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

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  

Captain Jason DuVernay sits down with PBS Chairman, Captain Matt Pease and PBS Committee Member, Captain Dave Coons to discuss our NavBlue PBS System. This wide-ranging conversation covers questions for novice and expert bidders. Common mistakes, vacation intricacies, and training bids are a small part of what we cover. Learn how to better avoid redeyes, maximize your vacation months and make PBS work for you.    SUBSCRIBE Time Stamps 00:47 - What does the PBS Committee do? 01:38 - How the PBS Committee is involved in bid runs 02:24 - Committee input on pairing construction 03:09 - Using the Dart system properly 04:43 - How PBS is different from our old process 05:47 - Transparency in the bidding process 07:19 - Unstacking/Coverage - How it works and who it effects 09:18 - Biggest mistakes, setting a backstop 12:01 - Avoiding redeye flights 13:26 - Waiving 15:05 - Denial mode 15:53 - The importance of proper negative bid preferences 16:38 - Understanding credit windows 18:43 - Transitioning from one bid group to another 20:18 - Training videos on ALPA website 21:00 - "RLL" Reduced Lower Limit Lines 22:38 - Importance of default bid 23:30 - Syncing more than two bid periods and why you might want to do it 25:38 - How reserve bidding works 31:44 - Pattern bidding, common mistakes leading to frustration 34:05 - Vacation Adjustment Period 39:25 - Vacation Any and further sliding in NavBlue 44:14 -  Bidding for training 49:27 - What Golden Days are and how they work Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

On this episode of Five by Five host Jason DuVernay and Gary Michalk from the Negotiating Committee introduce a conversation between Delta Air Lines First Officer Ryan Argenta and Attorney Marcus Migliore. Marcus has nearly 30 years of experience with ALPA and currently serves as General Counsel & Director, Legal Department. Ryan and Marcus 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. Digging into a number of cases where pilot actions, such as refusing to pick up open time trips, premium trips, and coordinating sick outs we learn about court actions and stiff sanctions for individual pilots and the union. We learn what self-help actions pilots can take under the RLA and how pilot unity, wearing lanyards, and informational picketing make a huge impact at the negotiating table.  As things heat up in negotiations and this summer, Mr. Migliore explains how important it is for ALPA pilots to keep cool, follow the rules and laws imposed by the RLA, and let ALPA and elected representatives follow the defined flow process. (Recorded June 9, 2022) SUBSCRIBE Time Stamps 01:57 - Understanding Marcus and his ALPA involvement 04:23 - Why you should not engage in illegal work actions 06:42 - Importance of Unity 08:33 - Protections provided by the RLA 10:41 - Begining of Delta Podcast: 'Status Quo' 14:37 - What if management violates 'Status Quo' 16:30 - Previous 'Status Quo' violations and their resulting penalties 18:20 - Dangers of 'grass-roots' work actions 20:26 - Digital Trails 22:50 - Individual pilot penalization in previous cases 23:47 - Does the RLA need to be changed or updated? 26:05 - Meaningful and proper actions 27:45 - Using the current environment to our advantage Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

Host Jason DuVernay sits down with your Negotiating Committee (NC) chairman and members to discuss our upcoming Section 6 negotiation process.   Chair Captain Jim Lally, Captain Mark Manausa, and Captain Gary Michalk chat with Jason about early openers, surveys, communications, pay disparity, your participation and more. SUBSCRIBE Time Stamps 03:05 - Introductions and background of the committee members 07:41 - How to engage with the NC through your representatives 09:59 - How the negotiation process has changed now that ALPA has been fully implemented 15:10 - What is an Early opener? 15:55 - Professional help; negotiating with an experienced team 17:44 - How committees contribute to the negotiation process 19:32 - Where does the negotiating team draw their direction from? 28:32 - How to bake a "negotiation pie" 29:52 - Addressing pay disparity 35:52 - Contract Compliance 37:02 - Does flying for an Ultra-Low-Cost-Carrier mean we should expect less? 38:06 - Scope 40:28 - Communications from the committee 44:12 - Being Professional   Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

In our latest Frontier pilot podcast, our host Jason DuVernay has a wide-ranging conversation with Communications Committee Chairman Todd Bole and MEC Chairman Alan Christie. We haven’t done a podcast in a while, so we cover a lot of ground, including why we decided to re-launch the podcast. We also talk about: a refresher on ways to interact with the union Volunteer opportunities the various communication channels available to pilots our RGS visits and other opportunities to interact face-to-face, including our upcoming pub events.  With the MEC meeting and elections coming up, we discussed how the LEC & MEC meetings are structured, and how the nomination and election process works for executive positions including the Negotiating Committee. You should have heard by now that the MEC is doing another round of telephone polling conducted by the University of New Hampshire, but if you haven’t, we discuss the upcoming survey, how the questions are created and how the process works, as well as additional tools the union will use to understand the desires of the pilot population as we get closer to entering negotiations. SUBSCRIBE Time Stamps 01:49 - Introductions 04:57 - Why we are re-launching the podcast and how it will be different 07:56 - Existing Channels for Union Communications  10:31 - RGS Visits and other face-to-face opportunities to meet  16:19 - Volunteer needs and opportunities 22:23 - Social media 32:04 - MEC/LEC meetings and elections 39:43 - How the Merger and Negotiations committees are different 42:16 -Section Six polling and pilot participation 48:52 - National Support and Leadership 56:10 - Dealing with inflation 57:50 - Pilot Centric or Punitive - How a cultural shift could fill classes and slow attrition   Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram