Verification of a pilot’s professional history is a critical part of the AALS certification process, as well as hiring and credentialing process, and it is governed primarily by the Pilot Records Improvement Act (PRIA). Under PRIA, all air carriers and certain operators are legally required to obtain and review a comprehensive set of records before employing a pilot to serve in a safety-sensitive position. These records include accident and incident reports, enforcement actions, and employment history from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as well as training and performance evaluations from previous employers. The goal of PRIA is to ensure transparency and accountability in pilot qualifications, thereby enhancing safety across the aviation industry.
In addition to PRIA records, pilot training credentials are directly verified with the flight schools or training centers where the pilot received their instruction. This process involves contacting the training institutions to confirm the authenticity of logbook entries, graduation certificates, and completion of required flight and ground training hours. Many reputable flight schools maintain detailed records and provide formal verification letters or transcripts upon request. This dual-layered verification—through PRIA and direct communication with training providers—ensures that pilot applicants possess legitimate qualifications and have undergone training in accordance with FAA standards.
The American Aviator Laureate Society employs a dual-method verification process to ensure each applicant’s eligibility for the award. This includes a thorough review of FAA records under the Pilot Records Improvement Act (PRIA) as well as direct verification of training history with the flight schools or training centers attended by the applicant. This comprehensive approach guarantees the integrity and authenticity of each recipient's qualifications. The verification methodology is explicitly outlined in the official award letter, which is furnished to the honoree along with the certificate.