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Podcasts

Fly By Night: Trip Services Committee December 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this podcast episode, we talk with Trip Services Committee Chair Captain Don Unwin and Vice Chair First Officer Jackie Crawford. They discuss the work of their committee and explain that the committee’s goal is to enhance pilots’ quality of life through hotel, catering, and transportation services. They collaborate with Crew Travel Services, gather pilot feedback through reports, and emphasize data-driven decisions to address and improve issues like non-contract hotels, safety, and service quality.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Critical Incident Response Program (CIRP) November 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this podcast episode, we talk with Critical Incident Response Program (CIRP) Chair Captain Ken Dubinski. Ken explains that CIRP is a peer-to-peer program under the Pilot Assistance Committee and describes CIRP’s role in assisting fellow FedEx pilots. He emphasizes the level of confidentiality given when a pilot contacts them for assistance and the best way to reach out to a CIRP volunteer.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Pilot-to-Pilot (P2P) Committee November 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Pilot-to-Pilot (P2P) Committee Chair Captain Andrew Harmon. Andrew discusses the committee’s recent work with the lanyard rollout and the new QR code on the lanyards. He also informs listeners the best way to reach the P2P Committee, whether it’s to signup as a volunteer or provide feedback to the MEC. Finally, he discusses the importance of attending the 3-Year Amendable Date Rally this weekend to show your support for our Negotiating Committee.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Grievance Committee & Contract Enforcement Oct. 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Grievance Committee Vice Chair Captain Mary Murphy and Contract Enforcement staff member Rivers Powers. Mary and Rivers explain the close relationship between Contract Enforcement and the Grievance Committee. They also discuss issues surrounding expense reports, deviation banks, confusion about travel rules and tips to help pilots avoid common problems. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee November 2024 Build Week

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington. Marty discusses the November 2024 build week, the observations the committee is seeing in regard to the SAM and the most recent Scheduling Matters article, “The Deviator’s Guide.” Marty also discusses the PSIT’s process in evaluating operational versus scheduled flights, some of the complaints they’ve received from pilots regarding the new system form and answers a question received from a recent DART submission.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Professional Standards Sept. 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this podcast episode, we talk with the Professional Standards Committee Chair and Vice Chair, Captain Nick Richardson and First Officer Taylor Miolen. Nick and Taylor discuss the roles of the committee and the work they do to maintain a positive culture within the airline. They explain the best ways to reach Professional Standards and the importance committee members place on confidentiality between their committee and the pilot seeking assistance. Nick and Taylor encourage pilots to reach out to the Professional Standards Committee instead of flight management to help resolve issues that may arise between pilots.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Grievance Committee August 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Grievance Committee Chair Captain Chris Wood. Chris discusses the grievance process and some misconceptions associated with the process. He also discusses the importance of preserving the timeline regarding issues that are deemed part of the grievance process. Finally, Chris describes the two tracks a grievance can take, admin and discipline.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee September 2024 Build Week

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington and are joined later by special guest Fatigue Risk Management Committee (FRMC) Chair Captain Rob Bassett. Marty discusses the recent communications from the Company and the September 2024 build week. He also discusses the concept of target BLGs, an agreement reached for the Anchorage disputed pairings, and the recent SIG Quarterly Meeting. FRMC Chair Captain Rob Bassett joins the podcast to discuss our contractual fatigue rights and protections, the IM SAFE checklist, and other fatigue education available on the FDX MEC website.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Pilot-to-Pilot (P2P) Committee (Ep.2) July 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with interim Pilot-to-Pilot (P2P) Committee Chair Captain Andrew Harmon. This is the second episode focusing on the P2P Committee. Andrew discusses the recent “All In” campaign announced by MEC Chair Captain Jose Nieves and the role P2P will play during this campaign. He provides additional details about the meaning of “All In” and where pilots can obtain one of the new “All In” lanyards. 

Click here to read the transcript.

