AVWEB

Short Final: Couch Surfing

One of the joys of flying in the New York City metro area is listening to the controllers. In addition to being the best in the business, they deliver some good wisecracks, always with that unmistakable accent. We had just landed at Islip (KISP): Islip Tower: “Comair 234, take a left at the next intersection […] The post Short Final: Couch Surfing appeared first on AVweb.

General Aviation Accident Bulletin

AVweb's General Aviation Accident Bulletin is taken from the pages of our sister publication, Aviation Safety magazine. All the reports listed here are preliminary and include only initial factual findings about crashes. You can learn more about the final probable cause on the NTSB's website at www.ntsb.gov. Final reports appear about a year after the […] The post General Aviation Accident Bulletin appeared first on AVweb.

Would-Be Mechanic Tries To Bribe Examiner

A Las Vegas air maintenance student has pleaded guilty to trying to bribe his way through the final exam. Frank A. Jalion Amaro, 21, offered an FAA designated mechanic examiner Duluth, Georgia, $2500 for a passing grade on the test. The examiner immediately reported the bribery attempt and it was turned into a sting operation. […] The post Would-Be Mechanic Tries To Bribe Examiner appeared first on AVweb.

Proposed AD Affects 7,000 Cessna Taildraggers

The FAA is proposing an AD on some Cessna taildraggers requiring an inspection of the tail cones and horizontal stabilizers. Almost 7,000 180s, 1802s and 185s are affected and comments are open until June 29. Textron issued a mandatory service letter in 2017 and the AD basically follows its directives but instead of applying to […] The post Proposed AD Affects 7,000 Cessna Taildraggers appeared first on AVweb.

Air Force Drops Pilot Height Standards

The Air Force is scrapping minimum and maximum height requirements for pilots in a bid primarily to attract more female candidates. Until earlier this week the standard Air Force pilot was between 5 feet 4 inches and 6 feet 5 inches tall with a sitting height of 34 to 40 inches. About 44 percent of […] The post Air Force Drops Pilot Height Standards appeared first on AVweb.

Aviation Safety

Download the Full June 2020 Issue PDF

Takeoff Planning Home Schooling Supplemental O2 GA Security Adverse Yaw To continue reading this article you must be a paid subscriber Subscribe   Subscribe to Aviation Safety Start a subscription to Aviation Safety for just $18. And access all of our online content - over 5,000 articles - free of charge. Subscribe today and save 39. It's like getting 2 months FREE! Already Subscribe?Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? The post Download the Full June 2020 Issue PDF appeared first on Aviation Safety.

Don't Walk a Mile in My Shoes

In the mid-1990s, I worked at McDonnell-Douglas in Southern California and would rent a Cessna 152 every Wednesday at 5:00 pm to fly out of Long Beach airport for pleasure and to keep current. Co-workers knew of my flying routine and one day, a young woman asked if she could get a ride with me. […] To continue reading this article you must be a paid subscriber Subscribe   Subscribe to Aviation Safety Start a subscription to Aviation Safety for just $18. And access all of our online content - over 5,000 articles - free of charge. Subscribe today and save 39. It's like getting 2 months FREE! Already Subscribe?Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? The post Don't Walk a Mile in My Shoes appeared first on Aviation Safety.

Alternators

Beech H35 Bonanza Improper Mounting The alternator suffered a total mechanical failure after only 144.7 hours. The replacement unit failed after only 41.8 hours in service. Observation suggests the alternator case hardware was not properly torqued and/or was not assembled with locking fluid. Each failure found the aircraft in near-IMC conditions. Part total time: 41.8 […] To continue reading this article you must be a paid subscriber Subscribe   Subscribe to Aviation Safety Start a subscription to Aviation Safety for just $18. And access all of our online content - over 5,000 articles - free of charge. Subscribe today and save 39. It's like getting 2 months FREE! Already Subscribe?Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? The post Alternators appeared first on Aviation Safety.

NTSB Reports

March 3, 2020, Hill City, Minn. Cessna P206 Super Skylane During a flight review, the instructor asked the pilot to fly a visual approach and execute a go-around. However, the airplane became “too low and too slow.” The landing gear contacted the snow-covered runway as engine power was being added and the airplane nosed over. […] To continue reading this article you must be a paid subscriber Subscribe   Subscribe to Aviation Safety Start a subscription to Aviation Safety for just $18. And access all of our online content - over 5,000 articles - free of charge. Subscribe today and save 39. It's like getting 2 months FREE! Already Subscribe?Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? The post NTSB Reports appeared first on Aviation Safety.

Full Deflection?

