harvey

Additional Contributors Robbie Gomez, Reini Thijssen,

James C. Knapp, Anthony Lorenti,Meredith Edwards, Margaret Grace,

Aviator Bulletins Provided by the companies

Photographs By Photographs as noted.

Grid Updates Email: [email protected]

Social Media Marketing By Aero Crew Marketing

Nate Racine, Tyler SuttonAerocrewsolutions.com/marketing

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AVIATOR BULLETINS

United Airlines Flies 787 Dreamliner With All-female Crew to World's Largest AirshowAirline reaffirms commitment to women in aviation at EAA AirVenture

Photos provided by United Airlines

August 2019 | 11

United flew a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crewed exclusively by women to the largest airshow in the world, EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, to symbolize the airline's commitment to supporting women in aviation. Joining the pilots and flight attendants onboard this historic flight were nearly 100 other women representing a variety of United's workgroups such as Airport Operations, Inflight Services, Flight Operations, Technical Operations, Network Operations and more.

"Women are in critical leadership roles across United and what better way to demonstrate our commitment to women in aviation than arriving with more than 100-strong at the largest airshow in the world," said Linda Jojo, executive vice

president of technology and chief digital officer. "We are proud of our strong legacy of supporting women in this field, but

we are also excited to be a part of shaping the future of aviation so that it includes even more women."

Upon arrival in Oshkosh, United female crew members and leadership met with EAA GirlVenture campers, approximately

70 female high school students interested in aviation, to discuss pursuing careers in the field and to tour the aircraft. The

airline's Chief System Pilot Bebe O'Neil later announced an additional scholarship for aspiring female aviators at the Women

in Aviation Luncheon. United has supported the Women in Aviation International Conference for more than a quarter of a

century and annually provides scholarships to women pursuing careers as pilots.

Today's initiative demonstrates United's longstanding

commitment to supporting women in aviation such as

employing the most female pilots of any major airline

and as the first and only commercial airline to sponsor

an all-female technicians team in the international

aerospace skills competition. In 2018, United held Girls

in Aviation Day events in a record number of 12 locations

around the world, and has plans to add even more

locations this coming fall. ACN


AVIATOR BULLETINS

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: 133 female airline pilots, members of the International Society of Women Airline Pilots from around the world at Sydney Airport on May 8, 2019. The organization, 615 members strong, gathered in Sydney for their annual conference,

this year hosted by Qantas. The International Society of Women Airline Pilots (ISA+21) was formed in 1978 as a social organization to inspire, educate, and support women whose career goal is to be an airline pilot. ISA offers scholarships to promote the

advancement of women in the world’s airline flight decks. There are only 2405 female captains, 1.45% worldwide. (Photo by James D. Morgan/Getty Images for the International Society of Women Airline Pilots)

The International Society of Women Airline Pilots Cites CFRs

August 2019 | 13

“Airplane design, pilot training, and federal regulations are what drive safety; not gender, size, or physical strength. There should not be any flight control system on a modern airplane that any person who is qualified cannot overcome and fly.”Captain Tara Cook, Chairwoman ISA+21, www.iswap.com

CFR 25.253 (U.S. Code of Federal Regulations) High-speed characteristics: ...it must be shown that the airplane can be

recovered to a normal attitude and its speed reduced to VMO/MMO, without exceptional piloting strength or skill. Read

the full code here.

The International Society of Women Airline Pilots has 615 members representing 25 countries and 90 airlines.

Women represent only 8950 of the 180,000 airline pilots worldwide, a mere 5.01%. Our goal is to increase those

numbers through scholarships, education, and mentoring. Since its inception in 1978, ISA has given away over $1.4 million

in ratings and cash awards to women whose career goal is to become an airline pilot. ACN

PROFESSIONAL PILOTS OF TOMORROW

Professional Pilots of Tomorrow is a mentor program comprised of volunteers and designed to assist up-and-coming pilots make informed decisions regarding which regional airline will best suit their needs.

Our aim is to provide confidential, insightful, and unbiased mentoring to pilots by more experience and seasoned professional pilots from the airlines throughout the aviation industry.

We’ve created an environment where aspiring pilots are well prepared to make the critical early career and lifestyle choices unique to the aviation industry.

Visit our website, and fill out the “interested pilot” formJOIN US!

Free mentor program • Unbiased info • Connect to a growing network

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There’s still a lot of progress to make, and we’re ready for the challenge.

The NGPA is a leader in helping aviators, whether it’s through career enhancement, advocating

for civil rights, or having killer networking and social events. We’ve given away over $255,000 to

aspiring aviators to further their education. We welcome everyone, gay or straight, to join us and

S E E W H A T W E C A N A C H I E V E T O G E T H E R .

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There’s still a lot of progress to make, and we’re ready for the challenge.

The NGPA is a leader in helping aviators, whether it’s through career enhancement, advocating

for civil rights, or having killer networking and social events. We’ve given away over $255,000 to

aspiring aviators to further their education. We welcome everyone, gay or straight, to join us and

S E E W H A T W E C A N A C H I E V E T O G E T H E R .

THE WORLD’S LARGEST NETWORK OF LGBT AVIATORS AND ENTHUSIASTS

J O I N T H E G L O B A L L G B T A V I A T I O N C O M M U N I T Y A T N G P A . O R G

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AVIATOR BULLETINS

Desert Jet Founder Denise Wilson Announced as Chairman of the Board and Appoints Jared Fox as the Company’s New Chief Executive Officer

Palm Springs, California, July 10, 2019 – Leading business aviation services company Desert Jet announces its founder and current Chief Executive Officer, Denise Wilson, will transition to the new role of Chairman of the Board for Desert Jet Holdings, the parent company of all Desert Jet entities. The company also announces the appointment of business aviation industry veteran Jared Fox to the position of Desert Jet’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2019.

Denise Wilson founded Desert Jet in 2007 as an aircraft

management company. The company added charter operations

via part 135 certification in 2009 and, over the next several years,

Denise would lead the company to rank on the Inc. 500 list of the

nation’s fastest growing, privately owned companies, successfully

maintaining this position for five consecutive years.

In 2013, Desert Jet was recognized as one of the 50 Fastest Growing

Women Owned companies globally. The success of the company’s charter

and management platform led to the launch of Desert Jet Maintenance,

which earned its part 145 certification that same year. The company

has since earned the highest industry safety ratings to include ARG/US

Platinum, Wyvern Wingman and IS-BAO Stage III.

In 2015, Desert Jet Center was formed and FBO (Fixed Base

Operators) operations commenced the following year in temporary

facilities. Construction began on a new 5-acre state-of-the-art

aviation facility at the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport in

Thermal/Palm Springs, California. Desert Jet Center is the independent operator on the field and holds the highest safety

ratings of any FBO in the region, to include NATA Safety 1st and IS-BAH stage II. The FBO continually receives the highest

customer service ratings in the region as indicated by leading industry resource sites and popular online review sites.

In her new position as Chairman of the Board, Denise will focus on the strategic growth of the Desert Jet companies to

include acquisition opportunities.

“It’s been an incredibly fulfilling experience to have had the opportunity to grow these businesses - literally

Jared Fox Photo provided by Desert Jet

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from nothing - and to also have played a part in the

development of so many aviation careers”, said Denise.

“Now that we are preparing to open the Desert Jet

Center terminal, the time is right for me to announce my

successor in leading Desert Jet. I’m thrilled to have Jared

Fox come onboard as Desert Jet’s new CEO. I plan to be a

resource for Jared as he leads Desert Jet and I look forward

to seeing him continue our growth by adding to an already

amazing team of aviation professionals.”

Jared Fox brings more than 20 years of broad

experience in business and general aviation to Desert Jet

having served in various leadership positions such as Vice

President, Sales Manager and Airport Manager. Jared was

chosen for his business acumen, strong leadership ability

and deep experience in charter and FBO operations. He is

a Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) and an instrument rated

commercial pilot.