Fly By Night: Pilot-to-Pilot (P2P) Committee July 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with interim Pilot-to-Pilot (P2P) Committee Chair Captain Andrew Harmon. Andrew discusses the role P2P plays and the importance of this committee in our current environment. He also discusses his connection with the Negotiating Committee, the process involved with becoming a P2P representative and the goals of the P2P Committee.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scope Education (Ep.3) July 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scope Committee Chair Captain Sal Infante, Vice Chair First Officer Dan Silbaugh and committee member First Officer Luis Quiros. The Scope Committee provides an update on recent work since the last scope podcast was released and some of the data they are tracking thanks to DART reports from line pilots. These DART reports and other capabilities within the committee help shed light on how the company arranges its air network. The committee also discusses the recent contract comparison published by IPA and the differences between our contract and IPA’s contract.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee August 2024 Build Week

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington. Marty discusses the August 2024 build week and the lack of information being provided by the Company regarding the upcoming October system form changes. Marty also discusses XTRA pairings dropping into open time, how that relates to the SAM, and reminds pilots of how closely the PSIT tracks the SAM. Finally, Marty discusses the Anchorage disputes, system bid rumors and reminds pilots about the new scheduling app. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee July 2024 Build Week

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington. Marty discusses the July 2024 build week and the current uncertainty related to the postal contract loss. Marty also discusses in more detail the Impact Analysis and how it is helping his committee navigate through the lack of information being provided by the Company. Finally, Marty discusses the importance of pilots understanding when best to proffer trips and also discusses the NEW SCHEDULING APP. Click on the link here or in the transcription to try it out!

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee June 2024 Build Week

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington. Marty discusses the current hot topic related to the postal contract loss and the impact analysis the Scheduling Committee is tasked with doing. Marty also discusses the June 2024 build week and provides an update on grievances associated with the Scheduling Committee. Finally, Marty discusses the airline’s staffing and the recent Fatigue Risk Quarterly meeting.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Incoming Negotiating Committee Chair April 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with incoming Negotiating Committee Chair Captain John Gustafson. John discusses his background with FedEx, previous Union experience, and the ongoing transition process with the current Negotiating Committee. He also discusses the additional members of his committee and what he sees as the next steps in the negotiating process.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee Postal Contract & May 2024 Build

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington. Marty discusses the recent news regarding FedEx’s loss of the postal contract and the May 2024 build week. Additionally, he discusses the ANC dispute issue, the FERC dispute process and why fatigue calls and reports matter, Scheduling Grievance 23-18 and other scheduling issues.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: R&I Deadlines

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with R&I Committee Vice Chair First Officer Ben Monshor. Ben discusses some upcoming insurance deadlines and provisions in the CBA that require the company to meet with our R&I Committee. He also discusses additional boards and committees that the R&I Committee is responsible for and his role on ALPA National’s R&I Committee.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Fatigue Risk Management Committee February 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Fatigue Risk Management Committee Chair Captain Rob Bassett. Rob discusses the roles and responsibility of his committee and the tools available to FedEx pilots when it comes to assessing fatigue. He also discusses the process on how to call in fatigue and the importance of filing a Fatigue Report and DART.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scope Education (Ep. 2) January 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scope Committee Chair Captain Sal Infante. This is the second episode in a series that will focus on scope. Sal discusses his previous union experience and dives into the current work being done by the Scope Committee. He also discusses recent DARTs the committee has received and provides responses to those DART questions. He also explains the difference between interlining, co-loading and code-sharing in relation to moving freight. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: R&I Education (Ep. 3) January 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with R&I Committee Chair Captain Kevin Biggins and R&I Committee Member Captain Toby Cline. This is the third episode in a series that will focus on R&I.
Kevin and Toby discuss the history of our retirement, beginning with the 1999 contract. This podcast serves as an educational piece. The MEC tasked the R&I Committee to educate the crewforce on retirement options available to pilots.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: R&I Education (Special Episode) January 2024

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with R&I Committee Chair Captain Kevin Biggins and R&I Committee Members Captain Toby Kline and First Officer James Olsen. This is a special episode in a series that will focus on R&I.This episode discusses the Market-Based Cash Balance Plans at other airlines, such as Delta, United and Southwest. They also discuss cash over cap, spillover and IRS limits.

