The Pilot Mental Health Campaign: A New Approach to Aviation Mental Health

Abstract

The Pilot Mental Health Campaign (PMHC) is a non-partisan, grassroots organization committed to advocating for policy changes to make it easier for aviation personnel to receive timely and medically appropriate mental healthcare. While the current system developed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was initially well-intentioned, we believe these policies have inadvertently stigmatized mental health treatment within the aviation community. Fear of career-ending consequences often discourages pilots from seeking the help they need, posing risks to themselves and the public. Our mission is to reform this system and establish a culture within the aviation industry that places a higher emphasis on the well-being and safety of its pilots, while enhancing overall flight safety. Our area of work falls into four categories: legislative advocacy, grassroots mobilization, regulatory outreach and public education. We aim to change the conversation around mental health in aviation by reducing stigma, identifying barriers and contributing to research into the topic. As our campaign moves forward, PMHC looks to facilitate stakeholder engagement with relevant members of the aviation community, including educational institutions and student pilots. Our multifaceted initiative aims to help members of the aviation community advocate for themselves while working towards a brighter future for American aviators.

Authors

• Stein, Laila Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Bomhoff, Brian Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Keywords

• Pilot
• Mental Health