Jared stated, “The Desert Jet team and company culture

are like no other in business and private aviation. I’ve been

a big fan for years and jumped at the opportunity to lead

the team. I look forward to growing the charter, maintenance

and FBO businesses into the premier aviation service

company on the West Coast”.

With its newly appointed Chief Executive Officer in

place and nearing completion of its new FBO facility and

headquarters, Desert Jet will be focused on expanding its

workforce and accelerating the growth with all its business

entities. ACN

http://bit.ly/2Ymugat


Jet Linx Launches Updated Mobile AppWith FlightsharingOpenSeat Exchange Enables Clients To Buy & Sell Empty Seats

Jet Linx, a jet card membership and private jet management company with 18 Base locations nationwide, today announced the release of the latest version of its Mobile App, featuring an innovative new flightsharing program called OpenSeat Exchange. Available exclusively on the updated Jet Linx Mobile App, OpenSeat Exchange offers aircraft owners and members the ability to buy or sell empty seats on Jet Linx flights on a per-seat basis.

"We are thrilled to provide our 2,000 jet card

members and 115 aircraft owners with an innovative new

app feature designed to further improve, enrich and

elevate the Jet Linx private jet travel experience," said

Jamie Walker, President & CEO of Jet Linx. "In 2018, there

were over 40,000 empty seats on Jet Linx flights. OpenSeat

Exchange is a solution that gives our clients the ability to

buy and sell these empty seats on a per-flight, per-seat

basis. It's a secure, trusted, peer-to-peer exchange of

open seats within the Jet Linx community."

OpenSeat Exchange is just the latest feature added to

the Jet Linx Mobile App, which already features the ability

to book private jets in real-time at guaranteed hourly

rates, quote future trips, arrange catering and ground

AVIATOR BULLETINS

Photos provided by Jet Linx

August 2019 | 19

transportation, make flight manifest changes, view and

book empty one-way flights at below market pricing, and

receive Jet Linx news and updates. The Mobile App, which

truly puts the control of private jet travel in the palm of a

client's hand, further evidences the Company's commitment

to providing the industry's finest service and experience.

Jet Linx has become the preeminent jet card

membership and private jet management company in the

United Statesdue to its unique and innovative business

model that offers a more personalized approach to

guaranteed private jet travel solutions through individual,

city-specific, local services that are supported by a

national operation and robust technology platform. Jet

Linx is also committed to delivering the highest safety

standards in the private aviation industry. Just last

month, Jet Linx conducted its third annual Safety Summit,

voluntarily grounding its fleet of aircraft nationwide to

bring together all of its 500-plus employees to focus on

the organization's safety standards. ACN


AVIATOR BULLETINS

Envoy and Air Line Pilots Association Reach Deal to Increase Pilot Pay and Enhance Career AdvancementEnvoy Pilots Flow Faster to American

Envoy Air Inc., the largest wholly owned regional airline subsidiary of American Airlines Group (AAG), announced that the carrier has reached an agreement with the Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA) that significantly increases pilot pay rates and offers more rapid career progression to American Airlines.

Highlights of the new pay package include pay scale increases of up to 30 percent for First Officers, with a starting

base pay rate of $50.21 per hour. Captains can expect pay scale increases of up to 15%, depending on aircraft type and

length of service. All new pay rates are retroactive to June 1, 2019, with pilots to receive another scheduled contractual

increase on Jan. 1, 2020.

As a wholly owned subsidiary of American, Envoy pilots enjoy a unique flow-through agreement that provides a

direct path to fly for American, with no additional interview required.

“Envoy is the largest provider of American Eagle regional service for American and this agreement ensures that we

continue to offer our pilots the best path to a lifelong flying career,” said Dee Temples, Envoy Senior Vice President Air

Operations. “The agreement provides for higher flow-through rates, accelerating the timetable for most current and all

prospective new hire pilots to more quickly reach their ultimate destination at American Airlines.”

Envoy offers programs to provide its pilots the highest quality of life, including unlimited personal travel on the American

Airlines global network, AAG profit sharing, a generous commuter policy and preferred crew bases shared with American.

“My sincere thanks to the members of ALPA’s negotiating committee for their efforts to work collaboratively to reach a

deal that is both good for our pilots and for Envoy’s long-term competitiveness,” Temples added.

To learn more and join the Envoy team, call 972-374-5607 to speak to a recruiter or email [email protected].

ACN Photo provided by Envoy

http://[email protected]

August 2019 | 21

ExpressJet Airlines, a United Express Carrier, Announces New Chicago Embraer E175 Crew Base

ExpressJet Airlines, a United Express carrier, announced that it will open a flight crew base at Chicago O’Hare

International Airport (ORD) to support its growing fleet of new Embraer E175 aircraft.

“We’re excited to expand our E175 footprint to include Chicago O’Hare,” said Chairman and CEO Subodh Karnik.

“O’Hare is a highly desirable base for our crew members thanks to its easy connectivity, both for Chicago locals and for

those who commute in from other cities.”

ExpressJet began flying E175s in June and will expand its fleet to include 25 of the aircraft by year-end. It currently

has an E175 crew base at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

To support its rapid growth, ExpressJet is hiring more than 600 new pilots in 2019. ExpressJet pilots enjoy top

compensation, work rules and quality of life as well as a direct path to a flying career at United Airlines through the

United Career Path Program. Pilots who sign on with ExpressJet can expect a quick selection process, an immediate class

date, and to bid for flying within three months. Pilots interested in signing on with ExpressJet should apply at expressjet.

com/pilots or on airlineapps.com. ACN

AVIATOR BULLETINS

Photo provided by ExpressJet Airlines

http://expressjet.com/pilotshttp://expressjet.com/pilotshttp://airlineapps.com


AVIATOR BULLETINS

ExpressJet Airlines, a United Express carrier, announced this week that Gerhard Dupont has

joined the airline as Managing Director of Crew Resources. He will be responsible for leading

strategic planning and functional areas that support the airline’s 2,000 flight crew members.

Dupont joins ExpressJet with decades of airline experience. Most recently, he served as Managing Director of

Operations Logistics for Horizon Airlines, where he led teams responsible for workforce planning, long-term maintenance

planning, strategic planning and operations support. He also has network operations, crew planning and ground

operations experience from careers at Air Canada and Lufthansa.

“Gerhard is a strategic operations leader whose diverse experience will greatly benefit ExpressJet as we grow our fleet

with new Embraer E175s and hire record numbers of new pilots,” said Chairman and CEO Subodh Karnik. “We look forward

to his expertise, particularly in crew resource planning, driving greater reliability and efficiency into our operation.” ACN

ExpressJet Airlines, a United Express Carrier, Announces Gerhard Dupont as Managing Director of Crew Resources

CommutAir is celebrating its 30th year of operation on

August 1 at the ALB hangar, the anniversary of its inaugural flight

(August 1, 1989). The airline started with just two Beech 1900s in

Plattsburgh, NY.

In 2006, CommutAir upgraded to the 37-seat Bombardier

Dash-8 Q-200s, with pressurized cabins, lavatories, overhead

storage bins, and for the first time, flight attendants. By 2011, it

had added the 50-seet Dash-8 Q300 to the fleet. Just four years

later, CommutAir, dba United Express, announced the transition

from turboprop to jets.

The now all-jet fleet completed it’s 100,000 jet flight on July

8, 2019. C5 Flight 4885 made CommutAir history when it flew from

St. Louis to Newark with flight crew Captain Judith Van Aerden,

First Officer Garrick Smith, and FA Sue-Anne Broomes. ACN

30 Years, 100,000 Flights!

August 2019 | 23

Increased Demand for Captains Prompts CommutAir, a United Express® Carrier, To Increases Pilot Sign-On Bonus$50k and Immediate Captain Upgrades

CommutAir, a United Express regional airline, today announced it is increasing its sign-on bonus to $50,000 for

captain-qualified candidates.

