AVWEB

Brazil Clears 737 MAX For Flight

Brazil's Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (National Civil Aviation Agency/ANAC) has become the second regulatory agency to reauthorize operation of the Boeing 737 MAX, withdrawing the emergency airworthiness directive that restricted use of the model on Wednesday. ANAC announced that it has chosen to adopt the airworthiness directive (PDF) issued by the FAA last week, […] The post Brazil Clears 737 MAX For Flight appeared first on AVweb.

Home Schooling

A good pilot is always learning and practicing. Whether your aviating is geared toward a ratings-oriented career or just going for the occasional $100 hamburger, we all should put some effort into maintaining proficiency and enhancing related knowledge. If you're stuck at home with nothing to do and can't fly, how can you spend the […] The post Home Schooling appeared first on AVweb.

Volga-Dnepr Grounds An-124 Fleet

Russia-based airline Volga-Dnepr has grounded its fleet of Antonov An-124s as a result of one of its aircraft experiencing an uncontained engine failure shortly after takeoff earlier this month. Investigations are ongoing with one being conducted by Russian aviation authorities and a second, internal review being conducted by the airline. A timeline has not yet […] The post Volga-Dnepr Grounds An-124 Fleet appeared first on AVweb.

FMA Opens 2021 Student Scholarship Nominations

The Flying Musicians Association (FMA) has announced that it is currently accepting nominations for its 2021 FMA Solo Scholarship program. The scholarships offered through the program provide flight training through first solo for junior and senior high school music students interested in learning to fly. To date, twelve students have soloed through the program, which […] The post FMA Opens 2021 Student Scholarship Nominations appeared first on AVweb.

Cargo Pilots Suffering Increased COVID Infections

While passenger airlines have drastically reduced schedules, cargo carriers have done the reverse and now pilots are suffering increased COVID-19 infections, according to unions. The infections come just as the carriers are gearing up to distribute millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses in the coming months. The president of UPS's Independent Pilots Association, Robert Travis, said […] The post Cargo Pilots Suffering Increased COVID Infections appeared first on AVweb.

Aviation Safety

Download The Full December 2020 Issue PDF

Engine Break-In Decision-Making Big Wind IFR Departures Airspeed Control To continue reading this article or issue 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 Subscribed? Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? | Activate Web Access The post Download The Full December 2020 Issue PDF appeared first on Aviation Safety.

Unregulated Voltage

Cessna 172M Skyhawk Burned Voltage Regulator The pilot reported an odor of smoke in the cockpit and returned to the departure airport. Examination revealed electrical charging system inoperative. Replaced voltage regulator (p/n VR6000). Part total time: Unknown Cessna 172P Skyhawk Unserviceable Regulator Technician suspects the voltage regulator (p/n DG3) went unsatisfactory and allowed the full […] To continue reading this article or issue 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 Subscribed? Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? | Activate Web Access The post Unregulated Voltage appeared first on Aviation Safety.

The Fine Print

The evening's mission was to fly myself and a colleague to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to attend a meeting the following morning. It was winter, with early sunsets, and we didn't get airborne until well after dark, but I was night current, thanks to doing my instrument training at night, after work. I was close, but not […] To continue reading this article or issue 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 Subscribed? Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? | Activate Web Access The post The Fine Print appeared first on Aviation Safety.

NTSB Reports

September 1, 2020, Walker, Minn. Piper PA-28-235 Cherokee 235 At about 2007 Central time, the airplane was destroyed when it collided with terrain while maneuvering near adverse weather. The solo pilot was fatally injured; flight conditions were unknown. The airplane departed Kirksville, Missouri, at about 1303 after adding 76.1 gallons of fuel, with an intended […] To continue reading this article or issue 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 Subscribed? Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? | Activate Web Access The post NTSB Reports appeared first on Aviation Safety.

Cockpit Complacency

Any pilot who has used a personal airplane for regular transportation has had to negotiate bad weather. By the time you accumulate more than 4500 hours of flight time, it's likely you have dealt with a cold front or three, plus night IMC and a variety of other challenges. With that kind of flight experience […] To continue reading this article or issue 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 Subscribed? Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? | Activate Web Access The post Cockpit Complacency appeared first on Aviation Safety.

