In 2012 existing FTL safety schemes (such as CAP371) will either be replaced by new European-wide rules or become 'alternative schemes'.

Any airline in any European country will be free to choose its rules. It can either work to the new European-wide scheme or one of the 'alternative schemes'. We would suggest that the most likely approach will be for the airline to shop around for the least restrictive 'alternative scheme', or pick up the new European-wide scheme. And when one airline does it, you can bet others will follow suit.

BALPA, together with the other associations that comprise the European Cockpit Association, is campaigning to ensure the new European-wide scheme - the default position - follows recommended scientific standards; standards that the European Regulator (EASA) is ignoring.

After the June European Parliament elections, MEPs are beginning to concentrate on policy areas, including air transport issues. We intend to raise this issue for as long as it takes to make sure science prevails.

As campaign activity develops we will post it here as well as carrying it in the Log.

So watch this space, get involved and keep flying safe.