Shows
The Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCommittee Compass: Pass TravelIn this episode of The Flight Deck, we sit down with Captain Pete Zabel, Chair of the MEC Pass Travel Committee, to explore the often misunderstood world of pilot pass travel. From navigating ever-changing rules and dealing with gate agents to explaining Standby Process Automation (SPA) and commuter privileges, Capt. Zabel sheds light on how his small but dedicated team of volunteers helps 18,000 pilots get the most from their travel benefits. Whether you’re a frequent non-rev traveler or new to pass travel, this conversation is packed with insights to make your next trip smoother.
2025-06-1234 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCommittee Compass: SOARIn this week's Committee Compass, the SOAR Committee talks about its role and features for pilots to utilize.
2025-06-0531 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 10 - Council 171 (Houston)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings.
This episode we are joined by our Reps from Council 171 (IAH). Captain Leo Sherman, First Officer Matthew Silker, and Captain David Whitson. Stay tuned as we make our way Around the System! More at alpa.org/ual
2025-04-1622 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Women's History Month: Two Captains Share Inspiring StoriesWe wrap up Women’s History Month by sitting down with two standout ALPA volunteers and United captains: Becca Woods and Diana Klein. Both women bring years of experience, unique career paths, and powerful insights into what it means to lead in the flight deck and beyond.
2025-04-0130 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck: MEC Chair Capt. Brian NoyesCaptain Brian Noyes, newly elected chair of the Master Executive Council (MEC), sat down to discuss his plans and vision for his term, set to end February 28, 2026.
2025-03-1017 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - OBAP and Inspiring Future Aviators: Episode 2As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, the United MEC would like to recognize the outstanding contributions of First Officer Tennessee Garvey and First Officer Titus Sanders, two leaders in the aviation community who are shaping the future of diversity in our profession. Both are deeply involved with the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), a group dedicated to expanding opportunities for Black aviators and aerospace professionals.
In this episode of the podcast, Garvey and Sanders shared their journeys into aviation, the impact of mentorship, and OBAP's mission to open doors for future generations.
2025-02-2834 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - OBAP and Inspiring Future Aviators: Episode 1As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, the United MEC would like to recognize the outstanding contributions of First Officer Tennessee Garvey and First Officer Titus Sanders, two leaders in the aviation community who are shaping the future of diversity in our profession. Both are deeply involved with the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), a group dedicated to expanding opportunities for Black aviators and aerospace professionals.
In a recent episode of the podcast, Garvey and Sanders shared their journeys into aviation, the impact of mentorship, and OBAP's mission to open doors for future generations.
2025-02-2720 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCommittee Compass: TrainingIn this series, the MEC Communications Committee sits down with other MEC Committees to discuss day-to-day responsibilities, their structure at MEC and LEC levels, various relationships and interactions they might have with other airlines and the Company, and ways pilots with special interests can volunteer. The sixth episode is with Captain Mark Rosenhahn of the Training Committee.
2025-02-2010 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCommittee Compass: Strategic Planning CommitteeIn this series, the MEC Communications Committee sits down with other MEC Committees to discuss day-to-day responsibilities, their structure at MEC and LEC levels, various relationships and interactions they might have with other airlines and the Company, and ways pilots with special interests can volunteer. The fifth episode is with Captain Brad Hutchens and Vice Chair F/O Jack Knight.
2025-02-1308 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCommittee Compass: HotelIn this series, the MEC Communications Committee sits down with other MEC Committees to discuss day-to-day responsibilities, their structure at MEC and LEC levels, various relationships and interactions they might have with other airlines and the Company, and ways pilots with special interests can volunteer. The fourth episode is with Captain Andy Sneller Chair of the MEC Hotel Committee and Vice Chair Capt. Greg Maatz.
2025-02-0624 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCommittee Compass: System ScheduleIn this series, the MEC Communications Committee sits down with other MEC Committees to discuss day-to-day responsibilities, their structure at MEC and LEC levels, various relationships and interactions they might have with other airlines and the Company, and ways pilots with special interests can volunteer. The third episode is with Captain George Mladsi, Chair of the MEC System Schedule Committee and members Capt. Brendan Goldfarb, and F/O AJ Turo.
