FAA to protect AIR workers who report safety concerns from retaliation

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a U.S. Department of Transportation agency, recently partnered with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) to launch a program that encourages FAA employees to report safety concerns.

The new program, titled the Safety Review Process (SRP), is an 18-month pilot program that's open to all FAA bargaining-unit employees. It allows those who work in the Aircraft Certification Service (AIR) to point out safety concerns without fear of retaliation.

“It is critical that our DOT employees have the opportunity to work in an environment where they are comfortable coming forward with safety concerns,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said. “This new safety-review process will further advance our culture of safety and help ensure that the flying public has the best, safest experience possible.”

“The FAA has a highly motivated work force dedicated to our safety mission,” FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said. “This program extends voluntary reporting opportunities to even more of our employees.”

“We are pleased to have this additional voluntary safety-reporting system in place for the Aircraft Certification Service,” Mike MacDonald, NATCA's regional vice president, said. “Voluntary reporting systems are a proven vehicle to improve the safety culture, and the AIR Safety Reporting Program will further reduce the safety concerns of both the FAA and NATCA.”