Airmen Certificate Accessibility Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Sheehy, Tim [R-MT]
- Committees
- Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 26, 2026
Bottom line
The bill modernizes the acceptable formats for airman certificates, allowing for digital presentation while requiring the FAA to establish new authentication and verification standards and update regulations.
What it actually does
This bill amends title 49, United States Code, to allow airmen to present their certificates, including medical certificates, to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors in either a physical format or a digital format. The digital format can be stored on an electronic device or a cloud-based system, subject to FAA-established authentication and verification requirements. The bill also mandates the FAA to issue a final rule by November 30, 2028, to update relevant regulations to implement these changes.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill brings airman certification into the 21st century, offering greater convenience and flexibility for pilots who often carry multiple credentials. They contend that digital certificates, with robust FAA-mandated security, can be more secure and less prone to loss or damage than physical cards, streamlining interactions with inspectors and reducing administrative burdens.
Opponents contend
Critics might raise concerns about the security implications of digital certificates, citing potential vulnerabilities to cyberattacks, data breaches, or the reliability of electronic devices in operational environments. They may also point to the significant costs and technical challenges the FAA will face in developing and maintaining a secure and universally accessible digital system, particularly in areas with limited connectivity.
The bill is very short and clear, making it highly accessible for a quick read and understanding of its core provisions.
Section 2(a)
Acceptance of Digital Airman Certificates
This provision amends existing law to explicitly permit individuals to present their airman certificates, including medical certificates, to FAA inspectors in a digital format. This digital format can be stored on a personal electronic device or accessed via a cloud-based system, provided there is sufficient connectivity. The FAA is tasked with establishing the necessary authentication and verification requirements for these digital certificates.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue this provision modernizes outdated regulations, aligning with current technological capabilities and providing airmen with a more convenient way to carry and present their credentials. They believe it will enhance efficiency during inspections and reduce the risk of lost or damaged physical certificates.
Critics contend
Opponents might express concerns about the potential for digital certificates to be compromised through hacking or device failure, and the challenges of ensuring consistent verification across all operational environments, especially those with poor internet access. They may also worry about the cost and complexity for the FAA to develop a secure and reliable digital system.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire for technological modernization and airman convenience against the need for robust security, universal accessibility, and reliable verification methods for critical aviation credentials.
Section 2(b)
Mandatory Rulemaking for Implementation
This section mandates that the Administrator of the FAA issue a final rule by November 30, 2028, to update specific parts of the Code of Federal Regulations (parts 61, 63, 65, 67, and 107 of title 14) to implement the changes allowing digital certificates. This includes developing any necessary guidance and policies to support the new system.