Maneuvering speed is something fledgling airplane pilots learn about early in their training. It's one of the more important details to know about any airplane because it has implications for structural integrity. It's also relevant to operating in turbulence and performing maneuvers, although its value isn't on an airspeed indicator, mainly because it varies with […] To continue reading this article you must be a paid subscriber Subscribe   Subscribe to Aviation Safety Start a subscription to Aviation Safety for just $18. And access all of our online content - over 5,000 articles - free of charge. Subscribe today and save 39. It's like getting 2 months FREE! Already Subscribe?Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? The post Full Deflection? appeared first on Aviation Safety.

FAA

FAA Air Traffic Report

Today's Air Traffic Report:A mix of clouds and thunderstorms could slow flights today in Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT), Chicago (MDW, ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DAL, DFW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Houston (HOU, IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Memphis (MEM), the New York area (EWR, JFK, LGA), Philadelphia (PHL), and the Washington, D.C., area (BWI, DCA, IAD). Winds is expected in Salt Lake City (SLC) and Las Vegas (LAS).Pilots: Check out the new Graphical Forecasts for Aviation (GFA) Tool from the Aviation Weather Center.For up-to-the-minute air traffic operations information, visit fly.faa.gov, and follow @FAANews on Twitter for the latest news and Air Traffic Alerts.The FAA Air Traffic Report provides a reasonable expectation of any daily impactsto normal air traffic operations, i.e. arrival/departure delays, ground stoppages, airport closures. This information is for air traffic operations planning purposes and is reliable as weather forecasts and other factors beyond our ability to control.Always check with your air carrier for flight-specific delay information.

