[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 235 (Wednesday, December 8, 1999)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 68916-68926]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 99-31707]



[[Page 68915]]

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Part IV





Department of Transportation





_______________________________________________________________________



Federal Aviation Administration



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14 CFR Part 65



Revision of Certification Requirements: Aircraft Dispatchers; Final 
Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 64, No. 235 / Wednesday, December 8, 1999 / 
Rules and Regulations  

[[Page 68916]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration.

14 CFR Part 65

[Docket No. FAA-1998-4553; Amendment No. ]
RIN 2120-AG04


Revision of Certification Requirements: Aircraft Dispatchers

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This final rule amends eligibility and certification 
requirements for aircraft dispatchers. The existing regulations 
prescribing these requirements do not reflect the significant 
technological advances that have occurred in the aviation industry and 
the enhancements in training and instructional methods that have 
affected all aircraft dispatchers. This final rule consolidates and 
clarifies eligibility, knowledge, experience, and skill requirements 
for aircraft dispatchers, enhances the technical capabilities of 
aircraft dispatchers, and increases the level of professionalism among 
aircraft dispatchers.

EFFECTIVE DATES: April 6, 2000.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: James E. Gardner, Air Transportation 
Division, Air Carrier Operations Branch, AFS-220, Federal Aviation 
Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; 
telephone (202) 267-9579.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Availability of Final Rules

    An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded using a modem 
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www.access.gpo.gov/nara for access to recently published rulemaking 
documents.
    Any person may obtain a copy of this document by submitting a 
request to the Federal Aviation Administration, Office of Rulemaking, 
ARM-1, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591, or by calling 
(202) 267-9680. Communications must identify the amendment number or 
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    Persons interested in being placed on the mailing list for future 
rulemaking documents should request from the above office a copy of 
Advisory Circular No. 11-2A, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Distribution 
System, which describes the application procedure.

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    The Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA) of 
1996, requires the FAA to comply with small entity requests for 
information or advice about compliance with statutes and regulations 
within its jurisdiction. Therefore, any small entity that has a 
question regarding this document may contact their local FAA official. 
Internet users can find additional information on SBREFA in the ``Quick 
Jump'' section of the FAA's web page at http://www.faa.gov and may send 
electronic inquiries to the following Internet address: 9-AWA-
[email protected]

Background

    In keeping with the FAA's policy of reviewing and updating 
regulations to ensure that they are consistent with changes in the 
aviation environment, the FAA, with the assistance of the Aviation 
Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC), reviewed part 65, subpart C, and 
appendix A of 14 CFR part 65 that pertain to aircraft dispatchers. In 
the preceding 30 years, few changes have been made to the dispatcher 
certification requirements, although numerous technological advances in 
the aviation industry and concerns over changes in operational 
practices and training methods have occurred.
    In October 1993, an industry task force concluded an initial 
investigation of part 65, subpart C. The task force's objective was to 
determine whether part 65, subpart C, needed to be updated, what 
specific sections required updating, and whether industry, training 
schools, and FAA examiners were of the same opinion. The task force was 
comprised of representatives of airlines, associations, unions, 
academia, and other interested parties. The Airline Dispatch Federation 
(ADF) coordinated these activities. The task force found that 
technology had outpaced the current regulations. The task force also 
found that various designated examiners and FAA regional offices were 
interpreting several of the regulations in a manner inconsistent with 
each other and FAA headquarters. The results of this informal task 
force study were presented at several ADF quarterly meetings.
    On September 27, 1993, the Transport Workers Union Local 542 of 
Euless, TX, petitioned the FAA to request a regulatory review of part 
65, subpart C, and appendix A. On November 10, 1993, the FAA requested 
the ARAC to review the initial certification training requirements of 
aircraft dispatchers. The ARAC formed a ``Dispatch Working Group'' to 
complete this assignment (59 FR 3155, January 20, 1994). The ARAC 
tasked this working group to conduct a review of the certification 
requirements for aircraft dispatchers. On October 19, 1998, the FAA 
published a proposal as a result of the ARAC's recommendations (63 FR 
55920). There has been only one substantive change from the NPRM. The 
FAA proposed to allow operating limitations on a dispatcher's 
certificate if the applicant was unable to read, speak, write, or 
understand the English language due to medical reasons. The FAA is not 
going forward with this proposal. For a more detailed discussion of 
this issue, see the Principal Issues section of the preamble. In 
addition, several editorial and clarifying changes have been made to 
the rule language proposed in the NPRM.

General Discussion of the Amendments

    The amendments cover a broad range of issues affecting the 
certification of aircraft dispatchers. The amendments:
    1. Establish a minimum age to be eligible to take the knowledge 
test required by Sec. 65.55.
    2. Update the experience requirements in Sec. 65.57 for an aircraft 
dispatcher certificate.
    3. Allow the equivalent experience finding under Sec. 65.57(a)(4) 
to be made only by the Administrator.
    4. Retain the current basic dispatch certificate without 
introducing a system of ratings or limitations.
    5. Eliminate duplication of certain educational requirements by 
relocating them from current subpart C to appendix A.
    6. Relocate information concerning initial and continued 
eligibility for dispatcher certification courses, training facilities, 
instruction, and records from appendix A to subpart C.
    7. Add an ``overview'' paragraph to appendix A that contains 
general information about aircraft dispatcher training courses.
    8. Revise appendix A to include a new training outline that adds 
new subjects, e.g., ``emergency and abnormal procedure.''
    9. Eliminate sub-category training hour requirements from appendix 
A

[[Page 68917]]

while retaining total course hour requirements.
    10. Introduce ``human factors'' training during initial 
certification.
    11. Introduce in appendix A a training outline that allows training 
to change as technology changes, without the need for a rule change, by 
making the following changes:
    (a) Stating the training outline in general terms so that future 
technological enhancements or changes in operational practices can be 
readily added.
    (b) Linking appendix A to the Dispatch Practical Test Standards 
(PTS) guide, thus allowing training requirements to be revised.

Principal Issues

Revision of Sec. 65.53  Eligibility Requirements

    Section 65.53 adds a minimum age requirement of 21 years to be 
eligible to take the knowledge test. The minimum age requirement to be 
eligible for an aircraft dispatcher certificate is still 23 years of 
age. The FAA added this provision to clear up confusion among training 
centers and to provide a standard policy. Currently, confusion among 
training centers exists when prospective dispatchers take both the 
knowledge and practical exams prior to reaching their 23rd birthday. 
Some training centers find this practice acceptable and delay 
certificate issuance until the age requirement is met. Other training 
centers find this practice unacceptable and do not allow an applicant 
to take the knowledge test until the applicant is 23 years of age. As a 
practical matter, adding a minimum age requirement of 21 years is not a 
substantative change under Sec. 65.55(b) since a passing grade on a 
written test is only valid for 24 months after the date the test is 
given.
    In addition, the term ``knowledge test'' replaces ``written test'' 
because the term ``knowledge test'' is a more inclusive term, referring 
to either a test administered with pencil and paper or by computer.
    Finally, the FAA is adding a requirement and eliminating an 
exception to the English language requirements for flight dispatchers. 
The FAA has determined, for safety concerns, that operations in the 
National Airspace System (NAS) require a basic command of the English 
language. Therefore, it has added the requirement that, to be eligible 
for a dispatcher certificate, a person must be able to write English in 
addition to the current requirements of reading, speaking, and 
understanding the English language. The NPRM also proposed to permit 
limitations to be placed on a dispatcher certificate if a medical 
condition prevented the applicant from reading, writing, speaking, or 
understanding the English language. The FAA is not going forward with 
this proposal because it has determined that a dispatcher cannot 
perform safely without being able to read, write, speak, and understand 
the English language.