2025-01-2329 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCommittee Compass: GrievanceIn this series, the MEC Communications Committee sits down with other MEC Committees to discuss day-to-day responsibilities, their structure at MEC and LEC levels, various relationships and interactions they might have with other airlines and the Company, and ways pilots with special interests can volunteer. The second episode is with Captain Phil DiCostanzo, Chair of the MEC Grievance Committee and Vice Chair Andy Loeffler.
2024-12-2024 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCommittee Compass: Central Air SafetyIn this series, the MEC Communications Committee sits down with other MEC Committees to discuss day-to-day responsibilities, their structure at MEC and LEC levels, various relationships and interactions they might have with other airlines and the Company, and ways pilots with special interests can volunteer. The first episode is with Captain James LaRosa, Chair of the MEC Central Air Safety Committee
2024-12-1220 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsLOA 24-05: FAQs - Market-Based Cash Balance PlanThis is an audio version of a video FAQ recording for LOA 24-05. The Communications, Negotiating, and Retirement & Insurance Committees produced this product to help United Pilots better understand the LOA before they vote. Voting ends December 10, 2024. Visit UPA23.com for more.
2024-12-0542 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 9 - Council 12 (Chicago)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
The C12 Reps, Capt. Eric Popper, Capt. Phil Anderson, and First Officer Peter Bess discuss how they represent the C12 (CHI) pilots while still flying a full schedule. Stay tuned as we make our way Around the System! More at alpa.org/ual2024-11-2727 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsLOA 24-05: Market-Based Cash Balance PlanThe MEC voted to accept Letter of Agreement (LOA) 24-05 Market Based Cash Balance Plan Implementation on November 21, 2024. That LOA will now go to pilots for membership ratification. Voting will start Monday, November 25 and close on December 10.
Within UPA23, the Market Based Cash Balance Plan was negotiated as a tax advantaged vehicle to protect Pilot income beyond what can be contributed to current retirement accounts.
In this episode, Retirement & Insurance Committee Chair Capt. Fred Greene and MEC Treasurer Capt. Drew Minarcik discuss and explain the major features of the MBCBP.2024-11-2226 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 8 - Council 34 (San Francisco)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
This episode we are joined by our Reps from Council 34 (SFO). Captain Don Gorman, First Officer Aaron Lancaster, and First Officer Chris Mathews. Stay tuned as we make our way Around the System! More at alpa.org/ual
2024-11-2129 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 7 - Council 11 (Washington, D.C.)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
This episode comes from Council 11 (DCA), where we hear Captain Dewey DuHadway, Captain Tony DiCarlo, and First Officer Matthew Jordan. Stay tuned as we make our way Around the System! More at alpa.org/ual
2024-11-1929 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 6 - Council 57 (Los Angeles)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
The series continues with Council 57 (LAX), where we hear Captain Joel Gutierrez speak about his time as the LAX Capt. Rep as he transitions out of that role. Stay tuned as we make our way Around the System! More at alpa.org/ual2024-11-1418 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 5 - Council 150 (Orlando)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
The three elected representatives from Orlando C150 joined us last week: Captain Stephen Day, Captain Al Lane, and Captain Stephen Weaver. We spoke about how they approached standing up a brand new council and how they hope to maintain their high level of...2024-11-0813 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 4 - Council 153 (Las Vegas)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
The three elected representatives from Las Vegas C153 joined us last week: Captain Brian Bunkers, Captain David Yao, and Captain Becca Woods. We spoke about how they approached standing up a brand new council and how they hope to maintain their high level...2024-11-0616 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 3 - Council 173 (Guam)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
The three elected representatives from our favorite island sat down with us in Rosemont last week: Captain Chad Bruch, First Officer Trent Woodworth, and First Officer Lawrence Howard. We spoke about the unique merits and issues that come with being a small council...2024-10-2414 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 2 - Council 5 (Newark)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
We sat down with the three elected representatives from Council 5 (EWR): Captain Steve Scheri, First Officer Todd Brower, and Captain Al Merone. With decades of ALPA experience between them, we spoke about their past participation at ALPA Board of Directors Meetings, how they envision the future o...2024-10-2416 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - Around the System Series: Episode 1 - Council 171 (Houston)In Around the System, we interview each Local Executive Council's (LEC) elected representatives and discuss a wide variety of topics ranging from pertinent domicile updates and how to get involved locally, to how different representatives ensure the line pilot's voice is heard during quarterly MEC Meetings and the Biennial Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting.
