H.R.1898 - Military Helicopter Training Safety Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1898, the Military Helicopter Training Safety Act of 2025, directs the Secretary of Defense to submit reports to Congress on the feasibility of installing traffic alert and collision avoidance systems (TCAS) and automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast IN (ADS-B IN) capabilities in all military rotary-wing aircraft. The reports must include cost analyses, effects on civilian airspace safety, necessary cockpit configuration changes, implications for military operations, and alternative recommendations if installation is deemed infeasible.
The bill aims to enhance the safety of military helicopter training and operations by exploring the integration of advanced collision avoidance technologies. It mandates specific analyses to inform Congress about the potential benefits and challenges of such integration.
The bill focuses on improving aviation safety and does not appear to directly address other areas of governance.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would require the Department of Defense to conduct and submit reports to Congress regarding the feasibility of upgrading military helicopters with advanced safety systems.
This could lead to increased safety in military and civilian airspace if the upgrades are deemed feasible and implemented. The reports will provide Congress with the information needed to make informed decisions about funding and policy related to military aviation safety.
Implementation would depend on the findings of the reports and subsequent congressional action.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced safety for military aircrews during training and operations.
- Improved safety for civilian aircraft operating in the same airspace.
- Potential for reduced risk of mid-air collisions involving military helicopters.
- Increased transparency and accountability regarding military aviation safety practices.
- Promotion of technological advancements in military aviation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with installing and maintaining the new systems.
- Possible negative impacts on military operational capabilities if the systems interfere with training or combat missions.
- Delays in training schedules due to the installation process.
- Increased workload for pilots and maintenance personnel.
- The reports may find the installations infeasible, resulting in no tangible safety improvements despite the resources spent on the reports.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution, specifically Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and to make rules for the government and regulation of the land and naval forces. The bill's focus on improving military aviation safety falls under Congress's authority to oversee the military and ensure its preparedness.
Furthermore, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. It is a straightforward directive to the Secretary of Defense to provide information to Congress, which is a legitimate exercise of legislative power.
The bill does not raise any significant constitutional concerns.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).