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

5/20/2020Exemption for Transporting Cargo on Airplane SeatsThe FAA issued an exemption that allows U.S. airlines to carry cargo on seats in airplane cabins when no passengers are being transported. The FAA determined the exemption would reduce the chance that movement of critical cargo would be interrupted as a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency. To exercise the exemption, airlines must submit a letter of intent and receive specific authorization from the FAA, and observe a number of conditions and limitations. The exemption is effectivethrough Dec. 31, 2020.5/13/2020FAA issues cargo guidance for safety inspectorsThe FAA has issued information and guidance for agency safety inspectors about the carriage of cargo in the cabin of passenger-carrying planes when no passengers are on board. The agency previously issued a Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) that provides information and recommendations for airlines to evaluate regulatory implications and safety risks when transporting only cargo inside the passenger cabin of an airplane.5/11/2020Updated guidance for air carriers and crews to include additional information from the CDC on virus symptomsThe FAA has updated SAFO 20009, COVID-19: Updated Interim Occupational Health and Safety Guidance for Air Carriers and Crews, primarily to add references to the CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus webpage.5/5/2020Additional aircraft-overflow-parking guidance for airport operatorsFAA has issued additional information and examples for airport operators to use when producing NOTAMs that close runways and/or taxiways to temporarily park aircraft.4/30/2020FAA Grants Exemption for Certain Air Ambulance PersonnelTo ensure the continuity of air ambulance operations, the FAA is granting an exemption to the timeframes for completing recurrent training and testing requirements for certain air ambulance personnel. Operators must fulfill specific requirements to exercise the relief offered in this exemption.4/29/2020FAA announces regulatory relief for groups unable to comply with certain training, testing, and checking requirements.The FAA has published a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that provides regulatory relief to a wide range of people and operations affected by the COVID-19 public health emergency. The relief applies to pilots, crew members and other FAA certificate holders including some drone pilots who have been unable to comply with certain training, recency- of-experience, testing, and checking requirements due to the outbreak. It also provides relief to certain people and pilot schools who are unable to meet duration and renewal requirements, including extending the validity period of FAA medical certificates.4/27/2020FAA releases list of control towers where hours will be temporarily adjustedThe agency plans to begin making adjustments on Monday, April 27 and complete the process within about a week. View a list of the towers with adjusted hours.4/22/2020FAA to temporarily adjust operating hours of approximately 100 control towersTo ensure the continued resiliency of the air traffic control system amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the FAA is planning to temporarily adjust the operating hours of approximately 100 control towers nationwide. Making these adjustments allows for continued safe operations throughout the national airspace system while minimizing health risks to our workforce.These facilities have seen a significant reduction in flights, especially during the evening and nighttime hours, since the pandemic began. Adjusting the operating hours will further protect our employees and reduce the possibility of temporary tower closures from COVID-19 exposures by ensuring enough controllers are available to staff the facilities during peak hours. It also will enable us to allocate difficult-to-source supplies where they are most needed.Most of the towers are historically closed at night, during which time the radar facility with oversight assumes the airspace. The FAA expects the adjustments will not have any operational effects. The agency plans to begin adjusting facility hours later this month.The FAA will continue to monitor traffic volume at all of these facilities and may make future adjustments to operating hours as appropriate.The FAA previously took steps to limit the spread of COVID-19 in air traffic control facilities by establishing separate teams of controllers that stay together throughout the duty week.Q1: How did the FAA decide on these operating hour adjustments?A:The FAA has seen a significant reduction in traffic at these facilities and reviewed a number of factors to determine where adjustments were most appropriate and could be implemented while maintaining safe and efficient operations. Criteria considered included: hourly aircraft counts and safety during non-towered times; air carrier, air taxi, and special operations; ability of the workforce to social distance and reduce exposure; savings of supplies; and infrastructure constraints. The FAA will coordinate with stakeholders before making any final decisions.Q2: What is the criteria to return to normal hours or how will you decide to restore the hours at these towers?A: The FAA will continually assess the operating environment throughout the National Airspace System (NAS). The FAA will ensure there is adequate staffing to meet traffic needs. As operational traffic counts and our resource factors associated with COVID-19 change, the FAA will make appropriate adjustments consistent with the agencys mandate to operate the NAS safely and efficiently.Q3: Is it possible that some of these locations will continue on adjusted hours permanently?A: Temporary adjustments to operating hours during this COVID-19 public health emergency are not intended to be made permanent. Q4: How will DOD/National Guard, medevac, or other specialized flights operate in these circumstances?A: The FAA considered known special operations in selecting locations for operating hour adjustments. FAA facility operating schedules have always varied throughout the NAS. During the hours that a control tower is closed, DOD, National Guard, and other aircraftwill receive services by the overlying radar facility as they do today according to existing FAA procedures. The FAA will continue to facilitate these special operations and will meet the needs of these operators.Q5: How are you ensuring the highest levels of safety continue?A: The FAA is working collaboratively with the aviation industry to ensure the highest levels of safety continue where the agency adjusts facility operating hours. The FAAs safety tools and programs are fully operational and are continually monitoring the NAS. Additionally, we are working with each airport sponsor to understand and evaluate any consequences. The FAA will continue open communication and outreach with industry at all levels to ensure safety remains everyones priority.4/17/2020Updated Health Guidance for Air Carriers and CrewsThe FAAs Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) provides updated interim health guidance from the CDC that air carriers and crew members should be following during the COVID-19 public health emergency.4/16/20201:30pm FAA Issues New Cargo Transportation GuidanceThe FAA has issued a Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) that