The first in the series comes from Council 171 (IAH), where we hear Captain Mark Crissman and Captain Steve Barlow speak candidly about their time as Houston's voice in the MEC and how they envision the future success of Council 171. Stay tuned as we make our way Ar...2024-10-1726 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 23 - P2P Deployment & Family AwarenessOur P2P Chair and Vice Chair join this episode to detail the upcoming deployment Sept. 6-9. Please take a few minutes to hear from our committee volunteers on how you can participate and help your union. Also, be sure to listen for details on upcoming Family Awareness Committee events.
2024-09-0410 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 23 - Uniform CommitteeThe MEC Uniform Committee joins the podcast for a closer look at the new uniform rollout. Some of the questions answered in this episode include important deadlines for submitting measurements, how to make an appointment, uniform showcases, and much more.
2024-08-0812 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 22 - C11 (DCA) Reps pt. 2Recently-elected C11 Secretary-Treasurer First Officer Matt Jordan joins the C11 (DCA) Reps. Captains Dewey Duhadway & Tony DiCarlo to discuss the latest happenings in the council. Visit the C11 webpage, including how to contact your Reps, here.
2024-07-2922 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 21 - Reserve Guide pt. 2The Flight Deck, a Leading Edge Podcast welcomes back a System Schedule Committee volunteer to discuss many of the new reserve rules in effect for the August 2024 bid period. The emphasis is on ALPA Reserve Guide for United Pilots (ARGUP) Volume 4 that deals with assignment ladders and the new Reserve Availability Display (RAD) on CCS. ARGUP Volumes 1 through 4 can be found here. The podcast covering ARGUP Volumes 1 through 3 can be found here. The next Reserve Guide podcast will cover ARGUP volumes 5 and 6 to close out the series.
2024-07-2522 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 20 - Reserve GuideMEC Communications Committee member F/O Maggie is joined by two captains from the System Schedule Committee. This podcast is first in a series of three. It explains the newly published ALPA Reserve Guide for United Pilots (ARGUP) Volumes 1 through 3 that go into effect for the August 2024 bid period. The SSC has countless incredible volunteers working to help educate the pilot group and oversee the contractual portions dealing with scheduling and staffing. Visit UPA23.com/reserve for more information. The next podcast will cover ARGUP Volume 4. The final podcast in the series will cover ARGUP Volumes 5 and 6.
2024-07-0845 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 19 - C11 (DCA) RepsIn this episode we introduce you to the Council 11 (DCA) Reps Capt. Dewey Duhadway & Capt. Tony DiCarlo. They share their background and how they go into doing ALPA work as well as their vision to lead the C11 pilots.
2024-05-0719 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 18 - MEC Chair Capt. Anne WorsterIn this episode, meet the new MEC Chair Capt. Anne Worster. Capt. Worster begins her term today, March 1, 2024. Some of the topics discussed include Capt. Worster's aviation background and some of her goals as she begins her service as MEC Chair.
2024-03-0123 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 17 - Next Steps 6In this episode, Communications Committee Chair Capt. Michael Wilson speaks to Negotiating Committee Vice Chair Capt. Andy Riggs about some of the new items that will be implemented in UPA23 in March. Visit UPA23.com for more information and updates.
2024-02-2807 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 16 - Next Steps 4In this episode, Communication Committee Chair Capt. Michael Wilson is joined by Negotiating Committee Vice Chair Capt. Andy Riggs and System Schedule Committee Chair Capt. George Mladsi. The group discusses Next Steps 4 and the new UPA items being implemented this month. This includes the new bidding window. Visit UPA23.com for more information.
2024-01-0429 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 15 - Next Steps 3In this episode, Negotiating Committee Vice Chair Capt. Andy Riggs provides an overview of the Next Steps 3 document found on UPA23.com. Many new items within the contract will be implemented in the month of December. File a PDR if you have any questions.
