Washington, DC, February 16 - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new mandatory directive requiring all U.S. airlines to certify that their pilot hiring practices are exclusively merit-based. Announced on February 13, 2026, this policy introduces Operations Specification (OpSpec) A134, titled "Merit-Based Pilot Hiring," applicable to certificate holders operating under 14 CFR Part 121. The measure underscores the FAA's core mission to prioritize aviation safety, emphasizing that pilot selection must focus solely on qualifications, technical knowledge, cognitive skills, piloting experience, and aptitude. Airlines must formally commit to these standards, ensuring hiring decisions align with the complexities of commercial operations and the highest possible degree of safety in the public interest.
This requirement stems from federal authority under Title 49 U.S.C. § 44701, which mandates minimum safety standards for air carriers and obligates them to provide service with utmost regard for passenger protection. The FAA's notice highlights that operational safety depends heavily on flight crewmembers possessing verified baselines of expertise before entering rigorous training programs. By mandating certification, the agency aims to reinforce that factors unrelated to professional competence play no role in pilot recruitment. Non-compliance with the certification process will subject airlines to federal investigation, reinforcing accountability across the industry.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the directive's role in addressing ongoing concerns about hiring practices, while FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford reinforced that safety remains paramount, stating that an individual's race, sex, or other personal characteristics bear no relation to their ability to operate aircraft safely. The policy aligns with broader efforts to maintain rigorous standards in aviation, where pilots are responsible for hundreds of lives during every flight. Industry groups representing major carriers have indicated willingness to comply fully with applicable federal regulations.
The implementation of OpSpec A134 represents a significant step in upholding merit-based standards for pilot hiring in the United States. Airlines now face a clear obligation to document and affirm their adherence, promoting transparency and confidence among passengers, regulators, and stakeholders. This focused approach ensures that the aviation sector continues to prioritize skill and proficiency, safeguarding the world's safest air transportation system.