H.R. 4146: Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act of 2025, has several key points regarding the use of data from Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) systems, which are used to track aircraft.

Limitations on Data Usage

• It prohibits the use of ADS-B data by individuals, government agencies, or other entities to identify aircraft for the purpose of generating revenue from the aircraft’s owner or operator without their consent.
• However, air traffic controllers may continue to use this data to track aircraft, improving safety and efficiency in air traffic management.
• Any other proposed uses of this data require approval from the Secretary of Transportation after public notice and an opportunity for comment.

Amendment to Legal Provisions

The bill amends existing legal provisions to clarify that neither the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) nor any government officials at various levels may use ADS-B data for revenue generation purposes without consent.

Fees on General Aviation Aircraft

• The bill establishes rules regarding the imposition of fees on general aviation aircraft, which refers to aircraft used for personal, recreational, or training purposes rather than commercial flying.
• Public-use airports must disclose efforts made to minimize expenses and alternative revenue sources before imposing any fees on general aviation aircraft.
• They are also required to provide a cost estimate for airside safety projects related to these fees and an assessment on how fees affect general aviation in the region.
• Revenues from these fees may only be allocated for airside safety projects, ensuring that they serve a specific purpose related to safety.
• The FAA has the authority to create regulations and reporting requirements necessary to enforce these new provisions.

Definition of General Aviation

The bill defines 'general aviation aircraft' as those used for non-commercial purposes, including personal flying, training, or recreational activities.

Relevant Companies

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