A federal appeals court has officially upheld a rule established by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) that requires freight trains to be staffed by a minimum of two crew members. The decision follows a legal challenge initiated by a coalition of six major railroad companies and two industry trade groups, including Union Pacific, BNSF Railway, and the Association of American Railroads.

The industry groups argued that the federal mandate was an overreach and that railroad companies should have the flexibility to determine crew sizes based on technological advancements and operational needs. They contended that modern safety systems and automated technology reduce the necessity for a second crew member in all circumstances. Conversely, the FRA and labor advocates have maintained that a two-person crew is essential for safety, citing the need for backup personnel in the event of medical emergencies, mechanical failures, or complex switching operations.

The court’s ruling effectively preserves the current regulatory landscape, preventing railroads from transitioning to one-person crews on a widespread basis. While the industry groups have expressed disappointment, citing the ruling as a barrier to modernization, labor unions have praised the decision as a significant victory for rail safety and worker protection. The legal battle highlights the ongoing tension between railroad companies seeking to optimize operational costs through automation and regulators prioritizing human oversight in the transport of freight.