FAA
has announced a final rule to ensure that pilots have the chance to rest
before flying.
The final rule for commercial passenger flights addresses:
- varying flight and duty requirements based on what time the pilot’s day begins;
- flight time limits of 8 or 9 hours;
- 10-hour minimum rest period;
- new cumulative flight duty and flight time limits;
- fitness for duty;
- Fatigue Risk Management System.
“This is a major safety achievement,” says DOT Secretary Ray
LaHood. “We made a promise to the traveling public that we would do everything
possible to make sure pilots are rested when they get in the cockpit. This new
rule raises the safety bar to prevent fatigue.”
The final rule will take effect in 2 years to allow
commercial passenger airline operators time to transition. A fact sheet with
additional information can be found here.