The PBRB Process

The Pilot Benefit Review Board (PBRB) is a dispute resolution option available to FedEx pilots for certain benefit issues.

What Is PBRB?

The PBRB is:

• A joint committee of pilots and management
• Established through the collective bargaining agreement
• An alternative to litigation for benefit disputes
• Specific to FedEx pilots

When to Use PBRB

Appropriate Issues

PBRB may be used for:

• Disputes over benefit calculations
• Interpretation of benefit plan language
• Disagreements with Hartford on offset calculations
• Policy interpretation questions

Not Appropriate For

• Initial claim denials (use Hartford appeal first)
• EDD/SDI issues (state process, not PBRB)
• Issues outside the benefit plan
• Employment disputes

PBRB vs. Other Options

How PBRB Works

Step 1: Exhaust Other Remedies

Before PBRB:

• Complete Hartford's internal appeal process
• Document all previous attempts to resolve

Step 2: Request PBRB Review

Contact ALPA or the Master Executive Council to:

• Confirm PBRB is appropriate for your issue
• Obtain current procedures
• Get the required forms

Step 3: Submit Your Case

Prepare and submit:

• Detailed statement of the issue
• All relevant documentation
• Previous appeal decisions
• Your requested resolution

Step 4: PBRB Review

The board:

• Reviews your submission
• May request additional information
• Discusses with relevant parties
• Makes a determination

Step 5: Decision

PBRB issues:

• Written decision
• Explanation of reasoning
• Direction for resolution (if in your favor)

Preparing Your PBRB Case

Documentation Needed

1. Complete claim file
   • All correspondence with Hartford
   • All appeal decisions
   • All medical records submitted
2. Policy documents
   • LTD policy
   • Relevant sections highlighted
   • Your interpretation
3. Calculation details
   • Hartford's calculation
   • Your calculation
   • Where they differ
4. Supporting evidence
   • Expert opinions
   • Comparable cases (if available)
   • Anything supporting your position

Writing Your Statement

Structure:

1. Summary of the issue (1 paragraph)
2. Background facts (chronological)
3. Hartford's position
4. Your position and why you're correct
5. Requested remedy

Tips:

• Be factual, not emotional
• Quote specific policy language
• Show your math if calculation dispute
• Be concise but complete

Sample PBRB Request Issues

Offset Calculation Dispute

Issue: Hartford using incorrect SDI amount in offset

Argument:

• Actual SDI received: $X/month
• Hartford offsetting: $Y/month
• Difference: $Z/month
• Request: Correct to actual amount

Policy Interpretation

Issue: Definition of "pre-disability earnings"

Argument:

• Policy says quote
• Hartford interprets as their interpretation
• Correct interpretation is your interpretation
• Because reasoning

PBRB Advantages

Pros

• Pilot representation - Pilots on the board understand your situation
• Faster than litigation - Typically quicker than federal court
• No attorney required - Though you can have help
• Binding on company - Decisions are enforceable

Cons

• Limited scope - Not all issues qualify
• Must exhaust appeals first - Can't skip Hartford process
• Outcome uncertain - No guarantee of favorable decision
• Process may vary - Procedures change over time

After PBRB Decision

If Favorable

• Company must implement the decision
• Work with Hartford to correct
• Document everything
• Verify corrections made

If Unfavorable

• ERISA lawsuit may still be an option
• Consult with attorney
• Review decision for errors
• Consider if further action worthwhile

Getting Help with PBRB

ALPA Resources

• Master Executive Council
• Contract specialists
• Pilots who've been through the process

Legal Assistance

• Some ERISA attorneys familiar with PBRB
• Can advise on whether PBRB or litigation better
• May assist with preparation even if not representing

Timeline Considerations

When to Use PBRB

Consider PBRB when:

• Issue is clearly about interpretation/calculation
• You have strong documentary support
• Issue is likely to recur (sets precedent)

Consider litigation when:

• Issue requires extensive factual development
• Stakes are very high
• Legal complexity requires court review

Next Steps

• Appealing Hartford Decisions - First, exhaust appeals
• Contacts - ALPA and Hartford contact info
• Templates - Request letter templates