US Defense Department Abandons Aviation Safety Bill Amid Uncertainty

The US Pentagon has withdrawn its support for the ROTOR Act, a bipartisan aviation safety bill aimed at preventing similar midair collisions. The legislation was passed unanimously by the Senate in December 2025 but faces uncertainty ahead of a scheduled House vote this week. AeroTime reports that the Defense Department cited unresolved budget burdens and operational security risks as reasons for its withdrawal. Despite this, supporters argue that the bill is necessary to enhance aviation safety. Backers of an alternative measure, the ALERT Act, claim it takes a broader approach to recommendations without mandating specific technology on a fixed timeline.