Top pilots' union sounds alarm as regulators consider smaller crew sizes

The Air Line Pilots Association has raised concerns over potential regulatory changes that could allow commercial flights to operate with a single pilot instead of the current minimum of two. This consideration by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is seen as a move that prioritizes profit over safety, according to union representatives. Capt. James Ambrosi emphasized that reducing crew sizes could compromise aviation safety, as having two pilots is crucial for managing workloads and addressing pilot incapacitation risks. The proposal, driven by aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Dassault, is part of a broader evaluation of extended minimum crew operations (eMCO), which would permit one pilot to leave the cockpit during long flights. Airbus CEO Christian Scherer noted that if a single pilot is in control, the risk of incapacitation could render the operation effectively equivalent to having no pilot at all. EASA has stated that any new operations must demonstrate safety levels comparable to current two-pilot standards before approval. The timeline for implementing such changes is uncertain, with potential impacts on global aviation expected by 2027. Labor unions are also opposing similar crew reduction efforts in the railroad industry, citing safety concerns following incidents like the East Palestine train derailment. The overarching sentiment among union leaders is that safety should not be compromised for profit motives in any transportation sector.