A study conducted by the Australian Air Pilots Mutual Benefit Fund (AAPMBF) has revealed more than half of the commercial pilots surveyed are not encouraged by their employer to have financial protection in the event they lose their Class 1 medical.
Conducted by over 400 professional Australian pilots in August 2012, the survey showed 61% of those surveyed responded negatively when asked if their employer made them aware of the need for cover.
The Australian Federation of Air Pilots (AFAP), says that employers are avoiding their legal obligation to contribute to an employee’s loss of licence protection.
“The majority of employers are legally obliged to pay up to $1547 above a professional pilot's salary for the annual reimbursement of loss of licence protection," says Simon Lutton, AFAP General Manager.
"In some cases the amount under an industrial agreement is up to $3000. However, the survey showed 15% of respondents are unaware of this entitlement.
According to the AAPMBF, the number of failed renewals of Class 1 medicals is on the rise, with the 2011 annual report from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority revealing a 47% increase from the previous year.
"It is disconcerting to see such a loyal and long serving workforce not receiving the same level of support from employers across both general and commercial aviation," Lutton continues. "A key concern for pilots is fear of having their hours or responsibilities lessened if they approach their employer to discuss their loss of licence entitlements and cover options."
The Australian Air Pilots Mutual Benefit Fund was established to provide benefits for members should their Class 1 medical be revoked.