United States Congressman Nick Langworthy announced the introduction of the bipartisan Safer Skies Act on August 5, 2024, aimed at closing critical security loopholes in airport security.
The new bill, which was co-led by Congressman Marc Veasey, seeks to improve safety regulations specifically for US airlines that operate commercial flights.
The new law would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to update its security rules for both private carriers and public charter companies. These are the operators that offer seats in advance, have public schedules, and offer passenger seat configurations with over nine seats.
The new legislation falls mostly under the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Part 135 and Part 380 regulations.
“Due to the reforms following the September 11th attacks, Americans have come to expect a high level of safety and security when they board a plane on American soil,” Langworthy said in a press release. “The Safer Skies Act is vital for protecting our skies and the lives of passengers and crew alike.”
The legislation has also received support from the Airline Pilots Association.
“Airline passengers should be able to board a plane and trust that they have the same level of safety and security whether they are flying into a big city or a small town,” said Jason Ambrosi, President of the Air Line Pilots Association.
The Allied Pilots Association, National Air Carrier Association, Association of Professional Flight Attendants, among others, have also given support to the new legislation.