2023-12-0632 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 14 - New Hire CaptainsIn this episode, System Schedule Committee Chair Capt. George Mladsi discusses many new provisions in UPA 23. Visit alpa.org/ual for more information.
2023-11-2123 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 13 - UPA23 Long-Term DisabilityIn this episode we talk about long-term disability. This is an insurance product ultimately that's going to apply to every pilot in our pilot group. Visit UPA23.com for more information.
2023-09-1414 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 12 - UPA23 Lineholders & Trip ConstructionIn this episode Negotiating Committee Vice Chair Capt. Andy Riggs discusses Trip Construction and Lineholder provisions. Visit UPA23.com for more information.
2023-09-1243 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 11 - UPA23 Market-Based Cash Balance PlanIn this episode MEC Treasurer Capt. Drew Minarcik joins Retirement & Insurance Committee Chair Capt. Fred Greene for a discussion on the Market-Based Cash Balance Plan in UPA23.com
2023-09-1225 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 10 - UPA23 Sick LeaveThis episode has to do with sick leave. This is section 13 in our pilot agreement. For more information visit UPA23.com
2023-09-1224 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 9 - UPA23 Extended Sick BankIn this episode MEC Treasurer Capt. Drew Minarcik and Retirement & Insurance Chair Capt. Fred Greene discuss something that's new in the UPA 23 called the Extended Sick Bank. Visit UPA23.com for more information.
2023-09-1215 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 8 - AIP and an Interview with the ChairMEC Chair Capt. Garth Thompson looks back through the process from his January election to the AIP reached last week. Visit www.UPA23.com for the latest information.
2023-07-1940 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 7 - The FACT TeamThis episode will focus on the Fact Team. F/O Dewey DuHadway sits down with Capt. Marty Miller to discuss the FACT Team, what it is, and when it will be deployed. Send questions to FactTeam@alpa.org or find the Fact Team on the pdr.alpa.org drop down menu.
2023-07-1921 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 6 - Agreement in Principle (AIP) processThe MEC Negotiating Committee reached an Agreement in Principle (AIP) with Company Management. In this brief episode, Communications Committee member F/O Michelle Arcamuzi explains what is next in the process. Visit UPA23.com for more information.
2023-07-1803 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 5 - PDR HotlineIn episode 5, United MEC PDR hotline expert Capt. Scott Kinder explains his role in helping guide pilots to answers for any contract question. Capt. Kinder runs the contract PDR hotline.
Helpful Episode Links: PDR & Master DYK Document
2023-06-2156 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 4 - SPSC and NegotiationsIn episode 4, United MEC Chair Capt. Garth Thompson is joined by MEC Strategic Preparedness and Strike Committee Chair Capt. David Smith. They discuss the latest with negotiations, our May 12 nationwide picketing event, and what other events are on the horizon.
Helpful Episode Links:
SPSC RLA education website: https://www.alpa.org/ual/negotiations-rla
UAL-MEC SPSC webpage with contact information: https://www.alpa.org/ual/Committees/strategic-planning-committee
Informational picketing RSVP and information page: https://www.alpa.org/ual/informational-picket
2023-05-1123 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 3 - SPSCIn episode 3, The United MEC Strategic Preparedness and Strike Committee Chair Capt. David Smith is joined by MEC Executive Administrator F/O Quincy Fleming to discuss their roles. The pair highlight their decades of experience under the RLA with subjects such as Status Quo etc.
Helpful Episode Links:
SPSC RLA education website: https://www.alpa.org/ual/negotiations-rla
UAL-MEC SPSC webpage with contact information: https://www.alpa.org/ual/Committees/strategic-planning-committee
P2P volunteer webpage: https://www.alpa.org/ual/Committees/strategic-planning-committee/p2p-form
Informational picketing RSVP a...2023-04-2027 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 2 - New Hire MentorsIn this edition of the Flight Deck you will hear from the United MEC New Hire Mentor Committee. Chair Gabe Ciochon and Member Laurel Armstrong discuss the duties and responsibilities of the committee and how it interacts with all other areas of the association.
