Episodes

Dec 16

This episode goes into details about the San Diego base, how it came to be, and the contractual language that is associated with vacancy and displacement bids. Joining the discussion is the Alaska Chair – Will McQuillen, Membership Chair – Tom Samson, and Membership Committee Member – Will Swoveland. Not only will you hear about contractual language and concepts that will help you decide how to bid, but the committee will also share news about a new seniority tool coming out soon to assist pilots in planning and prepare for such changes. Ala.Alpa.Org AlaHal.Alpa.Org

Nov 7

With Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines attaining Single Operating Certificate (SOC) status at the end of October, the two airlines are now a single carrier from the FAA’s perspective. To discuss how this marks an important transition for our pilot groups, Alaska MEC Chair Will McQuillen and Hawaiian MEC Chair Larry Payne sit down to offer their perspective on the state of the merger and what comes next with respect to our joint contract negotiations and the evolution of the airline. They also discuss recent hiring trends, route announcements, and important changes to our contract language that will come into effect later this year. Ala.Alpa.Org Alahal.Alpa.Org

Aug 26

In this episode, Communication Chair Kyle Johnson sits down with MEC Chair Will McQuillen and Executive Admin Drew Coyle. This is a summer update highlighting important issues such as block in times, September ALV, hiring/growth, and jumpseat priority. Other merger related issues are also discussed; a brief negotiations update and a reiteration of the SLI process and timeline. Alahal.alpa.org Ala.alpa.org Textcaster Signup/Changes SFV hotline number: 833-303-5667

Jul 2

In this episode, our Alaska and Hawaiian MEC Chairs, Will McQuillen and Larry Payne, sat down to provide their thoughts on the recent announcements about the Seattle 787 base and the future aircraft orders. The discussion also touched on the status of JCBA negotiations and what pilots can expect moving forward. https://ala.alpa.org/

Jun 3

In this episode, Communication Chair Kyle Johnson sits down with MEC Chair Will McQuillen, Executive Admin Drew Coyle, and Negotiating Committee Chair David Wilhelm. A mid-year State of the Union is the focus for this podcast. There are discussions about the latest Joint/MEC meeting that took place on May 19-21, which leads into topics including JCBA updates, Seniority List Integration processes, hiring and future outlooks. The Surf to Summit tour just launched, which is also talked about in this episode, highlighting the importance of unity as this merger moves forward. https://ala.alpa.org/ https://alahal.alpa.org/

May 6

In this episode, our Alaska and Hawaiian MEC Chairs, Will McQuillen and Larry Payne, as well as our Joint Negotiating Committee Co-Chairs, David Wilhelm and Doug Grant, all sat down to provide an update on the status of our Alaska-Hawaiian merger and the state of our Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA) negotiations. Through the episode, we covered several topics, including the union’s actions during the last six months to prepare for negotiations, the importance of unity, current perspective on negotiations, and what happens once a Tentative Agreement is reached. Alaska Hawaiian Joint Website

Feb 7

In this episode, Communications Chair Kyle Johnson sits down with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Executive Admin Drew Coyle, and Negotiation Chair David Wilhelm to discuss topics such as JCBA, SLI, and Company milestones. Also discussed, an overview of an agreement on premium pay reserve blocks (OTRPBs) and the timeline for their implementation. Alaska and Hawaiian Merger Website OTRPB Merger Committee Update

Nov 25, 2024

In this episode, Host Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell discusses updates about the merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines with MEC Chair Will McQuillen, Vice Chair Garin Tentschert, Secretary Scott Rubin, and Treasurer Dan Richards. Also discussed are the issues revolving around the recent company standing bid and allocation of flying. Merger Committee Update November 18, 2024 MERGER FLIGHT PLAN Alaska and Hawaiian Merger Site

Oct 4, 2024

With the merger transaction between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines now final, the separate pilot groups from each carrier will continue the process of combining into one. A significant part of that includes negotiating a Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA) under which the new combined pilot group will work. The Master Executive Councils (MECs) of each pilot group, as part of the Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA), have elected six pilots (three from each airline) to negotiate with Alaska Airlines on their behalf. This episode introduces the Negotiating Committee Chairs from each MEC—Alaska MEC Negotiating Chair David Wilhelm and Hawaiian MEC Negotiating Chair Doug Grant. The hosts, Alaska MEC Communications Chair David Campbell and Hawaiian MEC Communications Chair Mike Davis, discuss with Captains Wilhelm and Grant the process of negotiating a JCBA, the importance of working together as a new single unified pilot group, and what the pilots may expect in the next few months, including contract education and pilot input via survey and polling. ALA HAL JOINT MERGER WEBSITE

Sep 27, 2024

In this episode, Co-hosts Alaska Communications Chair David Campbell and Hawaiian Communications Chair Mike Davis interview Alaska MEC Chair Will McQuillen and Hawaiian MEC Chair Larry Payne. Captains McQuillen and Payne discuss the vision they share for the collective future of a combined pilot group and the critical importance of pilot unity, engagement, and feedback in upcoming contract negotiations. In addition to the episode’s audio content, please watch the video linked below to hear more from the two Union Chairs and other pilots from each carrier. VIDEO JOINT MEC WEBSITE

Sep 1, 2024

A Tentative Agreement (TA) has been reached between the Alaska Master Executive Council and Alaska Airlines which will soon be up for a ratification vote by the Alaska Airlines pilots. This TA would extend the current contract’s amendable date by 16 months while providing two additional annual pay increases. In this episode Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell discusses the details of this TA with MEC Chair Will McQuillen and Negotiating Chair David Wilhelm. Full Language Tentative Agreement

Aug 1, 2024

On July 25, a negotiated Transition Process Agreement (TPA) was unanimously ratified by the Master Executive Councils of Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines. In this episode, Host Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell discusses the details of that agreement with MEC Chair Will McQuillen, ALA Negotiating Chair David Wilhelm, and Executive Administrator Drew Coyle. Also discussed is the recent agreement made between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines management and the Department of Justice (DOJ) on a 10-day extension to the timeline for antitrust review. This agreement extends the deadline to August 15, 2024. Full Language TPA MEC Chair's Message 123.45: TPA Reached Order an ALPA Pin Order a Blue ALPA Lanyard by sending an email to the ALA office administrator.

