VAI, industry groups support NPRM clarifying FAA’s preemption authority
VAI and aviation industry partners submitted comments Sep. 4, 2026, supporting the FAA’s efforts to reaffirm a uniform federal framework for aviation safety in its Jul. 6, 2026, notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) “Ensuring Passenger Safety by Preempting Duty and Rest Requirements.” In the NPRM, the FAA proposes to clarify that its regulations governing flight crew duty and rest periods preempt all state and local meal and rest break requirements.
Consistent federal standards are essential for aircraft that routinely operate across state and local boundaries, helping protect VAI members from conflicting operational and design requirements, increased compliance and litigation costs, and a fragmented regulatory environment that could hinder both existing operations and emerging technologies.
VAI’s participation in the comment period ensures that the perspectives of vertical aviation manufacturers and operators are represented. The association’s joint comments with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) can be found here; its joint statement with the Association of Value Airlines (AVA), National Air Transportation Association (NATA), and NBAA are available here.
