U.S. Congressman Nick Langworthy announced on August 5, 2024 the introduction of the bipartisan Safer Skies Act to close critical gaps in airport security.
The new bill, co-sponsored by Congressman Marc Veasey, aims to improve safety regulations specifically for U.S. airlines operating commercial flights.
The new law would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to update its security regulations for both private and public charter operators, which are operators that offer advance seating, have public schedules and offer seating configurations with more than nine seats.
The new legislation is largely governed by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 135 and Part 380 regulations.
“As a result of reforms following the 9/11 attacks, Americans have come to expect a high level of security when they board an aircraft on American soil,” Langworthy said in a press release. “The Safer Skies Act is critical to protecting our skies and the lives of passengers and crew.”
The Airline Pilots Association also supported the law.
“Passengers should be able to board an aircraft and trust that they will be provided with the same level of safety whether they are flying to a big city or a small town,” said Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association.
The Allied Pilots Association, the National Air Carrier Association and the Association of Professional Flight Attendants, among others, also supported the new legislation.
