NATA Requests Rulemaking To Improve Pilot Check Rides

The National Air Transportation Association (NATA), on behalf of its members conducting air carrier operations under Part 135, requested rulemaking to expand the number of pilot line checks performed by operators, improving safety and decreasing demands on limited FAA resources. NATA’s petition, if adopted, would allow FAA-approved company check pilots to conduct the pilot line checks required by § 135.299 throughout the certificate holder’s fleet of aircraft that are of the same category and class. In addition, NATA requested the FAA provide guidance specifying the suggested content for the pilot line check. 

The petition notes that “the purpose of the line check is not to evaluate piloting skill and that the carrier’s check pilots are best equipped to determine that pilots are operating in accordance with company policy and procedures.” NATA goes on to explain that, “the intended purpose of the line check is best fulfilled by company check pilots who have a full understanding of company procedures and culture.” NATA’s proposal stipulates that the carrier’s check pilots must be currently qualified as a Pilot in Command in the same category and class of aircraft in which the check is administered.

NATA notes additional benefits, such as lower FAA costs from decreased inspector travel for checks, increased time for inspectors to perform other oversight functions, and safety benefits from decreased operational exposures (due to fewer flights conducted specifically for checks).

Further, because these changes allow a reduction in the number of flights that are conducted solely for the purpose of performing the line check, the change could prove beneficial to the environment.