FAA

FAA Air Traffic Report

Today's Air Traffic Report:Low clouds are forecast today in Atlanta (ATL), Chicago (MDW, ORD), Detroit (DTW), Houston (HOU, IAH), Memphis (MEM), Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) and from Seattle (SEA) to Los Angeles (LAX).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.

FAA to Hold Dec. 2 Public Meeting for Space Florida Shuttle Landing Facility

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will hold a virtual public meeting to receive public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF) at the Cape Canaveral Spaceport in Titusville, Fla. The meeting is Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020, from 5 to 7 p.m. EST.Virtual meeting instructions will be posted here by Nov. 30, 2020.Space Florida, a state-chartered spaceport authority,currently holds a Launch Site Operator License to operate the SLF. It now intends to apply to the FAA for a Reentry Site Operator License (RSOL) to offer the SLF to commercial space operators and proposes to support up to a total of 17 reentry landings over the next five years (2021-2025).Issuing the RSOL is subject to environmental review under National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA). The draft EA for this project is subject to the FAAs evaluation and approval.During this virtual public meeting, Space Florida will provide information on its proposed project, FAA will provide a licensing and EA overview, and members of the public can provide oral comments.The deadline for public comments is Monday, Dec. 7, 2020. Comments should be mailed to Stacey Zee, SLF PEA, c/o ICF, 9300 Lee Highway, Fairfax, VA 22031. Comments may also be submitted via email toslfproject@icf.com.Commenters may use this form: SLF Reentry EA Comment Form.The completion of the environmental review process does not guarantee that the FAA will issue a RSOL to Space Florida. The Proposed Action must also meet FAA safety, risk, and financial responsibility requirements.Information about the FAA environmental review process as it relates to commercial space transportation is posted at faa.gov/space/environmental.

FAA Offers Tips to Fly Healthy during the Holidays

If your holiday celebrations involve flying to see family and friends, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) encourages you to visit FlyHealthy.gov for updated federal guidance to safely navigate all aspects of air travel during the COVID-19 public health emergency.The website provides one-stop access to all of the resources and latest travel-related information from the FAA, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Department of State (DOS).It also walks an airline passenger through each step of the air travel process to help everyone have a safe journey and prevent the spread of COVID-19.In addition to always wearing a mask in the airport and on the aircraft, maintaining social distance and frequently washing your hands, the site offers a few other key travel tips, including:Check travel restrictionsat your destination before you go and when you return home.Bring extra supplies such as masks and hand sanitizer. As a temporary exemption from the 3-1-1 rule, TSA is allowing one oversized liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags.Pack Safe!Know what is in your carry-on and checked bags and remove prohibited items before arriving at the checkpoint.Know when to delay your travel. If you are sick, stay home and do not travel!Regardless of where you traveled or what you did during your trip, you may have been exposed to COVID-19. You may feel well and not have symptoms, but you can be contagious without symptoms and spread the virus to others.It is important to take action when returning home to protect others from getting sick.Go here for general air travel safety tips. Fly Healthy, fly smart and enjoy the holiday.

