FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024

Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act This bill reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through FY2028, including activities and programs related to airport planning and development, facilities and equipment, and operations. The National Transportation Safety Board is also reauthorized through FY2028. The bill also addresses a wide range of issues. For example, the bill directs the FAA to increase air traffic controller hiring targets; extends the authorizations for aviation workforce development programs for pilots and mechanics; establishes a workforce development program to support the education, recruitment, and retention of aviation professionals; establishes an FAA Ombudsman to coordinate the response to submissions of inquiries or objections relating to issues such as aircraft certifications and registrations, certificates (e.g., pilot and medical), and operational approvals, waivers, or exemptions; requires air carriers to operate aircraft with cockpit voice recorders and cockpit video recorders; prohibits aircraft dispatchers from working remotely, with limited exceptions for emergencies; requires air carriers to offer a refund to an air passenger with a disability whose wheelchair cannot be physically accommodated in the cargo hold; requires the Department of Transportation to establish a policy directing certain air carriers to seat a young child next to an accompanying adult if adjacent seats are available without charging an additional fee; requires the FAA to issue rules to update the requirements for testing and operati…