Safety: The People
The highly skilled professionals of our aviation ecosystem are the foundation of our safety efforts. They include:
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PilotsThe FAA has the world’s strictest qualifications for airline pilots and virtually all new applicants are required to possess a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight experience. Technical requirements for regular training and testing ensure they are proficient, and regular medical exams and rigorous medical standards ensure they are healthy to fly. FAA regulations limit how long a pilot can be on duty and mandate specific rest periods between flights. Airlines must also provide fatigue awareness and education training and must have fatigue risk management systems. Airline pilots also are subject to random drug testing. |
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Flight AttendantsYour flight attendant’s main duty is to keep you safe. After hiring and before starting duty, they undergo intensive initial training on a wide range of subjects. These include emergency procedures such as evacuations and firefighting, passenger safety, first aid and cabin decompression scenarios. Afterward, they undergo regular recurrent training to maintain their proficiency and update their knowledge and skills. FAA regulations limit how long a flight attendant can be on duty and the agency recently extended the flight attendant rest period. |
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Air Traffic ControllersFrom the moment your flight pushes back from the gate, it’s under the direction of an Air Traffic Controller trained and certified to FAA standards. These professionals guide your flight from takeoff to touchdown ensuring its safe and efficient movement. Learn more about Air Traffic Control 101. |
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Aviation Safety InspectorsThe FAA’s expansive team of Aviation Safety Inspectors administer, investigate and enforce safety regulations and standards. They oversee airlines, pilots, flight attendants, manufacturers and maintenance facilities. ASIs work in one of four specialty areas: avionics, manufacturing, maintenance and operations. Each area requires specific training. |