Jun 23, 2024

In this episode, Host Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell speaks with Chair Will McQuillen, Vice Chair Garin Tentschert, Secretary Scott Rubin and Executive Administrator Drew Coyle about the MEC’s work over the last several weeks including scheduling, merger progress, rumor control, and other ongoing projects. IFALPA Global Pilot Survey Please complete the survey using login password: vffd24 Reserve Preferencing Instructions

May 10, 2024

In this episode, Host Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell speaks with MEC Chair Will McQuillen, Scheduling Chair Chandler Blair, and Negotiating Chair David Wilhelm about the recent Letter of Agreement 24-04 which will create the option to bid for a reduced bid credit value. These bid options will be awarded based on seniority. Also discussed, are data and trends on the first two cycles of bidding using PBS. LOA 24-04 VRBO

Apr 1, 2024

March has marked several significant transitions for the Alaska pilots and their elected leaders. This episode covers some of those important changes. The implementation of Contract 2022 will be complete in May when pilots begin working under the first monthly schedules built using preferential bidding. MEC officer terms started on March 1. Perhaps the biggest transition facing pilots is the merger between Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines. In this episode, each of these topics will be discussed. Included in these show notes are a table and flowchart of the monthly PBS bidding timeline. If they don’t show on the device you are using, scroll down and select “Episode Website” to view. PBS BIDDING TIMELINE All Times Seattle Local 1st 0900 - 7th 1200 NavBlue Bidding Open 7th 1200 - 11th 1600 Trading closed for Last 10 Days of Month 11th by 1600 Awards Published in Crew Access 11th 1700 - 13th 1500 Secondary Reserve Bidding Open 13th by 2100 Secondary Reserve Bid Award 14th at 0900 Trading for BBH Open 16 at 0900 Trading for Reserves Open Letter to CEO Mr. Minicucci Request to Negotiate Transition and Process Agreement

Feb 3, 2024

This episode includes conversations among Host Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell, MEC Chair Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chair David Wilhelm, Scheduling Chair and MEC Secretary-Elect Scott Rubin, and Strategic Planning Chair Brad Beachler. McQuillen gives some details of the recent MEC and Joint MEC meetings that occurred in January. Wilhelm explains the Incentive Line (IL) LOA (24-01) including the provision suspending reserves’ ability to pick up flying on their days off while the LOA is in use as well the replacement of LOA 22-06 with LOA 24-02 which enhances reserves’ ability to pick up work on days off when the IL LOA is not in effect. Rubin discusses preferential bidding which will start on April 1 for the May bid period and explains where to find training materials. Finally, Beachler discusses upcoming unity events. For answers to questions about the new reserve system, please listen to episode 61, TA 6: Reserves .

Jan 31, 2024

Preferential bidding will go live on April 1 for the May bid period. Now is the time for Alaska pilots to become familiar with the new system so that they may achieve the best possible outcome in the bid award. A great number of resources have been created to facilitate this learning including three rounds of mock-bidding beginning on Monday, February 12. In this episode, Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Scott Rubin and other members of the Joint Preferential Bidding System Working Group (JPWG) including Captains Ben Brooks, John Owens, and Jake Woods explain how and where to find these training materials and discuss the details of the final implementation timeline. Pilots may find additional support by using one of the contact methods below. Send a DART – Use the PBS topic Call the PBS Hotline 833-252-7271 – Rings all ALPA members of the PWG. If no answer leave a message for a callback. For company support, e-mail Pilot_PBS_Support@Alaskaair.com (search PBS and it will pop up) Additional information on PBS is available on prior Podcast Episode #58 PBS and Trip Construction .

Dec 15, 2023

On December 3, Alaska Airlines announced an agreement with Hawaiian Airlines to merge. Pending regulatory approval, this announcement begins a long process that will conclude with a merged pilot group working under a single Collective Bargaining Agreement. In this episode, Host Strategic Communications Chair Capt. David Campbell discusses the steps required before a merger will be complete as it relates to pilots. Broadly, these steps include negotiating a Transition Process Agreement and a Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement, merging the pilot Seniority Lists, and finally merging the respective Master Executive Councils into what will become the new governing body of the merged pilot group. Campbell is joined by MEC Chair Capt. Will McQuillen, MEC Executive Administrator Drew Coyle, and Alaska Merger Committee Chair Capt. Greg Wertz. Pilots of either carrier may submit questions via the DART system. DART.alpa.org

Nov 23, 2023

Following the third Quarter MEC Meeting, Host Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell speaks with MEC Chair Will McQuillen, MEC Executive Administrator Drew Coyle, and Scheduling Committee Chair Scott Rubin about the state of the union. Some topics discussed are basing, contract implementation progress, and staffing.

Nov 3, 2023

The Alaska Master Executive Council oversees more than 40 pilot support committees, which are run by dedicated pilot volunteers (overseen by elected leaders) working daily for their peer union members, who are Alaska pilots. Much of their work goes unnoticed, but today we are shining some light to show what these committees do. Our ongoing goal is to periodically spotlight the incredible work our dedicated volunteers do on behalf of our pilots, as we've done in the past. Join host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell as he speaks with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Professional Standards Committee Chairman Scott Hathaway, Diversity, Equity, Belonging, and Inclusion (DEBI) Committee Chairman Mario James, and DEBI Vice Chair Jenn Taylor as they speak more on these committees’ work. For an earlier episode highlighting other committees working within the umbrella of Pilot Assistance, including HIMS, Aeromedical, CIRP, and Professional Standards, click on the link below. CALL ALPA FIRST

Oct 2, 2023

In the recently negotiated contract, higher pay rates and additional employer contributions to defined contribution (DC) plans were secured. As a result, these benefits will cause more pilots to exceed annual IRS limits on amounts that may be contributed to the PISP 401(k). Company contributions to 401(k) exceeding these limits spills into pilots’ paychecks, thereby limiting potential tax-deferred and dues free retirement savings. The Alaska Pilots’ Retirement and Insurance (R&I) Committee, professional ALPA staff and other subject matter experts have researched multiple tax-advantaged avenues to address the spill issue. Join host Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell as he discusses this issue and the solutions being worked on with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, R&I Committee Chairman Shane Wrobel, R&I Committee member Jerry Traphagen, and ALPA Benefits Specialist Phil Borgman. Alaska pilots may find additional information, including an animated video, FAQs, dates for upcoming coffee sits, and more by clicking here .

