How does the regulation ensure pilots receive pay for all duty time?

The regulation ensures that pilots receive pay for all duty time by establishing minimum payment standards. These standards mandate that pilots must be compensated for both their flight time and other associated duties necessary for their job, such as pre-flight briefings, debriefings, and any ground duties related to their flights. This approach effectively guarantees that pilots are paid for every aspect of their work, rather than solely for the time spent in the air. By setting these minimums, the regulation promotes fair compensation practices across the industry and addresses issues like hidden unpaid labor that can occur due to the complexity of airline operations.

In contrast, limiting flight hours per month, enforcing equal pay structures, and auditing pilot schedules serve different purposes. They may enhance safety, ensure compliance with labor laws, or promote transparency, but they do not directly address the essential need for pilots to receive pay for all the time they are on duty.