US airlines must certify use of merit-based hiring for pilots

The FAA requires all U.S. airlines to certify they are using merit-based hiring for pilots, or risk federal investigation. This decision addresses concerns about hiring practices potentially based on race and gender.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the need to eliminate such practices. The FAA also stated that airlines must prioritize safety by ensuring only qualified pilots are hired. Historically, U.S. pilots have been predominantly white and male. United Airlines aims to change this by training more diverse pilots by 2030.

Airlines for America reaffirmed its commitment to safety and compliance with federal regulations.