Aviation Safety Advocate Pushes for Better Pay, Resources, and Training for Mechanics

EAST WILLISTON, NY / ACCESSWIRE / December 22, 2024 / Riadel Manzano, a Senior Aircraft Mechanic and industry veteran, is spearheading an initiative to advocate for increased support for aircraft mechanics in New York. With over a decade of experience, Manzano is calling for better pay, improved working conditions, and expanded training opportunities for the state's aviation workforce.

"Aircraft mechanics are the backbone of aviation," Manzano said. "Yet, we're often overworked, underpaid, and undervalued. That needs to change."

Her push comes at a critical time for the aviation industry. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the U.S. faces a shortage of 13,000 mechanics by 2041. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a need for thousands of new technicians annually to meet growing air travel demands.

"This isn't just about the mechanics," Manzano emphasized. "It's about every passenger who relies on safe and reliable flights. If mechanics don't have the tools and resources they need, safety suffers. And that's unacceptable."

Manzano is advocating for legislation to modernize maintenance facilities and ensure mechanics have access to cutting-edge technology. She also supports programs to make training and certifications more affordable, addressing barriers for new talent entering the field.

"Training isn't optional-it's essential," Manzano said. "Aircraft systems are evolving rapidly. If we don't invest in continuous education, we risk falling behind and jeopardizing safety."

Mental health is another area of focus for Manzano. She highlights the intense pressure mechanics face to meet tight deadlines while maintaining high safety standards. "Burnout is real in this profession," she said. "We need mental health programs tailored to the unique challenges we face."

In addition to pushing for systemic changes, Manzano is organizing workshops and forums to give mechanics a platform to share their experiences and ideas. "This isn't something one person can fix," she added. "It's going to take teamwork and commitment to make real progress."

Manzano is urging the public to support aviation safety by advocating for better working conditions for mechanics. She encourages individuals to contact their state legislators and raise awareness about the critical role mechanics play in ensuring safe air travel.

"When we stand together, we can build an aviation system that values the people who keep it running," she concluded.

About Riadel Manzano
Riadel Manzano is a Senior Aircraft Mechanic at Skyline Airlines, based at LaGuardia Airport. A resident of East Williston, NY, she is a passionate advocate for improving working conditions, expanding training opportunities, and supporting the aviation workforce in New York.

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SOURCE: Riadel Manzano