Revision of Sec. 65.57  Experience or Training Requirements

    Section 65.57 is reorganized and retitled to provide more clarity. 
In the past, there has been some confusion regarding whether experience 
requirements can be combined with training requirements or whether a 
person must meet the experience requirements and accomplish the 
training requirements. This final rule retitles this section and 
separates the experience requirements from the training requirements to 
make it clear that a person applying for an aircraft dispatcher 
certificate must meet either the experience requirements or the 
training requirements. In addition, this final rule reorganizes the 
experience requirements by separating military experience, part 121 air 
carrier operations experience (14 CFR part 121), and other aircraft 
operations experience. As a result, specific experience is delineated 
to the appropriate category, making the experience requirements easier 
to understand.
    Further, air carrier operations are changed from ``scheduled air 
carrier'' to ``operations conducted under part 121 of this chapter'' to 
ensure that experience is verifiable and applicable. Experience as a 
radio operator is no longer accepted because the FAA has determined 
that radio operators do not have sufficient experience in such subject 
areas as meteorology, weight and balance, emergency procedures, 
applicable regulations, aeronautical charts, and flight planning. Also, 
the experience for air traffic controllers is expanded to include 
``Flight Service Specialist.'' Flight Service Specialists are required 
to have knowledge and perform in the following areas: meteorology, air 
traffic control, pilot briefings, flight planning, aeronautical charts, 
and emergency procedures. Accordingly, the FAA has determined that the 
experience gained as a Flight Service Specialist is applicable to 
experience needed as an aircraft dispatcher.
    In addition, Sec. 65.57(a)(4) in this final rule states that the 
Administrator can make a finding of equivalent experience. The NPRM 
used the term ``Administrator's representative'', and specified that 
such a representative must be a certificated aircraft dispatcher. The 
FAA modified the language to use the term ``Administrator'' since the 
term ``Administrator's representative'' is too inclusive; it includes 
designated aircraft dispatcher examiners (as authorized under part 183 
of this chapter) but does not include FAA inspectors. In addition, it 
is redundant to state that the Administrator's representative must hold 
an aircraft dispatcher certificate since this is already required by 
internal FAA Orders. The requirements for FAA personnel are handled 
through internal Orders as well, and changes may be made regarding FAA 
inspectors and the requirement to hold an aircraft dispatcher 
certificate if the FAA determines such a requirement is needed.
    Finally, this section changes the number of years of experience an 
assistant aircraft dispatcher may use to meet the experience 
requirements for an aircraft dispatcher certificate. Under the current 
rule, an applicant for an aircraft dispatcher certificate may meet the 
experience requirements for an aircraft dispatcher certificate by 
demonstrating that he or she works as an assistant in dispatching 
aircraft while under the direct supervision of a certificated aircraft 
dispatcher for a total of at least one out of the two years before the 
date he or she applies for the certificate. Under this amendment, the 
number of years of assistant aircraft dispatcher experience changes to 
two out of the last three years before the date the applicant applies 
for the certificate. This change standardizes the number of years of 
experience required for all accepted areas of experience and gives the 
assistant aircraft dispatcher an additional opportunity to gain 
experience in a variety of program areas similar to those areas taught 
in certificated aircraft dispatcher courses. The ARAC recommended the 
changes described above to the current experience requirements because 
of its determination that only the proposed experience requirements 
warrant being considered equivalent to the instruction received in an 
approved aircraft dispatcher course. In addition, the FAA is clarifying 
the language in paragraph (b) and codifying existing practice regarding 
training requirements.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

    Under the current regulations for aircraft dispatchers, information 
contained in the knowledge and skill

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sections (Secs. 65.55 and 65.59) was duplicated in the appendix to part 
65 (Aircraft Dispatcher Courses). This final rule removes this 
redundancy by moving detailed training requirements set out in current 
Secs. 65.55(a)(1) through (8) and 65.59(a) through (e) to appendix A. 
This reorganization makes the rules clearer and easier to follow.

Realignment of Regulations and Training Material

    The requirements for obtaining approval of an aircraft dispatcher 
certification course covering required training facilities, 
instruction, and records that were at the end of appendix A are now 
included in subpart C. This material is relocated to Secs. 65.61, 
65.63, 65.65, 65.67, and 65.70. Since this material contains what are 
in fact eligibility requirements, it is more appropriate in the text of 
the regulation than in an appendix. Sections 65.63, 65.65, 65.67, and 
65.70 are new.
    As previously mentioned, detailed training material from the 
Knowledge and Skill sections of part 65 that describe course curriculum 
are being moved into appendix A. With this realignment, all eligibility 
requirements are contained in subpart C and all course related training 
material in appendix A. One exception is that the minimum number of 200 
course hours is included in Sec. 65.61(a) rather than in appendix A for 
clarification. Subcategory hour requirements have been eliminated so 
that an integrated training approach can be used more readily. This 
issue is discussed in more detail in the ``Elimination of Minimum 
Training Times for Subcategories'' section of the preamble.

Appendix A Revision

    As mentioned above, an appendix introductory overview has been 
added to Appendix A and contains information on course topics, use of 
state of the art technologies and techniques, and air carrier specific 
training. While all of the listed material must be taught, the course 
order is flexible and an integrated training approach may be used. In 
the past, blocks of material were taught separately, yet the material 
was interrelated, so an integrated training approach is desirable.
    Appendix A is completely revised based on technological advances 
from the past 30 years and those that may be anticipated in the future. 
Specific changes are discussed in detail below in the ``section by 
section'' analysis.

Elimination of Minimum Training Times for Subcategories

    This final rule provides for a minimum hour content of 200 training 
hours (the previous minimum was 198 hours). The 2 hour increase in 
training accommodates the addition of new topics, e.g., human factors 
training. Appendix A is divided into eight main subject areas but does 
not include a minimum hour requirement for each subject area as it did 
in the past. By eliminating the subcategory hour requirement, an 
integrated training approach can be used more readily. This also allows 
training centers to change curriculum as needs change in the future.

Human Factors Training

    An innovative concept in initial certification training for 
aircraft dispatchers includes the introduction of human factors 
training. This type of training is based on a number of human 
performance variables, such as communication, decision-making, 
teamwork, and leadership. Human factors training for cockpit crewmember 
personnel has been conducted for years and has recently been made 
mandatory for dispatchers under 14 CFR part 121 as well as for flight 
crewmembers under 14 CFR parts 61 and 121 (see ``Air Carrier and 
Commercial Operator Training Programs,'' 60 FR 65940, December 20, 
1995). Today, human factors experts agree that the cockpit crewmember 
is just one part of a team. Experts agree that Crew Resource Management 
(CRM) training is important because it includes all members of the 
operational team (see Advisory Circular (AC) 121-32, ``Dispatch 
Resource Management Training'' and AC 120-51B, as amended, ``Crew 
Resource Management Training''). Rather than wait until the dispatcher 
has begun actively dispatching flights, it is better to begin human 
factors training during the certification process. This provides 
maximum benefit and retention level to the airman prior to actively 
working flights. Of central importance to human factors training are 
communications and decision making. Aircraft dispatchers are the 
communications nexus in the air transportation system. Dispatchers 
routinely communicate with and obtain information from over 25 groups 
of aviation professionals that have responsibility for some portion of 
the air transportation system. Then dispatchers must analyze, 
prioritize, and disseminate information as appropriate. Much of this 
information can be considered critical to the safety of flight. 
Therefore, the FAA has determined that human factors training should be 
required and conducted during initial certification for maximum air 
transportation safety.

