Connecting Pilots to Peers for Valuable Support

Rhea-AI Summary

American Airlines has enhanced its support for pilots through the Project Wingman, a peer-to-peer helpline offering emotional and occupational assistance. This initiative, operational for over a decade, allows pilots to confidentially reach out to fellow pilots for help, addressing the unique pressures they face. With more than 40 trained volunteer pilots, the program has become a model for mental health support in the aviation industry, advised by American's management and recognized by regulators like the FAA. The initiative aims to remove stigma associated with seeking help.

Positive

• Project Wingman provides crucial support for pilots facing unique pressures.
• More than 40 trained volunteers enhance the program's effectiveness.
• The initiative addresses mental health stigma and promotes peer support.
• Advised by American management and recognized by industry regulators.

Negative

• None.

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 21, 2022 / American Airlines:

American has long offered an Employee Assistance Plan that provides emotional and mental support for our team members around the world. We know that pilots, in particular, face unique pressures every time they enter the flight deck.

For more than a decade, Project Wingman has been providing our pilots and their family members with additional, specialized support whenever they need it. Established by American and the APA, this peer-to-peer 24/7 helpline allows pilots to reach out to other pilots for emotional and occupational support. Because it protects the privacy of its users, Project Wingman also alleviates any concerns pilots may have regarding the stigma of seeking help.

More than 40 pilots currently volunteer for Project Wingman. In addition to bringing a unique understanding of the challenges pilots can face in their professional and personal lives, these volunteers all undergo specialized, intensive training. As a result, they know when to lend a sympathetic ear and provide encouragement or recommend other resources when the situation warrants greater intervention.

Project Wingman is managed by a deputy chair of the APA aeromedical committee, and American employs a pilot at the managerial level on a full-time basis to support and promote it. That includes visiting our pilot training programs to talk about it and meeting with the chief pilots on a regular basis. Given the program's success, he also advises other airlines on their pilot mental health initiatives. The U.K. and European Union require such peer-to-peer programs, and the FAA recommends them for all airlines.

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Contact Info:

Spokesperson: American Airlines
Website: profiles/american-airlines
Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: American Airlines

View source version on accesswire.com:
https://www.accesswire.com/732838/Connecting-Pilots-to-Peers-for-Valuable-Support

FAQ

What is Project Wingman at American Airlines?

Project Wingman is a peer-to-peer helpline offering emotional and occupational support for pilots, allowing them to confidentially seek help from fellow pilots.

How long has Project Wingman been operational?

Project Wingman has been providing support for pilots for over a decade.

How many pilots volunteer for Project Wingman?

More than 40 pilots currently volunteer for Project Wingman.

What is the aim of Project Wingman?

The aim of Project Wingman is to provide support for pilots while alleviating the stigma associated with seeking mental health help.

Is Project Wingman recognized by any regulatory bodies?

Yes, the FAA recommends peer-to-peer programs like Project Wingman for all airlines.