Sep 29, 2023

Attraction and retention of Alaska Airlines pilots remains a key focus for the Alaska Master Executive Council. In this episode, Strategic Communications Chair David Campbell discusses why the San Fransisco base has not seen a meaningful increase in lines, issues surrounding vacation in 2024, why attraction and retention is an issue that should concern all pilots and how solutions require proactive involvement with the MEC. Campbell is joined by MEC Chair Will McQuillen, Scheduling Committee Chair Scott Rubin, and Negotiating Committee Chair David Wilhelm. Vacation Podcast Episode Vacation Bidding for 2024

Aug 21, 2023

The Alaska Pilots have secured a market rate adjustment keeping them in line with the industry and providing for additional wage increases above those previously scheduled on September 1, 2023. In this episode Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen and Negotiating Chairman David Wilhelm discus how this Market Rate Adjustment was derived. Also discussed are other elements to address the issue of attracting and retaining pilots. Captain Will McQuillen’s Chairman Letter Negotiating Committee Update LOA 23-08 [One-Time MRA Exception]

Aug 2, 2023

The Market Rate Adjustment (Section 3.A.4) to Alaska Airlines pilots’ salaries is effective September 1. In this episode, Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell discusses this time frame and the current market conditions that should affect the compensation of Alaska Airline Pilots. He is joined by MEC Chairman Will McQuillen and Membership Committee Chairman Brad Beachler. Other topics briefly discussed are how to handle a trade request denial, the Pilot Mentorship Program, and volunteerism. Most pilot contracts have traditionally included provisions for an annual raise. The current Alaska Airlines pilot contract includes, for the first time, additional language requiring a comparison between the contractually guaranteed pay increase and the current market-rate pilot salaries. This potential difference may cause the annual pay rate increase to be adjusted upwards. Alaska Airlines Pilots may read MEC Chairman Capt. Will McQuillen’s latest Update and his letter to CEO Ben Minicucci and CFO Shane Tackett here .

Jun 10, 2023

In this episode, Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell discusses the state of the Union with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, MEC Vice Chairman Joe Youngerman, Scheduling Committee Chairman Scott Rubin, and the new Negotiating Committee Chairman David Wilhelm. Topics include recent work by the Negotiating Committee including uniforms, pay increases scheduled for September, scheduling, and CBA 2022 implementation progress. July Scheduling Summary Washing State Cares Fund Tax Communication Jump Seat Communication including links to FOM language and the revised CSA Bulletin VolunteerALA@alpa.org

Apr 6, 2023

In this episode host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell discusses progress on implementation of CBA 2022 and the state of the union including, MOU 23-02, Third Step trading, Jumpseat listing, and other topics. Joining Campbell are MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner, Strategic Planning Chairman Drew Coyle, and Scheduling Chairman Scott Rubin. VolunteerALA@alpa.org MOU 23-02 [Premium Trip and Reserve Amendments] Third Step Instructions

Feb 3, 2023

This episode describes the state of the union, including progress made over the last year, areas of current focus, and how Alaska pilots move the profession forward. Three new Letters of Agreement (LOA) have been signed, which collectively represent improvements to the collective bargaining agreement and benefits to the Alaska pilots. Join Host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner, and Strategic Planning Chairman Drew Coyle as they discuss these issues. If you are interested in volunteering with your MEC, please send an email to VolunteerALA@alpa.org . LOA 23-01 Unused Sick Leave at Retirement LOA 23-02 SIO Amendment LOA 23-03 Airbus Retention Program

Jan 12, 2023

In this episode MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner, and Scheduling Chairman Scott Rubin discuss and clarify differences between a reassignment, a cancelation, and a delay. There are pay implications to each of these categories. The recent ice storm in Seattle and Portland created examples of each of these categories. The most recent Negotiating Committee Update is a useful companion communication and is linked below. Negotiating Committee Update

Nov 30, 2022

In this episode, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner, and Scheduling Committee Chairman Scott Rubin further discuss the CBA implementation process. A number of ALPA resources are mentioned in this episode which are linked below. Scheduling Floor Pilot Volunteer Hotline Number: 833-30-FLOOR or (833) 303-5667 Pilot Peer Support Number: (309) 777-ALPA or (309) 777-2572 Negotiating Committee Update of November 11, 2022 Payroll Committee Update MOU 22-06 [CBA 2022 Implementation] Scheduling Committee Stan Notes

Oct 29, 2022

The Alaska Airlines pilots recently ratified a new collective bargaining agreement. The process of implementing these new work rules has begun in earnest. This episode discusses the work being done to ensure that the process moves forward expeditiously and the need for pilots’ solidarity to remain strong. Join host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell as he speaks in further detail on these topics with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner, Scheduling Committee Chairman Scott Rubin, Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue and his Vice Chair Drew Coyle. MOU 222-06 CBA 2022 Implementation Negotiating Committee Update 10-28-2022

Sep 29, 2022

The Tentative Agreement (TA) approved by the Alaska MEC is now before the pilot members to consider for approval. This episode discusses the process of completing the full language TA which is expected to be available by Friday, September 30, events where one may learn more about the TA, such as roadshows and airport sits, and the balloting process. Host Strategic Communication Chairman David Campbell is joined by MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue, and Strategic Planning Vice Chairman Drew Coyle. Find more information at AlaskaPilots.org . PBS Hotline: (833) ALA-PBS1 or (833) 250-7271

Sep 24, 2022

Learn about the changes to vacation and how vacation will interact with preferential bidding (PBS). Find more information about the TA at AlaskaPilots.org . Call the PBS Hotline for questions related to PBS, or using vacation in a PBS system: (833) ALA-PBS1 or (833) 252-7271.

Sep 24, 2022

This tentative agreement contains major changes to the reserve system designed to improve reserve pilots’ quality of life. Additionally, there are a number of positive changes for pilots who commute to work. Find more information at AlaskaPilots.org .

Sep 24, 2022

This tentative agreement includes several changes to protect pilots’ schedule and days off. It also includes new compensation or monetary incentives in the instances where trips are changed. Find more information at AlaskaPilots.org .

Sep 24, 2022

Learn about how this tentative agreement will change pilots’ ability to adjust their schedules. Find more information at AlaskaPilots.org .

