The Leading Edge Podcast with United Pilots

The Flight Deck - Committee Compass: Training

In this episode of The Flight Deck, Training Committee Chair Capt. Jeremy Lind and Vice Chair Capt. Aric Newsted explain how United’s training programs are built, how pilot feedback influences future training, and what pilots should know about grading, qualification events, and training transparency. Whether you’re preparing for recurrent training, an upgrade, or returning from leave, this episode provides valuable insight into how United’s training system works and how ALPA advocates for pilots throughout the process. www.upa27.com

The Flight Deck - Committee Compass: Strategic Preparedness & Strike

This episode of Committee Compass explores the critical role pilot engagement plays as United pilots prepare for the UPA27 negotiating cycle. Members of the Strategic Preparedness and Strike Committee (SPSC) discuss lessons learned from UPA23, the importance of unity, communication, and education, and how every pilot can play a role in strengthening the pilot group moving forward. The conversation also highlights practical ways pilots can stay informed, get involved, and ensure their voices help shape the future of their contract

The Flight Deck - Council 12 (ORD)

Get to know the leadership of the United MEC's Council 12 (ORD) as they discuss the issues impacting local pilots, why union engagement matters, and how pilot feedback helps shape the future of our contract. From parking and base growth to UPA27 priorities, this conversation offers an inside look at how your elected representatives are working on your behalf. UPA27.com

SOAR Committee Mental Health Awareness Month Part 3

In this final Episode of the series, we focus on major career and life transitions, including new hire training, upgrades, retirement, and navigating mental health support within the aviation environment. The conversation also tackles common misconceptions about seeking help.

 

ual.alpa.org

UPA27.com

SOAR Committee Mental Health Awareness Month Part 2

In this Episode, we explore common stressors pilots face, from everyday stress and anxiety to grief and major life events. SOAR volunteers discuss how to recognize when stress may be becoming something more, healthy ways to manage it, and how peers can support one another.

 

ual.alpa.org

UPA27.com

The Flight Deck - Council 93 (FTC)

In this episode of The Flight Deck, we sit down with Council 93 leadership at the Flight Training Center to discuss their unique role representing instructors and evaluators across a rapidly growing operation. The team shares insights on PBS bidding challenges, committee support systems, and how they advocate on behalf of the pilots to resolve issues quickly and effectively. As preparations begin for the next contract cycle, Council 93 emphasizes education, engagement, and pilot participation to help shape the future.

SOAR Committee Mental Health Awareness Month Part 1

In this episode of The Flight Deck, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month with a conversation featuring the SOAR Committee—the United MEC’s confidential peer support program for pilots. Committee leaders and volunteers discuss how SOAR helps pilots navigate stress, anxiety, depression, life challenges, and mental fitness for duty while keeping the focus on getting pilots healthy and back to the flight deck. They share personal stories, explain what happens when a pilot calls the hotline, and remind listeners that reaching out for help is a sign of strength. If something feels off, you are not alone, and support is only one call away.

Committee Compass: Military Affairs

Listen to our new podcast episode with Military Affairs Committee Chair Captain Dennis Smith! In this episode, we discuss the origins of the Military Affairs Committee, how it helps pilots, and what resources are available to pilots who are currently or formerly in the military. ual.alpa.org.

Committee Compass: Family Awareness

The MEC Family Awareness Committee joins the the Flight Deck this week. Chair Captain Colleen Lambert and Vice Chair Captain Blake Ditlow share their experiences connecting not only with fellow pilots across the system, but also with their families. More information including upcoming events can be found at ual.alpa.org. 

Committee Compass: Training

We recently welcomed Training Committee Chair Captain Mark Rosenhahn and committee member Captain Jeremy Lind to The Flight Deck for a conversation about the committee, the training resources available to pilots, and the what it takes to upgrade to captain.