Two dozen U.S. House of Representatives members have joined a newly formed Aviation Safety Caucus that is first turning to highlight a bill that would tighten security requirements for “ticketed charter flights” operating under FAA Part 135 and DOT Part 380. Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-New York), who introduced the Safer Skies Act in August to bring security for public charters in line with those of scheduled airlines, kicked off the caucus last week in an event flanked by leaders of several pilot and flight attendant unions—many of which are pushing to fundamentally change the use of Part 380.
“This caucus is dedicated to strengthening aviation safety and security by collaborating on real legislative solutions—the safety of our skies is not a partisan issue,” Langworthy said in announcing the caucus. “Our first priority is ensuring that we close existing security gaps with the Safer Skies Act, building on the hard-won reforms enacted after 9/11, and we will continue to work to protect the millions of Americans who rely on our aviation system every day."
“Gaming the system to get a competitive leg up by putting all of us at risk can’t fly! We applaud Representative Langworthy for taking action to stop outrageous attempts to skirt safety and security requirements that were put in place following September 11th. Never again,” added Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA.
The caucus anticipates tackling a range of policies related to aviation safety with the hopes of bringing together lawmakers from across both aisles along with aviation experts and industry stakeholders.
Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), added: “ALPA is proud to partner with Representative Langworthy and the Aviation Safety Caucus as we work to build on the safest period in aviation history.”
Among other key issues for Langworthy, who is chairing the caucus, was the 1,500-hour rule for commercial pilots; he fought to ensure it was retained.
Reps. Jack Bergman (R-Michigan) and Marc Veasey (D-Texas) are co-chairs of the caucus.