FAA must ease mental health rules for pilots and air traffic controllers

What does this do?

The bill directs the FAA to update regulations within two years to reduce stigma around mental health disclosure among pilots and air traffic controllers. It requires the FAA to review past committee recommendations, consult aviation unions and schools, and conduct annual reviews of the "special issuance" approval process, including whether more medications could be allowed and whether examiners need better training.

Who does it affect?

Commercial and private pilots, air traffic controllers, aviation medical examiners, flight schools, airlines, and airports are directly affected. Airline passengers and aviation safety overall could be indirectly affected.

Why does it matter?

Aviation workers currently often avoid disclosing mental health struggles because it can trigger lengthy reviews or threaten their medical certification. The bill does not change specific medical conditions or rules itself, but requires the FAA to study, consult, and revise policy over several years.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to $15m/year through 2029 for examiners
• Up to $1.5m/year for public campaign

Where does it stand?