PMAs are unique, in that they are production approvals that also inherently include an eligibility (an installation for which the PMA is eligible). The PMA application must identify the product onto which the PMA part will be installed (14 C.F.R. § 21.303(a)(1)). Before 2009, the installation eligibility was required to be printed on the PMA … Continue reading
The FAA has issued for comment a draft Advisory Circular focused on sample size for statistical analysis in PMA applications. As many of you remember, there was a draft on statistical analysis issued several years ago. MARPA objected to that draft because it implied that every PMA application needed to be based on statistical analysis, … Continue reading
The FAA has released for comment Draft Order 8110.103C. This is an update to the Alternative Methods of Compliance (“AMOC”) guidance. AMOC are typically used when an airworthiness directive (“AD”) provides one resolution to a safety problem, but the AMOC applicant has another approach that achieves the same level of safety. One example would be … Continue reading
When a company known as an “OEM” violates the FAA production approval rules, it is important for the industry to take notice. The industry is filled with PMA companies that strive for compliance perfection on a daily basis. A recent FAA unapproved parts notice (“UPN”) issued against Safran Cabin highlights the importance of obtaining PMAs … Continue reading
The Administration has pledged to reduce the regulatory burden and MARPA responded. We identified three special focus areas that reduce unnecessary burdens and increase safety. On April 3, the DOT published a Federal Register Notice entitled “Ensuring Lawful Regulation; Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs.” This notice sought public comment to aid the administration in its … Continue reading
The FAA has released for comment an updated draft of 8120.22B (Production Approval Procedures). It is open for comment through April 21, 2025. A cursory review shows that the in-line sample documents have been removed from the PMA section. This is an opportunity to ask the FAA to address some industry concerns, like directions that … Continue reading
The new revision to 8130.21J is open for public comment Continue reading
The FAA has published for comment a draft Transport Airplane Risk Assessment Methodology (“TARAM”) Handbook. They have also published a corollary draft policy statement. Both are currently available for public review and comment. The two documents are meant to support risk assessment required by SMS rules, but (1) they are useful for performing risk assessment … Continue reading
FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker has announced that he will step-down in advance of the start of President Trump’s term. This will allow President Trump to nominate a replacement. Whitaker had been nominated by President Biden after a significant career in aviation. He was confirmed by the Senate on October 24, 2023 to a five year … Continue reading
The FAA is currently seeking nominations for appointment to the Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation (BCWA) Advisory Committee Continue reading
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