The Mental Health in Aviation Act has been introduced by Senators John Hoeven (R-ND) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) to modernize the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) approach to mental health and medical certification for aviation professionals, ensuring safety and well-being remain at the forefront of the industry.

The Act tackles longstanding barriers that have discouraged pilots and air traffic controllers from seeking mental health care, aiming to reduce stigma and foster a culture of openness. Key provisions include:

• Revising FAA regulations to encourage early disclosure and treatment without fear of punitive measures.
• Annual reviews of medical certification processes to ensure they reflect current best practices.
• Expanding mental health expertise within the FAA’s Office of Aerospace Medicine.

By championing policies that prioritize mental health, AAMS, with your help, reinforces its mission to protect both patients and providers. This legislation represents a pivotal step toward creating a resilient, stigma-free aviation culture.