This podcast serves as an educational piece. The MEC tasked the R&I Committee to educate the crewforce on retirement options available to pilots. You can expect more episodes in the future regarding R&I education. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: R&I Education (Ep. 2) December 2023

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with R&I Committee Chair Captain Kevin Biggins and R&I Committee Member First Officer James Olsen. This is the second episode in a series that will focus on R&I.
Kevin and James discuss the Market-Based Cash Balance Plan from TA 1 and the associated FAE cap increases that were part of our legacy pension plan. This podcast serves as an educational piece. The MEC tasked the R&I Committee to educate the crewforce on retirement options available to pilots. This episode will offer information on what was offered in TA 1. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: R&I Education (Ep. 1) December 2023

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with R&I Committee Chair Captain Kevin Biggins and R&I Committee Member First Officer James Olsen. This is the first episode in a series that will focus on R&I. Kevin and James discuss the goals of the R&I Education Series and some of the topics they cover throughout the series. They explain that the education series will dive deeper into various retirement topics, providing pilots with a comprehensive overview of their retirement options available. In this episode, Kevin and James start out discussing our current retirement plans, along with their strengths and weaknesses. You can expect more episodes in the future regarding R&I education. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scope Education December 2023

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scope Committee Chair Captain Randy Brockwell. This is the first episode in a series that will focus on scope. Randy provides an overview of what’s covered under Section 1 (Recognition, Scope and Successorship) of the CBA. He discusses current scope provisions regarding aircraft that can be operated by pilots outside of the master seniority list, how wet leasing works, and the penalties associated with wet leasing. Additionally, Randy addresses belly freight and what our CBA says about this type of freight.  You can expect more episodes in the future regarding scope education. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee December 2023 Build

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington and A-300 PSIT and Secondary Line Replacement Working Group (SLRWG) member Captain Mike Davidson. Marty and Mike discuss the December build week, one-way routing, and what days are likely to be the busiest for December. They also discuss some of the recent DARTs they’ve received and go into detail about the Secondary Line Replacement Working Group. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: R&I Committee Replay October 2023

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

This episode of our podcast is an edited replay of our August podcast with R&I Committee Chair Captain Kevin Biggins discussing the Annual Benefits Enrollment window for 2024. We’ve edited the podcast by removing dates and events that have already passed.

As a reminder, Benefits Enrollment is now open and will remain open through October 25th.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee November 2023 Build

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington. Marty discusses what’s new with the November build week and the recent SIG Quarterly and Fatigue Risk Management Group Quarterly meetings. Additionally, Marty highlights the Scheduling Matters articles available on our website that provide useful information related to scheduling. Finally, Marty discusses some of the recent emails their committee has received from pilots.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Grievance Committee September 2023 Update

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this podcast episode, we talk with Grievance Committee Chair Captain Chris Wood. Chris discusses the grievance process, with particular focus on the administrative side of grievances. He also discusses the recent settlement agreement for Grievance 22-08 and where you find more information on this settlement agreement. Finally, Chris discusses the importance of contacting our Professional Standards Committee first whenever there is a conflict between crew members. Our Professional Standards Committee members are trained for conflict resolution and can assist crew members before something potentially escalates.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Scheduling Committee October 2023 Build

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Scheduling Committee Chair Captain Marty Harrington. Marty discusses what’s new with the October build week, the production of the SIG Notes, 4.A.2.b./4.A.2.c., and the SIG Quarterly. Additionally, Marty discusses trends in credit hours, extra pairings, and asks for feedback on whether you like receiving this type of scheduling information via the podcast format.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Strike Authorization Vote

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Vice Chair First Officer Tom Merrill and MEC Executive Administrator First Officer Brian Baldwin. Tom and Brian discuss the MEC’s resolution authorizing the MEC Chair to call for a strike authorization vote and provide background information leading up to this decision. They discuss what a strike authorization vote means and the importance of every pilot participating in the process and continuing to remain engaged. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Council 22 Chair/Block 2 Representative Capt. Tony Cutler

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Council 22 Chair and Block 2 Representative, Captain Tony Cutler. Tony discusses his background prior to joining FedEx and his previous union experience. Tony also discusses his role as a member of the MEC and what fellow pilots can do as we continue in Section 6 negotiations.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: RLA Process January 2023

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Vice Chair First Officer Tom Merrill and MEC Executive Administrator First Officer Brian Baldwin. Tom and Brian discuss the RLA process and where we’re currently at in that process. They expound on the expedited  mediation concept and explain what comes next in the process. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: DAL MEC Replay “Lawyers, Guns, & Money

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we are replaying the Delta MEC podcast titled Lawyers, Guns, & Money which was initially released on June 22, 2022. In this podcast First Officer Ryan Argenta, Delta Engage podcast host and Delta MEC Communications Committee Member, and Marcus Migliore, ALPA General Council and Director, Legal Department discuss the implications of the Railway Labor Act (RLA) on Section 6 negotiations and how pilot-coordinated self-help actions can adversely derail progress at the table. 

