Federal Register #FAA-2026-6739

FAA Proposed Rule: Preemption of State Duty and Rest Requirements for Flightcrew and Flight Attendants

This opportunity concerns a proposed rulemaking by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding flightcrew and flight attendant duty and rest requirements: - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation - Office: Flight Standards Service - No Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or commercial vendors are mentioned - No products or commercial services are being procured - Key Proposal Details: - FAA proposes to clarify that its regulations on duty and rest periods for flightcrew members and flight attendants preempt all State and local meal and rest break requirements - The rule is based on the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978, aiming to prevent conflicting State laws that could disrupt airline operations and increase costs - Emphasizes the need for flight attendants and flightcrew to remain available for safety-related duties during duty periods, including emergencies and managing unruly passengers - Addresses recent litigation and highlights the safety and economic risks of allowing off-duty breaks during flights - The notice invites public comments and outlines the regulatory, legal, and safety rationale for the proposed rule - No procurement of goods or services is involved in this notice

Description

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes a rulemaking to clarify that FAA regulations governing flightcrew member and flight attendant duty and rest periods preempt all State and local meal and rest break requirements. The proposed rule explains that State meal and rest break requirements are preempted by the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 due to their significant impact on air carrier prices, routes, and services. This rule aims to prevent airlines from having to comply with differing State meal and rest break requirements that could be costly and disruptive to operations. Flight attendants would continue to receive meal and rest breaks based on existing collective bargaining agreements and airline policies rather than State laws. The FAA invites comments on this proposal by September 4, 2026.

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