Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act of 2025; PAPA Act of 2025
Summary
The Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act of 2025 (PAPA Act) aims to limit the use of data from automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) systems. It restricts the use of ADS-B data for revenue generation without owner consent and specifies its use for air traffic control purposes. The bill also amends Title 49 of the United States Code to limit the imposition of fees on general aviation aircraft, requiring public availability of cost reduction efforts and project justifications before such fees are imposed.
Expected Effects
The PAPA Act will likely increase privacy for aircraft owners and operators by limiting the commercial use of their ADS-B data. It will also provide greater transparency and potentially limit the financial burden on general aviation by regulating the imposition of fees at public-use airports.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced privacy for aircraft owners and operators.
- Increased transparency regarding airport fees for general aviation.
- Potential reduction in financial burden on general aviation.
- Improved air traffic safety through continued use of ADS-B data by air traffic controllers.
- Limits on revenue generation from aircraft data without consent.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential reduction in revenue for entities currently using ADS-B data for commercial purposes.
- Possible administrative burden on airports to comply with new fee transparency requirements.
- Potential limitations on airport funding if fee increases are restricted.
- May require additional FAA oversight and regulation.
- Could lead to disputes over the definition of 'airside safety projects'.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the spirit of the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, by limiting the use of aircraft data without consent. It also aligns with Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) as it pertains to air travel and airport operations. The requirement for public availability of information regarding airport fees promotes transparency and accountability, which are consistent with principles of due process.
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).