Here is a list of the most relevant new IFALPA position papers and briefing leaflets published since our last edition:

Position paper on laser attacks on aircraft

Available data indicate that the frequency of laser attacks on civil aircraft continues to rise significantly. These strikes can result in distraction, disruption, disorientation and, in extreme cases, blindness and incapacitation. IFALPA believes that legislation is still insufficient and calls states and the aviation community to issue and implement adequate legislation. Read the full paper here: http://bit.ly/2uzQKdp

Position paper on Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)

The ongoing issue of unruly passengers has led the aviation industry to consider proposals to mandate the installation of a CCTV system in commercial transport aircraft. IFALPA generally supports this installation for both safety and security reasons, provided the system is for the sole use of the flight crew and no downlinking or recording takes place. Read more: http://bit.ly/2uwCxus

Cockpit Noise

• Position paper on Cockpit Noise Level

Noise exposure in the cockpit is a serious health issue for crews. In some regions, rules determine a threshold beyond which mitigating measures must be in place. However, there is currently no inter- national design and threshold standards. IFALPA is therefore calling for such a norm to be adopted at global level. Read the full paper here: http://bit.ly/2wAN3T1

• Briefing Leaflet on Noise Protection

In this leaflet, IFALPA gives practical advice to pilots to reduce the negative effects noise exposure can have on their health. Click here to download these tips: http://bit.ly/2uD82pC

Position paper on Maintenance actions by pilots

Pilot maintenance is defined as actions performed by pilots beyond the visual assessment required for a pre-flight inspection. Although IFALPA is not in favour of such actions, it recognises that it’s becom- ing a common practice in many airlines. It there- fore issued a set of general and operational require- ments to ensure these are carried out properly and safely. Read more: http://bit.ly/2uztlsu

Position Paper on Pilot Assistance Programs

Pilot Assistance Programs have proven very efficient to deal with pilots’ mental health issues. IFAL- PA therefore supports their implementation and encourages organisations to establish one. In this paper, they set a list of deliverables to ensure these programs are a success: http://bit.ly/2vjyG4B

Access to CVR Data for Maintenance Purposes

• Briefing leaflet: IFALPA is against the use of CVR data for maintenance purposes. However, if such a practice was to become common, it must be well controlled. IFALPA gives in this leaflet a list of requirements: http://bit.ly/2vp0OVZ
• Position paper: Whilst IFALPA opposes the use of CVR data for maintenance purposes, the Federation believes that maintenance of the CVR for confirming functionality and intelligibility is essential for accident inves- tigations. IFALPA supports researching and developing standards to test CVR serviceabil- ity without listening to crew recorded data. Read more: http://bit.ly/2wOBFlq

Conference statement on Freedom to select representative of choice

During its 72nd Conference, IFALPA denounced the Memorandum of Understanding between the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and OSM Aviation (OSM) that makes ITF the only recognised union. Pilots must have the freedom to choose their own representatives. Read the full statement here: http://bit.ly/2vCNQS5

Position Paper on Unmanned Aircraft Systems

IFALPA welcomes and recognises the potential benefits of Unmanned Aircraft Systems. However, it is very important that they be integrated safely into the common civilian airspace. Read the full position paper here: http://bit.ly/2tg36Di

Position Paper on Head-Up Displays (HUDs) and Vision Systems

IFALPA supports the installation and operational use of HUDs and Vision Systems as they can enhance safety. This paper discusses the basic design, train- ing and operation of Head-Up Display (HUD) and Vision Systems. Read more: http://bit.ly/2u8BPUR

Briefing Leaflet on Phraseology

The 72nd IFALPA Conference calls upon all aviation professionals, particularly pilots, and air traffic controllers, to strictly adhere to the use of standard ICAO phraseology. Some advice is given in this briefing leaflet to improve communication. Read more: http://bit.ly/2u8GVQK

Briefing Leaflet on Recommended Procedures in the AFI Region

This Briefing Leaflet has been developed as a general reminder of the procedures highly recommended for operating in the AFI Region. These procedures are not necessarily applicable for every FIR in the AFI Region. Read more: http://bit.ly/2gLitCd