Throughout the new hires first year, the Mentor program will normally include (but is not limited to) the following contacts:
· Phase 1, initial mentor contact: mentor phone call between BI and sim training
· Phase 2, before IOE: mentor phone call after final sim check and prior to IOE
· ...2023-03-1633 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Flight Deck - A Leading Edge Podcast: Episode 1 - Chairman and Negotiating UpdateWelcome to our new podcast - The Flight Deck with United MEC Chair Capt. Garth Thompson and Negotiating Committee Chair Capt. Phil Otis. In this edition, you will hear Garth talk about the mindset he brings to reconnect our pilot group to the negotiating process.
2023-02-1521 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsUnited Aviate: The Leading Edge PodcastAs the Aviate program evolves, ALPA will continue to ask the questions our pilots expect to have answered concerning the manner in which United attracts the next generation of United Airlines pilots. Join us on the Leading Edge for the State of Aviate.
2022-09-2210 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsNegotiating Committee Chair Capt. Phil Otis: The Leading Edge PodcastCapt. Phil Otis was elected as the UAL MEC Negotiating Committee Chair on August 16, 2022. This podcast serves as his introduction to United pilots.
2022-08-1807 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsLife After Retirement - The Leading Edge PodcastMany pilots at United Airlines plan for life after the flight deck financially, but what about socially? Mary Blissard joins United Capt. James Belton to discuss the dangers of retiring without a plan of how you will occupy your time.
2022-05-1224 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsIncoming United MEC Officers - The Leading Edge PodcastThe United Pilots welcome incoming MEC Officers: Capt. Mike Hamilton, Capt. Tom Murphy (third term), Capt. Mike Harrison, and First Officer Paul Ryder.
2022-03-2317 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsOutgoing United MEC Officers - The Leading Edge PodcastThank you to our outgoing MEC officers Capt. Todd Insler, Capt. Bill Neveu, and Capt. Rick Cameron
2022-03-2316 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsUnited Pilots Fly Afghanistan Rescue Missions: The Leading Edge PodcastThis episode of the Leading Edge Podcast includes an interview with United First Officer Jeff Godfrey. F/O Godfrey flies the 777 and he volunteered for the military charters that were part of the effort to evacuate Americans, allies, and refugees from the conflict in Afghanistan. Jeff and his crew were part of the beginning of the effort. The information he shared with flight operations helped to improve the service United Airlines offered the Department of Defense
2021-09-0211 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Episode 12In this episode, Capt. James Belton leads an interesting discussion with our guest, DJ Eidson - the co-founder and COO of Limitless Minds. The mission of Limitless Minds includes a strong emphasis on "a mindset without limits."
Listen to this final episode where we take resiliency and mindfulness thinking to another level - optimizing our daily performance.2021-04-2247 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Episode 11Podcast host Capt. James Belton and SOAR Committee Chair Capt. Lynn Tatum talk with two firefighters from the Denver area about work stress and high-performance job demands.
These firefighters share their work lifestyles, training demands and requirements, and personal stories.
2021-03-251h 18The Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsWomen in Aviation: The Leading Edge PodcastMarch 8 marked International Women's Day in the month that celebrates Women's history. The Leading Edge Podcast presents our Women in Aviation episode that showcases two of ALPA's strongest female advocates.
2021-03-1131 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Episode 10 - Family ResilienceToday we sit down with a pair of United pilots who are also husband and wife. This United couple, along with their teenage daughter, share their extremely personal story surrounding significant mental health challenges, and the family dynamics associated. Their emotional journey aims to provide insight on some of the early warning signs that are often overlooked in similar stressful situations. This episode’s open discussions about mental well-being, mindfulness and parenting tips is heart-felt and honest. We hope you will join our United family’s testimony.
2021-02-0553 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Episode 9 - Emotional Intelligence and Holiday StressIn episode 9 of Piloting Your Mind, you can learn how to harness your emotional intelligence to cope with the stress and anxiety of life, both in and out of the airplane. The episode offers informative and practical tips on creating the best version of yourself through emotional intelligence - so you start 2021 with a tailwind.
