Federal Aviation Administration News

Our FAA news feed delivers critical updates and insights into the actions and regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration, the governing body overseeing American civil aviation. From policy changes to safety directives and aerospace integration, this coverage keeps you informed on how the FAA's decisions impact the aviation industry and air travel safety.

Top Stories

2024-05-14T22:54:46.439716-07:00

FAA Faces 3,000 Air Traffic Controller Shortfall

New federal data reveals that despite increased hiring efforts last year, the FAA remains significantly understaffed with 3,000 fewer air traffic controllers than needed at stations nationwide.

2024-05-14T15:30:33.194762-07:00

Boeing Fails to Meet 737 MAX Ethics Agreement Terms

The DOJ has flagged Boeing for not adhering to a compliance program aimed at preventing future violations, a requirement from their 2021 agreement following the 737 MAX issues.

2024-05-10T11:00:32.951542-07:00

SpaceX Targets 44 Annual Starship Launches in Florida

Aiming to accelerate its Mars mission, SpaceX plans a Florida launch facility capable of supporting up to 44 Starship launches each year.

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2024-05-15T05:19:01.862509-07:002024-05-15T05:19:01.862509-07:00

FAA Bill Enhances Passenger Protections, Expands TSA Facial Recognition

The new legislation, supported by President Biden, funds federal aviation programs for the next five years, ensuring new passenger protections, additional routes, and the continued expansion of TSA facial recognition programs.

2024-05-14T23:04:27.523541-07:002024-05-14T23:04:27.523541-07:00

Trump's Boeing 757 Clips Parked Jet at West Palm Beach

Former President Donald Trump's Boeing 757 clipped a parked private jet at West Palm Beach International Airport after landing, per FAA reports. No injuries were reported in the incident.

2024-05-14T22:54:46.439716-07:002024-05-14T22:54:46.439716-07:00

FAA Faces 3,000 Air Traffic Controller Shortfall

New federal data reveals that despite increased hiring efforts last year, the FAA remains significantly understaffed with 3,000 fewer air traffic controllers than needed at stations nationwide.

2024-05-14T15:30:33.194762-07:002024-05-14T15:30:33.194762-07:00

Boeing Fails to Meet 737 MAX Ethics Agreement Terms

The DOJ has flagged Boeing for not adhering to a compliance program aimed at preventing future violations, a requirement from their 2021 agreement following the 737 MAX issues.

2024-05-14T06:40:47.723258-07:002024-05-14T06:40:47.723258-07:00

SpaceX Expands Florida Operations with Potential Dual Starship Launch Sites

The FAA's environmental impact study could greenlight SpaceX's ambition for up to 44 Starship launches annually from Florida, marking a significant expansion.

2024-05-11T21:02:46.779587-07:002024-05-11T21:02:46.779587-07:00

FAA Under Scrutiny Amid Boeing's Ongoing Troubles

Renewed scrutiny faces the Federal Aviation Administration as it navigates the fallout from Boeing's recent aerospace challenges, following two significant accidents.

2024-05-11T12:03:40.690389-07:002024-05-11T12:03:40.690389-07:00

FAA to Assess Environmental Impact of SpaceX Starship Launches in Florida

The FAA's upcoming EIS will evaluate the potential environmental ramifications of SpaceX’s Starship-Super Heavy launch activities at Kennedy Space Center.

2024-05-10T14:13:07.017547-07:002024-05-10T14:13:07.017547-07:00

Biden Enacts FAA One-Week Extension

Following Senate approval, President Biden utilized autopen to sign a crucial one-week FAA program extension, as confirmed by the White House.

2024-05-10T11:00:32.951542-07:002024-05-10T11:00:32.951542-07:00

SpaceX Targets 44 Annual Starship Launches in Florida

Aiming to accelerate its Mars mission, SpaceX plans a Florida launch facility capable of supporting up to 44 Starship launches each year.

2024-05-09T18:00:03.401554-07:002024-05-09T18:00:03.401554-07:00

FAA Reauthorization Clears Senate Amid Slot Allocation Dispute

In a significant legislative move, the FAA's reauthorization was passed by the Senate, marking the resolution of the contentious DCA slot allocation debate.