provides information and recommendations for airlines to evaluate regulatory implications and safety risks when transporting only cargo inside the passenger cabin of an airplane.10:00am FAA extends AIP Application DeadlinesThe COVID-19 public health emergency has affected airport sponsors operations and ability to meet the original 2020 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) deadlines. Therefore, the FAA has extended deadlines to May 4, 2020 to give notice of intent, and to Monday, June 15, 2020 to submit the final grant application. The full notice is available in the federal register.4/14/20203:15pm Drone Use for COVID-19 Response EffortsThe FAA is enabling drone use for COVID-19 response efforts within our existing regulations and emergency procedures. Our small unmanned aircraft rule (Part 107) and Certificate of Authorization process allow operators to transport goods and certain medical suppliesincluding test kits, most prescription drugs and, under certain circumstances, bloodprovided the flight complies with all provisions of the rule or authorization. The FAA also issues special approvals, some in less than an hour, for flights that support emergency activities and appropriate government, health, or community initiatives. The agencys Systems Operations Support Center is available 24/7 to process emergency requests. Safety is the top consideration as we review each request.1:30pm DOT Secretary Elaine L. Chao today announces the award of $10 billion to commercial and general aviation airports from the CARES Act ProgramU.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao today announced the award of approximately $10 billion to commercial and general aviation airports from the Trump Administration's newly createdCoronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Airport Grant Program. The effort will provide unprecedented and immediate relief to American families, workers, and businesses. 4/13/2020FAA prepares list of FAQs for CARES Act stakeholdersThe FAA has prepared a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) stakeholders may have about the approximately $10 billion in grants for airports under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.4/9/2020FAA extends temporary waiver of minimum slot-use requirements through Oct. 24, 2020The FAA is extending through Oct. 24, 2020 the temporary waiver of minimum slot-use requirements at U.S. airports to help airlines that cancel flights due to the Coronavirus. Under normal circumstances, airlines can lose their slots at congested airports if they don't use them at least 80 percent of the time. The FAA is waiving the 80-percent-use requirement for U.S. and foreign airlines that have affected flights. The FAA initially announced that the relief would be in effect through May 31, 2020.4/8/20209:40pm FAA issues exemption to help protect flight attendants from COVID-19The FAA issued an exemption to help protect flight attendants from contracting COVID-19. The exemption allows flight attendants to relocate from the seats they would normally occupy so they can observe social distancing. It also excuses them from having to demonstrate the use of certain emergency equipment including life preservers and oxygen masks, allowing for alternative methods to inform passengers regarding the use of such equipment. Individual carriers must submit a Letter of Intent and be granted authorization by the FAA in order to exercise the relief in the exemption, which runs through June 30, 2020.4:00pm FAA implements flexible air traffic control scheduleThe FAA is taking steps to limit the spread of COVID-19 in air traffic control facilities. Each air traffic control facility is establishing separate teams of controllers that will stay together throughout the duty week. Each crew will contain the same employees, limiting the possibility of cross-exposure to COVID-19 that would come through normal shift rotations. If a person on one team gets sick, the only people who would be exposed are the other people on that team. These steps, along with existing contingency plans, further enhance the resiliency of the FAAs air traffic control system.4/4/2020FAA releases updated guidance for Airport Sponsors and CARES ACT FAQs4/3/2020 11:00amThe FAA issued guidance to FAA inspectors about factors to consider when determining whether to:Extend the certification of aircraft repair stations that are located outside the U.S.Deviation to FAA Order 8900.1 for 14 CFR Part 145 Repair StationsExtend the recurrent training due dates for designees and Flight Standards Organization Designation Authorization (ODA)members that cannot attend in-person recurrent training courses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The memorandum also authorizes Flight Standards personnel to, at their discretion and based on certain performance criteria, temporarily allow designees to continue performing their delegated activities when FAA oversight of the designees is overdue.Flight Standards Designee Oversight and Recurrent Training RequirementsAllow air carrier personnel to temporarily perform flight dispatch and flight following duties from their homes on a case by case basis, provided the carrier can show this can be done safely.Operational Control Part 121 Air CarriersAllow training centers to temporarily use alternative methods to conduct certain emergency procedures that require pilots to don protective breathing equipment or oxygen masks in recurrent training, checking, or evaluation.COVID-19 Deviation for 14 CFR Part 142 Training Center Certificate HoldersAuthorize pilot schools to temporarily use distance learning programs or suspend operations for a period of time.Part 141 Training Interruptions Related to COVID-19 and Applicable Deviations to Order 8900.1Allow Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course providers to deviate from some standard practices, including instituting or expanding distance-based training for currently enrolled students and suspending course administration.COVID-19 14 CFR Part 653/31/2020 7:00pmThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will award approximately $10 billion in funds to commercial and general aviation airports from the Trump Administrations newly created Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) Airport Program.The funds will provide economic relief to airports around the country affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.The CARES Act provides funds to increase the federal share to 100 percent for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and supplemental discretionary grants already planned for fiscal year 2020. Under normal circumstances, AIP grant recipients contribute a matching percentage of the project costs. Providing this additional funding and eliminating the local share will allow critical safety and capacity projects to continue as planned regardless of airport sponsors current financial circumstances.Additionally, the CARES Act provides new funds distributed by various formulas for all airports that are part of the national airport system. This includes all commercial service airports, all reliever airports and some public-owned general aviation airports.Under this new CARES Airport Program:Primary commercial service airports, with more than 10,000 annual passenger boardings, will receive additional funds based on the number of annual boardings, in a similar way to how they currently receive