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American Airlines Safety Concerns
Recent reports have shed light on safety concerns within American Airlines, further highlighting the aviation industry’s ongoing struggles with maintaining high safety standards. While United Airlines previously made headlines for its notable number of Federal Aviation Administration-reported incidents, American Airlines is now facing similar challenges.
Union Memo Highlights Safety Problems
The Allied Pilots Association, the union representing American Airlines pilots, issued a memo to its members warning of a significant increase in safety issues. The memo, obtained by Bloomberg, urged pilots to remain vigilant in the face of troubling trends within the airline.
According to the memo, some of the identified problematic trends include tools being left in plane wheel wells, a decrease in both the frequency and quality of maintenance checks, and pressure to expedite the return of aircraft to service despite reduced inspection procedures. The union emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety over speed, cautioning pilots not to succumb to intimidation or pressure to cut corners.
“Just because it’s legal doesn’t make it safe,” the memo stated, underscoring the critical need for a steadfast commitment to safety protocols.
Industry-Wide Scrutiny
The aviation industry has faced heightened scrutiny following a door plug blowout incident on an Alaska Airlines-operated Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft. While Boeing has been a focal point of scrutiny, other airlines have also come under the spotlight for safety concerns.
United Airlines, in response to recent operational challenges, has reassured its workforce of increased FAA oversight. The company’s executives have emphasized the importance of a collective commitment to safety, highlighting the shared responsibility of ensuring safe operations within the airline industry.
American Airlines’ Commitment to Safety
In light of the industry-wide focus on safety, American Airlines has reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining a strong safety record. The airline underscored its robust safety program, guided by an industry-leading safety management system that includes collaborative initiatives with regulatory bodies and labor unions.
According to a statement provided to Quartz, American Airlines expressed its commitment to enhancing its safety culture through regular engagement with the FAA and union partners. The airline emphasized the collective effort required to uphold safety standards and ensure the well-being of passengers and crew members.
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