3.24.17 – (LAA/LUS) – Bob Ross Represents APFA in Washington D.C.

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Friday, March 24, 2017

APFA National President Bob Ross spent two days in Washington, DC this week. On Tuesday, he and APFA Government Affairs Representative Allie Malis attended a lunch with Congressman Mike Capuano (MA-07) who serves on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee as well as the Aviation subcommittee. He is a strong labor supporter and his district encompasses a part of Boston that includes 50 APFA members.

Speaking at the lunch, Bob thanked him for his ongoing support to increase Flight Attendant rest so that Flight Attendants can properly perform their duties as safety professionals.

Bob underscored the changed landscape of aviation security since 9/11 and the important role Flight Attendants play as first responders and our last line of defense. Congressman Capuano has been a passionate advocate for safety issues including Flight Attendant fatigue which he will continue to push this
session.

At a Wednesday morning breakfast, Senator Brian Schatz (HI) underscored the important role that unions play in protecting the middle class and the critical importance of collective bargaining as a tool for worker advancement.

Bob Ross and 15 APFA members attended the International Aviation Club Luncheon on Wednesday at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, DC. Joined by pilots from APA, our attendance was a statement of our unified opposition to the subsidies flowing to the three major carriers in the Middle East.

Roger Dow of the US Travel Association spoke at the luncheon in favor of continuing to let Emirates, Etihad and Qatar violate EU-US Open Skies Agreements. In coordination with the Partnership for Open and Fair Skies, APFA and other aviation unions packed the event with men and women in uniform in protest of his position.

The multi-billion dollar subsidies that these carriers have received from their governments directly harm the U.S. aviation industry by creating unfair competition and threatening our jobs. Mr. Dow claimed the three carriers have stimulated an increase in US tourism; however, it has been documented that there is no evidence of any increase whatsoever. In fact, Emirates and Etihad happen to be two of the US Travel Association’s top-tier sponsors. Talk about pay for play! Aviation union members filled the room wearing red buttons that stated “Fair Flights.” APFA’s presence was felt and Mr. Dow did not allow time for questions.

A huge thanks to APFA members who attended the IAC event and made APFA the most represented union at the luncheon. As of now, the Partnership for Open & Fair Skies is planning a lobby day in Washington, DC on May 3rd, 2017. More details will be communicated when they become available.