U.S. Representative Cory Mills along with a group of bi-partisan legislators just introduced the COLLISION-LIMITING OPERATIONAL UPGRADE FOR DOD (CLOUD) AIRCRAFT ACT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CLOUD Aviation Act
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Cory Mills along with a group of bi-partisan legislators just introduced the COLLISION-LIMITING OPERATIONAL UPGRADE FOR DOD (CLOUD) AIRCRAFT ACT.
This bill directs the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, to conduct a feasibility study on equipping all Department of Defense (DoD) fixed and rotary wing aircraft that operate in highly trafficked domestic airspaces with air-to-air and air-to-ground collision detection systems. These systems must be compatible with civilian commercial aircraft.
This initiative comes in response to the tragic accident on January 29, 2025, between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk PAT-25, which resulted in the deaths of 67 passengers. Currently, not all DoD aircraft are required to have the same type of collision detection or avoidance systems that are compatible with civilian commercial aircraft.
Moreover, these systems are not always activated while flying in congested city airspace or the airspace of large commercial airports. This discrepancy has contributed to unsafe flying conditions, putting service members, civilians, and emergency responders at unnecessary risk. The proposed bill aims to address this issue by mandating a comprehensive study to determine the feasibility, costs, associated operational risks, and implementation timelines of equipping military aircraft with the appropriate collision detection and/or avoidance systems. By doing so, the study will help increase safety for all aircraft operating in the same congested airspace as civilian commercial aircraft.
Congressman Cory Mills said, “As an Army combat veteran, I understand the importance of equipping our servicemen with the tools they need to operate both safely and effectively. After the tragic loss of 67 lives earlier this year in the collision at Reagan National Airport, it is important we enhance safety for our troops, our civilians, and our first responders who share our busy domestic airspaces. This bill strengthens our military’s readiness while ensuring the DoD has the resources to keep our citizens and skies safe. This is a critical first step toward broader aviation safety reforms to prevent future tragedies and improve airspace coordination nationwide.”
“As a 25-year Army veteran and a Virginian, I know how critical it is to my community and our country that we ensure the safety of both military and civilian aircrafts operating in shared airspace. The CLOUD Aircraft Act is a smart, commonsense step to prevent avoidable tragedies and save lives. I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to modernize our aviation safety standards,” said Congressman Eugene Vindman (VA-07).
“As a Navy veteran and member of the House Armed Services Committee, I know how critical safety is in every phase of military aviation. The CLOUD Aircraft Act is a commonsense step toward enhancing flight safety for our service members and the communities they operate near. By studying the feasibility of equipping military aircraft with modern collision detection systems, we can reduce risk in crowded airspaces, align with FAA best practices, and help prevent tragic accidents before they happen. I’m proud to support this effort to bring greater safety, accountability, and modernization to our skies,” said Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02).
"As a Marine aviator and a House Armed Services Committee member, I am committed to the safety of our servicemembers and civilians. The tragic collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and Army Black Hawk PAT-25 highlights the urgent need for action. That's why I am proud to cosponsor the CLOUD Aircraft Act, directing the Secretary of Defense to study equipping military aircraft with collision detection systems compatible with civilian aircraft. This crucial step will enhance safety in congested domestic airspaces, prevent future tragedies, and protect those who serve alongside the American people. I urge my colleagues to support this vital legislation,” said Congressman Rich McCormick (GA-07).
“My home district leads the way in the aviation industry, so I have a particular interest in exploring any opportunity to improve our outdated systems. Secretary Duffy and Administrator Rocheleau share our focus on the modernization of the National Airspace System, and I believe that this bill is a critical step in the right direction. That is why I am so glad to work with Mr. Mills on such a proactive and prudent piece of legislation,” said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03).
Co-Sponsors: Congressman Eugene Vindman (VA-07), Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Congressman Rich McCormick (GA-07), Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03).
###
For inquires contact julie.singleton@mail.house.gov or jillian.anderson@mail.house.gov
About Cory Mills: Congressman Cory Mills represents Florida's 7th Congressional District and serves on the House Foreign Affairs and Armed Services Committees. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Mills is committed to protecting American sovereignty, strengthening national security, and promoting economic opportunity for a