Our History
Our commitment to advancing aviation and supporting pilots began in 1931.
Our Union Is Born
ALPA, the first professional union of pilots, was founded to protect the interests of airmen from horribly unsafe flying conditions and a management mentality that pilots were an expendable commodity.
Pilots Join the Fight
Many ALPA pilots fought in WWII. We began advocating for the formation of an independent aviation safety board, and pilots across the globe created the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA).
Jet Age Takes Off
Modern jet transport began. Our union's air safety structure was devised with a framework established in 1951, and issues of crew fatigue and rest requirements became an increasing concern.
Safety Reforms Take Hold
Widespread use of jet transportation created a whole new set of safety concerns. The new Department of Transportation (DOT) created the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to investigate accidents—an idea we strongly advocated for many years.
Industry Responds to Danger
The threats of skyjacking marked a difficult time for the airline industry. The FAA established the first airport certification requirements after nearly three decades of pressure from us.
Deregulation Transforms the Industry
The Airline Deregulation Act forever changed the landscape of the U.S. airline industry, creating a new wave of safety concerns. Three "powerhouse" airlines—Eastern, Braniff, and the original Pan Am—went out of business.
Tragedies Spur Safety Changes
Several major airline tragedies led to aviation safety enhancements. Our safety work during this era brought Part 135 operations with more than nine passengers up to the same standards as Part 121 operations.
9/11 Reshapes Security
The 9/11 terrorist attacks had a devastating impact on the airline industry, and aviation security issues have been at the forefront of much of our activities since. ALPA successfully pushed for the U.S. Federal Flight Deck Officer and Known Crewmember programs.
Modern Threats Emerge
We continued to press for safety and security improvements across a broad range of issues, from transport of dangerous goods (especially lithium batteries) to laser attacks on airline flight decks.
Pilots Face Evolving Airspace
ALPA led efforts to support pilots impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought unprecedented disruption to air travel. As the industry recovered, airline pilots found our airspace busier than ever with unmanned aircraft and commercial space operations taking off. Yet air travel remains the safest mode of transportation.
Airline Safety & Security Are the Core of Our Mission
For nearly 100 years, we’ve worked to ensure that air travel grows ever safer and that piloting remains a viable profession. Today, we’re the world’s largest pilot union and largest nongovernmental aviation safety organization. Our history embodies a rich legacy of championing air safety.
Listen to "Flying the Line"
Join us as we recount an exciting chapter in aviation history and the beginnings of the Air Line Pilots Association through an abridged podcast retelling of the book "Flying the Line" by George E. Hopkins.
Learn More About ALPA
What We Do
We promote and champion all aspects of aviation safety and represent the collective interests of all commercial pilots.
Meet Our Leaders
Meet the people leading our efforts. Our leadership team works with staff and pilots to advance our mission and guide our key initiatives.
Become a Pilot
Do you know someone who might be interested in becoming a professional pilot? Explore our resources for aspiring aviators.
Benefits & Assistance
ALPA membership gives you the protection, perks, and resources you need to thrive.