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Pilots Must Know and Use Their Rights

Recent high-profile cases underline the importance of knowing the law before an incident happens.

If you found yourself up against 'Big Law,' would you know what to do? [File photo: Adobestock]
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Key Takeaways:

  • Many pilots are unprepared for potential FAA regulatory actions and investigations, which can arise from common mistakes under pressure or perceived violations.
  • The Pilot's Bill of Rights (PBR) provides crucial legal protections for pilots, ensuring timely notification of investigations, access to evidence, and improved appeal processes.
  • To effectively protect their ability to fly, pilots should familiarize themselves with FAA compliance and enforcement procedures and consider consulting an aviation attorney.
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A series of high-profile pilots facing regulatory action has caused many pilots to think about their rights. I suspect that if most pilots today found themselves up against “Big Law,” they might not know what to do. 

It’s not always egregious cases of pilots pushing the limits, either. For instance, with the busy summer months ahead, the setting is ripe for pilots and controllers under pressure to make mistakes. One of the most chilling things for a pilot to hear over the radio is that they should be ready to copy a phone number down because of a “possible pilot deviation.”

Michael Wildes

Michael Wildes holds a master’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, and a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Previously, he worked at the university’s flight department as a Flight Check Airman, Assistant Training Manager, and Quality Assurance Mentor. He holds MEI, CFI & CFII ratings. Follow Michael on Twitter @Captainwildes.

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