Show Your Pride: Wear the ALPA Pin

“Wearing an Association emblem induces, psychologically, a bond of fraternity, which should be the dominant factor in any organization.” Those words were written in the December 1935 edition of Air Line Pilot and remain true today.

The ALPA pin was introduced that year after a nationwide contest, with Pilot Ragnar T. Freng (United) submitting the winning design. At the time, the pins were available for purchase at the Association’s headquarters for 50 cents.

A lot has changed since those days, but one thing hasn’t: The importance of wearing the ALPA pin while flying the line. It’s a symbol that the wearer, no matter who they fly for or what they fly, shares a bond with 79,000-plus members of the Association.

On this page are photographs of pins throughout ALPA’s history as well as variations for certain circumstances. Need a pin? Fill out the form at alpa.org/pins to request one.

ALPA pins throughout the Association’s history, starting with a pin circa the early 1930s, featuring periods between the letters of ALPA, then changing to the official design established in 1935, and evolving in size and material to the pin members receive today.

ALPA Pilots Can Earn Variations of the Main Pin

Battle Star Pin: For members who were employed during an authorized strike.
Years of Service Pin: Tied to your ALPA join date, starting at 10 years and every five thereafter.
Retired Pin: For members who retire from ALPA..

A Selection of Pins from the Past

CALPA Pin: Canadian ALPA prior to merging with the Association in 1997.
Steward & Stewardesses Pin: Division of ALPA (part of the union from 1960–1973).
9/11 Pin: Commemorating the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9/11.

Share Your Pride!

Your ALPA pin represents more than just a logo—it stands for the strength, unity, and solidarity of thousands of your fellow pilots. Wear it proudly, post your photo on Instagram, and tag @alpapilots to show what ALPA stands for—together.

This article was originally published in the June 2025 issue of Air Line Pilot.