Holding IPA Pilots and the Louisville Community in Our Hearts

A Message from Capt. Jason Ambrosi

Our industry experienced a horrific tragedy yesterday with the crash of UPS Flight 2976, which claimed the lives of at least nine people and injured many more. Our condolences go out to those who lost loved ones, and we pray for the speedy recovery of the survivors.

ALPA has offered our support—in any way we can—to our brothers and sisters at the Independent Pilots Association. We stand in solidarity with them and offer our resources at this difficult time.

In the hours, days, and months ahead, remember that a complete investigation takes time. No one can accurately identify a cause or say why an accident happened until the full investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board is complete. You will all be looked to as experts, and as experts, it is our duty to preach patience.

In aviation, we don’t jump to conclusions; we practice due diligence and learn from tragedy. We strive to honor the legacy of lives lost in airline accidents by improving our system and strengthening safety.

The United States continues to have the safest aviation system in the world. However, this accident is a stark reminder of the risks we face. As an industry, and as highly trained professionals, we work to mitigate these risks. Over the past decades, we have been very successful at doing so.

But we can never rest on our past success. We must always be focused and vigilant, avoid distractions, and focus on flight safety.

In the wake of this tragedy, take care of your colleagues and take care of yourself.

Take care and fly safe.