Fly By Night: Trip Services Committee November 2022 Update

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with the Trip Services Committee Chair Captain Jay Owen and Trip Services Committee Vice Chair Captain Don Unwin. Jay and Don discuss how they became involved in union work, their committee’s goal when serving the FedEx pilots and outline some of the processes involved with hotel and catering issues. Additionally, they discuss what pilots can do to assist their committee’s purpose.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Bereavement Committee – October 2022

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Bereavement Committee Chair Captain Craig Aber and Bereavement Committee Vice Chair First Officer Jim Coletti. Craig and Jim discuss how they became involved in union work and the various ways the Bereavement Committee helps fellow pilots. They discuss the importance of familiarizing yourself with the Survivor’s Guide and designating a Casualty Assistant Liaison (CAL).     

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: SPSC Update, June 2022 / Informational Picketing

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Strategic Preparedness and Strike Committee (SPSC) Chair, First Officer Eric Moraes. Eric discusses recent SPSC and Family Awareness co-branded events. He also discusses the upcoming Pilot Rally and Informational Picketing on June 28th in Memphis. Finally, Eric provides details on how to RSVP and the importance of having pilots show up and be counted.

Click here to RSVP.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Negotiating Committee – Nearing the End of the Protocol Agreement

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Negotiating Committee Chair Captain Pat May and Negotiating Committee Member Captain Rich Brown. Pat and Rich discuss approaching the end of the protocol agreement goal of reaching a TA by the end of May. They discuss where we are now and what happens next. They provide a negotiations update and discuss what they have been working on in recent negotiating sessions, the upcoming Informational Picketing, and the importance of pilot unity and pilots showing up to support the Negotiating Committee.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Negotiating Committee May 2022

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Negotiating Committee Chair Captain Pat May and Negotiating Committee Member Captain Rich Brown. Pat and Rich discuss other agreements that have been negotiated such as the Hong Kong base closure MOU and an updated Medical Measures MOU all while continuing with the larger Section 6 negotiations. They discuss what is similar and what’s different in the new Medical Measures MOU and other details related to this MOU. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: MEC Officer Update, March 2022

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Chair Captain Chris Norman, MEC Vice Chair First Officer Tom Merrill and MEC Secretary Treasurer First Officer Don Loepke. The MEC officers discuss their union experience and background prior to joining FedEx. They also provide an update regarding current issues and how they view their role as MEC officers versus their prior positions as MEC representatives. Finally, they provide an update regarding negotiations and what every pilot can do to support the Negotiating Committee.

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Fly By Night: Council 7 Vice Chair/Block 4 Representative Anita Shew

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Council 7 Vice Chair and Block 4 Representative, First Officer Anita Shew. Anita discusses her background prior to joining FedEx, her previous union experience and explains what pushed her to get involved with FDX ALPA union work. Anita also discusses her role as a member of the MEC and addresses the challenges of MEC turnover. Finally, she discusses Contract 2021, what pilots can do to support the Negotiating Committee, and provides final thoughts related to other topics.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Council 500 Chair/Block 14 Representative Tim Fingers

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Council 500 Chair and Block 14 Representative, Captain Tim Fingers. Tim discusses his background before joining FedEx, why he chose to get involved with union work, and how he views his role as a member of the MEC. He also discusses Contract 2021, the line pilot’s role during negotiations, and some of the current issues happening in the Indy base.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Security Committee, September 2021

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Bill Schild, Security Committee Chair, about the roles and responsibilities of the Security Committee. Bill also discusses his background and who makes up the Security Committee for FDX ALPA. He explains the Security Committee’s coordination with FedEx’s Aviation Security Department and current initiatives that pilots can get involved in to help the Security Committee.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Strategic Preparedness & Strike Committee (SPSC)