AIP entitlement funds.All commercial service airports will receive funds based on the number of passengers that board aircraft there, the amount of debt an airport has, and the amount of money the airport has in reserve.General aviation airports will receive funds based on their airport categories, such as National, Regional, Local, Basic and Unclassified.The FAA plans to make these funds available in April, and airport sponsors should work with their local Office of Airports field office. The FAA will provide additional guidance on the CARES Airport Program next week.3/31/2020 4:40pmFAA Announces Additional Pilot Medical Certificate ExemptionsThe FAA is granting an exemption that extends until June 30, 2020, the duration of medical certificates for certain pilots and flight engineers who conduct scheduledand on-demandoperations outside the United States if those medical certificates expire between March 31, 2020, and May 31, 2020.COVID-19 is placing a severe burden on the U.S. healthcare system. Requiring pilots to undergo in-person medical examinations would further stress the healthcare system, and would increase the risk of transmitting the virus through personal contact between the doctor and the applicant. The FAA last week issued a policy stating it will not take enforcement action (PDF) against certain pilots or flight engineers who fly domestically with medical certificates that expire between March 31, 2020 and June 30, 2020.3/30/2020FAA announces additional COVID-19 guidance on drug and alcohol testing, air transport restrictions and airport closures and restrictions.Drug and Alcohol TestingThe FAA has issued guidance to companies whose drug and alcohol testing programs are disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. DOT guidance can be viewed at www.transportation.gov.Guidance for States, Localities, and Territories Considering Air Transportation RestrictionsThe FAA has prepared guidance for states, localities, and territories that have implemented or may consider implementing quarantine, travel restrictions, and screening requirements on individuals entering from certain locations within the United States and territories. The guidance states there should be coordination with aviation stakeholders 48 hours before a restriction is imposed; air transportation workers, federal aviation and security personnel are exempt from any restrictions; and no measure can be taken to close a federally funded airport without FAA approval.Guidance for Airport Sponsors Considering Airport Closures or RestrictionsThe FAA has prepared guidance for airport sponsors contemplating airport closures or restricting airport access at federally funded airports. The FAA wants airport sponsors to closely review and understand what the guidance allows them to do, what they cannot do, and what they should consider before taking any action. In any instance, the FAA must be notified and approve any airport closure.3/27/2020FAA Takes Steps to Address the Effects of COVID-19 on the Aviation IndustryThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proactively taking steps to help address the widespread economic and health effects that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on the aviation industry. The FAA continues to evaluate a large number of requests from across all aviation industry sectors to help address COVID-19-related effects.To date, the FAA has taken the following actions:Air Traffic Control FacilitiesThe FAA is temporarily closing and thoroughly cleaning air traffic control facilities where employees have tested positive for COVID-19. Every air traffic control facility in the country has a contingency plan (PDF) to keep air traffic moving safely when events impede normal operations. In some cases, this means transferring duties to adjacent facilities.Air Carrier Training ExemptionsThe FAA granted certain training exemptions to scheduled and on-demand air carriers due to the unprecedented circumstances associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The exemptions give operators grace periods for completing certain training and qualification requirements, and give crewmembers relief from having to don protective breathing equipment or oxygen masks in training, checking, or evaluation. The exemptions can be viewed at https://www.regulations.gov/. The docket numbers are FAA-2020-0291; FAA-2020-0292; FAA-2020-0307; and FAA-2020-0308.Pilot Medical CertificatesThe FAA will not take enforcement action against certain pilots or flight engineers who fly with medical certificates that expire between March 31, 2020 and June 30, 2020. COVID-19 is placing a severe burden on the U.S. healthcare system. Requiring pilots to undergo in-person medical examinations would further stress the healthcare system, and would increase the risk of transmitting the virus through personal contact between the doctor and the applicant.Airport Slot-Use WaiversThe FAA is temporarily waiving minimum slot-use requirements at U.S. airports to help airlines that cancel flights due to the Coronavirus. Under normal circumstances, airlines can lose their slots at congested airports if they dont use them at least 80 percent of the time. The FAA is waiving the 80-percent-use requirement through May 31, 2020 for U.S. and foreign airlines that have affected flights, and is proposing to extend the waiver through Oct. 24, 2020.FAA Construction ProjectsThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has temporarily stopped most construction projects at agency facilities to ensure the safety of employees, contractors and the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. The agency is continuing projects that are in critical phases and would affect operations or safety if not completed. For now, the FAA is delaying the start of new projects. Design work on future projects will continue. Airport Construction ProjectsThe FAA is working with airport sponsors across the countryto determine the impacts COVID-19 is having on current and planned airport construction. Airport sponsors and the FAA will review all executed Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants and determine which projects are safety critical, phase of the project, estimated length of project delay, additional costs if the project is delayed, and impacts to overall airport or system operations.The FAA will identify how it may be able prioritize safety-critical projects through funding or process adjustments. The FAA and airport sponsors will work collaboratively to do whatever is reasonably possible to avoid delays in project construction and reduce the delay time when possible. Once a project is ready for construction, the airport owner is responsible for completing construction.Airport Improvement ProgramThe FAA is working to ensure there are no delays awarding Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds for 2020 because of COVID-19. Employees with the FAAs Office of Airports are in constant contact with airport sponsors to award all appropriated AIP funds by September 30, 2020. The FAA has worked to automate the AIP process, which enables employees to work remotely and continue to process AIP grants under the current circumstances.Temporary Parking of Overflow AircraftThe global COVID-19 pandemic has led to flight reductions throughout the airline industry. As a result, the FAA issued CertAlert #20-02 Temporary Parking of Overflow Aircraft, for airport operators who