Sep 24, 2022

This tentative agreement includes a preferential bidding system (PBS) as the delivery process for monthly schedules. Hear about ALPA’s enhanced control over trip construction and how PBS will work. Many terms may be unfamiliar. Some may find the glossary below helpful while listening to this episode. Find more information at AlaskaPilots.org . PBS Hotline: (833) ALA-PBS1 or (833) 250-7271 Preferential Bidding System (PBS) Glossary Average Line Value (ALV) The average Credit value of all lines in a Base Position. ALV will include all known Credit in that Base Position. Correct Line: The initial line the Pilot should have been awarded had a PBS Misaward not occurred. Credit Window Credit range within which a line may be awarded. Denial Mode A process in PBS that: is performed after PBS is unable to award a Pilot a line consistent with his or her bid preferences, seniority, known absences, the FARs, and the CBA, and within the Minimum Credit Window, is utilized after shuffle and prior to Secondary Line Generation (SLG), and ignores, one at a time, a Pilot's preference(s) to avoid flying a specified trip or a trip with specified criteria (e.g., number of duty periods in a trip, departure time of trip, number of flight segments per duty period) or the Pilot’s preference to avoid flying on a specified Calendar Day, in an effort to award a line within his or her Minimum Credit Window. Fill to Threshold A tool in PBS that is utilized prior to Denial Mode, and continues to award trips to each Pilot's line, if possible, until such line is at or above the threshold. Force Priority Stack Date on SLG A tool in PBS that ensures a Pilot who is awarded a line during the SLG process is awarded a trip that is scheduled to operate on the specified priority stack date. Max Followed By Time The maximum time between trips that are awarded via the "Followed By" bid statement. Max Iteration A parameter in PBS that limits the number of trips PBS considers when attempting to construct a line. Max Passes A parameter in PBS that limits the number of attempts by PBS to award lines to all Pilots in a Base Position. Max Reserves A parameter in PBS that limits the number of Pilots permitted to be awarded a Reserve Schedule in a Base Position. Maximum Stack Height A parameter in PBS that limits a stack after all Pilots in the Base Position are awarded a line. Priority Stack Date A designated date that is unstacked before PBS unstacks any other date. Priority stack date is limited to days which receive Holiday Pay. Reduced Lower Limit (RLL) A line that is awarded below the minimum Credit value for the Month when the Pilot could not legally be awarded a line within the Credit Window. Secondary Line Generation (SLG) The final PBS process, used after Shuffle and Denial Mode, that ignores a Pilot's bid preferences in an attempt to construct a line for the Pilot. Shuffle A tool in PBS that: is utilized after PBS is unable to award a Pilot a line within his or her line credit window which complies with his higher priority bid preference(s) removes a trip(s) which had been awarded in accordance with such bid preference(s) and searches for combinations of trip(s) which comply with his or her lower priority bid preference(s), and is utilized prior to Denial Mode. Stack The number of duty periods that remain in Open Flying Time on a given Calendar Day at the end of a bid run. Threshold The target Credit value for each line in each Base Position in a Bid Period. Trailing Line Value (TLV) The twelve (12) Bid Period rolling average of the ALV for a Base Position. Unstack A tool in PBS that assigns trips to Pilots in such a way as to prevent a stack that is greater than the Maximum Stack Height. Vacation Any A function applied during the PBS award process in which vacation days may be moved as needed so as to avoid conflicts with preferred trips. Vacation Any does not change the number of vacation days or the Credit of the awarded schedule. Virtual Credit A credit value applied to an activity or absence only during schedule construction in PBS. Virtual Credit has no value once the schedule is awarded.

Sep 24, 2022

Hear how this tentative agreement addresses job security for pilots. Watch the animated video SCOPE: Protect, Provide, Prepare . Find more information at AlaskaPilots.org .

Sep 24, 2022

The Alaska Airlines MEC has voted to approve a Tentative Agreement (TA) which will soon be subject to pilot ratification. This is the first of a seven-episode series detailing the changes found within the TA. In this episode, Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell and guests provide an overview of what pilots will see in the TA. He is joined by MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, MEC Vice Chairman Joe Youngerman, MEC Secretary Garin Tentschert, MEC Treasurer Scott Mokos, and Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner. More information about the TA may be found at AlaskaPilots.org .

Sep 9, 2022

When the MEC approves a tentative agreement, it will promptly be announced to pilots via email and a Textcaster message. Alaska Airlines pilots may find a signup link to Textcaster on the members’ page of AlaskaPilots.org . In this episode, Host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell, discusses the conclusion of last week’s negotiations session, and what to expect next week with Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen and Strategic Planning Committee Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue.

Aug 21, 2022

Join Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, MEC Vice Chairman Joe Youngerman, and Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner as they discuss the current state of negotiations and what pilots may expect from the special MEC meeting scheduled to begin on August 29.

Jul 25, 2022

In this episode Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell discusses the state of negotiations with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner, and Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue.

Jul 8, 2022

In this episode, Host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell speaks with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner, and Strategic Planning Vice-Chairman Drew Coyle about the Special MEC Meeting that concluded on July 1. There will be upcoming opportunities for pilots and their families to meet with their ALPA elected leadership, including a Pilot and Family Town Hall in Los Angeles on Friday, July 22, and an open house held at the Seattle MEC office on Thursday, August 4. Check your email and our Facebook Groups for more information on these events.

Jun 17, 2022

Join host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell as he discusses the recent increase in pace of contract negotiations with Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner and MEC Chairman Will McQuillen. Also in this episode, Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue and McQuillen discuss how the MEC’s strategic plan has brought us to where we are now and how the MEC will continue to leverage it to bring these negotiations to a successful conclusion in the form of a ratifiable Tentative Agreement.

May 28, 2022

On May 25, a strike authorization ballot sent to the Alaska Airlines pilots closed. With nearly 96 percent of members participating, an overwhelming 99 percent of Alaska pilots authorized union leaders to call a strike if necessary and after the parties are permitted by the National Mediation Board (NMB) to take that action. Following the initial announcement of this ballot, Alaska management requested to meet with ALPA. That request was honored and on May 24 – 26 the two parties sat at the negotiating table in direct talks. In today’s episode, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue, and Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell discuss the significance of this historic vote and the outcome of this week’s negotiations.

Apr 27, 2022

On April 21, the Alaska Airlines Pilots Master Executive Council (MEC) unanimously voted to approve a strike authorization ballot. While the pilot group is not on strike now a “yes” vote will authorize the MEC to call a strike if mediation is unsuccessful, all the procedures of the Railway Labor Act have been exhausted, and the National Mediation Board allows the Alaska Airlines pilots and management to exercise self-help at the end of a cooling off period. In this episode, host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell speaks with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner, and Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue about what this ballot means and why the MEC felt management’s actions at the bargaining table make this step necessary. Listeners may find this flow chart of the Railway Labor Act’s negotiations process helpful. Family members of pilots are encouraged to learn more through a committee designed for them. Please go to AlaskaPilots.org and follow the FONE link found on the top right margin.

Mar 18, 2022

On March 10, the Alaska Pilots’ Negotiating Committee released a comprehensive term sheet covering the union’s solutions to the issues concerning pilots. In this episode host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner, and Scheduling Chairman Scott Rubin discuss that term sheet. The most impactful and immediate way to show support for these efforts is to join us for the all-base rallies and informational picket on April 1. Follow the link for more information. April 1 Informational Picket

Feb 26, 2022

RSVP to the All-Pilot-All-Base picket . On April 1, 2022, the Alaska Airlines pilots will conduct informational picketing in each of the five bases which include: Anchorage, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. In this episode host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell discusses the importance of physical displays of unity and resolve with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen and Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue. Learn more at AlaskaPilots.org .

