WASHINGTON – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has announced the introduction of legislation to address the critical pilot shortage facing our nation.
H.R. 2182 – "The Bipartisan Pre-Pilot Pathway Act" is the 10th piece of legislation introduced by Congressman Donalds during the 119th Congress and has received the support of Representatives Don Davis (D-NC) and Troy Nehls (R-TX) as well as the National Flight Training Alliance.
Specifically, this legislation: (1) Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a pilot apprenticeship program for students at Part 141 flight training facilities within 12 months of enactment; (2) Allows for participating facilities in this voluntary program to select up to 8 applicants to serve as apprentices each academic year; (3) Helps to establish a qualified pipeline of interested individuals to become pilots. Congressman Donalds released the following statement:
"America is facing a critical pilot shortage and we must act before it's too late. This is why I introduced the 'Bipartisan Pre-Pilot Pathway Act.' My common-sense proposal addresses our national shortage head-on by creating a pilot apprenticeship program to bolster our nation's waning talent pipeline. Ensuring the safety and efficiency of American air travel should be bipartisan and I thank Representatives Davis and Nehls for joining me in this important initiative."
Background:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), it’s projected that 14,500 pilots will be needed every year through 2030.
The shortage is estimated to be 17,000 commercial aviation pilots by 2030.
The shortage arises from a combination of factors, including baby boomers reaching the mandatory retirement age of 65, the COVID-19 pandemic, and a shrinking pool of potential pilot candidates.
Specifics of the Pilot Apprenticeship Program:
Why Flight Training Facilities—Part 141 flight training facilities may be able to provide a greater variety of training aids and require dedicated training facilities, flight instructor oversight, and FAA-approved curricula.
Under the 141 program, pilots will benefit from receiving an airline standard of training—which allows the pilot to move onto a Part 121 airline, Part 135 commercial charter operation, Part 91 private operation, or to enjoy a future career as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI).
What's the Traditional Pilot Path— Student → Flight Instructor → Regional Pilot → Major Airline Pilot
With the increased demand for pilots, training facilities are seeing more students enrolling in their programs.
Currently, there are approximately 600 Part 141 flight training facilities that have been licensed by the FAA.
More:
Read Text of H.R. 2182 – "The Bipartisan Pre-Pilot Pathway Act" HERE.
Bill Profile of H.R. 2182 – "The Bipartisan Pre-Pilot Pathway Act" HERE.
