Capt. Erik Engdahl, chairman of the
ATA Unit of the Air Line Pilots Association, made this statement today
following ATA’s filing for bankruptcy with the U.S. District Court in
Indianapolis. Capt. Engdahl, a resident of Brown County, IN, is a Boeing
757 pilot based on the west coast. “Today is a sad day for all of us as ATA flight crew members, but one
that’s recurring with alarming frequency in our industry. There are many
reasons why ATA was forced to declare bankruptcy, but with some of the
lowest costs in the industry, labor expenses can’t be blamed for this
airline’s breakdown.

“Our crews are unique among low-cost carriers for their expertise in
operating new-generation, ETOPS-certified aircraft both at home and
overseas. They will be a valuable asset to any airline, and we will
aggressively work to ensure that their jobs and seniority are protected.
While the uniforms may change, their professionalism will stay the same.

“We will also respond expeditiously in order to protect our members who
may end up remaining at ATA, and work cooperatively with management to
keep the transformed airline and its cockpit crewmembers successful and
competitive.

“We love our airline and are strongly committed to seeing it succeed. ATA
has always set the standard for safety, comfort and convenience among
low-cost carriers, and we are committed to maintaining a quality product
in spite of our changed circumstances. During this period of transition we
will strive to ensure that our passengers can’t tell the difference
between the pre- and post-bankruptcy airline.”
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