Feb 11, 2022

On February 3, the Alaska pilots conducted an informational picket at an event in New York City where the COO and EVP Constance Von Muehlen of Alaska Airlines was speaking. In this episode host Communications Chairman David Campbell is joined by MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, MEC Secretary Garin Tentschert, and Strategic Preparedness and Strike Committee (SPSC) Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue. They discuss their experiences at that event as well as upcoming mediated negotiations sessions, the next picketing event coming up on April 1, and other SPSC events. Links of interest: Video of Constance Von Muehlen Walking the Picket Line The Railway Labor Act Flow Chart Informational Picketing Leaflet, New York City Family Outreach and Negotiations Education Committee (FONE)

Jan 22, 2022

In this episode Podcast Host, Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell discusses the Railway Labor Act (RLA), including what it means to be in mediated negotiations and the process of being released before engaging in a legal strike. ALPA’s Senior Advisor and Chief Negotiator Bruce York, along with Senior Labor Relations Counsel Zach Henige join this episode to discuss what to expect during RLA mediation and what tactics are available to us to advance the pilots’ goals. Bruce York has been negotiating airline contracts for more than 40 years and shares his experience regarding ways management teams have in the past attempted to stymie the work of ALPA. Also on this episode are MEC Chairman Will McQuillen and Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner. This week the pilots’ Negotiating Committee, including Chris Gruner, began negotiations in the presence of a mediator, Mike Tosi, assigned by the National Mediation Board. Pilots may recall, the company stated it was filing for mediation with the intention of moving negotiations to a conclusion. Alaska pilots may read the committee’s update detailing the results of these three days of mediated negotiations. The Alaska Airlines pilots have been negotiating with their company for nearly three years in attempts to bring the contract more in line with their industry peers. On January 19, 2022 the parties met to conduct the first mediated session with the assistance of a national mediator assigned by the National Mediation Board (NMB). RLA Flow Chart

Jan 8, 2022

This episode discusses how management’s failure to address recurring weather issues affect pilots, the eroding culture at Alaska Airlines, and the Company’s inconsistent COVID-19 policies that are outside of industry best-practices. Additionally, the history and details of Severe Irregular Operations (SIO) is explained. For Alaska Pilots, references to contractual and LOA language addressing SIO may be found in the MEC Update of December 26 . In addition to MEC Chairman Will McQuillen and MEC Vice Chairman Joe Youngerman, Communications Chairman David Campbell welcomes Contract Compliance Chairman Mike (Rino) Reinmuth and Scheduling Committee Chairman Scott Rubin. For Alaska Pilots: Contract Compliance Phone Number: (888) 767-2228

Jan 8, 2022

This episode discusses how management’s failure to address recurring weather issues affect pilots, the eroding culture at Alaska Airlines, and the Company’s inconsistent COVID-19 policies that are outside of industry best-practices. Additionally, the history and details of Severe Irregular Operations (SIO) is explained. For Alaska Pilots, references to contractual and LOA language addressing SIO may be found in the MEC Update of December 26 . In addition to MEC Chairman Will McQuillen and MEC Vice Chairman Joe Youngerman, Communications Chairman David Campbell welcomes Contract Compliance Chairman Mike (Rino) Reinmuth and Scheduling Committee Chairman Scott Rubin. For Alaska Pilots: Contract Compliance Phone Number: (888) 767-2228

Dec 15, 2021

This episode reflects on some of the accomplishments of the Alaska Airlines pilot group, which include efforts on trying to secure a market-based contract and comments from MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, MEC Vice Chairman Joe Youngerman, SPSC Chairman Ronan O'Donoghue and SPSC Vice Chairman Drew Coyle on the state of the industry and the path the MEC is taking to safeguard the pilot group's future.

Nov 20, 2021

Hear from union leadership about the final MEC meeting of 2021, an update on ALPA’s Do the Right Thing campaign, polling results, and what’s next in the national mediation process. Upcoming Coffee Sits If you will be passing through SeaTac, please join MEC members in the North Concourse: Sunday, November 21, 2:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Coffee & Pizza Monday, November 22, 8:00 a.m. – 1100 a.m. Coffee & PastriesTuesday, November 23, 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Coffee & Pastries Remember, the holidays may be a time of increased stress for some. If you need any assistance, call ALPA first. Pilot Peer Support volunteers are standing by 24/7 at (309) 777-ALPA or (309) 777-2572. Alaska Air Group, INC. SEC Form 10-Q Portions quoted in this episode may be found under Item 5 on page 48 and the highlighted section beginning after page 50.

Oct 28, 2021

ALPA’s Alaska Airlines Master Executive Council, launched an aggressive campaign to inform the public that negotiations between the pilots and the company have stalled. While Alaska Airlines’ management repeats its core value – to “Do the Right Thing” – it fails to live up to it by rejecting the pilots’ desire to bring their contract into parity with industry peers. Hear the pilots’ union leadership correct the company’s narrative. You can also help show support for the Alaska pilots by following them on social media. AlaskaPilots.org Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube LinkedIn

Sep 25, 2021

After three days in private mediation with Alaska Airlines, the talks ended on September 20, 2021. ALPA’s negotiating team had suggested private mediation—employing the assistance of a private mediator who is a nationally-known labor relations expert well versed in the airline industry to explore whether any efficient pathways to a comprehensive agreement existed. ALPA proposed this process to explore every avenue to address contract goals consistently voiced by Alaska pilots, but unfortunately the Company’s positions did not reflect the commitment required to move negotiations constructively forward. The pilots’ union has been clear that substantial improvements to both job security and work rules are essential; pilots have serious concerns over both of these contract areas, and these sections are clearly deficient when compared to other pilot contracts in the industry. These areas have been addressed by management teams at peer airlines where they have agreed to significant improvements over what the Alaska pilots currently have.

Aug 26, 2021

Contract negotiations between the @AlaskaPilots and @AlaskaAir are not progressing at a pace consistent with the market-based changes that the pilots are seeking. The pilots’ union has recommended (and Alaska Airlines management has agreed) to hire a third-party facilitator for limited mediated discussions. This episode discusses why the pilots’ Master Executive Council (MEC) made this decision, what it expects to achieve during these talks, and other work in progress to achieve the priorities in negotiations the pilots have identified. Listeners may be interested in documents mentioned in this episode including the Comprehensive Contract Opener and a video about the MEC’s work to stop company furloughs at Alaska Airlines with the support of the Alaska Pilots. Video Link . Alaska MEC leadership will be on the road hosting more pilot and family events as part of West Coast Cookout Tour as it continues in Southern California on August 26, and heads to Mesa, AZ August 30, and Las Vegas NV September 1. Click here for details .

