Events: Aviation & Aerospace
Dr. Scott Firsing’s Busy Spring: Advocating for Aviation on Capitol Hill and Beyond
Spring 2025 has been a whirlwind for Dr. Scott Firsing, Vice President of Legislative Affairs for the National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA). From the halls of Capitol Hill to global aviation conferences, Dr. Firsing has been tirelessly advancing the interests of the flight training industry, fostering collaboration, and shaping the future of aviation education.
Championing Flight Training on Capitol Hill
As the NFTA’s VP of Legislative Affairs, Dr. Firsing has been a powerful voice for flight training providers in Washington, D.C. Throughout March and April, he worked closely with lawmakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders on Capitol Hill to advocate for policies that support the growth and sustainability of flight training programs. His efforts focused on securing funding, streamlining regulations, and addressing workforce shortages in the aviation sector. By bridging the gap between industry needs and legislative action, Dr. Firsing is helping ensure that flight schools can continue to train the next generation of pilots effectively.
Moreover, a cornerstone of Dr. Firsing’s work this spring has been the NFTA’s leadership in the FAA’s initiative to modernize Part 141 regulations, which govern certificated pilot schools. Selected by the FAA in December 2024 as its official industry partner, the NFTA is spearheading efforts to update these outdated regulations to meet 21st-century demands. Dr. Firsing has been instrumental in coordinating stakeholder engagement, ensuring that the voices of flight training providers, educators, and industry leaders are heard.
The modernization initiative, which kicked off with public meetings in March 2025, aims to:
Streamline certification processes to make Part 141 more accessible for flight schools, reducing barriers for Part 61 providers transitioning to Part 141.
Embrace advanced technologies, such as virtual reality simulators, digital logbooks, and electronic flight bags, to enhance training efficiency and student outcomes.
Reduce training costs by improving operational efficiencies, making aviation careers more accessible to diverse candidates.
Promote safety through data-driven approaches and the adoption of Safety Management Systems (SMS).
Incorporate competency-based training, moving beyond traditional hour-based assessments to better evaluate student readiness.
Dr. Firsing has been actively involved in organizing and participating in these nationwide meetings, both in-person and virtual, which began in March and continued into April. These sessions have provided a platform for the aviation community to discuss priorities, propose innovations, and address challenges like examiner shortages and certification bottlenecks. His leadership has been praised for fostering collaboration and ensuring that the modernization effort reflects the needs of flight schools and the broader industry
Shining at SATELLITE 2025
In March, Dr. Firsing attended SATELLITE 2025, one of the premier global conferences for aerospace and satellite technology. Representing his company Scott Sky Advisors, he engaged with innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders about advancements in aerospace technology. His participation underscored the his commitment to integrating cutting-edge tools, such as satellite-based navigation and communication systems, into training curricula to better prepare pilots for modern aviation challenges.
World Aviation Training Summit (WATS)
A highlight of Dr. Firsing’s spring was his participation at the World Aviation Training Summit (WATS) in April. As a recognized thought leader in aviation, he frequently discusses the evolving landscape of flight training and the importance of public-private partnerships. His session sparked meaningful discussions on how to address pilot shortages, improve training accessibility, and leverage technology to enhance safety and efficiency. Attendees praise his insights, which drew from his extensive experience in both academia and industry.
A Vision for the Future
Dr. Firsing’s packed schedule reflects his dedication to advancing the mission of the NFTA and the broader aviation and aerospace communities. Whether he’s advocating for legislative support, networking with global leaders, or sharing expertise at international summits, his work is paving the way for a stronger, more innovative flight training ecosystem.
As we move into the second half of 2025, Dr. Firsing shows no signs of slowing down. Stay tuned for more updates on his efforts to shape the future of aviation training and ensure the skies remain safe and accessible for all.