2024-05-09T10:33:25.857607-07:002024-05-09T10:33:25.857607-07:00

Siblings Awarded FAA's Prestigious Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award

In an unprecedented recognition, the FAA bestows the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award on Claudia Simpson Jones and Graham Simpson, marking a rare sibling achievement in aviation.

2024-05-09T08:16:16.498869-07:002024-05-09T08:16:16.498869-07:00

FAA's Oversight of United Airlines' Maintenance Under Audit by US Watchdog

The FAA's supervision of United Airlines' maintenance operations is set for audit due to several recent incidents, highlighting potential oversight issues.

2024-05-09T03:34:33.535314-07:002024-05-09T03:34:33.535314-07:00

Congress Approves One-Week FAA Extension Amid Senate Deliberations

In a move to prevent a disruption in aviation funding, the U.S. Congress has approved a one-week extension for FAA operations while the Senate works on a long-term authorization plan.

2024-05-08T19:27:27.970611-07:002024-05-08T19:27:27.970611-07:00

Senator Sullivan Criticizes FAA Bill Over Unleaded Aviation Fuel Mandate

Republican Senator Dan Sullivan publicly challenges the FAA Reauthorization Act's provisions mandating unleaded aviation fuel, attributing the push to Biden's administration and Democratic policymakers.

2024-05-08T16:41:26.367724-07:002024-05-08T16:41:26.367724-07:00

FAA Grants Full Certification to Tecnam P-Mentor Trainer

Tecnam's P-Mentor, a single-piston two-seat trainer aircraft, receives full Part 23 type certification from the FAA, paving the way for U.S. deliveries.

2024-05-08T15:48:33.739599-07:002024-05-08T15:48:33.739599-07:00

NFL Seeks FAA Amendment for Drone Defense at Sports Events

NFL teams rally on Capitol Hill for legislative support to combat unwanted drone flyovers at games, spotlighting security concerns at large public gatherings.

2024-05-08T14:48:24.980318-07:002024-05-08T14:48:24.980318-07:00

FAA Delays ATC Fatigue Rule Implementation

In a recent memo, the FAA has postponed its original 90-day plan for implementing rest rule changes for air traffic controllers, signaling a shift in its approach to managing controller fatigue.

2024-05-08T10:05:12.892955-07:002024-05-08T10:05:12.892955-07:00

eVTOL Firms Seek FAA Approval Amid Funding Challenges

In an ambitious push, companies developing electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft are accelerating efforts to secure FAA certification as investment tightens.

2024-05-08T08:02:46.153716-07:002024-05-08T08:02:46.153716-07:00

FAA Accelerates Efforts to Bolster Air Traffic Controller Numbers

In response to critical workforce shortages, the FAA explores diverse strategies to enhance its air traffic controller staffing levels.

2024-05-07T18:17:10.480881-07:002024-05-07T18:17:10.480881-07:00

Aviation Bill Amendment Mandates Automatic Refunds for Flight Disruptions

In a bipartisan effort, U.S. lawmakers have fine-tuned aviation legislation to ensure passengers receive automatic refunds for cancelled or significantly delayed flights, prioritizing consumer rights.

2024-05-07T18:00:03.653431-07:002024-05-07T18:00:03.653431-07:00

Boeing 767 Freighter Production Extended with FAA Emissions Reprieve

The FAA reauthorization bill is set to allow Boeing an additional five years to produce 767 freighters, necessitating updates to the 787's fuselage in the process.

2024-05-07T11:28:50.203841-07:002024-05-07T11:28:50.203841-07:00

FAA Reauthorization Bill Faces Key Amendments As Deadline Nears

Efforts to pass the FAA reauthorization bill are intensifying, with lawmakers navigating amendments and non-germane hurdles to meet the looming deadline.

2024-05-07T10:28:42.383648-07:002024-05-07T10:28:42.383648-07:00

Gulfstream G600 Achieves FAA Certification for Steep Approaches

Securing FAA certification now enables the Gulfstream G600 to utilize airports demanding steep approach capabilities, enhancing operational versatility globally.

