Summary

Requires the FAA to shorten medical clearance validity for air traffic controllers aged 61 and older so that clearances expire six months after the exam, and removes certain age-based language from two federal retirement statutes. The statutory changes and the FAA’s update to its Air Traffic Control Specialist Health Program must be completed within 180 days of enactment.

Key Points

• Medical clearances for air traffic controllers aged 61+ will expire six months after the exam.
• FAA must update its Air Traffic Control Specialist Health Program to reflect the six-month clearance period.
• Two federal retirement statutes have specified age-based language removed (textual statutory amendment).
• The statutory amendments and FAA program update must be completed within 180 days of enactment.
• No new funding, tax changes, or appropriations are included in this single-section change.
• Impacts FAA administrative procedures, aviation medical examiners, and affected controllers aged 61 and over.
• Intended to increase the frequency of medical review for older controllers, with potential safety and workforce implications.

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