are working with airlines on temporary parking plans for their aircraft. The CertAlert contains a list of recommendations an airport operator should consider when making decisions for overflow aircraft parking. To maintain the highest level of safety, the FAA is working with airport operators to ensure additional safety mitigations are put in place for temporary parking of aircraft.Airport Safety InspectionsThe FAAs airport certification safety inspections will continue within required timeframes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The airport certification safety inspectors will complete inspections by September 30, 2020, as required by Part 139 and FAA Order 5280-5D. There will be no impact to safety. The inspections will be conducted using social-distancing measures to protect both FAA and airport personnel.Aviation Maintenance Technician SchoolsThe FAA is working withstaff and students atAviation Maintenance Technician Schools(AMTS)to allow greater flexibility during the COVID-19 pandemic. TheFAAsguidance to AMTSallows deviations from FAA policy onclass schedules,electronic delivery of assignments, andthe maximum number of absences. EachAMTS school is affected differently, andthe FAA is addressing any deviation from policyor regulationon a case-by-case basis.COVID-19 InformationThe FAA is posting extensive information about COVID-19 on its website and on social media. Follow us on Twitter @FAANews, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for updates.Sharing Heath Safety MessagesThe FAA is amplifying health safety messages from other federal agencies including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Federal Management Agency, Department of State and Department of Homeland Security.Pilot Oxygen Mask RequirementsThe FAA has amended its cockpit oxygen-mask regulation to reduce the potential for pilots to be exposed to any pathogens that may be on the masks. The amendment fulfills the requirement of Section 579 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018.Expanded Drone OperationsThe FAA has received inquiries about expanded drone operations to respond to COVID-19. We are addressing the inquiries using our existing Part 135 on-demand certificationprocess. Follow us on Twitter @FAADroneZone and Facebook @FAADroneZonefor the latest drone news.Puerto Rico Flight Restriction RequestThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved certain requirements for passenger flights to Puerto Rico to help with the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. All scheduled and unscheduled commercial air carrier flights will be required to land at Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) where public health officials will screen arriving passengers. This includes air carriers that operate under Part 121 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. All domestic and foreign general aviation and charter flights arriving from a location outside Puerto Rico will be required to land first at SJU, Isla Grande Airport (SIG) or Rafael Hernandez Airport (BQN) in Aguadilla for passenger screening before continuing to their final destinations. The restrictions do not apply to air cargo or maintenance flights into Puerto Rico.3/24/2020CDC Adds More Countries to Level 3 Nonessential Travel ListingThe CDC has expanded their Level 3 nonessential travel notice to include Australia, countries in South America, parts of Asia and the Middle East. These countries are experiencing widespread transmission of therespiratory illness caused by the novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19). The CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to all countries in the below list. AustraliaBrazilCanadaChileJapanIsraelMalaysiaPakistanSouth KoreaThailandTurkeyTravelers returning from these countries should stay home for 14 days after returning from travel, monitor their health,and practice social distancing.3/23/2020Only Rely on Official Sources for Accurate COVID-19 InformationDue to the large amount of speculation regarding COVID-19, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is reminding everyone to rely on OFFICIAL sources for accurate information. You can help control the spread of rumors by sharing FEMAs web page with your friends, family and colleagues.Additional InformationCoronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)Coronavirus.govWhat the U.S. Government is Doing3/20/2020FAA Statement on COVID-19 cases at FAA FacilitiesLike much of the country, the Federal Aviation Administration is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases at air traffic facilities and other offices across the nation.Despite the challenges, our commitment to safety will not waver.Our air traffic system is resilient and flexible. Every air traffic control facility in the country has a contingency plan to keep air traffic moving safely when events impede normal operations. In some cases, this means transferring duties to adjacent facilities.Air traffic controllers, technicians and safety inspectors are highly trained professionals who play critical roles in safely and efficiently moving tens of thousands of aircraft and millions of passengers 24 hours a day, every day.Our agencys mission is to operate the worlds largest and most complex airspace system. But we have an equal obligation to ensure the health and safety of our employees.Each disruption has a distinct impact on the air traffic system. We are experiencing this at the handful of facilities already affected by COVID-19. This is frustrating and inconvenient, but is necessary in the interest of safety.We will do our best to keep the public abreast of a rapidly changing situation. Passengers can check fly.faa.gov for real-time updates about how the air traffic system is performing.We appreciate the publics support and patience.3/19/2020Department of State advises U.S. Citizens to avoid all international travel due to COVID-19.The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period.U.S. citizens who live abroad should avoid all international travel.Many countries are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and implementing travel restrictions and mandatory quarantines, closing borders, and prohibiting non-citizens from entry with little advance notice.Airlines have cancelled many international flights and several cruise operators have suspended operations or cancelled trips.If you choose to travel internationally, your travel plans may be severely disrupted, and you may be forced to remain outside of the United States for an indefinite timeframe.For more information, review the full advisory.3/17/2020CDC Expands Virus-Related Travel Advisory to UK and IrelandThe CDC updated their Level 3 Travel Health Notice to include the United Kingdom and Ireland. The United Kingdom is experiencing widespreadongoing transmissionofrespiratory illness caused by the novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19). Because the United Kingdom shares an open border with the Republic of Ireland (Ireland),CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to all countries in the United Kingdom and Ireland.Affected countries include:EnglandScotlandWalesNorthern IrelandRepublic of Ireland (Ireland)Travelers returning fromthe United Kingdom or Ireland shouldstay home for 14 days after returning from travel, monitor their health,and practice social distancing. Please review the latest about Level 3 Travel Health