The Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) has released a statement applauding the recent approval of the bipartisan Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, which extends the authorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for five years. SWAPA President Captain Casey Murray stated that the act contains several measures supported by SWAPA pilots and aligns with their safety and innovation priorities.
The bill maintains the highest level of safety standards on flight decks and in cabins, institutes long-overdue reforms to the FAA’s aeromedical processes, and expands aviation workforce development. SWAPA commends the efforts of congressional leaders, including Senators Maria Cantwell, Ted Cruz, Tammy Duckworth, and Jerry Moran, as well as Representatives Sam Graves, Rick Larsen, Garret Graves, and Steve Cohen, in securing the bipartisan passage of the legislation. This bill provides long-term direction and stability to the FAA and supports the industry’s prioritization of increasing levels of safety and innovation.