NATCA Statement on the Passing of Robert E. Poli – (9/22/2014)

NATCA extends its condolences to the family of Mr. Robert E. Poli, former president of the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO), who passed away last week. Although Mr. Poli was never affiliated with NATCA, he led air traffic controllers on strike in 1981 and made clear the need for more just and effective labor relations within the Federal Aviation Administration. These are goals NATCA has worked toward since its founding in the aftermath of the strike. The efforts of Mr. Poli and many air traffic controller union activists over the last three and a half decades have helped elevate our proud profession and make the U.S. National Airspace System the safest and most efficient in the world.