“Our rapid growth continues to drive opportunities across our expanding operation with jet deliveries continuing,”

said Joel Raymond, Chief Operating Officer. “That rapid growth has increased our demand for experienced leaders in

the left seat— so much so that in addition to a $50,000 sign-on incentive, we are offering immediate upgrade slots for

captain-eligible pilots.”

As one of the fastest-growing regional airlines, CommutAir appeals to pilots who want to move up the seniority list

quickly. This also allows for shorter reserve times, so pilots are in the air, doing what they love, more often.

Qualified candidates entering captain training will see a total first-year benefits compensation package of up to

$122,000 and the ability to move quickly to a mainline carrier.

Through its Career Path Program, CommutAir proudly offers the fastest direct path to United Airlines, a minority

owner of the carrier. Pilots in the program have the opportunity to join the United flight deck in record time.

“Our shortest wait for a pilot going to United has been 2 year and 10 days, and we would love to have a new Captain

come in and beat this record” stated Laura Prince, Vice President of Human Resources. ACN


PERSPECTIVES

You did it! You spent countless hours working on your ratings, you built time like it was going out style, and you read every single gouge out there. After what seems like an eternity being grilled with questions you find out you passed your interview and got a CJO. What’s next?

After successfully completing your interview, many things will happen and they will happen fast. If you have not

already done so, your airline will have you fill out and submit PRIA paperwork. PRIA (Pilot Record Improvement Act)

paperwork are forms that authorize your prospective employer to obtain your flight records from both the FAA and your

previous aviation employers. When you receive this paperwork, it is imperative that you fill out the forms as quickly

and accurately as possible. The last thing you want is for your new employer to delay your start date because your

background and employment checks have not cleared. If you haven’t yet, create a document with employment verification

information for every single job you have ever had. Trust me, it will save you a headache down the road. Once all the

paperwork has been submitted, you will begin to prepare for the ATP/CTP course and your initial training.

Many people ask, “What do I need to do to prepare myself for the ATP/CTP course?” The answer: NOTHING, EXCEPT

PREPARE FOR THE ATP WRITTEN EXAM! The ATP/CTP course will help you get ready for the 121-world and the simulator

training will be fun, but it will do absolutely nothing to get you ready for the ATP written exam. About three to four weeks

prior to ATP/CTP, you should start preparing for the written (Shepard Air is an amazing test prep tool) and plan to show up

to ATP/CTP ready to take the test (though you won’t be able to take it until you are done). Showing up ready to take the

I Got a Job at My First Airline! … Now What?B y: R o b b i e G o m e z

August 2019 | 25

Robbie Gomez is an MCO-based pilot for PlaneSense flying the PC-12NG. Read more

About the Author

ATP Written Exam will save you a lot of stress during the

weeks long course, and will help you enjoy one of the few

non-jeopardy training courses you will have in your career

(aka, no checking event at the end).

Once you have passed your ATP Written, you will

begin getting ready for your initial training. At this point,

many people get so excited about getting started that

they spend hours online searching for information about

the type of plane they will be flying, company operations,

procedures, etc. This is one of the biggest mistakes you

can make in training. If you are a CFI, you know all about

primacy and the negative effects learning something

wrong the first time can have. Your airline may or may not

send you study materials prior to the first day of training.

If they do, it wouldn’t hurt to learn your limitations and

memory items, in addition to whatever other material

they have sent you. If they do not, enjoy the time off.

Use this time to get things at home squared away and

mentally prepare for the next three months. Coming

into training feeling refreshed and well rested is one of

the keys to success in the training world. The next few

months will require 110% of your focus and strangers to

the aviation world may not fully understand what this

entails. Explaining to your friends and family that the

following months will require you to be disconnected

from anything not pertaining to training will allow them

to figure out how they can better support you as you go

through training. Catch up on bills, ensure any payments

or recurring tasks are taken care of, and coordinate with

friends and family when it comes to taking care of your

household (if needed). It’ll put your mind at ease knowing

that everything at home is in shape thus allowing you to

really concentrate on the task at hand. If you are one of

the lucky few who live in the city where training will take

place and the airline offers you a hotel room, TAKE IT!

Home tends to have a lot of distractions and that is one

thing you do not want in any training environment.

It goes without saying, but at some point, you will have

to quit your current job. Though your employer probably

knows that you are leaving for the airlines, you must still

resign in a proper manner. Most companies require two

weeks written notice of resignation. If you are currently

working for a smaller company that you know will require

some time to find your replacement, give them as much

notice as possible, and offer to assist in finding your

replacement. If not, a two week notice should suffice. Be

sure to type your letter of resignation, and if possible, hand-

deliver it to your supervisor. When resigning, it is imperative

that you leave on good terms and not burn any bridges.

Aviation is a small world and you never know when you may

need your previous employer for references, favors or even

a job. It is recommended that you work your last day at your

previous job at least 1 week prior to ATP/CTP to allow time

for you to get all your ducks in a row.

Though it may feel like there is a lot to accomplish

prior to starting your 121 training, in the grand scheme

of things, there really isn’t. Like the good pilot you are,

preparing to start 121 training is as simple as staying

ahead of the airplane (except instead of an airplane, it’s

life that you are staying ahead of). Use time wisely to get

your affairs in order, and life in the schoolhouse will be a

little less hectic than you anticipate. ACN

http://Read more: https://www.aerocrewnews.com/author/robbiegomez/

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FITNESS

1. Communicate openly and creatively Especially on a trip, it is important that you maintain continual dialogue to be up-to-date with one another’s lives.

A lot of couples forget to stay connected. It can be as easy as wishing your partner a good morning and good night. For

long-distance couples, even the most trivial details about our daily lives can become the connection. “How was work?

What did you have for dinner?” Mix it up with pictures, videos or voice messages during the day to create a context

of your daily life. It might come in handy to refer to during a phone call or Skype-session later that day. Don’t think

of the details as boring. The days of sky-high costs to call home are over, so there is really no excuse. Keep general

communication with your spouse/partner your top priority at all times.

B y R e i n i T h i j s s e n

Working in the aviation industry and frequently traveling for work, could eventually cause conflicting feelings. While you are proud of your career and excited about the adventures on the road, being away from home for a prolonged period can put stress on you and your love life. However, when you are sharing your life with the right person, it can be an opportunity. Be aware that these tips can have a positive impact to help you remain close to each other, even when the distance is far.

Five Essential Tips to Maintain (maybe enhance) Your Relationship While on Trips

August 2019 | 29

2. Synchronize schedules Whatever state, country or time zone you might be

in, there is always a way to make conversation work with

the home front. Inform where you are, what your schedule

looks like and what time would be best to (video) call if

there is no time for spontaneous communication.

Be sure to choose a mutually convenient schedule

to prevent frustration. When you’ve promised to call at a

certain time, make sure to call. Set a reminder on your phone

or share your agenda. In the event a work-related event

intervenes with your appointment, give your better half a

heads-up and reschedule. This will be much appreciated!

3. Keep the romance alive However routine it may sound, planned dates are

crucial to a long-distance relationship to make the best

of the situation. And when you’re away from home for

an extended time it is extra important to make the effort

to keep the romance alive. There are countless ways to

show affection. Be imaginative. Though you can’t take your

partner on a date, current technology and some creativity

can go a long way. Who doesn’t like to receive a gift every

once in a while? Send a gift from their favorite retailer, write

postcards, order flowers from the local florist or even arrange

a pizza delivery on a rainy day. Listen for clues when you’re

together that you can implement when you’re away.

Meet whenever possible. If your budget and schedule

allow, bring your significant other along on one of your trips.

Extend your stay and make memories together. When you’re

within a reasonable driving distance, consider a visit home

and schedule a date. Success guaranteed.

4. Pursue activities alone AND together It is essential that you keep a routine to maintain your

own hobbies, social life and interests while you’re away on

a trip. Spending time apart can enhance your time together.

Your individual activities enrich who you are and provide

stories to share when you’re together. When you pursue your

interests away from home, you’ll likely be less homesick too.

