IFALPA Press Release on the Accident of Germanwings Flight 4U9525

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MONTREAL, Canada – From the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA), following the publication of the final report of the BEA concerning Germanwings flight 4U9525 of the 24th March 2015, an A320 aircraft enroute from Barcelona (BCN) to Düsseldorf (DUS).

One year on, our thoughts are still with the families of the 150 crew and passengers that were on board the aircraft.

Now the considered, fact based results of the proper investigation are available, IFALPA urges all regulators to listen to the BEA and implement the whole basket of measures in a balanced way. "The safety recommendations of the accident investigation authority form a balanced package of measures designed to make such a disaster in the future less likely. It is important that this package is implemented in its entirety and not just those parts which seem easy to implement." said Captain Martin Chalk, President of IFALPA.

Particular attention should be paid to the care of affected crew members. Peer support programs are recognized as the best protection from behavioural health problems. These programs offer help without fear of direct consequences for employment. Only then can the basis for the necessary trust between doctor and patient be assured, which is a necessary for an affected crew member or their family, colleagues or friends to share their concerns.

Another fundamental recommendation is financial and social security in the event of a possible loss of license and income. The risk of economic ruin is a large negative influence against disclosure of concerns of the individual or their family.

For further information please contact:
Captain Martin Chalk, IFALPA President, at +44 7432 616 119, [email protected], or
Ms. Anna Lou, IFALPA Communications & Marketing Coordinator, at +1 514 419 1191 or [email protected].

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Note to Editors: The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations represents more than 100,000 pilots in nearly 100 countries around the globe.
The mission of IFALPA is to promote the highest level of aviation safety worldwide and to be the global advocate of the piloting profession; providing representation, services and support to both our members and the aviation industry.  www.ifalpa.org