Five by Five | The Podcast for The ALPA Pilots of Frontier Airlines, We Hear You Loud and Clear

In this vital episode of Five by Five, Jason sits down with Bill Secord, Executive Vice President of ALPA Group A, to discuss the intricacies and implications of Reduced Crew Operations (RCO). Bill provides an in-depth look at concepts such as Single Pilot Operations (SPO) and Extended Minimum Crew Operations (EMCO), and how these practices impact pilot safety, fatigue, and airline operations. The conversation also covers the role of automation and technology, current industry practices and negotiations surrounding RCO. Bill sheds light on the global efforts and opposition against reduced crew mandates, highlighting ALPA's advocacy and the role of political action committees in maintaining flight safety standards.  

Understanding ALPA Structure, FPL, and Strategic Planning: Insights from Airline Union Leaders In this episode of Five by Five, host Captain Jason DuVernay is joined by Captain Sean Creed, Vice President–Administration/Secretary and Jade Schiewe, Executive Vice President, Group B1. As Vice President–Administration/Secretary, Sean Creed executes the policies of the Association’s governing bodies and acts as custodian for all ALPA documents, contracts, leases, property deeds, and general records. He oversees ALPA’s membership programs and serves as an ex officio member of the Association’s Election and Ballot Certification Board. Most recently, Creed acted as ALPA’s national resource coordinator and executive vice president–Group A for the Spirit Airlines pilots. Based in Chicago, Ill., he flies the Airbus A321. He’s been a member of ALPA’s National Strategic Planning Committee, Strategic Preparedness and Strike Committee, and the Leadership Committee. During his tenure with Spirit, he has served as both Master Executive Council (MEC) and Local Executive Council (LEC) secretary-treasurer. He was also a member of his MEC and LEC Grievance Committees. Jade Schiewe is based in Detroit, Mich., Capt. Schiewe is a Bombardier CRJ900 pilot for Endeavor and serves as Executive Vice President, Group B1, ALPA’s National Resource Coordinator and a member of the Association’s Strategic Planning Committee and the Structure, Services, and Finance Review Committee. In addition, Capt. Schiewe acts as his pilot group’s Master Executive Council (MEC) Chair and previously served as its MEC Secretary-Treasurer and a member of its Professional Standards and Accident Investigation committees. He was also a volunteer for the Critical Incident Response Program. With elections around the corner we sit down to discuss the intricate workings of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA). They discuss topics such as the importance of ALPA’s bottom-up structure, the role of Local Executive Councils (LECs) and Master Executive Councils (MECs), and the significance of member participation in governance. The conversation also explores the strategic planning process, the utility of Flight Pay Loss (FPL) for union volunteers, and how ALPA supports pilot groups through efforts like the Major Contingency Fund (MCF). Tune in to gain valuable insights into ALPA’s operations, the role of volunteers, and the ways members can get involved and make impactful contributions.   00:30 Introduction and Guest Introductions 01:25 Overview of ALPA 301 02:19 Understanding LEC and MEC Structures 04:30 Roles and Responsibilities of MEC Officers 10:12 Importance of Pilot Participation 14:51 Effective Communication and Representation 28:49 Strategic Planning and Committee Operations 36:35 Addressing Dysfunction and Trust Issues 37:45 Importance of Honest Conversations 38:44 Role of SWOT Analysis in Strategic Planning 40:49 Communicating with Local Members 43:08 Evolution of the Strategic Planning Process 46:01 Role of The Strategic Planning & Member Resources Department in Strategic Planning 47:54 Funding and Support for Strategic Planning 56:48 Flight Pay Loss (FPL) Explained 01:04:55 Challenges and Commitment of Volunteers 01:13:17 Call for Volunteers and Closing Remarks   SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

The podcast episode features members of the negotiating committee discussing recent events in the negotiation process. They address the company's disappointing and long-delayed response to an economic proposal made 20 months ago and describe the logistical and substantive issues during recent bargaining sessions. The company focused on Section 11 related to training, which has been their priority. The negotiating committee critiqued the company's lack of serious engagement and unrealistic demands. They stressed the need for leadership willing to solve problems and urged pilots to participate in upcoming surveys to ensure their voices are heard. The conversation reflects ongoing frustrations and the committee's commitment to negotiating for the future of the pilots.   SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

Learn all the details of this weekend's upcoming Family Awareness Event!

In response to the Frontier CEO's video from an airplane lavatory, an embarrassing lapse in professionalism, the Frontier pilots MEC is calling on management to address and correct a culture that prioritizes cost over quality, neglects employment empowerment, and is poorly perceived by the flying public. It is time to restore authority to captains and foster a true culture of caring and professionalism.

The podcast episode introduces a new series focused on the inner workings of the MEC Vice Chair and the various committees under their oversight. Captain Jeff Martin, MEC Vice Chairman, discusses the role of the Jump Seat Committee with committee members Captain Amir Manouchehrian and Captain Vance DiPasquale. The episode covers the function of the Jump Seat Committee, the importance of jump seat agreements, and the assistance provided to pilots regarding jump seat matters. It explains the responsibilities and interactions with other airlines, the necessity to comply with standards, and the pilots' role in maintaining these agreements. The episode emphasizes the importance of using the DART system to report issues and the steps needed to resolve common problems faced by pilots. Finally, the podcast underscores the value of professionalism and detailed reporting in handling jump seat-related concerns.   SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram Follow us on X   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

In this podcast episode, CA Nick Kastanes, Chair of the Retirement and Insurance Committee and ALPA Benefits Specialist, Retirement and Insurance Department Michelle Fredenrich discuss the intricacies of long-term disability (LTD) benefits for Frontier pilots. Key topics include different LTD coverage options, the 90-day elimination period before benefits start, filling the gap with short-term disability, and other state programs. The conversation covers the core LTD plan and the implications of imputed income, as well as the specifics of LTD buy-up options, which extend coverage and increase maximum monthly benefits. They emphasize the importance of understanding the 'own occupation' and 'any occupation' definitions within the policy, detailing their effects on benefit eligibility and potential income offsets. Additionally, they discuss the return-to-work incentives and the impact of pre-disability earnings on benefit calculations. Recent LTD statistics are reviewed, revealing the reasons for claim closures and underscoring that no pilots have been removed due to high-income potential in alternate occupations. The episode concludes with a discussion on proposed contract improvements and the ongoing efforts by ALPA to enhance pilots' benefit packages.   SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

This family town hall meeting focuses on ensuring everyone understands the ongoing union negotiations and the importance of the strike authorization ballot.  Key topics include retro pay expectations, the mechanics of the strike authorization ballot, pilot training, reserve rules, and the Railway Labor Act's role in preventing disruptions. Emphasizing unity, the speakers call for 100% participation in the strike vote, discuss future picketing events, and reassure probationary pilots of their rights. Family members are encouraged to support pilots.    SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

Critical Town Hall: Strike Authorization Ballot and Negotiation Hurdles In this vital virtual town hall, hosted by Jason DuVernay, Vice Chair of the Communications Committee, senior members of the pilot association discuss the upcoming strike authorization ballot and its importance. Key speakers, include Captain Michael Maynard, Captain Jim Lally, Captain Mark Manausa, and Senior Labor Relations Counsel including Jennifer Bunkers and AJ Lindell. We get caught up on the ongoing challenges in negotiations with the company. We detail the lack of progress despite months of mediated sessions and emphasize the necessity of a collective response through the Strike Authorization Ballot. The discussion also dissects a recent company memo, addressing claims and clarifying the association's stance. The importance of unity in the upcoming strike authorization vote is highlighted, along with actionable steps for pilots. Stay informed, participate in the vote, and support upcoming solidarity actions!   SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay  

Join us in today's episode as we delve into the critical topic of the strike authorization ballot with Captain Alan Christie, Executive Vice President of Group B1 for ALPA. We'll explore the history, purpose, and legal framework of the strike authorization ballot in labor negotiations, with special emphasis on its application and importance for Frontier pilots. Captain Christie shares his extensive experience and insights on how such ballots have been pivotal in past negotiations, the role of the National Mediation Board, and the importance of pilot unity and engagement in this process. Learn why participation in the strike authorization ballot is crucial and how it empowers the Negotiating Committee to secure a fair contract.    SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

Insights from LEC 167 | Five by Five Episode In this episode of Five by Five, we speak with Anthony Chibnik and Ben Zelenak from LEC 167. They delve into the Section 19 process, shedding light on the investigation and discipline procedures within our CBA, and the new mentorship program developed to assist pilots before, during, and after the upgrade process. Additionally, they address pilot fatigue issues, discussing varying schedules, rest protocols, and the importance of utilizing fatigue reports.   SUBSCRIBE

Host Jason DuVernay introduces a series further detailing the structure of the union by bringing attention to the LEC level. Featured guests include Doug Zink, Chair of LEC 165, and CJ Weihing, Vice Chair, who discuss their roles in representing local pilot interests. They emphasize the importance of understanding the CBA, staying informed through technology, and mobilizing pilots when the time comes. The conversation also covers the challenges of representing a diverse and geographically spread-out pilot group and strategies to maintain unity and strong communication within the union.    SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay  

