Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy mandates hiring airline pilots based on their qualifications.

Transportation Secretary Calls for Merit-Based Hiring in Airlines

WASHINGTON — Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has directed U.S. airlines to implement a merit-based hiring approach, spurred by the issues highlighted in a recent federal investigation.

As part of these new operational guidelines, airlines must demonstrate that pilot selection is based strictly on qualifications and suitability.

“When families take to the skies, they should feel assured that their pilots are truly the best available. Americans don’t focus on a pilot’s appearance or gender; they only care about having the best person for the job,” Duffy expressed in a statement.

“Safety is the core priority guiding our actions, and this logical step will enhance transparency between passengers and airlines.”

The airline lobby group, Airlines for America, supported the initiative, stating their compliance with all relevant federal regulations regarding qualifications and training.

Under Duffy’s leadership, the Department of Transportation has significantly reduced the budget for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs that were previously championed by former Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Recently, the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) instructed the DOT to cut over $943 million in what it considered unnecessary subsidies directed to four Democratic-led states — California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota — mainly for electric vehicle (EV) charging projects.

Buttigieg had highlighted more than $80 billion spent on DEI initiatives during his tenure.

The DOT indicated that the move toward competency-based hiring for pilots is part of a broader initiative stemming from a Trump-era executive order aimed at eliminating discrimination and protecting the safety of air travel.

Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a branch of the DOT, has committed to enhancing pilot training standards and has ended contracts with DEI offices following lawsuits alleging racial discrimination against air traffic controllers.

“Passenger safety is paramount for the FAA,” Administrator Brian Bedford stated. “When selecting individuals responsible for the lives of hundreds, hiring the most qualified candidates isn’t just expected; it’s essential.”

Bedford further noted that a person’s race, gender, or creed shouldn’t impact their capability to operate or land an aircraft safely.

During a press conference, Bedford discussed how President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” has facilitated the allocation of $12.5 billion to modernize the nation’s air traffic control system, addressing significant flight delays.