Commenting on the downgrading of the Civil Aviation Authority Malaysia (CAAM), Nufam said the industry was bogged down by many issues, including infighting and business conflicts among aviation authorities and airlines.
Nufam said safety issues concerning staff needs as well as fatigue among pilots and cabin crew were still not being addressed.
“All these complaints must be taken seriously. Many are complaining about the precarious work conditions. We have seen workers being forced to work extremely without considering their safety and well-being first,” the statement said.
It said some airlines were not able to accept criticism when safety matters were brought up by Nufam and some airline organisations.
“We believe that some airlines are misbehaving and taking advantage when it comes to safety issues. Some policies are also not equivalent to international standards.”
Nufam claimed many reports and complaints had been made by travellers and the public about the services offered by local airlines.
“Many complaints also came from international organisations stating how we have slacked in terms of safety issues, as little seems to be done to show the public what has changed for the better. This is something our aviation authorities must improve on.”
The union urged the transport ministry to address issues openly and be more transparent about incidents involving the industry.
“There seems to be pin-drop silence when it comes to addressing matters of safety. Some reports are also not made public as they are afraid of the negative image for the airlines.
“When airlines fly internationally, they need to comply with international standards and regulations. They cannot run away from these responsibilities in addressing safety and other aviation problems as the world is always watching.”
Earlier this week, FAA downgraded CAAM to Category 2 as a safety regulator. The downgrade subjects the country’s airlines to flight restrictions and more checks.
CAAM chairman Ahmad Ridzwan Mohd Salleh acknowledged that CAAM had several shortcomings in carrying out its duties as an aviation regulator.
But the assessment only covered CAAM’s role as a regulator and not about Malaysia’s airlines, airports or air traffic services, he said.
He said a request had been made for FAA to conduct a re-assessment to restore CAAM’s status as a Category 1 aviation regulator within the next 12 months.