Federal Register #2026-13546

FAA Proposed Rule: Preemption of State and Local Duty and Rest Requirements for Flight Crews

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 products or commercial services are being procured; this is a regulatory action - No Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or vendors are mentioned - Key Proposal Details: - FAA regulations would preempt all State and local meal and rest break requirements for flightcrew members and flight attendants - The rule aims to ensure flightcrew and flight attendants remain available for safety-related duties during duty periods - Addresses recent litigation and seeks to avoid operational disruptions and increased costs from conflicting State laws - Emphasizes safety risks of off-duty breaks during flights and potential economic impacts of additional crew requirements - The notice invites public comment and outlines the regulatory, safety, and operational rationale for preemption

Description

The FAA proposes a rulemaking to clarify that its regulations governing flightcrew member and flight attendant duty and rest periods preempt all State and local meal and rest break requirements. The 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. The proposal aims to prevent airlines from having to comply with differing State meal and rest break requirements that could be costly and disruptive to operations. Comments on the proposal are invited until September 4, 2026.

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