While it might sound counterintuitive, it is possible

to pursue shared goals even when you are thousands of

miles apart. Plan to watch the same TV series or movies

and maybe text if your watch time is the same; listen to

podcasts and share playlists; train for a 10K run; join an

online photography challenge together. The possibilities

are varied and available, if you just do a little creative

research. Pursuing goals together and separately

will create intimacy and stimulate a wider range of

conversation topics.

5. Stay positive All relationships require attention and energy, and

our aviation lifestyle affords an extra challenge. Cognitive

reframing is a useful approach in this situation and many

other difficult life events. It is crucial to stay positive and

thankful for the relationship you have with your partner.

Instead of drowning in sorrow while apart, focus on how

this lifestyle can help you grow stronger together. Multiple

studies have proved that couples who spend significant

time apart enjoy more balanced perceptions of their

relationships and even appreciate their partners more

than geographically co-located couples. Comparable

research even shows that long distance relationships are

as successful or may be even more successful! ACN

Reini Thijssen is an Dutch certified life coach and avid traveler. Read More...

About the Author

https://www.aerocrewnews.com/author/ReiniThijssen/


MONEY

Making Financial Sense B y: Ja m e s C . K n a p p, A I F ®

August 2019 | 31

A common goal. we all likely share, is the desire to experience a long and fruitful life. To work towards this goal, you must have a strong foundation in every aspect of your life (e.g. health, emotional, social, financial, etc.). I cannot assist in developing your workout routines; though I can provide an educational foundation that can be the

backbone of your financial independence. This knowledge works to empower you to feel confident in developing your

personal financial wealth.

“Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.”

---Henry David Thoreau

For investors’ long-term wealth survival, I believe a top priority should be protecting those investable assets from

large, unrecoverable losses. This protection is vital as studies have shown employed people expect to work later in life.

Unfortunately, many do not continue to work as planned. The 2018 Retirement Confidence Survey by the Employee Benefit

Research Institute (EBRI)/Greenwald found that 48% of retirements occur earlier than planned with most reasons given

for early retirement were involuntary (e.g. health problems, disability, changes at the company or could afford to retire

early).1 This survey also found that 79% of workers expect to work for pay after they retire; though only 34% of retirees

have worked since they retired. 2 Negative returns and high volatility are typically destructive to wealth building. I suggest

seeking strategies focused on ways that aim to preserve your hard-earned assets.

According to the 2018 IRI Fact Book’s “A Guide to Information, Trends, and Data in the Retirement Income Industry,”

there are over 75% of retirement savings in Individual Retirement Savings accounts compared to under 25% in Private

Pension Plans.3 This retirement dynamic of fading income-based plans (e.g. defined benefit plans) and increased reliance

on personal accounts (e.g. IRAs) adds substantial risk to one’s income strategy given the investor is responsible for

making the investment allocation decisions and producing their own returns.

From my experience, guiding clients transitioning from an investment strategy (aka working years and wanting to grow

your assets) to a withdrawal strategy (aka retirement years and wanting an income stream similar to a monthly paycheck),

you will feel losses more than you will feel gains. Painful feelings may impair you from making rational decisions during

times of market volatility.


Developing and refining your own discipline to manage risk is

important. Please be aware that no measure of risk management is

perfect every time. Though having a process to manage risk is better

than not having one at all.

I have found that by working to reduce the level of volatility

within an investment account(s), investors adhere emotionally to the

discipline they’ve developed over time. By sticking with your strategy

allows the benefits of compounding interest to take effect.

“Compound interest is the 8th Wonder of the World.”

---Albert Einstein

Large amounts of data points and market signals are constantly

being released from various global sources. Investors will have

different interpretations of these data and market signals. I believe

investors should consider reallocating to various asset classes that

they believe may have a higher probability of going up given their

expected future market conditions.

“It’s not what you look at that matters. It’s what you see.”

---Henry David Thoreau

Rather than trying to predict future market movements, focus on

risk. For investors, understanding investment risk is a vital concept

as it is a function of loss. For example, the more portfolio risk that

is taken, the greater the loss may be when markets move negatively.

We tackle this phenomenon by applying educated assumptions in an

attempt to avoid catastrophic damage over time. This is in the same

vein of virtually every professional field; e.g. a surgeon speaking to

probabilities, not certainties. These potential outcomes are based

on historical data and events, statistics, trends, sentiment, etc., in an

effort to control portfolio risk and avoid permanent loss of capital.

August 2019 | 33

The chart below may serve as an example of using historical data aiding an investor’s broader context investment

strategy. It is important to avoid relying solely on one data point, chart, statistic, etc. I would suggest using multiple

trusted sources as you work to develop your investment strategy.

An investor’s thought-process, interpreting and applying information, can be extremely fruitful in managing

investment risk. An investor’s risk management strategy plays a large part in determining how to proceed.

Big Starts to a Year Can Produce Weak Results Going Forward

(LPL Financial, Tracking #1-850390)


Below are a few data points to consider. How do you interpret them and how do you integrate them to your

investment risk management process?

• There have been 4 rate-hike cycles initiated by the Federal Reserve (Fed) over the last 25 years, including the

most recent cycle that has included 9 rate-hikes from 12/15/15 to 12/19/18, i.e. the “last rate hike” took place

6 months ago. The 3 previous Fed rate-hike cycle flipped from its “last rate hike” to its “first rate cut” after 5

months (July 1995), 7 ½ months (January 2001) and 15 months (September 2007).4

• Net farm income in the United States (total gross income in excess of total expenses) is projected to be $69.4

billion in 2019, down 44% from its peak level of $123.4 in 2013.5

• The USA has reported an unemployment rate lower than the April 2019 jobless rate of 3.6% only 17 times since

January 1954, equal to just 2% of the preceding 783 months.6

• Between 1950 and 2018, the U.S. population doubled from 159.1 million to 332.8 million while the number of

Americans at least age 65 quadrupled from 12.8 million to 52.4 million.7

• From 1950 to 2018, the life expectancy of a 65-year-old American male has increased from 12.8 years to 18.1

years, i.e. an increase of 64 months. From 1950 to 2018, the life expectancy of a 65-year-old American female has

increased from 15.1 years to 20.6 years, i.e. an increase of 66 month.8

• A 65-year old American couple has a 48% chance that at least one of them will live to age 90, i.e. at least a 25-

year life expectancy.9

• An estimated 10,400 Americans will turn 65 years old each day this year (2019). This group represents the 9th year of 19

years of “Baby Boomers” turning age 65. An estimated 11,500 Americans will turn 65 years old day in the year 2029.10

1,2 Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI)/Greenwald, The 2018 Retirement Confidence Survey, Fact Sheet #2, 20183 “A Guide to Information, Trends, and Data in the Retirement Income Industry,” IRI Fact Book, 20184 U.S. Federal Reserve5 United States Department of Agriculture6 Unites States Department of Labor7 Social Security 2019 Trustees Report 8,9 Social Security Administration10 United States Government Accountability Administration

August 2019 | 35

James C. Knapp founded Knapp Advisory Group to help professionals and retirees make informed decisions with their financial affairs. Read More...

About the Author

If you need help, email [email protected] or learn more at www.KNAPPADVISORY.com.

James C. Knapp, AIF®

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index is a capitalization-weighted index of 500 stocks designed to measure performance of the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks representing all major industries.

“Big Starts to a Year Can Produce Weak Results Going Forward” disclosures:Date 1950 – 05/03/2019Performance shown is price returns ex dividends.Past performance is no guarantee of future results. All indexes are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly.

The modern design of the S&P 500 stock index was first launched in 1957. Performance back to 1950 incorporates the performance of predecessor index, the S&P 90.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

The economic forecasts may not develop as predicted.

Investing involves risk including loss of principal.

All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, LPL Financial makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. ACN

mailto:JAMES.KNAPP%40KNAPPADVISORY.COM?subject=mailto:JAMES.KNAPP%40KNAPPADVISORY.COM?subject=http://www.KNAPPADVISORY.com


SQUALL LINE

“Express 4121, you’re the first to go...”

