WASHINGTON — A safety measure passed by Congress after a deadly airline crash last year is facing opposition from industry officials concerned that it could lead to higher salaries for pilots.

A Federal Aviation Administration advisory panel wants to reduce by two-thirds a requirement that airline co-pilots have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flying experience.

Some officials say airlines worry that if the threshold for co-pilots is raised from the current minimum of 250 hours, the companies will have to increase pilot pay in order to attract more experienced fliers.