DALLAS (NEWSnet/AP) — The pilots union at American Airlines says there has been “a significant spike” in safety issues at the airline.

That includes fewer routine aircraft inspections and shorter test flights on planes returning after major maintenance work.

The union also says it has encountered incidents in which tools were left in wheel wells and items found in the sterile area near planes parked at airport gates.

A spokesman said union officials have raised their concerns with senior managers and were encouraged by the company’s response.

American did not immediately comment on the matter.

In an email sent to members on Saturday, the safety committee of Allied Pilots Association said that the union “has been tracking a significant spike in safety- and maintenance-related problems in our operation.”

The union said American has increased the time between routine inspections on planes. The airline also has ceased  overnight maintenance checks, unless a plane is documented for special attention or due for scheduled maintenance.

The union asked its members to report any safety or maintenance problems.

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