August 2019 | 37

Pathfinding in Convective Weather – Who wants to go first?B y A n t h o n y L o r e n t i

The term pathfinding, as it relates to convective weather and air traffic, is one I have not come across in any FAA literature I have reviewed, but it is a routine practice. ATC uses pathfinding to assess breaks in areas of convection by sending aircraft through these gaps. It’s meant to help the flow of traffic in and out of terminal areas.

You’re number 30 for takeoff. So, here we are, 30 planes deep in the lineup. The weather has shut down all the departure and arrival fixes. Then

miraculously, you get called to the head of the line. Do you know why you’ve been pushed to the front? It’s possibly

because you have been chosen to be the pathfinder. To my way of thinking, you should probably know if your aircraft, i.e.,

you as PIC, have been decreed pathfinder through the muck.

I am aware of no requirement that we be informed when we are elected to make a test -run. I find that to be an

issue. I have heard controllers tell the crew they are going to be pathfinders, but what if they don’t tell you? Consider the

scenario of unwittingly and unknowingly being anointed pathfinder with no more than a cursory awareness of the current

weather picture. This could be quite the recipe for problems ahead!

The main point to remember here is that you’re foraging into new territory. You’re going somewhere in which you will

be giving the first PIREP. In this regard, you need to clarify why you’ve moved to the head of the line and if it’s because

they have chosen you to be a pathfinder. Once you know you’re in this position, you can strengthen your mental model,

with respect to the weather conditions, and compare your assessment to what awaits aloft. Likely, you’ll tighten your belt

and sit the flight attendants. Remember, you can also decline.

What goes into the decision to launch a pathfinder?Simply, I think we should all ask, “Who decides a gap in weather is sufficient to fly through and what are the

quantitative measurements for such determination?” ATC professionals, who have a safety mindset are the ones

making the decisions. So more importantly, the question becomes, “What are the quantitative measurements and other

standards for these determinations?” Are pathfinding aircraft being held to their air carrier’s SOP on thunderstorm

avoidance? Is it a ten-mile gap in the weather? Is it a 20-mile gap? If someone in the ATC world is reading this, please

chime in. We truly want to know for our own edification.


Your willingness to be a pathfinder comes from your knowledge that:• As the one chosen, your knowledge of given weather conditions Is sufficient to be taking on this endeavor. This

all falls on your responsibilities as the PIC and crew. Regardless of any short comings to this practice, the ball of

responsibility rests with you. You need to know all you can about the weather you’re getting into. The better your

understanding of the weather, the better the outcome of this endeavor.

• Additionally, and most importantly, it is your prerogative as the PIC/crew to accept or decline this role. You are not

obligated. You don’t have to be defensive should you wish to say no. One word should suffice. “Unable.” But, you can’t

make that decision if you are unaware that you have been chosen. If you suspect as much, ask. ATC is obligated to give

you whatever information you request.

August 2019 | 39

Anthony Lorenti is an ATP, CFI, Fire Fighter and EMT with a Bachelors degree in Business Managament. Read More...

About the Author

It didn’t go well.Recently, while sitting in the holding bay, on the

frequency, I heard pathfinding being discussed about

a particular route. Another aircraft in the holding bay

was awaiting word on the route in question. A short few

minutes later, ominous words came across the frequency,

“It was not successful.” I asked the controller what lack of

success meant. It meant excessive deviations. As a result,

the route was closed until circumstances changed. It was

this exchange between the controller and the pilot that

motivated me to ponder the issue and to share it with our

reader.

In closingI bring this matter to light, not a jab at pathfinding,

nor as an assertion that this practice is unsafe. My hope

is that this article bring awareness, be a catalyst for

asking important questions. I invite anyone in the reading

audience with insight on the topic to convey it to us, here.

If you are aware of how this practice is put into use and by

whom, we would like to know more.

I don’t proclaim to be an authority on any given

matter, but I hope to raise awareness and increase

knowledge of topics that can be useful to us in our

common goal of safe and smooth flights. As someone

who might be your passenger someday, I am counting on

you to take responsibility and know the issues I’ve raised

about being a pathfinder. Better information leads to

better decisions. ACN

ttps://www.aerocrewnews.com/author/anthonylorenti/


FEATURE

The History of the Pre-flight ChecklistHow one man helped ensure the safety of the entire aviation industry

W r i t t e n B Y: M e r e d i t h E d wa r d s

August 2019 | 41

Picture of the XB-17 (Model 299, later to become the B-17) after the fire was extinguished which was test flown by Major Hill on October 30, 1935. Unfortunately, he was killed due to the elevator gust lock

not being disengaged prior to flight. (U.S. Air Force photo)

In light of the recent technical malfunctions with the Boeing 737-800 MAX aircraft, the tragedy once again, brings to mind the importance of the checks that are performed on aircraft before they are released to airlines, and especially to the pre-flight checks that occur before every flight. These checks are performed by the pilots to ensure that every working piece is in order and that the aircraft is prepared to safely complete the flight. This is now a routine task in aviation all across the world. However, this pre-flight check list was not always standard procedure. Airplanes flew for almost thirty years without any sort of official mandate to monitor the mechanics of the aircraft. But, in 1935 there was a plane crash on Wright Field, and the history of aviation was changed ever after.


In 1935, the Boeing 299 was released to be flown as a

brand new, updated military aircraft. On a nice October day

at Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio, Ployer Peter Hill climbed

aboard the 299 in anticipation of a routine takeoff. Hill was

one of the Army Air Corps’ top test pilots, and the flight was

to be an experimental one, working out any kinks to ensure

the aircraft was airworthy. Unfortunately, within moments

of takeoff, the aircraft began to shudder, unable to ascend

correctly, and tragically crashed, killing Hill instantly. One

other person was killed and three others sustained injuries.

An investigation into the crash showed that a clamp

for the elevator flight control had not been removed

before the flight took off, causing the airplane to lose a

lot of input range in its pitch. It had been an avoidable

loss that caused the U.S. Military to take a hard look

at what could be done to prevent such an incident in

the future. The result was a series of safety checks that

became part of the first established safety management

Picture of Doug Hill’s grandfather, Major Ployer P. Hill in uniform; circa early 1930s.

system in the history of aviation. Soon after this system

was implemented in the military, it was adopted by

commercial airlines as well, ultimately becoming a

practice within aviation throughout the world.

Pre-flight check lists help target the details so that

pilots are completely focused on getting the flight out as

safely as possible without the added stress of potentially

forgetting a memorized set of checks. The Model 299 was

taken out of service, updated and some changes were

made. It became the B-17 Flying Fortress.

Major Ployer Peter Hill was a test pilot for the Army, and

during his military career he flew over 60 of the Army Air

Corps’ aircraft, evaluating their capabilities. He was killed

just prior to his 41st birthday, leaving behind a wife and

son, also named Ployer P. “Pete” Hill. Pete followed in his

father’s footsteps, joining the military at the start of WWII,

and became a career officer in the Army Air Services. He

married and became father to ten children. Some of Pete’s

children were not yet born when Major Hill, their grandfather,

was killed in the crash. Doug Hill was one of those who did

not get to meet his famous grandfather. Doug was however,

inspired by the careers of his father and grandfather. He

attended the United States Air Force Academy and went on

to have both highly established military and commercial

careers as a pilot over the next 40 years.

Doug’s father was very young when Major Hill

perished, and the elder rarely talked about his deceased

dad. Doug commented on his grandfather’s legacy,

marveling at the impact Major Hill’s death left on the

entire industry of aviation worldwide; “My father never

really talked about my grandfather much when I was

growing up. He was eleven when his father died, and he

didn’t seem to want to discuss it very often. But my father

was smart and graduated from MIT, he lived out the rest

of his flying career in a way that would have made my

grandfather proud.” As an added honor, in 1939, the U.S.

War Department renamed Ogden Air Depot in Utah to Hill

Field, and in 1948, to Hill AirForce Base. For visitors to

August 2019 | 43

A copy of the letter sent to the entire Army Air Corps in 1935 shortly after Major Hill’s death.