Jul 22, 2021

Pilots Hold Fast to their Bargaining Expectations In this episode, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen and Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner discuss with host Communications Chairman David Campbell the commitment ALPA leadership has in maintaining and pressing for the contract improvement priorities identified by Alaska pilots. Those goals are clear, consistent, long overdue, and are driving the efforts of the Negotiating Committee. San Francisco Crew Base Given that Alaska Airlines has been vague on whether they would maintain a pilot domicile in San Francisco, ALPA conducted its own research on the viability of keeping a crew base in that city. Also in the episode, Chairman McQuillen reveals what ALPA discovered.

Jun 13, 2021

This episode recaps some of the significant events over the last month, in particular the latest developments at the negotiating table, the latest MEC efforts related to the San Francisco base, the West Coast Cookout Tour and more. If you haven’t had a chance to watch the MEC’s video concerning Scope, you may watch it here . Upcoming dates and locations for the West Coast Cookout Tour may be viewed here . Keep checking back as more dates will be added.

May 21, 2021

Job security is an important part of any career. Scope language in modern pilot collective bargaining agreements is designed to protect current flying, provide opportunities for growth of a pilot group, and prepare for unexpected events. In this episode, we shed more light on this issue as it relates to Alaska Airlines pilots. Follow the link below to watch the video referenced in this episode which the Alaska MEC released recently. SCOPE

May 3, 2021

Unity and solidarity empower the Alaska MEC’s Negotiating Committee to achieve the pilots’ priorities in the next contract. Solidarity is built through trust and transparent dialogue between elected union leaders and the pilots they represent—a task complicated during COVID-19 restrictions. Listen now to the innovative ways the MEC will overcome this obstacle to be on the road connecting with its pilots.

Apr 8, 2021

Alaska pilots are negotiating improvements to their Collective Bargaining Agreement. Hear from ALPA leaders and ALPA’s Lead Economic and Financial Strategist Liz Spear about why now is the time for our Company to agree to long overdue improvements. Details of the union’s work may also be found in the MEC’s Strategic Planning Executive Summary which is also discussed in this episode. Part of that summary includes the MEC’s perspectives on the recent changes to executive management at Alaska Airlines. The MEC recently updated and released its Strategic Plan to the Alaska Airlines pilots. To read the Strategic Plan Executive Summary, Alaska Airline pilots may logon to the AlaskaPilots.org website and click on the Strategic Plan link.

Feb 13, 2021

Join host Communications Chairman David Campbell as he speaks with MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chairman Chairman Chris Gruner, and Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue about some of the issues facing Alaska Airlines pilots such as vaccinations, what the union knows about the Company’s basing plans—particularly in San Francisco, the MEC’s work to update its Strategic Plan, and negotiations.

Jan 1, 2021

As we turn the page to 2021, now is the time for the Alaska Pilots to continue the work of negotiating improvements to their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). In this episode, host Captain David Campbell speaks with Master Executive Council (MEC) officers—Captain Will McQuillen, Captain Joe Youngerman, Captain Scott Mokos and Captain Garin Tentschert. Most of their discussion will reference and add more detail to a four-minute video message released last week. We recommend you watch that video—linked below—before listening to this episode. VIDEO LINK Terms and references in this episode that may be unfamiliar to some listeners: Canoll: Captain Tim Canoll served as the Air Line Pilots Association International’s president from 2015- 2019. CBA: Collective Bargaining Agreement. SME: Subject Matter Expert. These are pilots who are committee volunteers and have special skills, knowledge, and experience who help support the Alaska MEC. While these pilots volunteer their time on behalf of, and to improve the lives and safety of their fellow pilots, their work almost always creates an ancillary benefit to the company. Some examples include adding an important level of safety, cost savings, and ensuring flight operations processes run smoothly. The company receives these benefits at minimal, and in many cases, no cost.

Dec 16, 2020

Learn more about your union’s resources and how ALPA may assist you if holiday stress is impacting you or your family. ALPA has a number of committees whose purpose is to provide direct assistance to pilots. These have been organized under the umbrella of Pilot Peer Support (PPS) and consist of HIMS, Professional Standards, CIRP, and Aeromedical. In this episode, Host Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell speaks with chairmen from each of these committees. Learn how you, or your flying partner, may be assisted by them and the value of calling ALPA first . Helpful Links: Pilot Peer Support Call (309) 777-2572; (309) PPS-ALPA HIMS Professional Standards CIRP Aeromedical

Dec 6, 2020

MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner, and Strategic Planning Chairman Ronan O’Donoghue discuss closing out year 2020 and what is facing the pilot group in the near future with host Communications Chairman David Campbell. Topics include the recent EIL recalls, the removal of vacation open time, vaccines, and grievances. FAQ For Pilots Returning From EIL.

Nov 4, 2020

Shortly before the pilots’ contractual provision to trade vacation days was to begin, in a process known as open time vacation trading , Vice President of Flight Operations announced to the pilot-union leaders that he intended to remove available days from the open time availability—a step never taken in the past. Despite objections from ALPA (the union representing Alaska Airlines pilots) management moved forward with their plan. In this episode, host Strategic Communications Chairman Captain David Campbell discusses, among other topics, the Company’s changes with MEC Chairman Captain Will McQuillen and Negotiating Committee Chairman First Officer Chris Gruner. Listeners may also be interested in reading the latest Chairman’s Message dated November 2, 2020 in which MEC Chairman McQuillen addresses this topic.

