Airlines Warn Permanent DST Could Take 24 Months to Implement as Bill Advances
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jul 16
Airlines Warn Permanent DST Could Take 24 Months to Implement as Bill Advances
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jul 16
Summary
Airlines for America said a shift to permanent daylight saving time could require up to 24 months of preparation, with changes needed across schedules, reservation systems, crew planning, payroll and vendor IT.
The warning comes as a House-passed bill moves to the Senate, where it must clear another vote before reaching President Donald Trump.
A4A said year-round DST would disrupt crew and aircraft positioning and create domestic and international connectivity problems because airline networks depend on stable, predictable timetables.
Henry Harteveldt, an aviation analyst, said airlines may need only 6 to 12 months rather than two years, though trucking and railroads would also face significant software and scheduling changes.
The debate extends beyond transport: supporters say permanent DST could cut energy use with later winter sunsets, while critics warn of darker, colder mornings and possible health harms.