Since deregulation in 1978, we have seen the industry fall from 20+ major airlines to just a handful. Instead of competing on secondary services, airlines now compete on fares, which has created a race to the bottom. Pilots, mechanics and flight attendants are making less than ever before, while executives continue to bring home millions. Management has been allowed to declare bankruptcy to nullify labor contracts. It's time to establish proportional pay between management and labor; a living wage for labor, and re-investing in infrastructure. Without major changes, US aviation will continue to fall behind while aviation in Asia and Europe is booming. Air travel is a public interest, not a commodity, and should be treated as such.



