H.R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, is bipartisan legislation that reauthorizes the FAA for the next five years, as well as gives the agency its “marching orders” from lawmakers.
FAA
President signs legislation to modernize NOTAM system
The new law requires the FAA to set up a task force made up of all representatives of the aviation industry, including general aviation, the review the NOTAM system. The agency is also required to implement a back-up system to deter another system-wide crash like the one that happened in January 2023.
FAA updates pilot antidepressant program
Pilots who are on antidepressants don’t have to have routine follow-ups, while the FAA added a new drug, bupropion, to the list of approved antidepressants.
FAA proposes removing expiration date on flight instructor certificates
The new rule would bring flight instructor certificates in line with other pilot certificates that don’t expire, but require pilots to maintain proficiency with continued training and experience.
Questions from the Cockpit: Buckle up, baby!
Gracie, a private pilot in Montana, writes: I took a flight with a fellow pilot the other day, and he took the time to give me the flight attendant speech. It got me wondering, why the stupid seat belt speech? I mean, I know it’s the law, but — really? — who doesn’t know how to unbuckle a seat belt?
NOTAM improvements get Congressional nod
Bipartisan legislation to improve the Notice to Air Mission (NOTAM) system has received near-unanimous Congressional approval.
What you need to know about using off-the-shelf parts in your vintage aircraft
Have questions about the new VARMA policy, which allows off-the-shelf parts to be used in vintage aircraft? Officials with the Experimental Aircraft Association have some answers.
Updated Oshkosh NOTAM now available
The FAA-approved changes are based on pilot feedback and FAA review of arrival procedure recommendations for the fly-in, which is slated for July 24-30 at Wittman Regional Airport (KOSH) in Oshkosh, according to officials with the Experimental Aircraft Association.
Noise abatement recommendations approved at KAPF
The Part 150 Noise Study, which began in 2019 and involved more than 100 public meetings and presentations, resulted in nearly 100 initial recommendations from the community, according to airport officials.