Picture of Major Hill, his wife Helen and their only son, also named Ployer but went by Pete (his middle name) who was

about 7 years of age. This picture was taken around 1930-31.

the base, there is also a museum with free admission where patrons get an up-close look at some of the rich history of

aircraft, pilots, and those who changed the path of aviation forever.

Doug thinks of Ployer Hill every time he sits down in the flight deck, preparing to run through the safety checklist

prior to takeoff. “I’m happy that I am a direct recipient of a lesson learned, with every single flight.” He is thankful that

his grandfather’s early passing contributed to aviation in a positive way. “I just know he would have been really proud of

what came after his death. And it’s definitely something to be proud of.”

An additional posthumous honor was bestowed upon Major Ployer Peter Hill in 1939. The Ogden Air Depot in Utah to

was renamed Hill Field by the U.S. War Department, and in 1948, it became Hill Air Force Base. Visitors to the base enjoy

a museum with free admission where patrons get an up-close look at some of the rich history of aircraft, pilots, and

those who changed the course of aviation forever.

Doug Hill, retired Air Force officer/retired airlines captain and Major Hill’s grandson,

contributed to this story. Doug’s career was influenced by the Air Force careers of his

father and the grandfather he never knew. Every time he climbs behind the controls, he

is reminded of the contribution that was inspired by the tragic loss in October 1935. Doug

provided, “In 1932 my grandfather was based at Wright Field (currently Wright Patterson

Air Force Base) just outside Dayton, Ohio. During this tour, he was promoted to Chief Test

Pilot for the Army Air Corps. In this capacity he flew 66 different aircraft from a variety of

manufacturers. Among them were the Boeing P-12, Bellana C-2, Curtis P-6, Douglas C-47,

Consolidated A11, Martin B-10, and finally, the Boeing 299. The Boeing 299 came to be the

B-17, the Flying Fortress, which was

used extensively throughout the

Second World War. This aircraft

helped develop the tactical strategy

of high altitude, daylight, precision

bombing which helped bring an end

to the war in Europe.” ACN

August 2019 | 45

Meredith Edwards - Meredith Edwards is an eleven-year flight attendant with Southwest Airlines. Read More...

About the Author

A copy of the letter signed by General “Hap” Arnold” who agreed with the prior recommendation that the Ogden (Utah) Air Depot be named Hill Field in

honor of Major Ployer P. Hill (circa 1939). It is now named Hill Air Force Base and is still a logistics center that has served as a parts depot for numerous

aircraft for almost 80 years.


Common Podiatry Problems Experienced by Cabin Crew B y M a r g a r e t G r a c e

HEALTH TIPS

August 2019 | 47

Symptom Visual Possible Diagnosis Helpful Suggestions

Tired heavy legs after long or busy flight

Hypermobility(Excessive movement in the lower limbs)

• Wear good fitting, supportive shoes.

• Avoid high heels.

• Seek advice from an MSK (musculoskeletal) podiatrist to investigate the potential benefits of orthotics (medical insoles).

Pain at the back of the heel, maybe going up into the lower calf muscle

Achilles tendonitis (Inflammation of the tendon as it inserts into the heel)

Achilles tendinopathy (Inflammation of the tendon further up as it inserts into the calf muscle)

• Wear shoes with a wedge.

• Do exercises advised by an MSK podiatrist or a physical therapist.

FOR BOTH CONDITIONS

• Seek advice from an MSK podiatrist about orthotics.

Lumpy bit on skin – feels like you are walking on a stone

Morton’s Neuroma (Thickening of the nerve between two metatarsals, the long bones in the foot.)

• Seek advice from an MSK podiatrist about getting orthotics. (Ignoring it will allow it to worsen, possibly resulting in surgery.)

As a member of the cabin crew, huge demands may be placed on your body. Considering the workload, traveling

between different time zones and the requirement to wear uniform shoes, it’s no surprise that many not only experience

aches and pains typically in the back, legs and feet, but are also susceptible to industrial injuries.

Many of these aches and pains are not only exacerbated by the job itself and its uniform requirements, but are

actually linked to the feet and how they move whilst walking. The below list details common issues experienced by crew

and steps that can be taken to help deal with the issues.


This list is not completely inclusive but serves to describe some of the most common issues encountered by cabin

crew. Whilst it would always be advised to seek advice from a podiatrist, an understanding of what may be happening

and what you may do to help yourself, is always useful.

Symptom Visual Possible Diagnosis Helpful Suggestions

Itchy skin between the toes or on the soles of the feet

Athlete’s Foot(Fungal infection, alsocalled Tinea Pedis.)

• Seek advice from a podiatrist.

• Get an anti-fungal treatment from your local drug store.

Pain at the heel on the sole of the foot extending up to the arch (worse in the morning when you get up or after prolonged periods of rest

Plantar Fasciitis

• Wear a supportive shoe with a little heel. (Shoes such as ballerinas or flip flops are too flat. They allow the foot to roll in and therefore irritate the heel.


Central lower back pain, worse when standing in bare feet or wearing a very flat shoe

Early Heel Lift(May be called Forefoot Equinus or Ankle Equinus)

This is very common in cabin crew who have worked in their role for many years and have worn high heeled uniform shoes.

• Wear a wedge shoe or a shoe with a small heel.


August 2019 | 49

Since uniform shoes are a crucial part of the cabin crew image, here is some advice with regard to fit, style, etc.

Top tips for footwear• Wear shoes that fit your feet properly. Remember that leather stretches once it is worn. If you are required to

wear a slip-on shoe (such as a ladies court shoe) that does not have any supportive straps or laces, you may find

your shoe is a little bit too big once it has been broken-in. If your shoe is too big, the muscles and joints in your

feet have to work harder to keep the shoe on, increasing your chance of injury.

• Your feet don’t swell as much as you think they do whilst flying. Many cabin crew make the mistake of choosing

shoes that are a bigger size because they assume that at over 10,000’ altitude, their feet will swell a lot. Whilst

your feet do swell a bit, there is no requirement to get a shoe a bigger size. Refer to the advice above with regard

to fit.

• Always try your shoes on before purchasing them or selecting them from your uniform store. Different brands

use different branding systems, so a size 7 in one shoe, may differ from a size 7 in another shoe.

• Select a good quality leather shoe with a natural lining. Shoes tend to be made from of a mix of leather with

other synthetic materials. The higher the percentage of leather, the better, since it will allow the shoe to conform

to the shape of your foot. Opting for a natural lining will also be less likely to irritate your skin and allow it to

breathe.

• Consider the shape of the toe box. Draw around your foot and draw around your shoe. Can you fit the image

of your foot inside the image of your shoe? Make sure your shoe has a round toe box (within the limits of your

airline’s uniform standards, of course). Toes that are squeezed into a narrow toe box are quick to develop

painful corns. Nerve tissue can also be compressed, contributing to the onset of a Morton’s Neuroma.

• Consider heel height. Flat shoes are not always the best answer to a problem. Most people benefit from wearing

a little heel. If you are one of those individuals who requires a higher heel for one of the conditions mentioned,

don’t go too high and definitely stay away from stilettos.

• Opt for other more supportive styles when not at work e.g. don’t wear flip flops when you are out walking. Wear

shoes that are fit for the activity you are engaging in.

Sore feet, knees, back or any other part of your body is not fun and is unsafe. Failure to deal with small problems

as they arise can create bigger problems over the long term. Problems may result in take time off from work and being

unable to participate in all of the fun activities you normally engage in during your time off.