2024-05-07T04:57:09.751979-07:002024-05-07T04:57:09.751979-07:00

Spirit Aero's Increased Cash Burn Tied to Reduced 737 Production

Due to FAA’s intensified quality inspections, Spirit AeroSystems confronts escalated cash burn, primarily driven by Boeing's decreased 737 MAX output below the regulatory ceiling.

2024-05-07T02:57:13.989039-07:002024-05-07T02:57:13.989039-07:00

FAA Imposes Special Conditions on Airbus A321XLR Certification due to Fuel Tank Design

To address fire safety concerns, the FAA announces special conditions for the Airbus A321XLR's innovative fuel tank, aiming for safer certification processes.

2024-05-06T12:13:42.299739-07:002024-05-06T12:13:42.299739-07:00

FAA Investigates Boeing 787 Dreamliner for Falsified Inspection Records

A new inquiry by the FAA into Boeing's 787 production looks into allegations of falsified inspection records, specifically around electrical safeguards.

2024-05-06T08:03:51.967360-07:002024-05-06T08:03:51.967360-07:00

Beechcraft Denali's Flight Testing Commences, Eyes 2025 FAA Certification

Textron Aviation's Beechcraft Denali single-engine turboprop advances towards FAA certification, following a program update.

2024-05-05T17:41:40.810238-07:002024-05-05T17:41:40.810238-07:00

FAA Expands Approved Antidepressants for Pilots

The inclusion of duloxetine, venlafaxine, and desvenlafaxine onto the FAA's conditionally approved list marks a significant update to medical guidelines for pilots.

2024-05-03T14:34:45.775919-07:002024-05-03T14:34:45.775919-07:00

Expansion of Authority Sought for Neutralizing Dangerous Drones

A push to enhance federal and local powers for counteracting hazardous drones may advance through comprehensive FAA legislation.

2024-05-03T13:27:42.713365-07:002024-05-03T13:27:42.713365-07:00

Challenges in Supply Chain Affecting Availability of FAA-Approved Unleaded Avgas

Supply chain issues hamper the distribution of the first 100-octane unleaded Avgas approved by the FAA, affecting availability at fueling stations.

2024-05-03T08:20:11.446277-07:002024-05-03T08:20:11.446277-07:00

FAA Alerts on Revo Inc. Amphibious Aircraft Wing Crack Risks

The FAA's newly issued SAIB highlights concerns over potential structural weaknesses in the wings of Revo Inc.'s amphibious aircraft, implicating several Lake and Colonial models.

2024-05-02T09:34:15.051482-07:002024-05-02T09:34:15.051482-07:00

Inspector General Critiques FAA's NextGen Implementation

A report by the Office of Inspector General highlights delays and challenges in the FAA's rollout of the Next Generation Air Transportation System.

2024-05-02T06:16:33.991955-07:002024-05-02T06:16:33.991955-07:00

Bipartisan Senators Seek TSA Facial Recognition Limits

A coalition of U.S. senators is advocating for tighter controls over the TSA's deployment of facial recognition tech, citing privacy and civil liberty concerns.

2024-05-02T05:43:47.347681-07:002024-05-02T05:43:47.347681-07:00

Senate Debates FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024

The U.S. Senate's initiation of debates on the FAA Reauthorization Act signals a crucial phase for the drone industry's regulatory landscape.

2024-05-02T05:26:45.028856-07:002024-05-02T05:26:45.028856-07:00

Joby Aviation Moves to Advanced Flight Testing Phase

After completing its pre-production flight testing, Joby Aviation progresses to an advanced phase focusing on its electric air taxi's commercial readiness.

2024-05-01T15:25:17.139593-07:002024-05-01T15:25:17.139593-07:00

Boeing Supplier Whistleblower Josh Dean Passes Away

Spirit AeroSystems whistleblower Joshua Dean, who spotlighted manufacturing defects, has died.

2024-05-01T06:05:08.613809-07:002024-05-01T06:05:08.613809-07:00

FAA Opens LAANC Applications for Drone Airspace Suppliers

Drone airspace service providers can now apply to the FAA for the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability, marking a pivotal step for commercial drone operations.

