In Mid-November 2014 pilot-representatives of BALPA, BeCA and VC gathered in Frankfurt in order to establish the DHL European Pilot Group (DPG). The idea for this DPG is based on the concept of European Pilot Groups, first introduced by the European Cockpit Association (ECA) as a response to the growing number of companies operating in different European countries simultaneously.

The objective of a European Pilot Group is to provide a framework for communication, cooperation and collaboration among ECA’s member associations to improve working conditions across national borders. Similar groups have already been founded to work for the benefit of cockpit crews at easyJet, Ryanair and Norwegian Air Shuttle as well as Thomas Cook and Tuifly.

The goals of the newly founded DPG are to:

• provide a forum for the exchange of information between the pilot associations;
• develop and maintain existing international cooperation and communication between the recognised pilot associations concerned;
• strengthen union communications;
• assist DHL pilots becoming organised at pan-European level;
• be able to present a common position to the company;
• provide greater union support, advice and guidance to members;
• prevent one pilot association undermining the efforts of another;
• achieve best practice in:

• • Flight safety
  • Technical matters
  • FDM
  • FRMS
  • Union representation
  • Industrial relations
  • Rostering

Especially during the current negotiations for Belgian and German EAT-pilots based in Leipzig, the creation of the DPG sends a strong signal of unity and determination towards management.

Best regards,

Your pilot representatives from BALPA, BeCA and VC

Download the letter in PDF.