The podcast is produced by SOAR volunteers and the pilot development department at the Denver Flight Training Center. As always, the confidential SOAR program has peer volunteers who are ready to listen.
2020-12-1047 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Brief: LOA 20-05 First Class Deadhead Provisions Now in EffectThis audio reading is an excerpt from the Brief published by the UAL MEC Negotiating Committee on November 30, 2020.
2020-12-0307 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Breathing Exercise - Pilot NidraThis relaxation tool is released in conjunction with Episode 8 - Breathing Techniques part II.
2020-12-0328 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Breathing Exercise - 61 PointsThis is a guided relaxation episode in conjunction with Episode 8 - breathing techniques part II.
2020-12-0313 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Breathing Exercise - Three Part BreathA diaphragmatic breathing exercise audio file is included to allow you to deeply relax.
2020-12-0304 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Episode 8 - Breathing Techniques Part IIPart two of this series focuses on the practices that can help you change your reactions to stress. Our recent podcast guests have taught us that during all the uncertainty in our world today, the one thing we can control, is our reactions the stress we are experiencing.
2020-12-0358 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Episode 7 - Breathing TechniquesThis first episode in a two part series will be instructional on what happens to our physical bodies when we do these mindful breathing and focusing tips. Our guest will describe the science behind these tips and the advantages of yoga.
2020-11-1940 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind - Episode 6: CopingThis week's Piloting Your Mind podcast focuses on coping with change. There's no question the last eight months have been personally and collectively tumultuous with COVID-19.
The podcast episode is recorded by SOAR volunteers and offers some perspective on what you may be feeling right now and has a few suggestions for simple actions you can take to help you or a family member handle our new world.
As always, the confidential SOAR Hotline (866-653-SOAR) is available to any pilot who would like to talk to a peer counselor. Trained volunteers can help you navigate whatever stress you may be...2020-10-2932 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsP-VSL 2 Explained: Pandemic Recovery LOAUnited MEC Spokesman Capt. James Belton helps explain P-VSL 2 as contained in LOA 20-05.
2020-09-3006 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Brief: Pandemic Recovery LOA Tentative AgreementCaptain James Belton provides a reading from the Negotiating Committee's publication of 'The Brief' dated September 16, 2020.
4:00 – Furlough Protection
7:00 – Removal of six seats from 76-seat Aircraft
7:25 - Additional Restrictions on United Express Flying
8:34 – PVSL-2
9:40 - Restrictions on Stock Buyback
10:00 - Pay Rate Protection & Displacement Cancellations
11:15 – Work Reductions
12:57 – Guaranteed COLAs
13:30 – Industry True-up
13:57 – Permanent UPA Changes
14:20 – First Class Deadhead
15:30 – Non-profile Reserve
16:09 - LTD
17:54 – CARES Extension
2020-09-1722 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsExecutive Summary - Pandemic Recovery LOA Tentative AgreementMEC Spokesman Captain James Belton provides a reading of the high-level overview of the Pandemic Recovery LOA Tentative Agreement (TA). This will become a Letter of Agreement (LOA) in our contract if ratified. We recommend you read the document, then read the LOA language and refer back as necessary.
2020-09-1719 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind - Episode 5: Fighter Pilot ResiliencyDuring this Piloting Your Mind episode, our guest will share his experience as an AF F-35 fighter pilot and the importance of resilience during decision making. Justin “Hasard” Lee stresses the importance of "staying in the moment" while we fly, especially during additional stressful times. Our MEC spokesman, Capt. James Belton (previous F-16 pilot) will share stories with Justin, and help Capt. Lynn Tatum with the SOAR Committee, tie in the parallels of mindful awareness and how to apply similar, yet differing pilot skills to our current professional situation.
2020-09-0333 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Episode 4 - AMAS & Pilot TestimonyIn this episode we are joined by Dr. Quay Snyder President/CEO of Aviation Medicine Advisory Service (AMAS) and United Captain Luis Perez. They discuss Captain Perez's personal experience with AMAS and how it helped him return to the line.
