Abstract
This paper provides an analysis of the control the airline pilots union has over the airline industry. The paper discusses the purpose of ALPA and its members. It explores the efforts made by Delta CEO, Leo Mullins and American Airlines CEO, Donald Carty to persuade the government to reform the Railway Labor Act. The paper explores the possible future of the ALPA and the airline industry. The paper uncovers several reasons why ALPA has such a stranglehold on the airline industry including; federal labor laws, a shortage of qualified pilots, regulations that govern the hiring and firing of pilots and the threat of loss of seniority that pilots face.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Description and Purpose of ALPA
The Reasons for the Stranglehold
The Railway Labor Act
The Future of ALPA
The Future of the Airline Industry
Conclusion

From the Paper
"In recent years the amount of power that the ALPA has over the airlines has come into question. There are several reasons why this stranglehold exists including; federal labor laws, a shortage of qualified pilots, regulations that govern the hiring and firing of pilots and the threat of loss of seniority that pilots face. The following paragraphs why these factors contribute to the stranglehold that the Airline Pilot Association has on the airline industry."

Tags:delta, raliway, labor, act, shortage, federal, regulation

Abstract
This paper outlines the history of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) and its achievements throughout its seventy years. Safety regulations, issues of aviation concern, and milestones in union negotiations are discussed.

From the Paper
" With the recent terrorist attacks in the United States, airline safety has been of top concern. Six months ago airport security was seldom discussed except perhaps in an article tucked in a newspaper or magazine. Now it's a top story on the evening news every night. It makes us wonder if anyone has been thinking of our safety until now.
The Airline Pilots Association has always been thinking of our safety. From metal detectors in airports to the "fasten seat belt" signs on airliners, the APLA was responsible. The ALPA is regarded as the leader in safety issues concerning all areas of aviation."

Tags:pilots, safety, aviation, airplane, regulation, association, airport, congress, act, attack, flight, standard, faa

Abstract
Since the horrific events of September 11, 2001, there has been a great deal of debate on whether or not airline pilots should be armed in the cockpit. With the U.S. waging a global war on terrorism, it may be possible that terrorists will retaliate against the U.S., and they may use airliners again. This paper argues in favor of allowing airline pilots to be armed in the cockpit. This paper covers both sides of the argument and presents unbiased views, as well. Quotes from U.S. Congressmen also included in the paper.

From the Paper
"Another argument in favor of arming pilots is that they are, psychologically, among the most highly trained and level-headed professionals in the world. They are accustomed to making critical "and sometimes life-saving" decisions in a split second, so arming them would make sense, according to the APSA. In addition, Senator Zell Miller (D-Ga.) strongly supports passing an amendment in favor of pilots carrying guns. Senator Miller believes it is logical to allow pilots to be armed. Senator Miller stated, "Will someone please explain to me the logic that says we can trust someone with a Boeing 747 in bad weather, but not with a Glock 9 millimeter?" (Sen. Miller, Chicago Tribune)"

Tags:Nathaniel, Heatwole, hijack, ASPA, ALPA