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

11/23/2020FAA Issues Clarifying information for Airmen Using Medical Certificate Duration ReliefThe FAA updated the Q&A section of the Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) to address the issue of airman using medical certificate duration relief on multiple occasions.11/6/2020Enforcement Discretion for Random Drug and Alcohol TestingThe FAA issued a Notice of Enforcement Discretion for Random Drug and Alcohol Testing today to ensure employers of aviation personnel know how to meet the minimum annual random testing rates for 2020 during the COVID-19 public health emergency.Aviation employers are still required to comply with the requirements of Federal Aviation Regulation Part 120. However, the FAA is exercising its discretion not to take enforcement action against an employer who is unable to conduct random testing.The employer must make a reasonable, good-faith effort to conduct the testing and document the reason testing could not take place, such as testing site closures, testing site restrictions that would impede efforts to meet random testing requirements, or the unavailability of testing personnel. Aviation employers also must document their actions to identify alternative testing sites or other testing resources and maintain random testing records for review by an FAA drug and alcohol compliance and enforcement inspector.For additional information, please review the FAAs Random Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Guidance Alert and Frequently Asked Questions.11/4/2020Updated Health Guidance for Air Carriers and CrewsThe FAA issued an updated Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) (PDF) that provides interim health guidance from the CDC that air carriers and crew members should be following during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The FAA updated the SAFO to include a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) on aircraft disinfection guidance.10/2/2020Extension of Minimum Slot Usage RequirementsThe FAA issued an extension of limited waiver of the minimum slot usage requirements through March 27, 2021. This slot usage waiver applies to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Additionally, the FAA also extended through March 27, 2021 our COVID-19-related policy for prioritizing flights canceled at designated International Air Transport Association (IATA) Level 2 airports in the United States for purposes of establishing a carriers operational baseline in the next corresponding scheduling season.The relief announced in this notice is available for the Winter 2020/2021 scheduling season, which runs from October 25, 2020 through March 27, 2021. Conditions on the relief announced in this notice require compliance beginning on October 15, 2020.9/30/2020Second Amendment to Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) 118The Federal Aviation Administration issued a final rule on September 30, 2020, that further amends Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) 118. Aviation activity continues to increase, and the industry is beginning to address the backlog of required training, checking and testing requirements. However, many of the challenges that existed when the FAA first issued the SFAR in April remain today as the public health emergency continues. SFAR 118-2 is effective on October 1, 2020, and is available for public display in theFederal Register. It will publish on October 6, 2020.The chart contained within this final rule provides a summary of each affected regulation; the original SFAR relief provided on April 29, 2020; the amended SFAR relief from June 25, 2020; and the second amended relief provided in this SFAR update. Those who may be affected by this amendment should carefully review the eligibility, conditions and duration of each section of relief to ensure compliance. The FAA has revised theFAQs(PDF)to help explain the amended regulatory relief.Amendment of Air Carrier Training ExemptionsThe FAA is amending two regulatory exemptions it previously issued to scheduled and on-demand US air carriers. The agency is amending exemptions18510(PDF)and18511(PDF), which give personnel grace periods for completing certain training and qualification requirements due through Dec. 31, 2020. The agency previously amended through Nov. 30, 2020 exemptions18509and18512, which give crewmembers relief from having to don protective breathing equipment or oxygen masks in training, checking, or evaluation. The amendments do not expand relief that the original exemptions and previous amendments provided. The new amendments extend the same relief to the next population of crewmembers who will become due in the approaching months.9/29/2020FAA Extends Flight Attendant ExemptionTheFAA is amending through Jan. 31, 2021 an exemption the agency previously issued 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 FAA in order to exercise the relief in the exemption.Updated Health Guidance for Air Carriers and CrewsThe FAA issued an updatedSafety Alert for Operators (SAFO)(PDF)that provides interim health guidance from the CDC that air carriers and crew members should be following during the COVID-19 public health emergency.8/13/2020FAA Amends Exemption for Certain Air Ambulance PersonnelTo ensure the continuity of air ambulance operations, the FAA is amending an exemption to the timeframes for completing recurrent training and testing requirements for certain air ambulance personnel. The amendment does not expand upon the relief the FAA already provided for personnel with training and testing requirements due through July 31, 2020. Rather, it provides the same relief to a new group of air personnel with training and qualification requirements due in August and September, 2020. Operators must fulfill specific requirements to exercise the relief offered in this exemption.7/31/2020Amendment of Air Carrier Training ExemptionsThe FAA is amending four regulatory exemptions it previously issued to scheduled and on-demand US air carriers. The agency is amending through Sept. 30, 2020 exemptions 18510 and 18511. The agency is amending through Nov. 30, 2020 exemptions 18509 and 18512. 