Release #08.042
August 21, 2008

ALPA Supports Canada’s Future Aviators
Donates $5,000 to the Webster Memorial Trophy Competition

WASHINGTON – The Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), invested in the future of Canadian aviators with a $5,000 contribution to the Webster Memorial Trophy Competition. The union allocated the monies to level the playing field for the amateur pilot competitors, who have to cover the costs of rental aircraft and basic living expenses to compete for the “Top Amateur Pilot in Canada” title.

“Some of the finest airline pilots in the industry today have competed in this competition, including two of our own,” said Capt. John Prater, ALPA president. “This contribution is just one of the many ways that ALPA is supporting the future generation of pilots and the love of flying.”

Capt. Brian Shury, the 1982 Top Amateur Pilot in Canada, and First Officer Melanie Rader Will, the 1996 Top Amateur Pilot in Canada, now fly as airline pilots for Air Canada Jazz. ALPA recognizes the potential to shape future Canadian aviators by supporting competitions that open new doors in aviation.

“Competing in the Webster Competition was a tremendous experience for me, and I am delighted that ALPA International has decided to support young aviators who will participate in the competition,” said Capt. Shury, who now serves as the senior pilot union official for Air Canada Jazz. “I am hopeful that other organizations across the industry will follow our lead and support and promote the Webster Competition.”

The Webster Memorial Trophy Competition, one of Canada’s most prestigious aviation events, will take place August 20–23, at the Moncton Flight College in Moncton, New Brunswick. A total of nine amateur pilots, one from each region in Canada, will fly their best flight in an effort to win the title. Many of the regional finalists are aspiring to a career in aviation.

The late Dr. J. C. Webster, of Shediac, New Brunswick, established the John C. Webster Memorial Trophy Competition in 1932. For more information, visit www.webstertrophy.ca.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the world’s largest pilot union representing 55,000 members at 40 airlines in Canada and the U.S. For more information, visit www.alpa.org.

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ALPA Contacts: Pete Janhunen, Linda Shotwell, Molly Martin, (703) 481-4440, media@alpa.org