In this episode of Five by Five, host Captain Jason DuVernay introduces Captain Mike Maynard, the MEC Chairman, and Captain Jeff Martin, the newly elected MEC Vice-Chair. The discussion covers their backgrounds, responsibilities, and interactions with Frontier management. Mike provides insights into his career at Frontier and roles within ALPA, emphasizing collaboration with company executives and addressing grievances. Jeff shares his extensive ALPA experience from his time at Trans States Airlines and Frontier, stressing the importance of collective goals and pilot involvement. The episode underscores the importance of effective communication, pilot engagement, and future strategic plans, including upcoming town halls and airport visits.   SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

This episode of Five by Five features a discussion with Captains Jim Lally, Gary Michalk, and Mark Manausa from the Negotiating Committee(NC). The NC talks to us about the complex issues involved in Section 6 contract negotiations. They explain their roles and provide insights into the early strategy adopted for negotiations, which began in July 2023. The strategy moving forward, timelines, and the challenges of dealing with company proposals are detailed. They also discuss issues like grievance resolution, the importance of Section One Scope, and Job Security. The company’s approach to negotiations, described as surface bargaining, and the frustrations of unworkable proposals are highlighted. Mediation sessions, the role of the mediator, and the potential steps forward are discussed. The importance of pilots' involvement and participation in upcoming polling and surveys is emphasized, alongside the need for volunteers to assist SPSC in various bases.   SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

Understanding Arbitration in Pilot Contracts: Insights from AJ Lindell and Captain Jonathan Green   In this episode, we sit down with AJ Lindell, a labor relations counsel, and Captain Jonathan Green, Chair of The Hotel Committee, to discuss the recent training hotel arbitration. These experts explain the difference between mediation and arbitration, provide insights into their roles, and break down past and present arbitration cases involving hotel accommodations for training. Specific cases, the arbitration process, and outcomes including pilot reimbursements are explored in-depth. The discussion highlights the importance of contract clarification and the ongoing efforts to ensure pilots are fairly treated. Listeners are encouraged to check their emails and stay informed by participating in communication efforts. SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

The Five by Five Podcast is back with Host Jason DuVernay interviewing our new MEC Chairman Michael Maynard. This short discussion explains an upcoming change concerning bots and open time. 

Today’s episode of Five by Five, Military Affairs Chair- Stephen Sorbie   SUBSCRIBE   Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay  

Today’s episode of Five by Five is the second episode of a multi-part series. We bring Captain Jeff Hicks and Celeste Sweeney onto the show. Jeff discusses why he stays so involved with ALPA, 401K cash over cap, LTD and high deductible health plans. Celeste adds some great tips and tricks and brings added depth to the discussion.    SUBSCRIBE Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay

Today’s episode of Five by Five is the first episode of a multi-part series. We bring Captain Jeff Hicks and Celeste Sweeney onto the show. Jeff discusses his career in the insurance sector prior to being a pilot and how it helped him make changes on a national level. We learn how Celeste's role at ALPA National as a Benefits Specialist benefits our pilot group.  We go in-depth on a few often overlooked but incredibly important benefits and how they are available for you. Stay tuned to the show's end for updates on upcoming SPSC events.   SUBSCRIBE Time Stamps 01:32 - Meet EVP Jeff Hicks 08:12 - Meet Celeste Sweeney 13:26 - How ALPA National Assists 17:54 - The Importance of Using the DART System 20:27 - Controlling Insurance Costs 25:02 - How The Possibility of a Merger Changed Perspective 27:31 - FMLA 31:28 - PTO/Sick Time Trends Across the Industry Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay  

Today’s episode of Five by Five brings Captain Chad Whittington and Captain Tradd Gralak onto the show. We discuss the importance of our ALPA mentorship program, better understand the membership committee, and learn about SPSC events. Stay tuned to the show's end for updates on swag, upcoming SPSC events, contract negotiations, and where you can talk to a small group of ALPA leaders immediately following our first meeting with the company.     SUBSCRIBE Time Stamps 01:09 - Introduction 05:16 - Mentorship Program and Open Climb 09:26 - Mentor Cards 11:40 - Maintaining Confidentiality 14:09 - Mentorship Timelines 16:05 - Improving Mentorship Through Technology 19:36 - How to get Involved 22:30 - Training Issues 31:04 - SPSC Events 36:34 - Closing Remarks Interested in being an ALPA Mentor? Email Chad.Whittington@ALPA.org Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram   Hosted by Captain Jason DuVernay