When “The Only Advocacy Group” Isn’t
Pilots for HIMS Reform • February 2026
The Pilot Mental Health Campaign (PMHC) currently states on its homepage:
“The Pilot Mental Health Campaign (PMHC) is the only advocacy group dedicated to creating a modern aeromedical system that works for both pilots and passengers.”
That statement is not accurate.
Pilots for HIMS Reform (P4HR) exists. We are actively engaged in aviation mental health reform. We have drafted comprehensive legislative language addressing structural deficiencies in the current aeromedical system. We represent pilots and air traffic controllers navigating the HIMS program and related oversight pathways.
We have also attempted to engage PMHC directly in collaborative reform efforts. To date, no collaboration has occurred.
Why This Matters
Words matter in advocacy.
When an organization claims to be “the only advocacy group” working toward modernization of the aeromedical system, it shapes public understanding. It influences policymakers. It signals exclusivity in a space where multiple stakeholders are actively working toward reform.
Reform is strengthened by coalition-building, not by exclusivity.
If the goal is truly to modernize aviation mental health oversight for both pilots and passengers, collaboration should be welcomed — not avoided.
A Question of Scope
PMHC’s Mental Health and Aviation Act (H.R. 2591) is six pages in length. It primarily directs study, review, and administrative adjustments within the existing framework.
Study and review have value.
But structural reform requires more than administrative refinement. It requires enforceable safeguards, transparency mechanisms, independent oversight, and due process protections for those navigating aeromedical evaluation systems.
Pilots for HIMS Reform has drafted legislative language addressing those structural elements.
The difference is not one of opposition — it is one of scope.
Collaboration Strengthens Reform
Pilots for HIMS Reform has made clear that we are willing to:
- Share credit
- Strengthen language
- Combine efforts
- Improve outcomes together
Reform should not be about ownership. It should be about effectiveness.
If PMHC is serious about modernizing the aeromedical system for pilots and passengers alike, collaboration would only strengthen that mission.
Our invitation remains open.
Accuracy in Advocacy
The aviation mental health space is complex and deeply consequential. Pilots, air traffic controllers, and their families depend on credible, accurate representation.
Claiming exclusivity where multiple reform efforts exist does not advance unity.
We believe aviation mental health reform is too important for territorial framing.
The work ahead is significant. The system affects livelihoods, safety, and due process. It deserves full, transparent engagement from all stakeholders.
Pilots for HIMS Reform is here. We are engaged. We are prepared to work constructively.
And we welcome collaboration.