Oct 5, 2020

October 1 was a significant day for the pilot group at Alaska Airlines; it marked a turning point of sorts. Join host Captain David Campbell as he discusses this with MEC Chairman Captain Will McQuillen, and what this means for negotiations with Negotiating Chairman Chris Gruner. Also covered in the episode is the desire management had to turn off important rules used to generate pilot’s flying schedules in the software program called The Optimizer . These rules are in place for safety, to mitigate fatigue, and to improve quality of life. ALPA was able to convince management to leave these time-tested rules in place for the upcoming bid month. It is our expectation that management will not attempt to make similar changes in future months. Listen to the episode to hear a full account of the interesting work ALPA undertook to protect their pilots. Throughout this episode references are made to links in the show notes. Below are those links in the order they occur. Tribute video to our pilots who chose early retirement The new In The Loop page of the AlaskaPilots.org website and Facebook Group page. In The Loop Web Page Facebook Group Telephonic polling conducted by the University of New Hampshire begins on Monday October 5. Calls will come from (603) 397-0660 and be identified as either UNH Surv Ctr or NH Call. On some phones, this call may be identified as “Scam Likely.” We suggest pilots add this phone number to their contact list so that, if randomly selected, the call will reach them. The November Scheduling Committee Summary Position Bid 2021-04 Information and FAQ Pilot Peer Support: 309-PPS-ALPA (309-777-2572) Pilot Peer Support (PPS) is a group of ALPA pilot volunteers who are trained to talk about any personal or professional problems pilots may be experiencing. PPS volunteers listen and offer confidential and nonjudgmental support as well as information to help them make informed decisions. A PPS volunteer can help with any issue without jeopardy to the pilot’s career. PPS volunteers are not counselors or mental health professionals—they are fellow pilots trained to provide empathy and support to deal with life’s stresses, with access to appropriate resources to help you make the next step.

Aug 23, 2020

Listen as Captains McQuillen, Campbell, O’Donoghue, Swoveland, and First Officer Gruner discuss the recently concluded quarterly MEC meeting. Topics include the direction given to the Negotiating Committee, an update to the Strategic Plan, what we have learned from Alaska Airlines management regarding basing, and other topics. Become an ALPA committee volunteer— click here .

Aug 21, 2020

This episode covers the bid award results of the recent Position Bid 2020-11a. Expect a subsequent episode in the next day or so which will recap the recently concluded quarterly MEC meeting.

Jul 31, 2020

UPDATE: The initial upload of this episode included overlapping audio tracks. If you are experiencing that issue, refresh your podcast app and that should upload the correct version. If not, you may need to delete this episode and re-download it. In this episode Host Captain David Campbell and others discuss what is different and what is the same about how management will award Bid 2020-11a, how seniority will be followed during the awarding process, and what that looks like now that there will be pilots who are both flying and on Extended Incentive Lines. Because there are both vacancies and reductions in the bid, pilots should be very familiar with the bid award process so that they may place their preferences appropriately. If you have questions after listening to this episode, contact a member of your Membership Committee at ALAMembership@alpa.org or Contract Compliance at (888)767-2228.

Jul 27, 2020

A short preview of the episode we are working on about position bid 2020-11a.

Jul 24, 2020

This episode answers some questions about the awarding of the EIL, REIL, ELOA, and EO, what pilots who were awarded one may expect, and what the MEC is working on next. A Scheduling Committee document is mentioned in this episode that may help pilots understand their contractual rights when a trip is canceled. Click, Control Your Life by Understanding 25.T,U, and V . More questions may be answered by your Contract Compliance Team at (888) 767 2228. Please join ALPA’s Call to Action to tell congress to fund an extension to the Payroll Support Program.

Jul 13, 2020

Voluntary Leave and Incentive Line LOA page. Contract Compliance Team (CCT) phone number: 888-767-2228.

Jul 5, 2020

Bidding for the recently negotiated Letters of Agreement (LOA) for Extended Incentive Lines (EIL), Retirement Extended Incentive Lines (REIL), Extended Leaves of Absences (ELOA) and the Early-Out Retirement Program offered by Alaska Airlines to its pilots is underway and will close on July 15 at 09:00 PDT. In this episode Strategic Communications Chair, Capt. David Campbell speaks with MEC Chair, Capt. Will McQuillen; Negotiating Chair, First Officer Chris Gruner; Strategic Planning Chair, Capt. Ronan O’Donoghue; and Membership Chair, Capt. Will Swoveland. Topics include the bid award process which has been redesigned to ensure seniority will be honored and should help pilots when making decisions about how to bid. The panel also answers a number of recurring questions. A one-stop-shop of LOA related information has been created on the AlaskaPilots.org website and can be found on the Voluntary Leave and Incentive Line LOAs page. If pilots still have questions, call the Contract Compliance Team at (888) 767-2228. For questions directly related to retirement, contact a member of the Retirement and Insurance (R&I) Committee. The CCT phone number and contact information for R&I Committee members may be found on the webpage linked above.

Jun 18, 2020

Three new LOAs were approved on June 17 by the Alaska Master Executive Council (MEC) and Alaska Airlines executive management. These agreements create a number of voluntary extended leaves and incentive lines which, depending on the level of participation, could minimize—or possibly eliminate—the need to furlough. In this episode, MEC Chairman, Will McQuillen, Negotiating Chairman, Chris Gruner, and Strategic Communications Chairman David Campbell discuss the details of those agreements, what has transpired since management’s Virtual Town Hall webcast on June 4, and the road ahead. LOA 20-03 Military Leave Extension LOA 20-04 Extend Leaves of Absence LOA 20-05 Extend Incentive Lines

Jun 14, 2020

This breaking podcast update covers what occurred at the Special MEC meeting on Sunday, June 14. We will release a more detailed episode in the days to come covering the new LOAs that were approved by your MEC today having to do with new leave and staffing options for our pilots.

May 28, 2020

In this episode, MEC Chairman Captain Will McQuillen and MEC Vice Chairman Captain Joe Youngerman discuss management’s conflicting messaging regarding the recent position bid award, their unilateral decision to exit the COVID-19 Protections MOU, and questions raised about furloughs. The MEC and ALPA National have a number of resources to help pilots deal with this potentially stressful time. If you are an Alaska pilot, please call the Pilot Peer Support number with any concerns—large or small—day or night at (309) PPS-ALPA or (309) 777-2572.

May 8, 2020

Join host Strategic Communications Chairman, Captain David Campbell, MEC Chairman, Captain Will McQuillen, Strategic Planning Chairman Captain Ronan O’Donoghue, and Aeromedical Chairman First Officer Steve Savidge. In this episode, they reflect on where we are as we navigate through this pandemic, recent work of the Negotiating Committee, pilots’ concerns about furlough, and concerns regarding the recent position bid. Later in the episode, Campbell talks to Aeromedical Committee Chairman Steve Savidge about the resources available to pilots during this stressful time for many. Linked here is the supporting document Captain O’Donoghue references while discussing the recent position bid. These are uncertain times which may cause anxiety and stress. If you would like to know more about resources available to pilots and family members, or if you feel like you could use a helping hand or a shoulder to lean on, please call your block rep. You may also call a pilot volunteer from the Pilot Peer Support program at (309) PPS-ALPA (309-777-2572). All calls are confidential.