At Flying Feet UK, we understand feet, and more importantly, we understand your role as cabin crew and your

specific needs. We have years of experience within the aviation industry. Director and aviation podiatrist, Margaret

Grace, has previously worked in a similar capacity for one of the world’s leading airlines. If you are struggling to deal

with a problem yourself or require further advice with regard to any related matter, please contact Margaret on info@

flyingfeetuk.com. Skype and WhatsApp conference calls can also be arranged. ACN

About the Author

Margaret Grace is a podiatrist for Flying Feet. Read more….

mailto:info%40flyingfeetuk.com?subject=Aero%20Crew%20News%2C%20August%202019%20Issuemailto:info%40flyingfeetuk.com?subject=Aero%20Crew%20News%2C%20August%202019%20Issuehttps://www.aerocrewnews.com/author/MargaretGrace/


THE GRID

The following pages contain over 30 different contractual comparisons for ten separate mainline airlines. Almost all the data was collected from each individual airline’s contract. Our goal is to provide you with the most current, up-to-date data so that, as a pilot, you can choose the right airline for you. Every pilot looks for something different from the airline they work for. Whether it’s living in base, maximizing your pay, or chasing that quick upgrade, we will have the most latest information. To do this, we are working with the airlines to ensure this data is current and correct. Good luck and fly safe!

401(K) Matching: Retirement plan, the company will match the employees contribution up to the listed percentage. Unless noted the company will match 100% of what the employee contributes.

ALPA: Air Line Pilots Association

Cancellation pay: When a leg or legs are canceled, the employee will still be credited for that leg. Some companies will not cover all reasons for cancellations. Refer to the contract for more information.

Deadhead: Positive space travel as a passenger for company business; paid as shown in above referenced column.

FAPA: Frontier Airline Pilots Association

IBT: International Brotherhood of Teamsters

ISP: International Savings Plan

IOE: Initial Operating Experience, refers the flight training a new hire receives from a check airman after completing all ground and simulator training.

DC: Direct Contribution, the company will contribute the listed additional amount directly to the employees 401(K), either quarterly or yearly, refer to the contract for more information

MMG: Minimum Monthly Guarantee, the minimum amount of credit the employee will receive per month. The ability to work more or less is possible, depends on the needs of the company, line holder or reserve and open trips for that month.

Per Diem: The amount of money the company pays the employee for food expenses while gone from base, typically from show time to end of debrief time of that trip. Day trip per diem is taxable while overnight is not.

TFP: Trip for Pay

UTU: United Transportation Union

YOS: Years of Service with the company.

Highlighted blocks indicate best in class.

Gray blocks indicate source of data or date data was obtained 3.C.1 indicates contract section see contract for more information

Sample only; refer to adjacent pages for actual information

Mainline Airlines

1

Aircraft Types

FO Top Out Pay

(Hourly)MMG Base Pay Top CA pay Base Pay

No. of Vacation weeks & accrual

Sick Time Accrual

401(K) Matching (%) 401(K) DC

Percentage of health care

employee paysNotes

Group I $104.93 $90,659.52 $153.65 $132,754

Group II $160.28 $138,481.92 $234.67 $202,755

Group II $170.27 $147,113.28 $249.30 $215,395

Group IV $200.20 $172,972.80 $293.11 $253,247

Group V $210.20 $181,612.80 $307.76 $265,905

3.C 15.D.1.b HRxMMGx12 15.D.1.b HRxMMGx12 9.B.1.a 10.A & B Contract 2015, as amended

B737 $143.32 75 $128,988 $213.26 $191,934

0-1 = Days*1-4 = 15 Days 5-8 = 21 Days9-12 = 24 Days13-19 = 30 Days20-24 = 35 Days25-30 = 40 Days>31 = 41 Days

5.5 H/MMax 1000 0%

> 5 Yrs - 8%5-10 Yrs - 9%

10-15 Yrs - 10%+ 15 Yrs - 11%

20%

*New hire pilots receive 1 vacation day per every full month of employment.

3.A.3 4.A.1 HRxMMGx12 3.A.3 HRxMMGx12 7.A.1 14.B 28.D Contract 2013, as amended

747, 777 $184.59 $159,486 $270.25 $233,496

787 $176.83 $152,781 $258.90 $223,690

767-4, A330 $174.35 $150,638 $255.28 $220,562

767-3,2, B757 $154.50 $133,488 $226.21 $195,445

B737-9 $148.93 $128,676 $218.05 $188,395

B737-8 & 7 $148.93 $128,676 $216.92 $187,419

A320/319 $142.96 $123,517 $209.31 $180,844

MD-88/90 $140.40 $121,306 $205.56 $177,604

B717, DC9 $133.30 $115,171 $195.19 $168,644

EMB-195 $111.94 $96,716 $163.88 $141,592EMB-190, CRJ-900 $95.21 $82,261 $139.42 $120,459

3.B.2.d 4.B.1.b* HRxMMGx12 3.B.2.d HRxMMGx12 7.B.1.a 14.D.1 26.C.2 25.B.2 Contract 2014, as amended

B717 $121.53 $109,376 $174.11 $156,699

B767A330 $144.58 $130,119 $207.13 $186,417

A350*

3.D 3.F HRxMMGx12 3.C HRxMMGx12 6.B.1 12.A.1, 2 & 3 Contract 2010, as amended

B747, B777B787

B767-400$208.59 $175,216 $305.39 $256,528

B757-300 $173.96 $146,126 $254.70 $213,948

B737-900, A321 $167.89 $141,028 $245.80 $206,472

A319 $161.02 $135,257 $235.76 $198,038

3-A-1 3-C-1-a HRxMMGx12 3-A-1 HRxMMGx12 11.A.3 13.A.1 22-A 24-B-5 Contract 2012 as amended

Aircraft Types

FO Top Out Pay



Sick Time Accrual



employee paysNotes

Band 1* $82.00 $68,880 $140.00 $117,600

Band 2* $87.00 $73,080 $146.00 $122,640

Band 3* $92.00 $77,280 $153.00 $128,520

Band 4* $97.00 $81,480 $160.00 $134,400

2 2 7 HRxMMGx12 2 HRxMMGx12 5 7 2

A319, A320, A321* $100.01 75 $90,009 $166.68 $150,012

1-5 = 15 Days6-10 = 21 Days 11+ = 28 Days

1 Day / MonthMax 120 Days 5% 1:2

After 3 years 2.2% up to 6% at 9

years

*A321 coming end of 2015

4.3 HRxMMGx12 4.3 HRxMMGx12 8.B 15.B.2 & 3 16.B.2 16.4

A320 family $137.70 $115,668 $202.47 $170,075

E190 $123.91 $104,084 $182.25 $153,090

3.C* HRxMMGx12 HRxMMGx12 3.J** 3.J 3.E 3.E 3.F.i Agreement 2013, Currently in negotiations

B737 $132.84 85 $135,497 $189.78 $193,576

1-5 = 14 Days5-10 = 21 Days

10-18 = 28 Days+18 = 35 Days

1 TFP / 10 TFP**

Max 1600 TFP9.7% 1:1 -

*85/87/89 MMG based on days in bid period, **Trip for Pay (TFP) is the unit of compensation received.

4.C.1 4.H, 4.M* HRxMMGx12 4.C.1 HRxMMGx12 11.B.2 12.B.1 19.B.2 Contract 2014, as amended

A319A320A321

$109.27 72 $94,409 $185.32 $160,116

> 1 = 7 Days*1-4 = 14 Days5-14 = 21 Days

15-24 = 28 Days+25 = 35 Days

4 H/MMax 400 9%

EE = $143.90EE+1 = $305.66

EE+1 C = $322.33EE+2 C = $454.73Family = $454.73*

*2010 insurance rates subject to annual increases.

3.A 4.A HRxMMGx12 3.A HRxMMGx12 7.A 14.A.1 28.C 27.B Contract 2010, as amended

B737NG $82.74 70 $69,502 $126.88 $106,5790-8 = 15 days

9-13 = 22 days+14 = 30 days

Start with 244 H/M 2%

$0 to $300 depending on plan and single, single

+1 or family

Appendix A 4.A.1 HRxMMGx12 Appendix A HRxMMGx12 7.A.1 14.A 28.B.2 27.A.2

A320 $107.00 70 $89,880 $172.00 $144,4800-1 = 5 Days

1-5 = 15 Days+5 = 20 Days

5 H/M80 and 480

Max**

125% of 6% contributed - -

*Reserves have a MMG of 75, 10.D.1, **Two sick banks, normal and catastrophic.