2024-05-01T04:24:36.199697-07:002024-05-01T04:24:36.199697-07:00

FAA Approves MightyFly Autonomous eVTOL Cargo Corridor

MightyFly’s 2024 Cento, a third-generation autonomous cargo aircraft, launched into testing with FAA’s sanction, conducting over 30 flights. This positions MightyFly at the forefront of pioneering autonomous eVTOL cargo operations.

2024-05-01T03:08:32.057759-07:002024-05-01T03:08:32.057759-07:00

FAA Certifies Robinson R22's New Empennage Design

Robinson Helicopter Company's latest empennage design for the two-seat R22 has received FAA certification, standardizing the update across new models and available for retrofit.

2024-04-30T21:32:54.389550-07:002024-04-30T21:32:54.389550-07:00

FAA's Ground Collision Alert Tech Stays Limited to 20 Airports

With no expansion plans for its advanced ground collision alert system, the FAA explores lower-cost solutions amid safety concerns.

2024-04-29T11:51:03.686668-07:002024-04-29T11:51:03.686668-07:00

FAA Bill Expands Reagan National's Long-Distance Flights Capacity

Following recent legislative approval, Reagan National Airport will see an addition of five long-distance flight slots, breaching the previously established 1,250-mile flight limit.

2024-04-29T11:33:50.328288-07:002024-04-29T11:33:50.328288-07:00

FAA Bill's Security Escort Clause for Legislators and Judges Blocked

Senator Ted Cruz's bid to include a clause for special security escorts at airports for judiciary and lawmakers under credible threats was thwarted in the recent FAA reauthorization proposal.

2024-04-29T09:29:14.072459-07:002024-04-29T09:29:14.072459-07:00

$105 Billion Bill Boosts FAA Air Traffic Control and Safety Measures

A landmark $105 billion legislative agreement aims to enhance air travel safety, addressing concerns following close calls at airports by expanding FAA's air traffic controller and safety inspector workforce.

2024-04-28T22:00:53.482119-07:002024-04-28T22:00:53.482119-07:00

FAA Reauthorization Bill Seals Aviation Safety Measures Without Raising Pilot Age

Negotiators from the U.S. House and Senate agree on reinforcing air traffic control and funding to prevent runway incidents, holding the pilot retirement age steady at 65.

2024-04-27T11:11:14.533564-07:002024-04-27T11:11:14.533564-07:00

FAA's Commercial Space Office Recommended for Relocation

A FAA advisory committee has endorsed the separation of the commercial space office from within the agency, suggesting a major structural change.

2024-04-26T16:11:56.182035-07:002024-04-26T16:11:56.182035-07:00

Delta Boeing 767 Emergency Landing at JFK After Slide Detaches Mid-Flight

A Delta Boeing 767 en route from JFK to Los Angeles experienced an emergency slide detachment, prompting a swift return and safe landing at JFK.

2024-04-26T11:27:16.683128-07:002024-04-26T11:27:16.683128-07:00

Asylon Robotics Secures BVLOS Certification for Advanced Security Drones

Asylon Robotics, based in Pennsylvania, has recently gained BVLOS approval, significantly enhancing the capabilities for remote drone operations in security settings.

2024-04-25T19:02:55.022891-07:002024-04-25T19:02:55.022891-07:00

FAA Faces Lawsuit Alleging Racial Discrimination in Air Traffic Controller Hiring

A class action lawsuit has been initiated against the FAA, charging the agency with prioritizing racial considerations over merit in its air traffic controller recruitment process.

2024-04-25T17:11:26.437526-07:002024-04-25T17:11:26.437526-07:00

NATA Disputes GAMI's 'Commercial Availability' Claim for G100UL Avgas

The National Air Transport Association challenges General Aviation Modifications Inc.'s claim that its FAA-approved unleaded avgas, G100UL, is 'commercially available', despite Vitol Aviation's stock of over a million gallons.

2024-04-25T11:20:26.028917-07:002024-04-25T11:20:26.028917-07:00

FAA Distributes $76M for Airport Upgrades Under Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

The FAA's latest round of Airport Infrastructure Grants, fueled by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to modernize facilities with a $76 million investment.