though airlines will then get even more time to implement the pilot rest rules. >> i'm in washington. so to say that you don't get frustrated a little bit trying to get things changed would probably be an understatement. >> reporter: a spokesperson for the regulator told cnn the faa has taken action to strengthen pilot hiring, training and performance over the last two years. >> the landing gear's down. >> reporter: indeed, faa told airlines to ask pilot applicants for their full flight records to uncover any flight test failures. faa has demanded better pilot training and more cooperation between major airlines and the regional carriers they use to fly short-haul flights. congress is demanding for flight experience to earn a commercial pilot's certificate. at least 1,500 flight hours, six times the current minimum. but faa has until august 2013 to issue that rule, much too long,