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The Airline Pilots Association announced on X that the U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Mental Health in Aviation Act.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) procedures rely heavily on self-disclosure, and many pilots are reluctant to report mental health conditions due to stigma or fears of losing their certification. The report warned that this underreporting undermines the FAA’s ability to mitigate risks linked to untreated conditions. It concluded that new frameworks such as the Mental Health in Aviation Act are critical for ensuring safety while encouraging pilots to seek needed care.
As outlined in the FAA’s Mental Health ARC Final Report, Peer Support Programs (PSPs) have proven effective in helping pilots discuss concerns in a confidential setting without stigma. The report emphasizes that PSPs and clear medical certification standards can reduce fears of disclosure and encourage treatment. The committee also recommended revising outdated rules that create barriers for pilots with mild or moderate conditions, thereby supporting both health and safety.