Basic Certificate vs. Endorsements and Ratings

    The ARAC, after an extensive analysis, determined that it would be 
better to retain the current certificate structure without introducing 
a system of ratings or endorsements. The ARAC discussed adding an 
``international'' endorsement; however, this was deemed unwarranted due 
to the complexity and unique qualities of international operators. The 
ARAC believed, and the FAA concurred, that airline or equipment-
specific training was best left to the airlines so that it could be 
tailored to specific requirements. Examples of specific types of 
training include twin engine extended range operations, operations in 
areas of magnetic unreliability, and high altitude operations at 
several South American airports.

Future Technological Advancements

    Technology and new operational practices often outpace training and 
the regulations associated with training. This subpart, for example, 
has not been updated for over 30 years. With this in mind the ARAC's 
Dispatch Working Group explored ways to write a training outline that 
would not quickly become obsolete.
    (1) General vs. Specific. The training outline in appendix A is 
written in general terms. If very specific terms were used in the 
representation of technology it could become obsolete within several 
years. Specific automated observations currently include AWOS 
(automated weather observing system), ASOS (automated surface observing 
system), etc. These observations may not be used in the future; 
therefore, the training outline lists ``automated'' weather 
observations.
    (2) Practical Test Standards Guide (PTS). Appendix A contains 
language that references the PTS guide prepared and published by the 
FAA. Through the PTS guide, the FAA is able to give examiners general 
guidance on which subjects are appropriate for testing. From the PTS 
guide, an examiner is able to determine those specific subject areas 
that are appropriate for testing the knowledge and skills of a 
candidate for an aircraft dispatcher certificate. Since it is virtually 
impossible to theorize what technological advancements are in store for 
the aviation community in the future and to reflect those advancements 
specifically in part 65, subpart C and

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appendix A, it is desirable to link the training outline in appendix A 
to a document like the PTS guide that can be easily revised but that is 
exposed to public review and participation.

Section-by-Section Analysis

Part 65--Certification: Airmen Other Than Flight Crewmembers

    The revision to part 65, subpart C, updates eligibility, knowledge, 
experience and skill requirements for initial certification of aircraft 
dispatchers. Regulatory material is revised and relocated from appendix 
A to subpart C.
Section 65.51  Certificate Required
    Section 65.51 contains the basic requirements for an aircraft 
dispatcher certificate and also requires each person who holds an 
aircraft dispatcher certificate to present it for inspection upon 
request of the Administrator or other authorized official. Minor 
editorial changes have been made to the current rule language.
Section 65.53  Eligibility Requirements: General
    Section 65.53 contains eligibility requirements for aircraft 
dispatcher certification. This final rule amends Sec. 65.53 by: (1) 
Establishing a minimum age requirement of 21 years for taking the 
knowledge test; and (2) adding a requirement and eliminating an 
exception to the English language requirements. These changes are more 
fully discussed above under the Principal Issues portion of this 
preamble.
Section 65.55  Knowledge Requirements
    In Sec. 65.55, the term ``written test'' is replaced with the term 
``knowledge test.'' The FAA has determined the term ``knowledge test'' 
is a more inclusive term, referring to either tests administered with 
pencil and paper or by computer. This change is also consistent with 
changes that have been made in other parts of this chapter (e.g., 14 
CFR part 61).
    In addition, general aeronautical knowledge areas are listed. This 
is a change from the NPRM, but is consistent with other parts of this 
chapter (e.g., 14 CFR part 61). This final rule eliminates redundancy 
that is in Secs. 65.55(a)(1) through (8) and 65.59(a) through (e) of 
the current rule. Also, the detailed subject matter is described in 
more general terms, allowing training to change as technology changes 
without the need for a rule change.
    Finally, paragraph (b) was modified from the NPRM to clarify the 
FAA's intent.
Section 65.57  Experience or Training Requirements
    As previously discussed under the Principal Issues section of this 
preamble, this final rule reorganizes and retitles this section.
Section 65.59  Skill Requirements
    The current regulation outlines specific topics and publications to 
be covered during the practical test. However, under this final rule, 
specific topics are deleted to reduce redundancy within other sections 
and the appendix. Instead, Sec. 65.59 states that the test must be 
based on the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test Standards published by 
the FAA on the items outlined in appendix A of part 65. In addition, 
the language in the current rule regarding one type of large aircraft 
was inadvertently omitted from the proposed rule. The language has been 
added back in this final rule. Finally, Sec. 65.59 in this final rule 
states that an applicant for an aircraft dispatcher certificate must 
pass a practical test given by the Administrator. The NPRM used the 
term ``Administrator's representative'', and specified that such a 
representative must be a certificated aircraft dispatcher. The FAA 
modified the language to use the term ``Administrator'' since the term 
``Administrator's representative'' is too inclusive; it includes 
designated aircraft dispatcher examiners (as authorized under part 183 
of this chapter) but does not include FAA inspectors. In addition, it 
is redundant to state that the Administrator's representative must hold 
an aircraft dispatcher certificate since this is already required by 
internal FAA Orders.
Section 65.61  Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Courses: Content and 
Minimum Hours
    The current Sec. 65.61 contains the general requirements for 
obtaining approval of an aircraft dispatcher certification course. 
Under this final rule, these requirements are divided between 
Sec. 65.61(a) and Sec. 65.63(a).
    Section 65.61 also includes the minimum 200 hours of instruction as 
proposed. Under the current regulations, the minimum hours are 
contained in appendix A on a subject-by-subject basis. This issue is 
discussed more fully under the Principal Issues section of this 
preamble.
    Under this final rule, Sec. 65.61(b) requires a course outline as 
does the current rule but, in addition, it requires that the outline 
indicate the number of hours proposed for major topics and subtopics to 
be covered since these hours are no longer stated in appendix A. 
Section 65.61(c) also includes a provision, currently in appendix A, 
paragraph (a), that additional subject headings can be included, but 
that the hours proposed for any subjects not listed in appendix A must 
be in addition to the minimum 200 required hours of instruction.
    This final rule amends Sec. 65.61(d) by including a provision, 
currently in paragraph (f) of appendix A, that allows a student to 
receive credit for a portion of the required 200 hours of instruction 
by substituting previous experience or training. As is currently the 
case, this final rule requires that the basis for any allowance and the 
total hours credited must be incorporated in the student's records.
    Finally, the proposed introductory language in Sec. 65.61 is being 
deleted in this final rule since the requirement is already contained 
in 14 CFR part 121, subpart P and is more appropriate for an operating 
rule.
Section 65.63  Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Courses: Application, 
Duration, and Other General Requirements
    Section 65.63 is a new section that includes in paragraph (a) the 
requirement for a letter application currently contained in Sec. 65.61 
that are more appropriate for the operating rule. Under this final 
rule, a person is required to submit only two copies of the course 
outline, in place of the three copies currently required. The FAA has 
determined that three copies are not needed and that the requirement 
imposes an unnecessary economic cost on the person and an 
administrative burden on the FAA.
    Section 65.63(b) contains the duration requirements and includes 
the current 24-month duration for FAA approval of an aircraft 
dispatcher certification course.
    Section 65.65(c) contains the renewal requirements for an approved 
aircraft dispatcher certification course. The only substantive change 
from the current rule is that an application for renewal has to be 
submitted at least 30 days before the expiration date. Currently it can 
be submitted up to 60 days after the expiration date. This change is 
needed to prevent approval of a course from continuing beyond its 
expiration date. In addition, this section continues the 80 percent 
success rate requirement currently under Appendix A but applies the 80 
percent rate over a 24 month

