The Australian Federation of Air Pilots operates as both a trade union and a professional association of all air pilots in Australia. Importantly we represent pilots only and are not affiliated to any political party or peak union body.

The role we have as a trade union is to protect and improve the conditions of employment for its members.
As a professional association, the members and Federation's staff are active in promoting flight safety and improving Australian and Global aviation standards.

The Australian Federation of Air Pilots is also a founding member of the International Federation of Airline Pilot Associations (IFALPA). IFALPA provides an international forum for the Federation to discuss important aviation policy issues such as airspace reform, dangerous goods, operational techniques, CRM, flight and duty time limitations, flight data recorder legislation and many other significant operational and legal matters. Today our representation at IFALPA is made up as part of AUS-ALPA; a joint body with the Qantas mainline pilot group. 
The structure of the Federation is based on six State Branches governed by Branch Committees elected by pilot members. The Branch Committees in turn elect local chairman and delegates to the Executive Committee and Convention. The President and Principal Officers of the Federation are operating pilots elected by all financial members through a secret postal ballot conducted by the Electoral Commission.

The Convention meets annually to deal with rule amendments and policy changes. The Executive Committee ensures that the policy changes are implemented.

Meetings of these bodies are open to the general membership. New members are encouraged to develop an active interest in the affairs of the organization.

The Federations Constitution also provides for Councils to be elected to cover groups of pilots organised along enterprise lines.
In summary, the Australian Federation of Air Pilots primary responsibility is to directly represent in industrial matters all pilots making a living out of flying in Australia other than Military and Qantas (mainline) pilots. It is also very active in promoting flight safety and improving standards.

How much do we charge for membership? The fee is based upon 1% of your salary there is a base level of $260.00 ($5.00 per week). See the application form for more detail.

Representation normally comes from elected pilot reps at your company or from the state branch in the first instance. They are always backed up by the industrial staff that will attend and assist where required.

The bottom line is that it is a pilot organization representing its pilot members. We hope that you will consider joining and being a part of the Federation.