Safety Starts at the Top Act of 2025

This bill changes who can get FAA permission to handle certain aircraft safety work. Large companies that make $15 billion or more a year must add new voices to their boards. They would need two union representatives (including one from each union representing the people who design and build aircraft) and two members with strong, proven aerospace safety experience. If a company doesn’t meet these rules, the FAA must take back its delegated safety authority within 90 days of the law taking effect. These steps aim to give workers and safety experts a bigger say at the top, which could lead to safer planes and stronger oversight.

Key points:

• Who is affected: Large aviation companies that the FAA lets handle some certification tasks (known as ODA holders).
• What changes: Boards must include two union reps and two proven aerospace safety experts; otherwise, the FAA pulls back delegated authority.
• When: Within 90 days after the law is enacted, the FAA must remove delegation from companies that don’t comply.