Union leaders said they aim to counter a lobbying campaign by the sector targeting regulators around the world, as well as the International Civil Aviation Organization.The Montreal-based United Nations agency’s governing body and air navigation commission were slated to weigh the topic further after two working papers were submitted last year, but no resolutions have been adopted, said spokesman Anthony Philbin.
Pilot unions say France-based plane producer Airbus is leading the drive toward “reduced-crew operations,” while North American airlines have been reluctant to jump on board. “It’s a sales pitch,” said Netskar. “There’s probably going to be airlines out there that find this viable — financially viable — and not considering the flight safety risk you’re entering into.”Boeing said in an emailed statement that it has “participated in industry discussions” but safety remains its priority, with any new technology serving to strengthen it.
“Part of the reason the aviation system is as safe as it is today is because of what pilots do,” the company said.