S. 1268: Safety Starts at the Top Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Safety Starts at the Top Act of 2025, seeks to amend the qualifications required for organizations that hold an Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). An ODA allows certain entities to perform specific functions in the aviation industry under FAA oversight.

Key Provisions

• Definition of ODA Holder: The bill clarifies that an ODA holder is an entity authorized by the FAA to perform designated functions.
• New Requirements for Large Entities: For entities that generate $15 billion or more in annual gross revenue, the bill introduces specific requirements regarding their board of directors:
• The board must include two representatives from labor organizations
• One of these representatives must come from a labor organization that represents employees directly involved in the design and manufacturing of aircraft.
• The board must also include two representatives with proven experience in aerospace safety, demonstrating outcomes related to their experience.
• Review Process: The FAA Administrator is tasked with reviewing existing ODA holders to ensure they meet the new requirements set forth in the bill. Any entity that fails to comply must have their ODA rescinded within 90 days of the bill's enactment.

Purpose of the Bill

The overall aim of the Safety Starts at the Top Act is to enhance safety within the aviation industry by ensuring that key organizations involved in aircraft design and manufacturing have appropriate representation and expertise at the leadership level. By involving labor representatives and safety experts, the legislation intends to create a more robust oversight framework for organizations that contribute significantly to aviation safety.

Expected Outcomes

Supporters of the bill believe that these changes will improve safety standards and encourage better oversight within the aviation sector, while also aiming to bridge the gap between executives and labor representatives to ensure that safety concerns from the ground level are adequately addressed at the highest levels of decision-making in large aviation companies.

Relevant Companies

• BA (Boeing Co.) - As a major player in aircraft manufacturing, this bill could significantly impact Boeing's ODA structure and board requirements.
• GM (General Motors Co.) - Although primarily known for automobiles, GM has entered the aerospace industry, potentially influencing its ODA processes.
• LMT (Lockheed Martin Corp.) - A key defense contractor with substantial aerospace operations, Lockheed Martin would need to adjust its board structure according to the bill's requirements.