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Mr. G. D. Goss - 3

March 19, 1968

The Effect of the Petition on Other Equally Important Association Programs. A major goal of the Aeromedical Coordinating Committee has been to achieve relaxation in medical standards where it can be demonstrated such relaxation is warranted. Because the largest single reason for medical disqualification is an increased statistical risk of incapacitation, we have been most interested in developing other than medical protection against its operational consequences. We are most encouraged that we see increasing evidence that this will be productive and that because we are taking a responsible approach, we are getting serious consideration at the levels at which the critical decisions are made.

The Aeromedical Committee does not believe the present approach to the age 60 problem will be at all helpful. Unless we have evidence so far unavailable to us, the probable result will be a determination that the "fail-safe" crew advocated by ALPA has been based on ALPA's essentially wishful thinking and that it was promoted as the solution to a valid air safety problem before its efficacy had been proven with demonstrable or convincing facts.

Therefore, I believe the request for a hearing should be withdrawn or held in abeyance by whatever legal or other process is required and that all of these problems be reexamined. In the meantime a very high priority should be given to:

(a) Methods which preserve the seniority rights during the interim period of those pilots retired at age 60 who have lost their rights to return.

(b) Discussion and Coordination with air line sources, particularly Eastern's Higginbottom who might support us. 

I am truly sorry this developed into such a long letter; however, I believe the importance of this subject requires it. I have not attempted to document many of the statements I have made simply because my time is short and I realize all of you are also busy people. However, documentation is available. 

Sincerely yours,
Harry
Harry W. Orlady

cc: C. H. Ruby
Age 60 Committee
Aeromedical Coordinating Committee
James E. Meals
Don Madole
Herbert A. Levy