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Airline Pilots Association backs FAA medical policy reform

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Airline Pilots Association backs FAA medical policy reform
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Webp jason ambrosi
Jason Ambrosi, President of Air Line Pilots Association | Airline Pilots Association

The Airline Pilots Association (ALPA) has announced its support for the Mental Health in Aviation Act, a legislative proposal aimed at reforming Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical policies that may deter pilots from seeking mental health care.

FAA regulations currently require pilots to maintain medical certification to fly. However, existing mental health rules have been criticized as restrictive and outdated. Pilots have reported avoiding treatment for common mental health conditions due to fears of career repercussions, such as license suspension or lengthy re-certification delays. According to a 2023 report by the FAA Office of Inspector General (OIG), many aviators fear disclosing mental health concerns even when treatment would not compromise safety. The OIG concluded that a more transparent and supportive system is necessary.

The Mental Health in Aviation Act was introduced by Representatives Pete Stauber and Sean Casten. According to Casten’s office, the bill mandates FAA implementation of recommendations from the Mental Health and Aviation Medical Clearances ARC. It includes clear deadlines for processing medical certifications, standardizes appeals procedures, and requires annual reporting of mental health-related denials. The legislation authorizes $13.74 million annually for aviation medical examiner recruitment and $1.5 million annually to promote destigmatization campaigns.

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ALPA has publicly endorsed the legislation, stating that current FAA practices "are outdated and must be updated to remove barriers to care." The union argues that the existing system disincentivizes treatment and fails to reflect current medical understanding. ALPA urges both Congress and the FAA to enact structural reforms that maintain safety while supporting pilot well-being.

The Airline Pilots Association, International is the world’s largest airline pilot union, representing more than 79,000 pilots at 42 airlines in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1931, ALPA advocates for aviation safety, security, and the professional interests of pilots through collective bargaining and legislative outreach. The organization plays a significant role in shaping industry standards and policy in North American aviation.

Organizations Included in this History
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