Welcome to our Special 20th Anniversary Issue! On 18 March 1998, ABPNL and BFCA members voted in favor of the creation of the Belgian Cockpit Association (initially abbreviated BCA).

So much has changed since then: in our daily lives, with internet, social networks, the euro, the increase in life expectancy, etc.; at the aviation level, with 9/11 that changed the world of aviation forever, airplanes remaining more than ever the safest means of transport, etc.; at the pilot profession level, with the increase of automation, the arrival of drones, just culture becoming the rule, the Germanwings crash that led to the implementation of Peer Support Programs, etc.; at national, European and international levels, with the 2007-2008 financial crisis, the rise of terrorism, the harmonisation of laws, etc.

Throughout all these years, BeCA has successfully overcome crisis and adapted to all those events and has now become a recognized, respected and unavoidable partner towards our stakeholders at national and European levels. With our small team of volunteers (always looking for more helping hands!), we have been able to have impact, always keeping in mind our main objectives: advocating for the highest level of safety and defending our beautiful profession.

All of this is only made possible thanks to you. BeCA being self-funded solely by membership fees, we would not exist if it were not for you and by you. I would therefore like to thank you for your support all those years. The number of members is constantly increasing, which shows how much pilots know BeCA is essential. Today more than ever.

In this edition, you will get an (incomplete) overview of our hot topics. I cannot not mention Ryanair, of course, which has required quite a lot of efforts this past year. Congratulations to Ryanair pilots who have withstood the pressure until now. We are convinced we are on the right track. You will also read about Just Culture and the necessity of people to ensure safety, as well as clarifying a few concepts on FTL and a review of BeCA’s lobbying in the US Cargo file.

And last but not least, I strongly encourage you to participate in our cocktail party to meet and celebrate our 20th anniversary on 18 October. More info on page 18!

Enjoy your reading and see you on 18 October.

Capt. Alain Vanalderweireldt, BeCA President