ATLANTA, GA. --- Representatives of the Skyteam Pilot Alliance (SPA) elected new officers this week and discussed developing a common theme to address job protection issues within the alliance. The SPA is comprised of pilot groups whose airlines belong to the Skyteam Alliance, including AeroMexico, Air France, Alitalia, CSA Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Korean Air.

SPA members were briefed on the pending code share agreement between Delta/Northwest/Continental this week. The SPA will invite the representatives of the Wings Pilots Coalition to their next meeting, if the code share agreement is implemented.

Additionally, Delta Capt. William C. Buergey was elected SPA Chairman; Air France First Officer Gilles Devic (SNPL) was elected Vice Chairman; and CSA First Officer Martin A. Stastney was elected Secretary.

"Since the SPA was formed in 2000, the Skyteam pilots have worked together to enhance the job protections of all our member pilot groups," said the outgoing chairman, Korean Airlines Capt. Man-Youb Choo. "We share many issues of mutual concern relating to career progression, pay and working conditions."

The KAL pilots are currently in negotiations, the Czech Air pilots begin negotiations in early 2003, and the Air France pilots face the uncertainty of the privatization of their company. "The pilot alliance affirmed the rights of these pilot unions to negotiate agreements that protect the career opportunities of the pilots at each Skyteam airline as a distinct professional class and craft," said Alitalia Capt. Jean Paul Nanut (ANPAC)

The Skyteam Pilot Alliance is planning to meet next in Prague, Czech Republic, in early 2003.

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