Appendix A 10.C.2* HRxMMGx12 Appendix A HRxMMGx12 9.A.1 8.B.1 Rule book 2014

Aircraft Types

FO Top Out Pay



Sick Time Accrual



employee paysNotes

B747 $149.33 62 $111,102 $213.32 $158,710 >5 = 14 days1 = 1 Day/Mo1-5 = 14 Days

5-15 = 21 Days15+ = 28 Days

1 Day / MonthNo Max

19 19.D.1 HRxMMGx12 19 HRxMMGx12 10.A 9.A

A380 $186.33 $190,057 $262.84 $268,097

Wide Body $174.15 $177,633 $245.65 $250,563

Narrow Body $153.22 $156,284 $211.75 $215,985

3.C.1.a 4.A.1 HRxMMGx12 3.C.1.a HRxMMGx12 7.B 14.B.7.C 28 27.G.4.a Contract 2006 as amended

B747 $144.27 62 $107,337 $192.36 $143,116 1-4 = 14 Days5+ = 21 Days

7 Days on first day; After 1st

year .58 Days / MonthMax 42

>10 2.5%*5 Yrs $20/$40**1 = >15 days*1-4 = 15 days

4-5 = 15 days**5-9 = 22 days

9-10 = 22days**10-19 = 29 days19-20=29 days**

+20 = 36 days

None, Pension plan(s) available

Pilot: $61 / mo. Pilot + Family:

$230 / mo

*Less than 1 year prorated at 1.5 days per month; **Additionally days prorated for certain years.

UPS(UPS)

6 H/M

Southwest Airlines(Southwest)

Sun Country Airlines

Kalitta Air

70

0-5 = 108 Hrs6-10 = 126 Hrs11-15 = 144 Hrs16-20 = 162 Hrs 21+ = 180 Hrs

5% 1:1 5% + 3% None Specified

*70 line holder, 75 reserve; **Hours is based on PTO per year. Reference contract for more information

JetBlue Airways(JetBlue)

Virgin America(Red Wood)

Spirit Airlines(Spirit Wings)

Cargo AirlinesAtlas Air

United Airlines(United)

Major Airlines

70

1-4 = 14 Days5-10 = 21 Days11-24 = 35 Days+25 = 42 Days

Frontier Airlines(Frontier)

16"%0%

Hawaiian Airlines(Hawaiian)

75

1-2 = 15 Days3-4 = 16 Days

5-10 = 21 Days10-11 = 23 Days12-14 = 27 Days15-18 = 29 Days19-24 = 33 Days+25 = 38 Days

70

>6M=0 H7-12M=17.31 H

1 = 17.31 H2-3 = 34.62 H

4-6 = 45 H+7 = 51.92 H**

3% 100% Match

2% 50% Match

None

5 H/MMax 1300 Hrs

New hires receive 60 hours after completing

training.

MMG of 70 Hours is paid or flight time which ever is greater.

Allegiant Air(Allegiant)

Based on PTO accrual

20%

*Coming in 2017, **No max after pilots 59th birthday.

15%0%

0%

5 H/M*Max 60**

1 Yr = 502 Yrs = 753 Yrs = 1004 Yrs = 1255 Yrs = 1456 Yrs = 1707 Yrs = 1958 Yrs = 220

9-19 Yrs = 24020+ Yrs = 270

7.5 H/M without a sick call.

5.65 H/M with a sick call

Max 1080**

20%

*Bands are based on company profit, currently at Band 4, typically at Band 3 **Accrued vacation/PTO based on length of employment

Airline name and ATC call sign

Abbreviation and definitions:

Blue blocks indicate recent updates

August 2019 | 51

THE GRIDGeneral InformationAircraft Types 2 Digit

CodePay During

TrainingHotel during

new hire training

Per Diem Most Junior CA hired

Number of Pilots

Pilot Retirements 2018-2033

Union EFBs Bases Notes

B787, B777, B767, B757, B737, A350, A330, A321, A320, A319,

MD82/83, E190

AA MALV 72-84 or 88*

Single Occupancy, Paid for by company

$2.30 Dom** $2.80 Int.**

AA - May/1999

US East Aug/2014

US WestSep/1998

14,738 10,538 APA iPad

BOS, CLT, DCA, DFW, JFK, LAX, LGA, MIA, ORD, PHL, PHX, STL

*Monthly Average Line Value depends on pay group, **$0.05 increase 1/1/16

6.D.1.d 7.A.5 Oct/2015 Dec/2017 Contract 2015, as amended

B737 AS85 Hours plus per

diem

No Hotel During Initial Training $2.15 2012 1,897 921 ALPA iPad Air

SEA, ANC, LAX, PDX

Alaska bought Virgin America

11.D.5.b 5.A.1 5.A.1 Dec/2017 Dec/2017 Contract 2013, as amended

B747, B787, B777, B767, B757, B737, B717, A350, A330, A321, A320, A319, MD88, MD90

DL $3,888.29 / Month

Single Occupancy, Paid for by

company for the first 8 days in

class only.

$2.20 Dom., $2.70 Int.

February2014 13,003 9,436 ALPA Surface

ATL, CVG, DTW, LAX, MSP, NYC,

SEA, SLC

3.D.4. 5.E.1 5.B Feb/2016 Apr/2016 Contract 2014, as amended

A330, A350B717, B767 HA

3 Hours per day, plus per diem

$2.00*$2.50 Int. 600 ALPA HNL

*Interisland

9.G.1 Contract 2010, as amended

A350, B777, B787, B767, B757, B737, A320, A319

UA3 Hours per

day, plus per diem


$2.35 Dom* $2.70 Int.* 2015 12,500 8,786 ALPA iPad

IAH, EWR, CLE, DEN, ORD, SFO, IAD, GUM, LAX

*$0.05 increase on Jan 1st.

3-E 4-G-1, 9-E 4-A Aug/2019 Jul/2019 Contract 2012 as amended

Aircraft Types 2 Digit Code

Pay During Training

Hotel during new hire training

Per Diem Most Junior CA hired

Number of Pilots

Pilot Retirements 2018-2033

Union EFBs Bases Notes

B757, MD-80,A319, A3220 G4 MMG


$2.00 November2017 873 73 IBT iPad

AVL, BLI, CVG, FLL, IWA, LAS,

LAX, MYR, OAK, PGD, PIE, PIT,

SFB, VPS

*2018 to 2028

3.P 6.A 3.Z Dec/2017 Dec/2017 See Note* Contract 2016, as amended

A319, A320, A321 F9 MMG No $2.00

Apr2016 1376 180 ALPA iPad*

DEN, ORD, MCOLAS, PHL

*$600 EFB stipend every 3 years

Apr/2019 Apr/20194

A321, A320, A319, E190 B6

$2,500 per month


$2.00 E:11/2013A:12/2013 3,582 840 ALPA YesJFK, BOS, FLL,

MCO, LGB

Add A, Pg24 Add A, Pg24 11 Dec/2017 Dec/2017 Feb/2015

Agreement 2013, Currently in negotiations

B737 WN 89, 87 or 85 TFP*


$2.30 Dom. $2.80 Int.

August2006 9,074 3,374 SWAPA iPad

ATL, MCO, DAL, DEN, HOU, LAS,

MDW, OAK, PHX, BWI

*Trip for Pay (TFP) is based upon number of days in the month

4.K.6 4.T.1 4.T.3 Dec/2017 Dec/2017 Contract 2016, as amended

A319, A320, A321 NK $1,750*/mo


$2.25 March2015 1,821 ALPAACY, DFW, DTW, FLL, LAS, ORD

*Monthly payment is prorated and includes salary and per diem

3.D.1 5.A.1 5.B.1 Dec/2017 Dec/2017 Contract 2018, as amended

B737NG SY MMG None

1/24th the IRS CONUS M&IE airline

daily rate

289 ALPA iPad MSP

3.

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