FLIGHT DECK Act

Flight-deck familiarization for controllers

This bill would require the FAA to set up a voluntary flight-deck training program within one year of enactment. Certified air traffic controllers would be allowed to ride in the flight deck on at least one round trip within the coterminous United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. possessions and territories. Time spent on those flights would count as on-duty. Participation would be voluntary and would need management approval and meet operational and staffing requirements. The FAA would not reimburse travel expenses, including per diem and mileage. Carriers would not be required to displace off-duty pilots occupying accessible flight deck seats to make room for participants. The FAA may set ticketing and security rules and must consult pilot and controller bargaining representatives when making policies. Within one year after starting the program, the FAA would report to House and Senate committees on participation, flight types, barriers, and recommendations.