From instant reactions and expert analyses to essential insights, it’s been impossible to miss the headlines since the 4th of July: a new Prime Minister, a new government, and a huge political shake-up. Parties across the board are coming to terms with the implications of this changing political landscape. For BALPA, it signifies opportunity.

Our political work is much like the proverbial swan, gliding effortlessly on the surface while paddling furiously beneath. While BALPA members might not always see our public affairs efforts, we are tirelessly active. In the last few months, we have seized the opportunities presented by the election to connect with key politicians, highlight our aviation manifesto, and to question them about their plans.

As the new government takes its place, we’re contacting those in a position to influence our industry, arranging meetings and briefings and ensuring the voice of pilots is heard across Westminster.

For the size of our union, BALPA packs a big political punch. Over the years, we have maintained regular meetings with ministers, becoming trusted advisers on aviation matters. We have been invited to provide evidence to the Transport Select Committee, hosted well-attended parliamentary receptions, and engaged in impactful campaigns. Our efforts have caught the attention of MPs and even resulted in changes to the law.

Now as the new Government beds in, we’ll be ensuring aviation is high on the agenda. Our key asks, as they were in the run up to election remain:

• Make the pilot profession more accessible by addressing the extremely high cost of training (up to £130,000) and protecting self-funding cadets’ training costs
• Protect pilot pensions to ensure pensions saved over decades of work are protected
• Fuel up pilots’ employment rights to end to the nasty industrial practices seen in recent years, primarily as fire and re-hire, as well as anti-union legislation being repealed, and atypical employment being used to undermine terms and conditions
• Accelerate airlines’ flight path to Jet Zero and Sustainability so that aviation accelerates its progress towards Jet Zero and decarbonisation

But our efforts don’t stop here.

We are continuously advocating in numerous other areas, and you can read about our ongoing campaigns here.

So as our MPs return to Westminster, you can be sure that one of the first letters, they’ll have on their desks is from BALPA, representing pilots and influencing decision makers. Our proactive stance will ensure your voices are heard and interests are safeguarded. Together, we will navigate the way forward and seize the opportunities that lie ahead, solidifying our role as a strong union for pilots in the UK.