By Fly by Night, Podcasts, Uncategorized

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with First Officer Eric Moraes, SPSC Chair, who discusses his committee’s mission regarding the MEC’s strategic plan and the role SPSC plays during contract negotiations. He also discusses the importance of continuing to be engaged, seeking factual information. Additionally, Eric emphasizes how actively participating and volunteering are critical during contract negotiations. The SPSC is currently seeking volunteers to assist in one of the many tasks associated with the planning of SPSC events.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly by Night: LEC 26 Vice Chair/Block 11 Representative Nick Bolander

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Council 26 Vice Chair and Block 11 Representative, Captain Nick Bolander. Nick discusses his position as Block 11 Representative, Contract 2021 Negotiations, the importance of pilots being engaged and informed, and the Company’s proposals to date during negotiations. He also discusses the importance of having accurate and updated contact information with ALPA and the importance of unity during contract negotiations. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Retirement & Insurance Committee, August 2021

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Retirement & Insurance (R&I) Chair Captain Kevin Biggins who discusses his background and union experience, the makeup of the R&I Committee to include the roles and responsibilities of the R&I Committee. He also discusses the upcoming benefits open enrollment dates and other enrollment deadlines, including a new law that might impact any FedEx pilot who lives in the state of Washington. Finally, he discusses his committee’s involvement with the Negotiating Committee during Contract 2021 negotiations and the best way to contact the R&I Committee.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: MEC Chairman August 2021 Update

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Dave Chase, MEC Chair who discusses the delays and difficulties our pilots face due to flight operations and COVID, the Delta variant and the importance of testing especially on international flights, upcoming Family Awareness events in Anchorage, Indianapolis and Memphis, where to find information on the state of our current negotiations, and his recent resignation announcement.  

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Fatigue

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Dave Chase, MEC Chairman, Captain Rich Hughey, Safety Committee Chairman, Captain Marty Harrington, Scheduling Committee Chairman and Captain Rob Bassett, Fatigue Risk Management Committee Chairman who discuss the issue of fatigue, contractual language regarding fatigue, the risk fatigue poses to our operations and our pilots, how system form is flown day to day compared to the CBA, what happens when you call in fatigued, the trip removal process and other fatigue related topics.  

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Safety Committee

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Rich Hughey, Safety Committee Chairman, Captain Steve Heid, Safety Committee Vice Chairman and Captain Jim Perry, Safety Committee Vice Chairman who discuss the roles and responsibilities of the Safety Committee, Safety Programs, the System Safety Group, the Safety Program Group, mitigating risks, the COVID Safety Working Group, the importance of pilot reports, and how distractions can impact safety.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: LEC 79 Chairman / Block 9 Representative Bob Cecchi

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Council 79 Chairman and Block 9 Representative, Captain Bob Cecchi. Bob discusses his background, his union experience, volunteerism, his role as MEC Representative to the Anchorage based pilots, the pilots’ role during contract negotiations, and the growth of the Anchorage base. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: The SIG & PSIT

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Marty Harrington, Scheduling Committee Chairman who discusses his background, the roles and responsibilities of his committee to include the Scheduling Improvement Group (SIG) and the Pilot Scheduling Improvement Team (PSIT), the bidpack build process, the challenges of this last year and how the pandemic has impacted scheduling, the new sunrise sort, and manning. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Professional Standards Committee

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Mark Jefferson, Professional Standards Committee Chairman who discusses his background, pilot volunteers on the committee, what Professional Standards does for the pilots, the Professional Standards Letter of Agreement (LOA), how and why pilots come to Professional Standards, what Professional Standards does not do, how to handle a conflict, and the importance of solidarity and participation in organized labor.  

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: Negotiating Committee Introduction

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Negotiating Committee Chairman, Captain Pat May, Negotiating Committee Member, Captain Mike Weskalnies, and Negotiating Committee Member, Captain Rich Brown. They discuss their background on the Negotiating Committee, their experience negotiating agreements with the Company, the topic of professional negotiators, what pilots can expect and how they can help as we move into bargaining for Contract 2021.  

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: MEC Officer November 2020 Update

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Chairman, Captain Dave Chase, MEC Vice Chairman, Captain Bill Hubbell, and MEC Secretary/Treasurer, First Officer Don Loepke. They discuss the current uptick in COVID positive cases within the pilot group, flight operations as it is associated with the COVID pandemic, the Everbridge App and Crew Member Health Monitoring Form, COVID Protocols, Hong Kong layovers returning in the December bid pack, and peak operations.  

