On Thursday, April 26, Congressman Doggett's hot air balloon pilot safety amendment approved as a part of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act.

ORIGINAL STORY [4/25/18]

AUSTIN, Texas —  Congressman Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, hopes to prevent tragedies like the 2016 Lockhart hot air balloon crash from ever happening again.  

On Capitol Hill Wednesday, Doggett detailed an amendment he authored that is part of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act.

Doggett wants the FAA to require medical certifications for balloon pilots.

RELATED | Lockhart balloon crash prompts call for medical checks on pilots

"You cannot unring a bell and we cannot bring the precious lives back that were lost in this crash. But from their loss we can pass an amendment that will help ensure that no other family must needlessly suffer,” Doggett said.

The Lockhart crash killed 16 people. The pilot was found to be on prescription medication and suffering from depression.

“The NTSB found that the FAA’s refusal to require commercial balloon operators to obtain a medical certificate that they are suitable for flying contributed to this crash. My bipartisan amendment would end this exemption,” Doggett said.

Doggett’s amendment was approved for Floor action as part of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act and may be considered on Thursday or Friday. Before any bill can be considered in the House, a rule outlining the procedure for consideration and time allotted must be approved. 

Last October, Doggett, joined by Reps. Blake Farenthold, R-Texas, and Will Hurd, R-Texas, filed bipartisan legislation with the same intent.