In late July, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) conducted a three-day public hearing regarding the January mid-air collision over Washington, DC, which resulted in the deaths of 67 individuals. The hearings concluded with two significant findings: existing safety regulations could have prevented the disaster, and government regulators exhibit reluctance in enforcing these standards amidst pressures from the airline industry to increase flights and decrease costs.
The aviation sector has historically witnessed a decline in fatal accidents due to improved safety standards, which have effectively reduced the accident rate by 90% since the 1990s. Issues leading up to the January crash were attributed to multiple failings: malfunctioning safety equipment, unclear pilot procedures, and an overwhelmed air traffic control system. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allowed helicopter traffic to operate beneath landing aircraft at Reagan National Airport, which has been linked to thousands of close calls.
NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy emphasized the urgent need for improvements in aviation safety following the tragedy. Concerns have grown regarding the appointment of Bryan Bedford, former CEO of Frontier Airlines and Republic Airways, as the new FAA Administrator. During his confirmation, Bedford indicated a willingness to repeal crucial regulations, including one mandating 1,500 flight hours before obtaining an Air Transport Pilot license, and one establishing a retirement age of 65 for pilots.
His proposals have faced significant opposition from pilots and safety advocates, citing research that demonstrates experience improves flight safety. Concerns also arise regarding the implications of lower pilot experience levels and relaxed age limits, potentially resulting in reduced pay and safety standards across the industry. While exact consequences of regulatory rollbacks remain uncertain, experts call for caution, suggesting that reduced regulations could jeopardize overall aviation safety and erode public trust in air travel.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/planes/758913/air-safety-regulation-faa-trump-bedford-sully