[[Page 68920]]

period that is consistent with Sec. 141.5 (14 CFR 141.5).
    Section 65.63(d) continues to contain the requirements for 
obtaining approval of course revisions.
    Section 65.63(e) contains the provisions for withdrawal or 
cancellation of approval of an aircraft dispatcher certification 
course, whether at the FAA's or the operator's initiative. When a 
course approval is withdrawn or canceled, the operator is required to 
send to the FAA any records requested by the Administrator so that they 
are available if needed.
    Sections 65.63(f) and (g) contain most of the current requirements 
that apply to changes in ownership, name, or location of an approved 
course. Two substantive changes from the current rule have been made. 
Currently, the section states that ``approval of an aircraft dispatcher 
course may not be continued in effect after the course has changed 
ownership.'' Under this final rule, Sec. 65.63(f) allows for 
continuation of approval after a change of ownership if application is 
made for an appropriate amendment to the approval and no change in the 
facilities, personnel, or approved aircraft dispatcher course is 
involved. The other change requires that the Administrator must be 
notified in writing within 10 days of any changes in ownership, name, 
or location. The current rule requires notification of a change in 
location ``without delay.'' This change avoids differing 
interpretations of how much time is allowed.
    In addition, Sec. 65.63 has been reorganized from the NPRM for 
clarification and to make it consistent with other parts of 14 CFR 
(e.g., 14 CFR 141).
Section 65.65  Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Courses: Training 
Facilities
    Section 65.65 is a new section that prescribes the training 
facilities necessary to operate an approved school. This section is 
based primarily on material that is provided for in appendix A. The 
section adds a requirement that the training facility must be located 
so that the students in that facility are not distracted by the 
instruction conducted in other rooms. This requirement aligns this 
section with part 141 of this chapter.
Section 65.67  Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Courses: Instruction
    Section 65.67 is a new section that prescribes instruction 
requirements necessary to operate an approved school that are mostly 
based on material that is provided for in appendix A. The maximum 
student-teacher ratio remains unchanged at 25 to 1.
Section 65.70  Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Courses: Records
    Section 65.70 is a new section that prescribes recordkeeping 
requirements based on material currently provided for in appendix A. A 
change, however, allows schools to discard records after 3 years so 
that recordkeeping does not become a burden. This change could result 
in significant cost savings to dispatcher schools since a literal 
reading of the current regulations requires these records to be 
retained indefinitely.

Appendix A to Part 65--Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Courses

    The overview paragraph introduces the specific minimum set of 
topics that must be covered in an aircraft dispatcher training course 
and contains general information about those courses.
    The individual subject hourly requirements (e.g., Federal Aviation 
Regulations, 15 classroom hours; meteorology, 75 classroom hours) are 
eliminated, and in their place a total course-hour minimum is included 
in Sec. 61.61(a) as discussed above.
    A word-by-word comparison of new appendix A with current appendix A 
might make it appear that this regulation is adding to the subject 
areas to be covered. However, the FAA understands that as a practical 
matter, training schools, partially through the use of the PTS guide, 
are in fact covering the subject areas listed in the new requirements. 
In addition, by using modern teaching methods and training aids, it is 
possible to cover the proposed curriculum without an increase in 
overall teaching hours.
    The new curriculum is considered necessary because of the important 
role of the aircraft dispatcher in maintaining safety of flight 
operations. The aircraft dispatcher and the pilot in command are 
jointly responsible for the authorization and control of a flight in 
accordance with applicable regulations and air carrier procedures. This 
responsibility extends from the preparation for a flight to its 
conclusion, and includes dealing with emergency situations.
    Many of the dispatcher's tasks require familiarity in dealing with 
specific regulations and air carrier procedures. Others require 
exercising judgment to deal with unique aspects of a situation. 
Virtually all of these problem-solving activities require skill in 
working with the flight crew, Air Traffic Control, and members of the 
Air Carrier Operations Control and Maintenance staff.
Regulations
    In addition to the parts currently covered (subpart C of part 65 
and parts 25, 91, 121), a course has to cover parts 1, 61, 71, 139, and 
175 of chapter I of 14 CFR as well as part 830 of the regulations of 
the National Transportation Safety Board, ``Rules Pertaining to 
Aircraft Accidents, Incidents, Overdue Aircraft, and Safety 
Investigation.'' Another addition to appendix A training requirements 
is training on the ``General Operating Manual,'' that is, training on 
the common features of a typical certificate holder's manual.
Meteorology
    Meteorology is sub-divided into three subject headings: (1) Basic 
Weather Studies; (2) Weather, Analysis, and Forecasts; and (3) Weather 
Related Hazards. The subject of meteorology, due to its importance, is 
updated and expanded to provide greater detail for instructional 
guidance.
Navigation
    Navigation is expanded to provide an introduction to international 
flight planning procedures and limitations.
Aircraft
    Aircraft is updated to provide expanded systems training to ensure 
proper application of this knowledge.
Communications
    Communications is expanded to include data link communications as 
well as sources of aeronautical information.
Air Traffic Control
    Air traffic control is expanded to encompass areas of air traffic 
management.
Emergency and Abnormal Procedures
    This new section addresses security; in particular, identifying, 
declaring, and reporting emergencies.
Practical Dispatch Applications
    This section replaces the old practical dispatching section. 
Practical dispatch applications introduce the dispatch candidate to 
human factors as applied to decisionmaking, human error, and teamwork.
    The ``applied dispatching'' sub-section provides the student with 
methods of application for all previous subject matter.
    To ensure that future technological advancements are taught, this 
appendix is linked to the PTS guide. The PTS is periodically revised, 
whereas regulatory

[[Page 68921]]

changes may not keep up with technological advancements.

