We are pleased to report that membership of the Independent Pilots Association (IPA) continues to grow.  As we (hopefully) now come out of the pandemic, the value of union membership is apparent.  The last two years have been spent working with members and operators to try and avoid the need for redundancies, to put in place covid mitigation measures that have the potential to protect jobs long term.  Whilst difficult times remain, tentatively, the industry is recovering. 

Many new members come to us on recommendation of existing members – either because we have represented that pilot, or a colleague has been represented by us.  Word of mouth/recommendation is the best form of advertising that we can have. 

There is however an emerging trend in that pilots are joining with pre- existing employment issues.  We are clear and consistent in these situations – any issue that exists at the point of commencement of membership will not be covered by the IPA.  The analogy we give is that it is like trying to insure your car after the accident.  The joining page on our website makes the position clear. 

Our strength is the consistent high level of service that we give to members who contact us when they have an issue/dispute.  However, for obvious reasons, we can only provide that service where the issue is not pre-existing. 

To our existing members, please urge your colleagues to join before they have any issues.  As a pilot union, we want to help as many of you as we can, but we can only do this if you have full membership at the point the issue arises. 

Finally, a thank you to members who recommend us to colleagues, and for your continued membership and support of your union through what have been some very challenging times.