It is a start, but both the AFAP and AIPA have serious baggage and self interest issues that ultimately undermine solidarity across all pilot groups.
The current Jetstar EBA is a great example of where NOT to be (from a union perspective.)
In this case, the parties to the EBA are AFAP, JPA, Jetstar. But AIPA representaion in terms of membership is far greater than the AFAP. The JPA is a toothless tiger. The AFAP has hardly been proactive once the EBA was signed off. Combine this now with the distinct possibility of QF pilot redundancies, MOU issues, conflict between AIPA JQ/QF pilots etc etc. and it's all very confusing.
I am not arguing here for or against either union or the merits of the issues involved, but hope this illustrates the reality of where some of us are now. I'm sure there are numerous other examples.
In short, it's a bloody mess.
What's needed is a new (no AIPA or AFAP baggage) "cleanskin" umbrella organisation somewhat along the lines of BALPA that contains the headline administration, loss of licence, legals, industrial and related components.
Each member airline has its' own council that utilises as required the capabilities of the union. It quarantines airline specific issues where required, but more importantly, combines specific issues where they effect all of the constituent members.