Discussion of Comments

    Five comments were received in response to Notice No. 98-14 (63 FR 
55920; October 19, 1998). The comments were from: Airline Ground 
Schools (AGS); Academy Education Center (AEC), Inc; Timothy C. 
Antolovic, Dispatch Working Group Chairperson; Flight Control Academy 
(FCA); and Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA). All but 
AEC explicitly stated they supported the NPRM, although several 
commenters suggested minor revisions discussed more fully below. AEC 
did not state whether or not it supported the NPRM and submitted 
suggested revisions discussed more fully below.
    Section 61.51: AEC stated that this section does not address 
certificate expiration, refresher training, bi-annual reviews, desk 
audits, etc.
    FAA Response: Training and reviews are included in 14 CFR part 121. 
The FAA notes that dispatcher certificates do not expire, but they must 
be kept current in order to exercise the privileges of the certificate. 
The currency requirements are included in 14 CFR part 121.
    Section 61.53: AEC recommended that if a candidate is under 23 
years of age and passes the knowledge and practical exams, a form 
should be provided to officially record that the candidate is eligible 
for a certificate at age 23. In addition, AEC stated that limitations 
should be permitted to be placed on an individual's flight dispatcher 
certificate based on medical conditions. It also stated that guidelines 
should be provided regarding operating limitations.
    FAA response: The FAA does not believe such a form should be 
required since knowledge test results are valid for 2 years. Regarding 
medical limitations on certificates, the FAA has determined that a 
dispatcher certificate should remain unrestricted. Medical limitations, 
such as those on pilot certificates, are not appropriate in the 
dispatcher environment.
    Section 65.55: AEC suggested identifying FAA-Authorized ADX 
Computerized test.
    FAA Response: The FAA does not intend to use specific terms such as 
the ADX computerized test in order to allow for changes in technology. 
In addition, ``knowledge test'' would encompass the ADX computerized 
test.
    Section 65.57: AGS, while stating it was in agreement with the 
proposal, disagreed with excluding ATP-rated pilots who gained 
experience in other than military or part 121 operations, as an air 
traffic controller, or as a flight service specialist. It stated that 
it would not discriminate between military experience (no FAA ATP 
certificate) and civilian ATP experience. AGS also suggested that 
foreign air carrier pilots operating under part 129 meet the minimum 
requirements for consideration of substitution of experience. It stated 
that such pilots are required to be dispatched by a licensed US 
dispatcher to or from the United States. Finally, AGS stated that any 
ATP-rated pilot can request a dispatcher checkride from an FAA Flight 
Standards District Office (FSDO) when he/she has passed the knowledge 
exam by simply recommending himself/herself. It stated that this 
procedure should not be changed.
    In addition, AEC suggested changing the term ``Administrator'' to 
``FAA FSDO Administrator'' in order to differentiate between the FAA 
administrator and Aircraft Dispatcher training school administrator.
    FCA recommended that credit should be offered to all Canadian 
dispatchers who have completed the Transport Canada curriculum or that 
a bilateral agreement be established that would allow the knowledge 
testing to be waived for personnel of both the U.S. and Canada who have 
passed these tests in their respective countries. FCA also stated that 
a practical test could be given by an approved school or agency and 
upon satisfactory completion of the practical test, the license for 
either country would be issued.
    FAA Response: Regarding AGS's concern that the proposal 
discriminates between experience gained in military operations and 
civilian ATP operations, the FAA finds that dispatch systems are not 
required under operations conducted under part 91 and part 135. 
Therefore, such experience does not offer the same level of experience 
regarding dispatchers as military operations or operations conducted 
under part 121.
    Regarding AGS's suggestion that foreign air carrier pilots 
operating under part 129 meet the minimum requirements for 
consideration of substitution of experience, the FAA notes that part 
129 does not require the use of aircraft dispatchers. Therefore, no 
change is being made from the proposal.
    Regarding AGS's comment about allowing an ATP-rated pilot to 
request a dispatcher checkride from an FAA FSDO after passing the 
knowledge exam and recommending himself or herself, the FAA notes that 
it did not propose any change to this practice, as long as the ATP-
rated pilot meets the experience requirements of 65.57.
    In response to AEC's suggestion to change the term 
``Administrator'', the FAA notes that this is the term that is used 
throughout 14 CFR. The FAA needs to be consistent throughout our 
requirements. Therefore, the term ``Administrator'' remains in the rule 
language.
    In addition, the FAA notes that FCA's comments regarding Canada are 
beyond the scope of this rulemaking.
    Section 65.61: AEC recommended using the term ``air carrier'' 
instead of ``course operator in Sec. 65.61(c).'' ALPA noted that the 
terminology ``a minimum of 200 total course hours'' is not clear 
whether it means ``classroom hours'' or could include other ``hours'' 
such as computer based training.
    FAA Response: The term ``course operator'' is correct in this 
context since the course operator is conducting the course under 14 CFR 
part 65, not 14 CFR part 121. Regarding ALPA's comment, the FAA has 
changed the rule language from ``a minimum of 200 total course hours'' 
to ``a minimum of 200 hours of instruction'' to clarify that a portion 
of those hours could include hours from computer based training.
    Appendix A: AGS suggested that Computerized Flight Plan training be 
specifically included.
    FAA Response: The FAA finds that Computerized Flight Plan training 
is not appropriate to specifically include in general areas of 
knowledge, since most air carriers have their own sophisticated 
computerized flight planning system. Manual flight plan training is 
needed in part 65, appendix A, ``Courses'' to understand the general 
concepts of flight planning. Specific knowledge in individual carrier's 
computerized programs is gained through training required under part 
121.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    Sections 65.63 and 65.70 contain information reporting, 
recordkeeping, and 3rd party notification requirements. As required by 
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3507(d)), the FAA has 
submitted a copy of these sections to the Office of Management and 
Budget for its review. The collection of information was approved and 
assigned OMB Control Number 2120-0648. No comments were received on 
this information collection submission. An agency may not conduct or 
sponsor and a person is not required to respond to a collection of 
information unless it displays a currently valid Office of Management 
and Budget (OMB) control number.

[[Page 68922]]

    Section 65.63(a) requires that application for original approval of 
an aircraft dispatcher certification course or the renewal of approval 
of an aircraft dispatcher certification course must be made in writing 
to the Administrator; accompanied by two copies of the course outline 
required under Sec. 65.61(b) for which approval is sought; accompanied 
by a description of the equipment and facilities to be used; and 
accompanied by a list of the instructors and their qualifications. This 
information is necessary for the FAA to evaluate the applicant's 
qualifications and compliance with the requirements of proposed subpart 
C of part 63.
    Section 65.63(c) requires that application for renewal of an 
approved aircraft dispatcher certification course must be made within 
30 days preceding the month the approval expires. This will allow the 
FAA time to review the course operator's performance and continued 
qualification for course approval.
    Section 65.63(e) requires that a course operator who desires 
voluntary cancellation of an approved course must send a letter to the 
Administrator. This will provide the FAA with documentation showing the 
reason for the cancellation. After the course has been canceled, the 
operator is required to send any records to the FAA that the 
Administrator requests so that they will be available if needed.
    Section 65.63(f) requires that 10 days after the date any change in 
ownership of the school occurs application is made for an appropriate 
amendment to the approval.
    The FAA estimates the annual recordkeeping burden for Sec. 65.63 to 
be 71 hours per year.
    Section 65.70 requires that course operators keep a chronological 
log for 3 years of all instructors, subjects covered, and course 
examinations and results. In addition, the course operator must 
transmit to the Administrator, not later than January 31 of each year, 
a report for the previous year that lists the names of all students who 
graduated, together with the results of their aircraft dispatcher 
certification courses and the names of all the students who failed or 
withdrew, together with the results of their aircraft dispatcher 
certification courses or the reasons for their withdrawal. These 
requirements are necessary for the FAA to evaluate the quality of the 
course and the operator's compliance with part 65.
    Section 65.70(b) requires the course operator to provide a written 
statement of graduation to each student who successfully completes the 
approved course. This requirement is necessary so that the student has 
documentation of his or her qualification to serve as an aircraft 
dispatcher.
    The FAA estimates the annual recordkeeping burden for Sec. 65.70 
compliance to be 1440 hours per year.
    The annual reporting and recordkeeping burden for each aircraft 
dispatcher certification course operator has not changed as a result of 
this rulemaking. However, each aircraft dispatcher certification 
operator will be required to update the course curriculum and training 
outline, which will be a one time occurrence of up to 80 hours.

Compatibility With ICAO Standards

    In keeping with U.S. obligations under the Convention on 
International Civil Aviation, it is FAA policy to comply with 
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and 
Recommended Practices to the maximum extent practicable. The FAA has 
reviewed the corresponding ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices and 
has identified no differences with these proposed regulations.

Regulatory Evaluation Summary

    Proposed and final rule changes to Federal regulations must undergo 
several economic analyses. First, Executive Order 12866 directs that 
each Federal agency shall propose or adopt a regulation only upon a 
reasoned determination that the benefits of the intended regulation 
justify its costs. Second, the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 
requires agencies to analyze the economic effect of regulatory changes 
on small entities. Third, the Office of Management and Budget directs 
agencies to assess the effect of regulatory changes on international 
trade. In conducting these analyses, the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA) has determined that the final rule will generate 
benefits that justify its costs and is not ``a significant regulatory 
action'' as defined in the Executive Order or Department of 
Transportation Regulatory Policies and Procedures. The final rule will 
not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities 
and will not constitute a barrier to international trade. In addition, 
this final rule does not contain any Federal intergovernmental 
mandates, but does contain a private sector mandate. However, because 
expenditures by the private sector will not exceed $100 million 
annually, the requirements of Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform 
Act of 1995 do not apply.
    This rule amends existing regulations that define the qualification 
and certification requirements for aircraft dispatchers. Current 
regulations prescribing these requirements do not reflect the 
significant technological advances that have occurred in the aviation 
industry and the enhancements in training and instructional methods 
that have affected all aircraft dispatchers.
    The FAA has determined that the final rule has little affect on 
aviation industry costs, but results in minor cost savings for 
dispatcher schools by relieving them of the burden to retain records 
indefinitely. Additionally, the rule consolidates and clarifies 
eligibility, knowledge, experience, and skill requirements among 
aircraft dispatchers.
    Ordinarily, a full regulatory evaluation of the potential monetary 
costs that would be imposed and benefits that would be generated is 
prepared for all FAA rulemaking actions. For this final rule, however, 
a full regulatory evaluation is unwarranted because little costs will 
be imposed on the U.S. aviation community. Thus, the FAA has not 
prepared a full regulatory evaluation for the docket.

