Is it fair/Legal
 

I have a question that has been bugging me for some time and just thought i'd see what the general thought on the issue is.

Is it fair that BALPA charge a percentage of your salary? Why dont they just charge a fixed amount like most other unions!

This method indicates that a person who has been in a company (for example) 5 years pays more membership than a person who joined yesterday, and they both receive the same representation and benefits. So why is one paying more, surely this cant be fair and are there any laws against this, because to me this sounds like a form of ageism. Maybe I'm completely wrong in my thought process, but would like to hear others view on the matter.

This is about the the only item in the entire industry where the low men on the pole aren't getting totally shafted by those above. Maybe you should consider it as a very small measure of justice.

On a practical note BALPA subs could be considered career protection money The senior guys have more to protect so they pay more. Seems fair to me but then I'm not a member of any *LPA's.

20driver

Is it not up to the members of BALPA, and only to them, to have such regulations?

Ageism probably not, more like means testing. The simple fact is you can get better protection for less money from elsewhere.

So then why does the industry put up with this???

Flying 360

Presumably you have been around a while, and are upset that you are paying more than Bloggs jnr, who started last week.

Were you so concerned about the disparity when you were in Blogg's position and all those old crusties were supporting you?

Or just maybe you are new to the scene and have difficulty accepting help from those who are better able to pay. If that is the case I'm sure that BALPA could organise some way for you to pay more. If they don't want your money, The Slavation Army are always happy to accept donations.

Maui

Maui, your assumption is wrong, ive only been around for a short while and for the record, i dont fancy paying any more, i got enough outgoings.

From the way you talk you seem to me like ur a BALPA representative in your airline. The question that i originally asked wasnt concerning the amount that a member pays its the reasoning behind why some people pay more than others.

It's all about social responsibility. A trait in short supply these days.

360, don't worry about having someone else pick up your tab. If you are around long enough you too will have the opportunity to pay more.

(BTW. Not BALPA and never been so. Walked past their office once. Does that count)

And come to think of it. Why do some people pay more tax than others?

Maui