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 new amendments do not expand relief that the original exemption and first amendment provided. The new amendments extend the same relief to the next population of crewmembers who will become due in the approaching months.7/23/2020FAA Issues Guidance about Flexibility Managing Scheduled Maintenance Requirements Due to COVID-19The FAA issued Information for Operators (InFO) 20005 which notifies operators of temporary changes to FAA policy on the use of short-term escalations (STE) to manage scheduled maintenance requirements affected by the COVID-19 public health emergency. This InFO also provides information on increased flexibilities related to the use of STEs and how operators may request FAA authorization for the expanded use of STEs.7/14/2020FAA issues new cargo exemption, amends existing cargo exemptionThe FAA issued a new exemption authorizing airlines to transport cargo that is secured to the seat tracks of a passenger aircraft when seats are removed and no passengers are in the cabin. This exemption is valid through July 10, 2021.The FAA also amended a previously issued exemption that allows airlines to secure cargo to passenger seats when no passengers are in the cabin. The amendment provides additional crew training details and extends the exemption through July 10, 2021.7/6/2020FAA Issues Guidance on Operations inTerminal AirspaceThe FAA has issued Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) 20012 to advise air carriers and other commercial operators on how to continue operating safely in terminal airspace when anAir Traffic Control (ATC) facility with responsibility for that airspace closes unexpectedly.7/2/2020Government publishes national strategy for air transportation system recoveryThe U.S. government has published a comprehensive national strategy for the recovery of the nations air transportation system. The Runway to Recovery recognizes that a safe, secure, efficient and resilient air transportation system that addresses the threat of COVID-19 is critical to reducing the public health risk and supporting the United States critical infrastructure needs. The document provides guidance to airports and airlines for implementing measures to mitigate the public health risks associated with COVID-19 and prepare for an increase in travel volume, while ensuring that aviation safety and security are not compromised. It identifies measures that airports and airlines should implement across all operations and all stages of travel to, from and within the United States, along with a roadmap explaining how those measures should be adapted to the unique air travel environments.View the Department of Transportation's Press Release on the Runway to Recovery.7/1/2020FAA Issues Guidance on Operations inOceanic AirspaceThe FAA has issued SAFO 20011, Operations in Oceanic Airspace During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. This SAFO advises flightcrews of the potential loss of Air Traffic Control (ATC) services in the event of an oceanic ATC facility shutdown and recommends the mitigating procedures contained herein.6/25/2020FAA Amends SFAR 118 to Further Extend COVID-19 ReliefThe FAA has issued an amendment to Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR)118. The amendment recognizes that even as stay-at-home advisories are lifted, airmen continue to experience difficulty complying with certain training, recency, checking, testing and duration requirements. The amendment extends some medical certificate relief that the original SFAR provided and expands medical relief to people whose certificates will expire in the coming months. It also expands relief to a new population of airmen who may be unable to satisfy training and qualification requirements due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 public health emergency. Those who may be affected by this amendment should carefully review the eligibility, conditions and duration of each section of relief to ensure compliance.5/29/2020Extended Air Carrier Training ExemptionsThe FAA is extending through July 31, 2020 four regulatory exemptions (18509, 18510, 18511,18512) it previously issued to scheduled and on-demand US air carriers. 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. They originally were going to expire on May 31.Updated CARES Act FAQsThe FAA has updated our frequently asked questions about the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.Updated Guidance for Airport Sponsors Considering COVID-19 Restrictions or AccommodationsThe 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.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 Air

FAA To Begin Environmental Review at SpaceX Texas Launch Site

SpaceX has informed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that it plans to apply for licenses for suborbital and orbital launches of its Starship spacecraft powered by the Super Heavy rocket at its launch site in Boca Chica, Texas.The proposed update to Starship/Super Heavy operations falls outside of the scope of the existing final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Record of Decision for the launch site and requires additional environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).The FAA is in the beginning stages of conducting the environmental review of the SpaceX proposal and developing a public outreach plan. The FAA intends to provide scoping information for the project soon. SpaceX is working with the FAA to prepare a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) which will be subject to the FAAs evaluation and approval.The EA will allow the FAA to determine the appropriate course of action: preparation of an EIS because the proposed actions environmental impacts would be significant; issuance of a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI); or issuance of a Mitigated FONSI providing for mitigation measures to address the proposed actions environmental impacts. The FAA may make its determination during the EA process or after SpaceX presents a draft EA for FAA approval.To receive the licenses, SpaceX must complete a safety review and develop agreements for the license application in addition to the environmental review.Information about the FAA environmental review process as it relates to commercial space transportation is posted at faa.gov/space/environmental.