Regulatory Flexibility Determination

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 establishes ``as a principle 
of regulatory issuance that agencies shall endeavor, consistent with 
the objective of the rule and of applicable statutes, to fit regulatory 
and informational requirements to the scale of the business, 
organizations, and governmental jurisdictions subject to regulation.'' 
To achieve that principal, the Act requires agencies to solicit and 
consider flexible regulatory proposals and to explain the rationale for 
their actions. The Act covers a wide-range of small entities, including 
small businesses, not-for-profit organizations and small governmental 
jurisdictions.
    Agencies must perform a review to determine whether a proposed or 
final rule will have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities. If the determination is that it will, the 
agency must prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis (RFA) as 
described in the Act.
    However, if an agency determines that a proposed or final rule is 
not expected to have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities, section 605(b) of the 1980 act provides that 
the head of the agency may so certify and an RFA is not required. The 
certification must include a statement providing the factual basis for 
this determination, and the reasoning should be clear.

[[Page 68923]]

    This rule will impact entities regulated by Part 65. This final 
rule will not impose any additional costs on small entities covered by 
these changes to Part 65. Accordingly, the Federal Aviation 
Administration certifies that this rule will not have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

International Trade Impact Assessment

    This final rule will not impose a competitive disadvantage to 
either U.S. air carriers doing business abroad or foreign air carriers 
doing business in the United States. This assessment is based on the 
fact that this rule will not impose any additional costs on the 
aviation industry. This final rule will have no effect on the sale of 
foreign aviation products or services in the United States, nor will it 
affect the sale of United States aviation products or services in 
foreign countries.

Federalism Implications

    The regulations herein will not have a substantial direct effect on 
the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the 
States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the 
various levels of government. Therefore, in accordance with Executive 
Order 12612, it is determined that this rule will not have sufficient 
federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a federalism 
assessment.

Energy Impact

    The energy impact of this final rule has been assessed in 
accordance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) and 
Public Law 94-163, as amended (42 U.S.C. 6362). It has been determined 
that this proposed rule is not a major regulatory action under the 
provisions of the EPCA.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 65

    Air traffic controllers, Aircraft, Aircraft dispatchers, Airmen, 
Airports, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

The Amendment

    In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation 
Administration amends part 65, Chapter I, Code of Federal Regulations, 
as follows:

PART 65--CERTIFICATION: AIRMEN OTHER THAN FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS

    1. The authority citation for part 65 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701-44703, 44707, 44709-
44711, 45102-45103, 45301-45302.

    2. Subpart C of part 65 is revised to read as follows:

Subpart C--Aircraft Dispatchers

Sec.
65.51  Certificate required.
65.53  Eligibility requirements: General.
65.55  Knowledge requirements.
65.57  Experience or training requirements.
65.59  Skill requirements.
65.61  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Content and 
minimum hours.
65.63  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Application, 
duration, and other general requirements.
65.65  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Training 
facilities.
65.67  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Personnel.
65.70  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Records.

Subpart C--Aircraft Dispatchers


Sec. 65.51  Certificate required.

    (a) No person may act as an aircraft dispatcher (exercising 
responsibility with the pilot in command in the operational control of 
a flight) in connection with any civil aircraft in air commerce unless 
that person has in his or her personal possession an aircraft 
dispatcher certificate issued under this subpart.
    (b) Each person who holds an aircraft dispatcher certificate must 
present it for inspection upon the request of the Administrator or an 
authorized representative of the National Transportation Safety Board, 
or of any Federal, State, or local law enforcement officer.


Sec. 65.53  Eligibility requirements: General.

    (a) To be eligible to take the aircraft dispatcher knowledge test, 
a person must be at least 21 years of age.
    (b) To be eligible for an aircraft dispatcher certificate, a person 
must--
    (1) Be at least 23 years of age;
    (2) Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English 
language;
    (3) Pass the required knowledge test prescribed by Sec. 65.55 of 
this part;
    (4) Pass the required practical test prescribed by Sec. 65.59 of 
this part; and
    (5) Comply with the requirements of Sec. 65.57 of this part.


Sec. 65.55  Knowledge requirements.

    (a) A person who applies for an aircraft dispatcher certificate 
must pass a knowledge test on the following aeronautical knowledge 
areas:
    (1) Applicable Federal Aviation Regulations of this chapter that 
relate to airline transport pilot privileges, limitations, and flight 
operations;
    (2) Meteorology, including knowledge of and effects of fronts, 
frontal characteristics, cloud formations, icing, and upper-air data;
    (3) General system of weather and NOTAM collection, dissemination, 
interpretation, and use;
    (4) Interpretation and use of weather charts, maps, forecasts, 
sequence reports, abbreviations, and symbols;
    (5) National Weather Service functions as they pertain to 
operations in the National Airspace System;
    (6) Windshear and microburst awareness, identification, and 
avoidance;
    (7) Principles of air navigation under instrument meteorological 
conditions in the National Airspace System;
    (8) Air traffic control procedures and pilot responsibilities as 
they relate to enroute operations, terminal area and radar operations, 
and instrument departure and approach procedures;
    (9) Aircraft loading, weight and balance, use of charts, graphs, 
tables, formulas, and computations, and their effect on aircraft 
performance;
    (10) Aerodynamics relating to an aircraft's flight characteristics 
and performance in normal and abnormal flight regimes;
    (11) Human factors;
    (12) Aeronautical decision making and judgment; and
    (13) Crew resource management, including crew communication and 
coordination.
    (b) The applicant must present documentary evidence satisfactory to 
the administrator of having passed an aircraft dispatcher knowledge 
test within the preceding 24 calendar months.


Sec. 65.57  Experience or training requirements.

    An applicant for an aircraft dispatcher certificate must present 
documentary evidence satisfactory to the Administrator that he or she 
has the experience prescribed in paragraph (a) of this section or has 
accomplished the training described in paragraph (b) of this section as 
follows:
    (a) A total of at least 2 years experience in the 3 years before 
the date of application, in any one or in any combination of the 
following areas:
    (1) In military aircraft operations     as a--
    (i) Pilot;
    (ii) Flight navigator; or
    (iii) Meteorologist.
    (2) In aircraft operations conducted under part 121 of this chapter 
as--
    (i) An assistant in dispatching air carrier aircraft, under the 
direct supervision of a dispatcher certificated under this subpart;
    (ii) A pilot;
    (iii) A flight engineer; or
    (iv) A meteorologist.

[[Page 68924]]

    (3) In aircraft operations as--
    (i) An Air Traffic Controller; or
    (ii) A Flight Service Specialist.
    (4) In aircraft operations, performing other duties that the 
Administrator finds provide equivalent experience.
    (b) A statement of graduation issued or revalidated in accordance 
with Sec. 65.70(b) of this part, showing that the person has 
successfully completed an approved aircraft dispatcher course.


Sec. 65.59  Skill requirements.

    An applicant for an aircraft dispatcher certificate must pass a 
practical test given by the Administrator, with respect to any one type 
of large aircraft used in air carrier operations. The practical test 
must be based on the aircraft dispatcher practical test standards, as 
published by the FAA, on the items outlined in appendix A of this part.


