UPS Pilots Advocate for H.R. 7191: Ensuring Safety in Aviation

UPS Pilots Advocate for H.R. 7191: Enhancing Aviation Safety

On January 22, 2026, the Independent Pilots Association (IPA), representing United Parcel Service (UPS) pilots, announced its backing for the "Fatigued Pilot Protection Act," known as H.R. 7191. This significant piece of legislation, introduced by Representatives Hillary Scholten (MI-03) and Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), aims to ensure equal flight duty and rest requirements for both all-cargo and passenger airlines.

The IPA's president, Captain Robert Travis, highlighted the importance of this legislation, stating, "The introduction of this bill ensures that the FAA's flight duty and rest requirements equally apply to both all-cargo carriers and passenger carriers alike." This marks a crucial step in addressing a long-noted imbalance in aviation safety regulations, referred to as the "cargo carve out." This loophole has previously allowed cargo airlines to operate under less stringent safety requirements compared to passenger airlines, which poses a potential risk to overall aviation safety.

The issue of pilot fatigue in the aviation industry is a concerning topic that has gained traction in recent years, especially as air travel demand has increased. Studies have shown that fatigue can significantly affect a pilot's performance, leading to decreased alertness and increased risk of error. By advocating for H.R. 7191, the IPA aims to align safety measures across the aviation sector, making sure all pilots adhere to the same strict standards intended to mitigate fatigue and its associated dangers.

Both Representatives Scholten and Bresnahan play important roles on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, specifically within its subcommittee on Aviation. Their bipartisan approach to this issue is critical, as it seeks to unify support across party lines, emphasizing that safety should be a priority regardless of the operational focus, be it cargo or passenger flights.

Captain Travis expressed gratitude towards the lawmakers, saying, "Thank you to Representatives Scholten and Bresnahan for recognizing this dangerous commercial aviation safety gap by seeking to end the cargo carve out and bring FAR Part 117 back in line with the original intent of Congress; one level of safety for U.S. aviation." This statement underscores the IPA's commitment to advocating for pilot welfare and overall safety in the skies.

With over 3,400 pilots represented, the IPA reinforces its role in championing the voices of front-line aviators. As this bill moves through the legislative process, the association will continue to promote the necessity for equitable safety regulations in an industry that remains pivotal in connecting communities and facilitating trade across the globe.

The ongoing support for H.R. 7191 reflects a broader recognition of the complexities and challenges facing aviation safety today. By working to implement comprehensive regulations that apply uniformly to all types of carriers, stakeholders in the aviation industry take a significant step forward in creating a safer flying environment for all passengers and freight alike. The IPA remains committed to its advocacy efforts, ensuring that the well-being of pilots and safety in aviation will continue to be prioritized in legislative discussions moving forward.