On August 3, 2012, President Barack Obama signed into law the Pilot’s Bill of Rights.

In the event that a pilot is subject to a proposed certificate action, the new law allows pilots access to investigative reports, air traffic control and flight service recordings, and any other evidence gathered by the FAA at least at least 30 days in advance of action.  It also opens an avenue of appeal of NTSB decisions to the federal courts.

Any airman who is contacted by the FAA or receives a Notice of Proposed Certificate Action should speak to an experienced aviation attorney before agreeing to talk to authorities.