Apr 12, 2020

Strategic Communications Chairman, David Campbell speaks with MEC Chairman, Will McQuillen and Scheduling Committee Chairman, Scott Rubin. An important Call-to-Action is underway to demand the safety of our workplace. Add your voice by following the link below. https://alpa.quorum.us/campaign/25675/

Apr 4, 2020

Your MEC’s work continues as the world deals with the effects of the Coronavirus. Host Strategic Communications Chairman, Capt. David Campbell, MEC Chairman, Capt. Will McQuillen, and MEC Secretary, Capt. Garin Tentschert discuss a number of topics: What we know so far about how the stimulus bill, known as the CARES act, will affect Alaska Airlines Ongoing negotiations related to early-out retirement options MOU 20-04—COVID-19 Contract Protections Cancelation of System Bid 20-05 Remember, if you feel like you could use a helping hand or a shoulder to lean on, your MEC has several resources available. Please call your block rep or the Pilot Peer Support number at (309) PPS-ALPA (309-777-2572).

Mar 28, 2020

MEC Communications Chairman David Campbell, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, and Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner discuss events of the week including announced flying reductions, the May System Bid cancelation, the recently passed stimulus bill, new MOUs, and other topics. This episode was recorded on Friday, March 27, 2020. Referenced in this episode are two recently signed MOUs. For your convenience, links to them are below as well as a Q&A, and a Leave Matrix. MOU 20-02 MOU 20-04 Q&A Leave Matrix

Mar 21, 2020

As we continue to adapt to the effects of COVID-19 and hear of reduced flying throughout the industry, pilots are naturally concerned about their immediate futures. Host Strategic Communications Chairman, Capt. David Campbell and MEC Chairman, Capt. Will McQuillen discuss steps the MEC is taking to protect flying jobs, work toward creating voluntary reduced flying and/or leaves of absence, and how all this differs from the furlough mitigation steps outline in Section 23 [Furlough and Recall] of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Please help us keep you updated with breaking news by signing up to receive text alerts through TextCaster .

Mar 15, 2020

Listen to host, Strategic Communications Chairman Capt. David Campbell, discuss the COVID-19 pandemic as it relates to the airline industry and specifically to our pilots. MEC officers, Capt. Will McQuillen, Capt. Garin Tentschert, and Capt. Scott Mokos, provide some perspective and thoughts on other major events that have affected our industry and discuss some of the steps union leadership is taking on behalf of the pilots of Alaska Airlines. Finally, Negotiating Chairman, F/O Chris Gruner describes the protections to pilots contained in MOU 20-01which was signed on Friday, March 13. Our pilots may read that document by clicking the link below. We understand that these times are stressful, if you are an ALPA pilot and would like to avail yourself to some of the MEC resources discussed in this episode, please call Pilot Peer Support (PPS) at 309-777-2572 (309-PPS-ALPA). MOU 20-01 COVID-19 Protections

Jan 28, 2020

In this episode, MEC officers and other committee chairs discuss current events and issues affecting the pilot group. Among other topics, Executive Vice President Joe Youngerman provides an update on ALPA’s work to improve the KCM experience for pilots. Membership Chairman Will Swoveland discusses attrition numbers and what those who chose to leave Alaska Airlines have to say about their decision.

Dec 3, 2019

In this episode, MEC officers and other committee chairs discuss current events and issues affecting the pilot group. Pilots who are junior in their seat/base may be particularly interested in the discussion of the latest position bid which will close on December 5, 2019 at 17:00 pacific time.

Nov 8, 2019

Pilots at Alaska Airlines began negotiating improvements to their collective bargaining agreement with management in June 2019. Now the pilots’ Negotiating Committee is shifting its focus to the significant aspects of the contract known as the four cornerstones—work rules, job security, benefits, and pay. In this episode, MEC Chairman Will McQuillen, Negotiating Committee Chairman Chris Gruner, and ALPA’s chief negotiator Bruce York discuss negotiating the more significant aspects of the pilots’ contract.

Sep 26, 2019

On September 6, 2019, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) filed a lawsuit in federal court addressing Alaska Airlines’ unilateral change and bad faith bargaining practices. The issue related to the company directing pilots to order a new uniform despite clear contract language requiring the MEC’s “mutual agreement” on certain changes. That mutual agreement was never obtained. Subsequent to ALPA’s filing, the company rescinded its requirement and consequently, ALPA withdrew its lawsuit. This episode discusses the litigation, the Union’s commitment to defend its pilots and the contract, and what to expect moving forward.

Aug 28, 2019

Host Capt. David Campbell continues his conversation with captains Will McQuillen, Joe Youngerman, and Jon Wrigley about what recent negotiations surrounding uniforms and HIMS reveal about Alaska Airlines. In part two, these elected pilot leaders talk about what the MEC is doing in the face of these frustrating times with management, share why they are still hopeful about our future, and explain what the pilots can do to help their MEC and negotiating committee be successful in executing the strategic plan. Listeners may also be interested to read the MEC’s proposed letter of agreement (LOA) on the uniforms and the accompanying letter to the Company sent by MEC Chairman, Capt. Will McQuillen. Click on the link below and find each of those documents on your MEC's Communications page. Uniform LOA Letter to Ladner

Aug 23, 2019

Three former and current MEC chairman sit down with host Captain David Campbell to discuss what the recent interactions with management surrounding HIMS and uniforms reveal to us about Alaska Airlines management and what we might expect in the future. We know pilots have concerns about management’s unilateral decision on the uniform and we will discuss whether getting fitted for and ordering is required at this time.

Jun 19, 2019

The Alaska MEC has shared an executive summary of its strategic planning document with its pilots. In this podcast, host Capt. David Campbell, Strategic Communications chairman, discusses that document in more detail with MEC chairman Capt. Will McQuillen, MEC vice chairman Capt. Keith Louis, and MEC Strategic Planning chairman Capt. Ronan O’Donoghue. In a video released in August 2018, the Alaska MEC first reported that strategic planning efforts led them to conclude that it would be up to the Alaska pilot group to safeguard its future. That meant, among other things, to take control of its destiny and forge a path to a reliable future. Pilots may view that video here . Negotiating the next contract provides a significant opportunity to make improvements that will help Safeguard Our Future. The information presented in the executive summary and this podcast will help familiarize Alaska pilots and their families with their MEC’s strategic plans. To read the document, go to alaskapilots.org and click on the “executive summary” icon.

May 9, 2019

Strategic Communications Chairman, David Campbell sits down with Negotiating Chairman, Chris Gurner and MEC Chairman, Will McQuillen to discuss pending contract negotiations and the importance of Safeguarding Our Future through the collective bargaining process. Part of that conversation dealt with Section 6 of the Railway Labor Act and the fact that it contains no requirement of arbitration.

Apr 2, 2019

SOF