2020-08-2038 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind: Episode 3 - Semper ResilientSemper Resilient Resources
Lessons from the Hanoi Hilton: 6 Characteristics of High-performance Teams
Harvard Business review: 10 Must reads On Mental Toughness
2020-07-2856 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind - Episode 2: The Leading Edge PodcastThe episode is about Mindfulness and Resiliency. “What is Resiliency and how does Mindfulness tie-in to our training, professions and personal lives?
The Piloting Your Mind series focuses on resiliency and Mindful awareness during these turbulent times, by discussing professional and personal case studies, testimonies with a variety of interviewees, and Mindfulness tips that will be explained and shared in some episodes.
2020-07-0930 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPilot Assistance Committees: The Leading Edge PodcastThis edition of the Leading Edge podcast is a round-table interview with the committee chairs from the following committees: Aeromedical - First Officer Travis Ludwig, SOAR - Captain Lynn Tatum, Critical Incident Response (CIRP) - Captain John McFadden (vice chair), Professional Standards - Captain Bill Licht, and Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) - Captain Margaret Hendrix.2020-06-2527 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPiloting Your Mind - Episode 1: The Leading Edge PodcastThe new series, Piloting Your Mind, is a collaboration between the UAL MEC SOAR Committee and United's Human Factors and Pilot Development team at the Flight Training Center. Mindfulness and pilot resilience are discussed along with techniques to help better understand and cope with stress.
2020-06-1924 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsCentral Air Safety Committee Update from April 1, 2020: The Leading Edge PodcastUnited MEC Spokesman Captain James Belton provides a reading of the full CASC update dated
April 1, 2020.
2020-04-0911 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsSystem Schedule Committee Update from April 4, 2020: The Leading Edge PodcastIn this episode, UAL MEC Spokesman Captain James Belton provides a reading of the SSC Update from April 4, 2020.
2020-04-0811 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsAeromedical Committee Update from March 31, 2020: The Leading Edge PodcastUnited MEC Spokesman Captain James Belton reads the most recent Aeromedical Committee update from March 31, 2020. Be sure to visit the MEC's COVID-19 News page for more updates.
2020-04-0608 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsLegislative Committee Update March 27, 2020: The Leading Edge PodcastMEC Spokesman Captain James Belton reads the full March 27, 2020 update published by the Legislative Committee
2020-04-0305 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsVoluntary Enhanced Leave and Line Options LOA: The Leading Edge PodcastThe "Voluntary Enhanced Leaves and Line Options" Letter of Agreement was unanimously passed by the MEC. United MEC Spokesman Captain James Belton reads a Negotiations update from March 28, 2020.
2020-03-3110 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsLegislative Committee & ALPA PAC: The Leading Edge PodcastUnited Airlines First Officer and former United States Congressman John Boccieri (D) Ohio provides his perspective as a member of congress and how ALPA interacts with our lawmakers. Congressman Boccieri discusses the great work of the ALPA Political Action Committee as well as how ALPA’s Legislative Committee and staff conduct our annual Legislative summit.
2020-03-0323 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsPilot 2 Pilot Committee - The Leading Edge PodcastThe Pilot to Pilot committee of 60 members was commissioned to meet regularly with the Master Chairman and others in order to coalesce the information and details of the direction of the MEC, particularly regarding contract negotiations. P2P Committee Chairman Captain Lance Hubacher joins UAL MEC Spokesman Captain James Belton to discuss P2P deployments and how volunteers plan to discuss contract negotiations updates with line pilots.
2020-01-2308 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsLabor Day Section 6 Update: The Leading Edge PodcastThis podcast focuses on the Labor Day Chairman's message on the status of Section 6 negotiations. United MEC Chairman Captain Todd Insler sat down with the UAL MEC Communications Committee to discuss the current state of affairs. In this podcast, Captain Insler reviews several FAQs from pilots. He also expands on his Labor Day message.
2019-09-1915 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsSOAR Committee: The Leading Edge PodcastContact the SOAR Committee at 866-653-SOAR.
2019-06-2711 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Brief Vol 3: The Leading Edge Podcast2019-06-1306 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsThe Brief Vol 2: The Leading Edge Podcast2019-06-0207 minThe Leading Edge Podcast with United PilotsRailway Labor Act: The Leading Edge Podcast2019-04-1608 min