The families of Flight 3407 have been advocating for safety reforms ever since Flight 3407 crashed in Clarence Center in 2009, killing 50 people including a woman who was six months pregnant.

It’s been more than a decade in the making, but now Rep. Brian Higgins says the final phase of the Pilot Records Database rule is being implemented.

It’s one of several safety measures that were part of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Bill of 2010.

It’s meant to share pilot records, including flight time, certification tests, and other training, among air carriers to help them make better educated decisions about who is flying their planes.

“The captain of Flight 3407 has only 600 hours of flight experience and failed three practical tests known as ride checks. Still Continental and its regional carrier Colgan Air hired him,” said Higgins, (D) 26th Congressional District.

“The fact that it’s finally upon us is a big relief, but as we’ve learned over the course of the last 11 years, we take that with a grain of salt. Until it’s actually done and going, it’s the wait and see. It’s exciting to know it’s finally coming to fruition,” said Ron Aughtmon, whose uncle died in Flight 3407 crash.

Pilot error was determined to be the cause of the crash in Flight 3407.

The FAA is preparing for the final rule on the pilot database to be published, then it will undergo a public comment period.