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: 2020 Annual Benefits Enrollment

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In the episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Ben Douglas, R&I Committee Chairman about the Annual Benefits Enrollment period that is now open. Ben discusses the enrollment period dates, what elections the pilots are allowed to make during this enrollment period, what happens if you don’t make any elections, and the new fedexpilots.bswift.com website associated with the annual benefits enrollment period.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: LEC 100 Chairman / Block 12 Representative Mark Vaughan

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Council 100 Chairman and Block 12 Representative, First Officer Mark Vaughan. Mark discusses his background, his motivation for becoming a MEC Representative, his role as MEC Representative to the Los Angeles based pilots, the pilots’ role as we go into negotiations, the importance of pilot participation including the ongoing survey, and preparations for Contract 2021.   

Click here to view the transcript. 

Fly By Night: MEC Officer September 2020 Update

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Chairman, Captain Dave Chase, MEC Vice Chairman, Captain Bill Hubbell, and MEC Secretary/Treasurer, First Officer Don Loepke. They provide an update on the current work within the Association, discuss virtual Pilot Unity Building (PUB) Events, the upcoming online survey, and the importance of participation as we prepare for contract 2021. 

Retirement Education Series: Episode 7

By Fly by Night, Podcasts, Retirement Education

In podcast 7 of the Retirement Education Series Captain Pat May (Negotiating Committee Chairman), Captain Rich Brown (Negotiating Committee Member), Captain Ben Douglas (Retirement & Insurance Committee Chairman) and Captain Kevin Biggins (Retirement & Insurance Committee Vice Chairman) discuss the goals of the Retirement Education Series, the pros and cons of DC-only plans, flat dollar formulas, improving the benefits in our current defined benefit plan and the proposed PSPP plan. Our team of SMEs also discuss our retirement negotiating history, a cash balance plan and preparations for contract 2021. 

Click here to view the transcript.

Retirement Education Series: Episode 6

By Fly by Night, Podcasts, Retirement Education

In podcast 6 of the Retirement Education Series Captain Pat May (Negotiating Committee Chairman), Captain Rich Brown (Negotiating Committee Member), and Captain Ben Douglas (Retirement & Insurance Chairman) discuss an alternative pension plan design that was presented to FedEx in 2018.  Our team of SME’s discuss how we arrived at the Pilot Stabilized Pension Plan (PSPP), the plan design, potential features, accrual, and funding requirements.

Click here to view the transcript.

Retirement Education Series: Episode 5

By Fly by Night, Podcasts, Retirement Education

In episode 5 of the Retirement Education Series Captain Pat May (Negotiating Committee Chairman), Captain Rich Brown (Negotiating Committee Member), Captain Ben Douglas (Retirement & Insurance Chairman), and Captain Kevin Biggins (Retirement & Insurance Vice Chairman) discuss defined contribution plans, the advantages and disadvantages of defined contribution plans, IRS limits in defined contribution plans and a defined benefit plan that has the characteristics of a defined contribution plan called a cash balance plan.

Click here to view the transcript.

Retirement Education Series: Episode 4

By Fly by Night, Podcasts, Retirement Education

In episode 4 of our Retirement Education Series podcast, we talk with Captain Pat May (Negotiating Committee Chairman), Captain Ben Douglas (Retirement & Insurance Chairman), and Captain Kevin Biggins (Retirement & Insurance Vice Chairman).They discuss economic and non-economic risk that is associated with both a DC and a DB plan. They discuss inflation risk, longevity risk, investment risk and bankruptcy risk.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: LEC 22 Secretary Treasurer/ Block 7 Representative Brian Wald

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Council 22 Secretary-Treasurer and Block 7 Representative, First Officer Brian Wald. Brian discusses his background, his union experience, his motivation for becoming a MEC Representative, volunteerism, the pilots’ role as we go into negotiations, the upcoming online survey this fall and the importance of pilot participation, the COVID pandemic, preparations for Contract 2021, and the understanding that We Are ALPA.

Click here to view the transcript.

