The Leading Edge Podcast with United Pilots

We recently welcomed Mentor Committee Chair Captain Gabe Ciochon to The Flight Deck for a conversation about the committee, the mentorship program, and the value of mentors to the pilot group. If you're interested in joining the committee please send a PDR.

In this episode of The Flight Deck, we sit down with Captain Cherie Krasovich, Chair of the United MEC Uniform Committee, to discuss how the new United pilot uniform came to life. With more than 18,000 pilots impacted, Krasovich shares the behind-the-scenes challenges and what’s next for the rollout. Pilots are encouraged to complete the joint ALPA–United uniform survey, open through October 31, to ensure their feedback directly influences upcoming changes. ual.alpa.org for more info.

In this episode, Negotiating Chair Capt. Andy Riggs and Central Air Safety Chair Capt. Justin Pinkerton discuss the latest safety Letter of Agreement (LOA). 

 

Read the full LOA here.

In this episode of the Flight Deck, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Our Communications Committee sit down with United Captains Claudia Zapata-Cardone and Manny Muñoz. They share their paths to the left seat, the power of mentorship, and how Latino Professionals in Aerospace inspires, mentors, and develops future aviation leaders. 

In 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.

In this week's Committee Compass, the SOAR Committee talks about its role and features for pilots to utilize.

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

We 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.

Captain 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. 

As 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.