Sec. 65.61  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Content and 
minimum hours.

    (a) An approved aircraft dispatcher certification course must:
    (1) Provide instruction in the areas of knowledge and topics listed 
in appendix A of this part;
    (2) Include a minimum of 200 hours of instruction.
    (b) An applicant for approval of an aircraft dispatcher course must 
submit an outline that describes the major topics and subtopics to be 
covered and the number of hours proposed for each.
    (c) Additional subject headings for an aircraft dispatcher 
certification course may also be included, however the hours proposed 
for any subjects not listed in appendix A of this part must be in 
addition to the minimum 200 course hours required in paragraph (a) of 
this section.
    (d) For the purpose of completing an approved course, a student may 
substitute previous experience or training for a portion of the minimum 
200 hours of training. The course operator determines the number of 
hours of credit based on an evaluation of the experience or training to 
determine if it is comparable to portions of the approved course 
curriculum. The credit allowed, including the total hours and the basis 
for it, must be placed in the student's record required by 
Sec. 65.70(a) of this part.


Sec. 65.63  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Application, 
duration, and other general requirements.

    (a) Application. Application for original approval of an aircraft 
dispatcher certification course or the renewal of approval of an 
aircraft dispatcher certification course under this part must be:
    (1) Made in writing to the Administrator;
    (2) Accompanied by two copies of the course outline required under 
Sec. 65.61(b) of this part, for which approval is sought;
    (3) Accompanied by a description of the equipment and facilities to 
be used; and
    (4) Accompanied by a list of the instructors and their 
qualifications.
    (b) Duration. Unless withdrawn or canceled, an approval of an 
aircraft dispatcher certification course of study expires:
    (1) On the last day of the 24th month from the month the approval 
was issued; or
    (2) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, on the 
date that any change in ownership of the school occurs.
    (c) Renewal. Application for renewal of an approved aircraft 
dispatcher certification course must be made within 30 days preceding 
the month the approval expires, provided the course operator meets the 
following requirements:
    (1) At least 80 percent of the graduates from that aircraft 
dispatcher certification course, who applied for the practical test 
required by Sec. 65.59 of this part, passed the practical test on their 
first attempt; and
    (2) The aircraft dispatcher certification course continues to meet 
the requirements of this subpart for course approval.
    (d) Course revisions. Requests for approval of a revision of the 
course outline, facilities, or equipment must be in accordance with 
paragraph (a) of this section. Proposed revisions of the course outline 
or the description of facilities and equipment must be submitted in a 
format that will allow an entire page or pages of the approved outline 
or description to be removed and replaced by any approved revision. The 
list of instructors may be revised at any time without request for 
approval, provided the minimum requirements of Sec. 65.67 of this part 
are maintained and the Administrator is notified in writing.
    (e) Withdrawal or cancellation of approval. Failure to continue to 
meet the requirements of this subpart for the approval or operation of 
an approved aircraft dispatcher certification course is grounds for 
withdrawal of approval of the course. A course operator may request 
cancellation of course approval by a letter to the Administrator. The 
operator must forward any records to the FAA as requested by the 
Administrator.
    (f) Change in ownership. A change in ownership of a part 65, 
appendix A-approved course does not terminate that aircraft dispatcher 
certification course approval if, within 10 days after the date that 
any change in ownership of the school occurs:
    (1) Application is made for an appropriate amendment to the 
approval; and
    (2) No change in the facilities, personnel, or approved aircraft 
dispatcher certification course is involved.
    (g) Change in name or location. A change in name or location of an 
approved aircraft dispatcher certification course does not invalidate 
the approval if, within 10 days after the date that any change in name 
or location occurs, the course operator of the part 65, appendix A-
approved course notifies the Administrator, in writing, of the change.


Sec. 65.65  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Training 
facilities.

    An applicant for approval of authority to operate an aircraft 
dispatcher course of study must have facilities, equipment, and 
materials adequate to provide each student the theoretical and 
practical aspects of aircraft dispatching. Each room, training booth, 
or other space used for instructional purposes must be temperature 
controlled, lighted, and ventilated to conform to local building, 
sanitation, and health codes. In addition, the training facility must 
be so located that the students in that facility are not distracted by 
the instruction conducted in other rooms.


Sec. 65.67  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Personnel.

    (a) Each applicant for an aircraft dispatcher certification course 
must meet the following personnel requirements:
    (1) Each applicant must have adequate personnel, including one 
instructor who holds an aircraft dispatcher certificate and is 
available to coordinate all training course instruction.
    (2) Each applicant must not exceed a ratio of 25 students for one 
instructor.
    (b) The instructor who teaches the practical dispatch applications 
area of the appendix A course must hold an aircraft dispatchers 
certificate


Sec. 65.70  Aircraft dispatcher certification courses: Records.

    (a) The operator of an aircraft dispatcher course must maintain a 
record for each student, including a chronological log of all 
instructors, subjects covered, and course examinations and results. The 
record must be retained for at least 3 years after graduation. The 
course operator also

[[Page 68925]]

must prepare, for its records, and transmit to the Administrator not 
later than January 31 of each year, a report containing the following 
information for the previous year:
    (1) The names of all students who graduated, together with the 
results of their aircraft dispatcher certification courses.
    (2) The names of all the students who failed or withdrew, together 
with the results of their aircraft dispatcher certification courses or 
the reasons for their withdrawal.
    (b) Each student who successfully completes the approved aircraft 
dispatcher certification course must be given a written statement of 
graduation, which is valid for 90 days. After 90 days, the course 
operator may revalidate the graduation certificate for an additional 90 
days if the course operator determines that the student remains 
proficient in the subject areas listed in appendix A of this part.
    3. Appendix A to part 65 is revised to read as follows:

Appendix A to Part 65--Aircraft Dispatcher Courses

Overview

    This appendix sets forth the areas of knowledge necessary to 
perform dispatcher functions. The items listed below indicate the 
minimum set of topics that must be covered in a training course for 
aircraft dispatcher certification. The order of coverage is at the 
discretion of the approved school. For the latest technological 
advancements refer to the Practical Test Standards as published by 
the FAA.
I. Regulations
    A. Subpart C of this part;
    B. Parts 1, 25, 61, 71, 91, 121, 139, and 175, of this chapter;
    C. 49 CFR part 830;
    D. General Operating Manual.
II. Meteorology
    A. Basic Weather Studies
    (1) The earth's motion and its effects on weather.
    (2) Analysis of the following regional weather types, 
characteristics, and structures, or combinations thereof:
    (a) Maritime.
    (b) Continental.
    (c) Polar.
    (d) Tropical.
    (3) Analysis of the following local weather types, 
characteristics, and structures or combinations thereof:
    (a) Coastal.
    (b) Mountainous.
    (c) Island.
    (d) Plains.
    (4) The following characteristics of the atmosphere:
    (a) Layers.
    (b) Composition.
    (c) Global Wind Patterns.
    (d) Ozone.
    (5) Pressure:
    (a) Units of Measure.
    (b) Weather Systems Characteristics.
    (c) Temperature Effects on Pressure.
    (d) Altimeters.
    (e) Pressure Gradient Force.
    (f) Pressure Pattern Flying Weather.
    (6) Wind:
    (a) Major Wind Systems and Coriolis Force.
    (b) Jetstreams and their Characteristics.
    (c) Local Wind and Related Terms.
    (7) States of Matter:
    (a) Solids, Liquid, and Gases.
    (b) Causes of change of state.
    (8) Clouds:
    (a) Composition, Formation, and Dissipation.
    (b) Types and Associated Precipitation.
    (c) Use of Cloud Knowledge in Forecasting.
    (9) Fog:
    (a) Causes, Formation, and Dissipation.
    (b) Types.
    (10) Ice:
    (a) Causes, Formation, and Dissipation.
    (b) Types.
    (11) Stability/Instability:
    (a) Temperature Lapse Rate, Convection.
    (b) Adiabatic Processes.
    (c) Lifting Processes.
    (d) Divergence.
    (e) Convergence.
    (12) Turbulence:
    (a) Jetstream Associated.
    (b) Pressure Pattern Recognition.
    (c) Low Level Windshear.
    (d) Mountain Waves.
    (e) Thunderstorms.
    (f) Clear Air Turbulence.
    (13) Airmasses:
    (a) Classification and Characteristics.
    (b) Source Regions.
    (c) Use of Airmass Knowledge in Forecasting.
    (14) Fronts:
    (a) Structure and Characteristics, Both Vertical and Horizontal.
    (b) Frontal Types.
    (c) Frontal Weather Flying.
    (15) Theory of Storm Systems:
    (a) Thunderstorms.
    (b) Tornadoes.
    (c) Hurricanes and Typhoons.
    (d) Microbursts.
    (e) Causes, Formation, and Dissipation.
    B. Weather, Analysis, and Forecasts
    (1) Observations:
    (a) Surface Observations.
    (i) Observations made by certified weather observer.
    (ii) Automated Weather Observations.
    (b) Terminal Forecasts.
    (c) Significant En route Reports and Forecasts.
    (i) Pilot Reports.
    (ii) Area Forecasts.
    (iii) Sigmets, Airmets.
    (iv) Center Weather Advisories.
    (d) Weather Imagery.
    (i) Surface Analysis.
    (ii) Weather Depiction.
    (iii) Significant Weather Prognosis.
    (iv) Winds and Temperature Aloft.
    (v) Tropopause Chart.
    (vi) Composite Moisture Stability Chart.
    (vii) Surface Weather Prognostic Chart.
    (viii) Radar Meteorology.
    (ix) Satellite Meteorology.
    (x) Other charts as applicable.
    (e) Meteorological Information Data Collection Systems.
    (2) Data Collection, Analysis, and Forecast Facilities.
    (3) Service Outlets Providing Aviation Weather Products.
    C. Weather Related Aircraft Hazards
    (1) Crosswinds and Gusts.
    (2) Contaminated Runways.
    (3) Restrictions to Surface Visibility.
    (4) Turbulence and Windshear.
    (5) Icing.
    (6) Thunderstorms and Microburst.
    (7) Volcanic Ash.
III. Navigation
    A. Study of the Earth
    (1) Time reference and location (0 Longitude, UTC).
    (2) Definitions.
    (3) Projections.
    (4) Charts.
    B. Chart Reading, Application, and Use.
    C. National Airspace Plan.
    D. Navigation Systems.
    E. Airborne Navigation Instruments.
    F. Instrument Approach Procedures.
    (1) Transition Procedures.
    (2) Precision Approach Procedures.
    (3) Non-precision Approach Procedures.
    (4) Minimums and the relationship to weather.
    G. Special Navigation and Operations.
    (1) North Atlantic.
    (2) Pacific.
    (3) Global Differences.
IV. AIRCRAFT
    A. Aircraft Flight Manual.
    B. Systems Overview.
    (1) Flight controls.
    (2) Hydraulics.
    (3) Electrical.
    (4) Air Conditioning and Pressurization.
    (5) Ice and Rain protection.
    (6) Avionics, Communication, and Navigation.
    (7) Powerplants and Auxiliary Power Units.
    (8) Emergency and Abnormal Procedures.
    (9) Fuel Systems and Sources.
    C. Minimum Equipment List/Configuration Deviation List (MEL/CDL) 
and Applications.
    D. Performance.
    (1) Aircraft in general.
    (2) Principles of flight:
    (a) Group one aircraft.
    (b) Group two aircraft.
    (3) Aircraft Limitations.
    (4) Weight and Balance.
    (5) Flight instrument errors.
    (6) Aircraft performance:
    (a) Take-off performance.
    (b) En route performance.
    (c) Landing performance.
V. Communications
    A. Regulatory requirements.
    B. Communication Protocol.
    C. Voice and Data Communications.
    D. Notice to Airmen (NOTAMS).
    E. Aeronautical Publications.
    F. Abnormal Procedures.
VI. Air Traffic Control
    A. Responsibilities.
    B. Facilities and Equipment.
    C. Airspace classification and route structure.

[[Page 68926]]

    D. Flight Plans.
    (1) Domestic.
    (2) International.
    E. Separation Minimums.
    F. Priority Handling.
    G. Holding Procedures.
    H. Traffic Management.
VII. Emergency and Abnormal Procedures
    A. Security measures on the ground.
    B. Security measures in the air.
    C. FAA responsibility and services.
    D. Collection and dissemination of information on overdue or 
missing aircraft.
    E. Means of declaring an emergency.
    F. Responsibility for declaring an emergency.
    G. Required reporting of an emergency.
    H. NTSB reporting requirements.
VIII. Practical Dispatch Applications
    A. Human Factors.
    (1) Decisionmaking:
    (a) Situation Assessment.
    (b) Generation and Evaluation of Alternatives.
    (i) Tradeoffs and Prioritization.
    (ii) Contingency Planning.
    (c) Support Tools and Technologies.
    (2) Human Error:
    (a) Causes.
    (i) Individual and Organizational Factors.
    (ii) Technology-Induced Error.
    (b) Prevention.
    (c) Detection and Recovery.
    (3) Teamwork:
    (a) Communication and Information Exchange.
    (b) Cooperative and Distributed Problem-Solving.
    (c) Resource Management.
    (i) Air Traffic Control (ATC) activities and workload.
    (ii) Flightcrew activities and workload.
    (iii) Maintenance activities and workload.
    (iv) Operations Control Staff activities and workload.
    B. Applied Dispatching.
    (1) Briefing techniques, Dispatcher, Pilot.
    (2) Preflight:
    (a) Safety.
    (b) Weather Analysis.
    (i) Satellite imagery.
    (ii) Upper and lower altitude charts.
    (iii) Significant en route reports and forecasts.
    (iv) Surface charts.
    (v) Surface observations.
    (vi) Terminal forecasts and orientation to Enhanced Weather 
Information System (EWINS).
    (c) NOTAMS and airport conditions.
    (d) Crew.
    (i) Qualifications.
    (ii) Limitations.
    (e) Aircraft.
    (i) Systems.
    (ii) Navigation instruments and avionics systems.
    (iii) Flight instruments.
    (iv) Operations manuals and MEL/CDL.
    (v) Performance and limitations.
    (f) Flight Planning.
    (i) Route of flight.
    1. Standard Instrument Departures and Standard Terminal Arrival 
Routes.
    2. En route charts.
    3. Operational altitude.
    4. Departure and arrival charts.
    (ii) Minimum departure fuel.
    1. Climb.
    2. Cruise.
    3. Descent.
    (g) Weight and balance.
    (h) Economics of flight overview (Performance, Fuel Tankering).
    (i) Decision to operate the flight.
    (j) ATC flight plan filing.
    (k) Flight documentation.
    (i) Flight plan.
    (ii) Dispatch release.
    (3) Authorize flight departure with concurrence of pilot in 
command.
    (4) In-flight operational control:
    (a) Current situational awareness.
    (b) Information exchange.
    (c) Amend original flight release as required.
    (5) Post-Flight:
    (a) Arrival verification.
    (b) Weather debrief.
    (c) Flight irregularity reports as required.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on December 2, 1999.
Jane F. Garvey,
Administrator.
[FR Doc. 99-31707 Filed 12-7-99; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P