On World Pilots’ Day tomorrow (26 April), BALPA is celebrating the experience and expertise of pilots and highlighting the need for at least two pilots on the flight deck to ensure the safety of all on board.  

BALPA believes that ‘safety starts with two’, yet reduced crew operations (RCO) are a hot topic in the aviation industry, with some aircraft manufacturers exploring new technology, systems and procedures to potentially reduce pilot numbers required for a flight. 

Amy Leversidge, General Secretary of BALPA, said: 

“On World Pilots’ Day, we celebrate the professionalism of pilots around the globe as they deliver millions of passengers and cargo safely to their destinations. The vital role of experienced, well-trained and rested pilots should never be underestimated. 

“The aviation industry has an enviable safety record and the entire pilot community is clear that safety starts with two. There have been many technological advancements in aviation to enhance safety over the years, but the one constant has always been the pilots, who use their training, knowledge and experience to ensure that every flight is a safe flight.  

“On World Pilots Day we are proud of each and every one of our over 10,000 members who use their expertise every day to keep our skies safe.” 

BALPA is continuing its RCO campaign, which aims to highlight to regulators and the industry the risks of cutting the number of pilots on board commercial flights, while embracing technology that works in harmony with humans to help improve performance.