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Pre-Pilot Pathway Act
4/3/2025, 12:09 PM
Summary of Bill HR 2182
The apprenticeship program will offer students the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the aviation industry, gaining valuable skills and knowledge that will prepare them for successful careers as pilots. The program will also help address the growing demand for qualified pilots in the United States.
In addition to establishing the apprenticeship program, the bill includes provisions for funding and oversight to ensure its success. The goal of the program is to increase access to high-quality flight training for students, ultimately strengthening the aviation industry and promoting economic growth. Overall, Bill 119 HR 2182 seeks to support the next generation of pilots by providing them with the training and resources they need to succeed in the field of aviation.
Congressional Summary of HR 2182
Pre-Pilot Pathway Act
This bill directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to establish an apprenticeship program with flight training providers (e.g., flight schools) in order to establish a commercial pilot pipeline; DOT must issue any necessary regulations to implement the program within one year of the bill's enactment.
Each flight training provider participating in the program may select up to eight applicants (or more applicants based on a determination by DOT) per academic year to serve as apprentices.
DOT must take appropriate actions to develop methods to incentivize pilots, including retired pilots, to become flight school instructors, mentors, or program advisors at participating flight training providers. This includes developing pathway programs for pilots to gain initial qualifications or concurrent qualifications as certified flight instructors.
Further, DOT must conduct an annual review of the apprenticeship program’s effectiveness, including the impact on addressing pilot shortages.