Notices.3/15/2020DHS Outlines New Process for Americans Returning from Certain European Countries, China, and IranIn order to help prevent the spread of travel-related cases of coronavirus in the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a Notice of Arrival Restrictionsoutlining the process for American citizens, legal permanent residents, and their immediate families who are returning home after recently visiting certain European countries, China, and Iran.These European countries, known as the Schengen Area, include: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.Effective for flights taking off at 11:59 PM EDT on Friday, March 13th, Americans returning from all restricted countries will now be required to travel through the following 13 airports:Boston-Logan International Airport (BOS), MassachusettsChicago OHare International Airport (ORD), IllinoisDallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), TexasDetroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), MichiganDaniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), HawaiiHartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), GeorgiaJohn F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New YorkLos Angeles International Airport, (LAX), CaliforniaMiami International Airport (MIA), FloridaNewark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New JerseySan Francisco International Airport (SFO), CaliforniaSeattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), WashingtonWashington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), VirginiaUpon arrival, travelers will proceed to standard customs processing. They will then continue to enhanced entry screening where the passenger will be asked about their medical history, current condition, and asked for contact information for local health authorities. Passengers will then be given written guidance about COVID-19 and directed to proceed to their final destination, and immediately home-quarantine in accordance with CDC best practices.In order to ensure compliance, local and State public health officials will contact individuals in the days and weeks following their arrival.Additional InformationCoronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)Coronavirus.govWhat the U.S. Government is Doing3/13/2020Coronavirus Travel Advisories Expanded to Include Most of EuropeCDC has expanded its Level-3 travel advisory and now recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to most countries in Europe. See the full list of countries.3/9/2020Guidance for Travelers from Countries with Widespread Sustained (Ongoing) Transmission Arriving in the United StatesTo slow the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) into the United States, CDC is working with state and local public health partners to implement after-travel health precautions.Depending on your travel history, you will be asked to stay home for a period of 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread or ongoing community spread (Level 3 Travel Health Notice).Countries that have a Level 3 Travel Health Notice (widespread, ongoing transmission):ChinaIranItalySouth KoreaTake these steps to monitor your health and practice social distancing:Take your temperature with a thermometer two times a day to monitor for fever. Also watch for cough or trouble breathing.Stay home and avoid contact with others. Do not go to work or school for this 14-day period. Discuss your work situation with your employer before returning to work.Do not take public transportation, taxis, or ride-shares during the time you are practicing social distancing.Avoid crowded places (such as shopping centers and movie theaters) and limit your activities in public.Keep your distance from others (about 6 feet or 2 meters).Download the CDCs COVID-19 Traveler Information Card.3/5/2020Air travel plans may be affected by the virus. Check with your airline before heading to the airport.The evolving Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation may impact your air travel plans. Many airlines have posted travel alerts for passengers on their websites and have instituted flexible travel policies. Please check with your airline about the status of your flight before you leave for the airport. The following links are to airline-specific flight status updates:American AirlinesDelta AirlinesJetBlue AirlinesSouthwest AirlinesUnited Airlines3/3/2020CDC Recommends Travelers Avoid All Nonessential Travel to ItalyThe State Department and CDCrecommend avoiding all nonessential travel to Italy due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19).Travel advisoriesrelated to the virus now include the following countries:ItalySouth KoreaJapanChinaIranThe CDC has established an interactive map with country-specific travel health information about the virus. Travelers can also sign up to receive email updates about the virus on this same CDC webpage.2/23/2020Travel Advisories for South Korea and JapanThe State Department and CDC recommend travelers exercise increased caution when traveling to South Korea and Japan due to the virus.The CDC also recommends that high risk travelers to South Korea and Japanexercise special precautions.Travelers should also enroll in the State Departments Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts and updates while traveling.2/2/2020Guidance from the CDC on What the Public, Air Carriers and Crews Can DoThe current outbreak of 2019 novel coronavirus originated in China but has now spread internationally, impacting an increasing number of countries. In the coming days and weeks, we expect more confirmed cases in the United States, including more person-to-person spread.The goal of an aggressive ongoing public health response is to prevent spread of this virus in the community in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide the following guidance to the public:What You Should DoStay informed CDC is updating its website daily with the latest information and advice for the public. (www.cdc.gov/ncov)Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent 2019-nCoV infection.CDC recommends routine preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses.These actions include:Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.Avoid close contact with people who are sick.Stay home when you are sick.Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.CDC also has specific guidance for travelers.The federal government has our best people working on this problem.And we have one of the strongest public health systems in the world.What You Should Not DoCDC does not currently recommend the use of facemasks for the general public. This virus is not spreading in the community. While it is cold and flu season, we dont routinely recommend the use of facemasks by the public to prevent respiratory illness and we certainly are not recommending that at this time for this virus.We understand the recent recommendations including avoiding travel to China and the quarantine of U.S. citizens returning from Wuhan is concerning. The actions the federal government is taking are science-based and with the aim of protecting the health and safety of all Americans.Please do not let fear or panic guide your actions. For example, please dont assume that just because someone is of Asian descent that they have this new coronavirus. There are about 4 million Chinese-Americans in the United States.Guidance for Air Carriers and Crews

