Cpt. Gary Russell: Insider secrets of aviation safety management

In this podcast, we sit down with Cpt. Gary Russell to learn about the insider secrets of aviation safety management. From the recent Alaska Airlines blowout to the current 2024 pilot shortage and the use of diversity hiring. We also cover important topics like the controversial 737 MAX and the rigorous training that's required to be a commercial pilot. Stay informed and improve your aviation knowledge with this insightful conversation.

Twitter: @garybrussell 

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Captain Gary Russell is a Boeing 737 pilot based in Vancouver, and is a former union executive for the Air Canada Pilots Association. Prior to his appointment as the Association’s Chairman, he served two terms as a national board member and has been actively involved in the Association over the past decade, including as a local pilot representative, magazine editor, trustee and Chair of the External Affairs Committee.

 

Like many pilots in Canada, Captain Russell began his flying career as a flight instructor and later a pilot in Northern Canada and overseas before being hired by Air Canada in 2007.

 

As Chairman, Captain Russell presided over board meetings and acted as the pilots' principal representative to Air Canada on employment matters, including negotiation and administration of their collective agreement and was the official spokesperson for ACPA.

 

The Air Canada Pilots Association (ACPA) currently represents approximately 4,200 commercial pilots, with 600 previously furloughed during the COVID crisis all of whom have now returned to active status. These highly skilled professional pilots fly passengers and cargo across Canada and around the world on Air Canada and Air Canada rouge.

 

Gary resides on a farm in Comox, BC with his wife, Chantal, and son, Ben.