WASHINGTON, D.C. (WKBW) — It's a victory for Flight 3407 families.
The U.S. Department of Transportation announced a final rule on Tuesday, requiring newly-hired pilots to observe flight operations, receive leadership and command training, and become familiar with company-specific procedures before operating an aircraft. The rule, called the Pilot Professional Development rule, will also require supplemental training for captains.
"When I met with the Colgan Flight 3407 families, they emphasized how important this rule on pilot training was in elevating safety in the aviation sector. I am glad that the Department has been successful in finalizing this rule," said U. S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.
The law is an extension of the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010. The rules come from recommendations of the National Transportation Safety Board.
"As a pilot with thousands of hours flying in commercial aircraft, I know the importance that ongoing and targeted training can have in keeping pilots at their best," said FAA Administrator Stephen M. Dickson. "These new training requirements for flight crews will go long way in providing the nation's commercial pilot workforce with the latest and safest flight deck practices and procedures."
On February 12, 2009, Continental Flight 3407 crashed into a neighborhood in Clarence Center. The plane was carrying 49 passengers. No one survived. One person on the ground died as a result of the crash.
You can read the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010 here.