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information from the FAA

FAA issues exemption for transporting cargo on airplane seats.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao Appoints Industry Leaders to Women in Aviation Advisory Board

Advisory Board members share a commitment and passion for encouraging women to access opportunities in aviation.

Fly Safe: Addressing GA Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the general aviation (GA) communitys national #FlySafe campaign helps educate GA pilots about safety, including loss of control, power plant failure, and controlled flight into terrain.Fly safe! This series shows you how to incorporate safety into every flight.Keep It LockedIf you are used to seeing a piece of hardware on your aircraft with a locking device, and you notice the locking device is loose or missing, its time to ask about getting it tightened up properly or replaced. Ensuring hardware locking devices are properly installed can save your life!A good example of this type of locking device is safety wire, or positive wire locking. Its necessary in areas where a bolt could loosen during vibration and provides the necessary tension to keep the bolt in place. Used properly, it will lock so that the wire remains taut and prevents further movement.Vibration is a Part of FlightVibration is normal during flight, but keep in mind that it can also loosen critical components of your aircraft.Loose hardware or components have led to accidents, many of them fatal. You dont want to lose functionality of an aileron actuation arm, a throttle cable, or an elevator flight control cable while youre in flight.Have the safety wire and hardware locking mechanisms installed on your aircraft properly, and check them often to ensure they are taut and ready for flight. Finger tightening is not enough. Your life depends on a properly installed safety device.Fasteners, Wires and Fast FactsSafety wire is not intended to take the place of the proper installation of fasteners. Always make sure that the fasteners are tightened to the proper torque first, then install the safety wire. The tension of the safety wire should always tend to tighten the bolt, nut or fastener. Ask yourself, does it pass the righty-tighty test.Here are more tips to keep things tight:Inspect your aircraft carefully before each flight.See that all fasteners and hardware locking devices are properly installed.Safety wire should be tight and maintain a light tension when secured.You should notice about six-to-eight twists per inch with a good safety wire job.When inspecting fiber or nylon locknuts, make sure the bolt or stud has at least one thread showing past the nut. Turnbuckles should either have safety clips or safety wire.Castle nuts require a cotter pin to lock them down.Do You Have Your WINGS?In order to keep playing your A game, get good coaching and stick with it. Fly regularly with a flight instructor who will challenge you to review what you know, encourage you to explore new horizons, and insist that you always do your best.Flying with your A game includes ensuring aircraft components are properly secured on your aircraft during preflight. Of course, youll have to dedicate time and money to your proficiency program, but its well worth it for the peace of mind that comes with confidence.WINGSPros at Your ServiceNeed more information or help with WINGS?Contact a WINGSPro by going to FAASafety.gov and select FAASTeam Directory. Next, type wingspro in the keywords field and enter your state abbreviation in the state field. Press search and then scroll down to find WINGSPros in your state.Feel free to contact them or your local FAASTeam program manager or representative.They love to make new pilot friends and help with WINGS.Did you know?Loss of Control happens in all phases of flight.It can happen anywhere and at any time.There is an average of one fatal accident involving Loss of Control every four days.Resource Guide:Check FAA AC 43-13.1b, Section 7, for more information about aircraft fastener safety.Learn more about safety wiring through this AOPA Airframe and Powerplant brief.TheWINGS Pilot Proficiency Programhelps pilots build an educational curriculum suitable for their unique flight requirements.Its based on the premise that pilots who maintain currency and proficiency in the basics of flight will enjoy a safer and more stress-free flying experience.You can enroll in the WINGS program on the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) webpage.This WINGS Pilot Proficiency Users Guide will give you more information about WINGS.The FAASTeam has also put together several videos on WINGS:Got WINGS?Pilot Proficiency TrainingSoaring With WINGSCurious about FAA regulations? Its a good idea to stay updated. You can find current FAA regulations on this website.TheFAASafety.govwebsite has Notices, FAAST Blasts, online courses, webinars, and more on key general aviation safety topics.TheGeneral Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC)is comprised of government and industry experts who work together to use data to identify risks, pinpoint trends through root cause analysis, and develop safety strategies to reduce the risk of GA accidents.