Legislative Update: Senate Committee Moves Aviation Legislation

Back NATA News / October 21, 2025

The Senate Commerce Committee unanimously passed bipartisan aviation safety legislation today, responding to the tragic collision of an Army helicopter and American Airlines Flight 5342 on January 29, 2025. The ROTOR Act, S. 2503, would require most military aircraft to broadcast ADS-B Out, while directing the FAA to initiate rulemaking to equip all aircraft currently required to broadcast ADS-B Out with ADS-B In technology. NATA remains committed to working with Congressional leaders as the legislation moves forward to further our shared safety goals through technology that enhances cockpit situational awareness and collision avoidance. Three amendments aimed at limiting current commercial use of ADS-B data were dropped prior to this morning’s markup, a positive sign for aviation businesses and airports that incorporate such technology into business practices.  The ROTOR Act heads to full Senate consideration next, although a floor date has not been announced.