We, the undersigned, call on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to reform outdated certification policies that block military-trained aviation mechanics from entering the civilian workforce.
Veterans with proven hands-on experience are being forced to repeat training, pay unnecessary fees, and take redundant tests — despite having already done the work, under the most demanding conditions. Meanwhile, the civilian aviation industry is facing a critical mechanic shortage.
We support the removal of unnecessary testing, faster certification pathways, and formal recognition of military training records.
These reforms are common sense. They benefit veterans, strengthen our aviation workforce, and make smarter use of public resources.
Thousands of military-trained mechanics are ready to serve again — but outdated FAA rules are holding them back.
Sign the petition today.
Every year, thousands of military-trained aviation mechanics complete their service — highly skilled,
mission-tested, and ready to bring their talents to the civilian aviation industry.
But despite years of hands-on experience maintaining some of the world’s most advanced aircraft,
veterans are forced to repeat training, pay thousands in unnecessary fees, and take redundant
oral and practical exams — all to prove skills they already have.
We need the FAA, the Department of Transportation (DOT), and Congress to make common-sense reforms that will:
These are not new skills that need to be learned. These are veterans who have already done the job — and done it well — under the most demanding conditions. Let them work. Sign this petition and demand action now.
Veterans transition from service each year
Aircraft mechanic shortage annually
Less than 10% of military-trained aviation mechanics transition into civilian aviation roles
Waive redundant oral and practical exam requirements for military-trained aviation personnel with documented experience.
Update procedures to properly credit military experience (30+ months) based on Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) codes.
Expand recognized military positions to include all aviation maintenance specialties across branches.
Streamline the application process to eliminate months-long processing times that delay veteran employment.
The aviation industry is facing unprecedented workforce challenges while thousands of qualified veterans are being kept out of jobs they’re already trained to do.
We’ve submitted a comprehensive petition to the Federal Aviation Administration requesting changes to regulations that create unnecessary barriers for veteran aviation mechanics.
Requesting the FAA to fully acknowledge and credit the extensive training and hands-on experience military aviation mechanics receive during their service.
Proposing to waive unnecessary oral & practical exams for veterans who have already demonstrated proficiency through years of military service.
Creating a streamlined path for qualified veterans to take FAA written tests without redundant requirements or delays.
Modernizing regulations to reflect current military training standards and recognize all qualifying aviation MOS codes across service branches.
