The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) has opened its 80th Conference in Istanbul, Türkiye, marking a milestone gathering of pilot representatives and aviation stakeholders from around the world.
Hosted by IFALPA and the Turkish Air Line Pilots’ Association (TALPA), this year’s Conference brings together the global pilot community under the theme of Positive Safety Culture, reflecting an industry-wide focus on trust, transparency, and collaboration as the foundation of aviation safety.
The Conference features contributions from a range of international aviation leaders, government representatives, and industry experts who will address current challenges and future priorities shaping global aviation. The opening session featured a keynote address by Mr. Burhan Akyol, Istanbul Representative of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Türkiye.
We are also pleased to welcome the Latvian Aviation Union (LAU), which has been voted into membership of the Federation, further strengthening IFALPA’s global voice and representation.
In his State of the Federation address, IFALPA President Captain Ron Hay reflected on the Federation’s progress over the past year and the importance of strengthening its institutional foundations.
“A positive safety culture is the backbone of aviation safety,” said Captain Hay. “It enables trust, open reporting, and meaningful collaboration between pilots, regulators, and operators.”
He noted that much of IFALPA’s work remains behind the scenes but is essential to long-term effectiveness. “Over the past year, we have focused on steady, deliberate progress, strengthening the foundations of our Federation,” he said. “That is how a positive safety culture is built.”
The Conference will address IFALPA’s engagement at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), including a review of Assembly 42 outcomes and how pilot advocacy continues to shape global standards and upcoming ICAO initiatives.
Sessions will also focus on emerging operational risks, including GNSS interference in contested airspace, examining threats, mitigation strategies, and the importance of pilot awareness and judgment in maintaining safe operations.
A feature of this year’s programme is IFALPA’s Positive Safety Culture Strategic Plan and global campaign, alongside a high-level industry panel exploring collaboration between pilot associations, regulators, manufacturers, and international organizations.
Interactive workshops will support Member Associations in strengthening engagement with operators and regulators, sharing best practices, and implementing Positive Safety Culture initiatives. Regional meetings for IFALPA’s five regions (AFI/MID, APAC, Europe, CARNAM, and SAM) will also provide opportunities to address regional issues and conduct governance activities, including leadership elections.
Captain Hay reiterated IFALPA’s global role in representing pilots. “IFALPA remains the global voice of pilots,” he said. “Together, we ensure the pilot perspective is heard where it matters most, keeping safety, professionalism, and human judgment at the centre of aviation.”
“As our profession evolves, a strong and positive safety culture must remain constant,” he added. “With that foundation, we are well placed to meet the challenges ahead and continue advancing aviation safety worldwide.”
