Airline Pilot Central Forums - Question about this new bill.

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinkpanther (Post 696062)

If they pass it into law I don't believe it will go through the same rule making process, in fact I don't think the FAA will have any say in it what so ever (like the age 65 rule was legislation that went strait to the regs and skipped the rule making process). So you could end up seeing it within months.

Correct, the rulemaking process is for FAA-initiated changes.

If congress (both houses) passes a bill and the president signs it, it become law and is effective immediately, or on whatever date the language of the bill specifies. A law over-rides all FAA processes, they must comply with no further delays or sniveling.

Sounds like the bill specifies three years from signature, so assuming senate passage and Obama signature by early 2012, all airline pilots will need an ATP certificate by early 2015. The language is very simple, and there are no exemptions for current or furloughed pilots...plan on needing the ATP by 2015.

If you don't work for a bottom-feeder your company might provide the checkride at no cost to you (coincident with an annual PC), but they are certainly not required to do that. If you can upgrade before then, problem solved. If not, better start saving up now...