On July 6, 2017, the Chicago Tribune reported that regional airlines are working to reduce pilot in-flight training hours from the 1,500-hour requirement, through a provision that could be attached to the upcoming Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Bill.
A senate committee panel recently advanced the measure along party lines with Republicans voting in favor, 14-13. U.S Senator Tammy Duckworth (D – Ill.), Iraq War Veteran, Purple Heart recipient and combat pilot for the Illinois National Guard, staunchly opposes the measure, and is quoted in the article.
Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the US Airways pilot who heroically landed his aircraft in the Hudson River in 2009, is also adamantly opposed to the measure and voiced his opposition.
While SMART TD membership is predominately comprised of railroad and bus members, SMART TD also represents airline pilots, co-pilots, flight attendants and baggage handlers.
Click here to read the entire article.
U.S. Senator John Thune, R – S.D., introduced the provision. Click here to voice your opposition to Senator Thune.
Click here to visit the SMART TD Legislative Action Center to contact your legislative representatives to voice your opinion about this bad idea, and others that affect the safety of our membership and the safety of all Americans.
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