Retirement Education Series: Episode 3

By Fly by Night, Podcasts, Retirement Education

In Episode 3 of our Retirement Education Series podcast, we talk with Captain Ben Douglas, R&I Committee Chairman and Captain Rich Brown, Negotiating Committee Member. They discuss the history of the defined benefit and defined contribution plans at FedEx and the advantages and disadvantages of the defined benefit and defined contribution plans.

Click here to view the transcript. 

Retirement Education Series: Episode 2

By Fly by Night, Podcasts, Retirement Education

In Episode 2 of our Retirement Education Series podcast, we talk with Captain Ben Douglas, R&I Committee Chairman and Captain Rich Brown, Negotiating Committee Member. They discuss qualified and non-qualified plans, what qualified and non-qualified plans we have and the formulas associated with our defined benefit and defined contribution plans.

Click here to view the transcript.

Fly By Night: LEC 7 Secretary Treasurer/Block 8 Representative Nick Bolander

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Council 7 Secretary-Treasurer and Block 8 Representative, Captain Nick Bolander. Nick provides an update on preparations for Contract 2021 during the COVID pandemic. He also discuss the pilots’ role in Section 6 negotiations, recent union wins, the online web-based survey coming in the fall, pilot participation, “My Union Speaks for Me” and pilot unity.

Click here to view the transcript. 

Fly By Night: MEC Officer Update

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Chairman Captain Dave Chase, MEC Vice Chairman Captain Bill Hubbell, and MEC Secretary/Treasurer First Officer Don Loepke. They provide an update on the coronavirus and its impact on flight operations, discuss coronavirus testing sites, business necessity jumpseats, issues with the Crew Travel desk, results of our latest phone survey, and preparations for contract 2021. 

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Retirement Education Series: Episode 1

By Fly by Night, Podcasts, Retirement Education

In Episode 1 of our Retirement Education Series podcast, we talk with Captain Ben Douglas, R&I Committee Chairman and Captain Rich Brown, Negotiating Committee Member. They discuss the retirement education series, why we are talking about retirement now, different types of retirement plans to include defined benefit plans and defined contribution plans. 

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Fly By Night: MEC Vice Chairman, Captain Bill Hubbell

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Vice Chairman Captain Bill Hubbell.  Bill discusses his first days in office as MEC Vice Chairman, his background at FedEx and previous union experience, his previous role on the Coronavirus response team, his current role as MEC Vice Chairman, preparations for Contract 2021, and volunteerism.

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Fly By Night: Captain Dave Chase, MEC Chairman

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Chairman Captain Dave Chase. Today marks Dave’s first day in office as MEC Chairman. Dave discusses his role as he moves from Vice Chairman to Chairman, challenges and opportunities, operating during the coronavirus pandemic, preparations for Contract 2021, the ongoing phone survey and upcoming retirement education.

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Fly By Night: COVID-19 Episode 2

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Vice Chairman Captain Dave Chase. Dave discusses PDR question trends related to the coronavirus pandemic, creating working groups with the Company to help resolve issues, PPE (personal protective equipment) availability, social distancing, aircraft cleaning, training in this current environment, training building protections, different country testing procedures and COVID-19 testing. 

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Fly By Night: COVID-19

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with MEC Chairman Captain Pete Harmon, MEC Vice-Chairman Captain Dave Chase, and Negotiating Committee Chairman Captain Pat May. Throughout this podcast, they discuss the coronavirus pandemic, the recently released China Flying OIM (Ongoing Implementation Measure), the importance of submitting PDRs, transit hotels, hotel confinement, fatiguing flight sequences, jumpseating and other issues related to the flight operations during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Fly By Night: Section 24 OIM

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Pat May, Negotiating Committee Chairman and Captain Rich Brown, Negotiating Committee Member. They discuss the recently released Negotiating Committee communication regarding the Section 24 OIM (Ongoing Implementation Measure). Throughout this podcast they discuss why we have OIMs, the OIM process, highlights of this particular Section 24 OIM, what changed for FDA pilots, the difference between a notional and an actual award, the Micro System Bid and some new terminology. 

Fly By Night: Training Committee

By Fly by Night, Podcasts

In this episode of our podcast, we talk with Captain Walt Owen, Training Committee Chairman. Walt discusses his background, his union experience, the role of the Training Committee, the Training Review Board (TRB), the Enhanced Oversight Program (EOP), the Proficiency Enhancement Partnership Program (PEPP) and the importance of providing feedback in the training environment.

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