subpart iii—safety

CHAPTER 441—REGISTRATION AND RECORDATION OF AIRCRAFT

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2004—Pub. L. 108–297, §6(b), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1097, added item 44113.

§44101. Operation of aircraft

(a) Registration Requirement.—Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a person may operate an aircraft only when the aircraft is registered under section 44103 of this title.

(b) Exceptions.—A person may operate an aircraft in the United States that is not registered—

(1) when authorized under section 40103(d) or 41703 of this title;

(2) when it is an aircraft of the national defense forces of the United States and is identified in a way satisfactory to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration; and

(3) for a reasonable period of time after a transfer of ownership, under regulations prescribed by the Administrator.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1161.)

In this section, the word "navigate" is omitted as being included in the definition of "operate aircraft" in section 40102(a) of the revised title.

In subsection (a), the words "Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section" are added for clarity. The words "a person may . . . an aircraft only when the aircraft is registered under section 44103 of this title" are substituted for "It shall be unlawful . . . any aircraft eligible for registration if such aircraft is not registered by its owner as provided in this section, or . . . any aircraft not eligible for registration" for clarity and to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "A person may operate an aircraft in the United States that is not registered" are substituted for "may be operated and navigated without being so registered" and "may . . . permit the operation and navigation of aircraft without registration" for clarity. In clause (2), the words "identified in a way" are substituted for "identified, by the agency having jurisdiction over them, in a manner" to eliminate unnecessary words.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2004 Amendment

Pub. L. 108–297, §7, Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1097, provided that: "This Act [see Short Title of 2004 Amendment note set out under section 40101 of this title], including any amendments made by this Act, shall take effect on the date the Cape Town Treaty (as defined in section 44113 of title 49, United States Code) enters into force with respect to the United States and shall not apply to any registration or recordation that was made before such effective date under chapter 441 of such title or any legal rights relating to such registration or recordation." [The Cape Town Treaty entered into force with respect to the United States on Mar. 1, 2006. See 71 F.R. 8457.]

Regulations

Pub. L. 108–297, §4, Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1096, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue regulations necessary to carry out this Act [see Short Title of 2004 Amendment note set out under section 40101 of this title], including any amendments made by this Act.

"(b) Contents of Regulations.—Regulations to be issued under this Act shall specify, at a minimum, the requirements for—

"(1) the registration of aircraft previously registered in a country in which the Cape Town Treaty is in effect; and

"(2) the cancellation of registration of a civil aircraft of the United States based on a request made in accordance with the Cape Town Treaty.

"(c) Expedited Rulemaking Process.—

"(1) Final rule.—The Administrator shall issue regulations under this section by publishing a final rule by December 31, 2004.

"(2) Effective date.—The final rule shall not be effective before the date the Cape Town Treaty enters into force with respect to the United States [Mar. 1, 2006, see Effective Date of 2004 Amendment note above].

"(3) Economic analysis.—The Administrator shall not be required to prepare an economic analysis of the cost and benefits of the final rule.

"(d) Applicability of Treaty.—Notwithstanding parts 47.37(a)(3)(ii) and 47.47(a)(2) of title 14, of the Code of Federal Regulations, Articles IX(5) and XIII of the Cape Town Treaty shall apply to the matters described in subsection (b) until the earlier of the effective date of the final rule under this section or December 31, 2004."

Cape Town Treaty; Findings and Purpose

Pub. L. 108–297, §2, Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1095, provided that:

"(a) Findings.—Congress finds the following:

"(1) The Cape Town Treaty (as defined in section 44113 of title 49, United States Code) extends modern commercial laws for the sale, finance, and lease of aircraft and aircraft engines to the international arena in a manner consistent with United States law and practice.

"(2) The Cape Town Treaty provides for internationally established and recognized financing and leasing rights that will provide greater security and commercial predictability in connection with the financing and leasing of highly mobile assets, such as aircraft and aircraft engines.

"(3) The legal and financing framework of the Cape Town Treaty will provide substantial economic benefits to the aviation and aerospace sectors, including the promotion of exports, and will facilitate the acquisition of newer, safer aircraft around the world.

"(4) Only technical changes to United States law and regulations are required since the asset-based financing and leasing concepts embodied in the Cape Town Treaty are already reflected in the United States in the Uniform Commercial Code.

"(5) The new electronic registry system established under the Cape Town Treaty will work in tandem with current aircraft document recordation systems of the Federal Aviation Administration, which have served United States industry well.

"(6) The United States Government was a leader in the development of the Cape Town Treaty.

"(b) Purpose.—Accordingly, the purpose of this Act [see Short Title of 2004 Amendment note set out under section 40101 of this title] is to provide for the implementation of the Cape Town Treaty in the United States by making certain technical amendments to the provisions of chapter 441 of title 49, United States Code, directing the Federal Aviation Administration to complete the necessary rulemaking processes as expeditiously as possible, and clarifying the applicability of the Treaty during the rulemaking process."

§44102. Registration requirements

(a) Eligibility.—An aircraft may be registered under section 44103 of this title only when the aircraft is—

(1) not registered under the laws of a foreign country and is owned by—

(A) a citizen of the United States;

(B) an individual citizen of a foreign country lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States; or

(C) a corporation not a citizen of the United States when the corporation is organized and doing business under the laws of the United States or a State, and the aircraft is based and primarily used in the United States; or

(2) an aircraft of—

(A) the United States Government; or

(B) a State, the District of Columbia, a territory or possession of the United States, or a political subdivision of a State, territory, or possession.

(b) Duty To Define Certain Term.—In carrying out subsection (a)(1)(C) of this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall define "based and primarily used in the United States".

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1161.)

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the words "may be registered" are substituted for "shall be eligible for registration", and the words "under section 44103 of this title" are added, for clarity. The words "only when" are substituted for "if, but only if" for consistency. In subclause (C), the words "not a citizen of the United States" are substituted for "(other than a corporation which is a citizen of the United States)" to eliminate unnecessary words. The word "lawfully" is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b), the words "In carrying out subsection (a)(1)(C) of this section" are added because of the restatement. The words "by regulation" are omitted as unnecessary because of 49:322(a).

§44103. Registration of aircraft

(a) General.—(1) On application of the owner of an aircraft that meets the requirements of section 44102 of this title, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

(A) register the aircraft; and

(B) issue a certificate of registration to its owner.

(2) The Administrator may prescribe the extent to which an aircraft owned by the holder of a dealer's certificate of registration issued under section 44104(2) of this title also is registered under this section.

(b) Controlled Substance Violations.—(1) The Administrator may not issue an owner's certificate of registration under subsection (a)(1) of this section to a person whose certificate is revoked under section 44106 of this title during the 5-year period beginning on the date of the revocation, except—

(A) as provided in section 44106(e)(2) of this title; or

(B) that the Administrator may issue the certificate to the person after the one-year period beginning on the date of the revocation if the Administrator decides that the aircraft otherwise meets the requirements of section 44102 of this title and that denial of a certificate for the 5-year period—

(i) would be excessive considering the nature of the offense or the act committed and the burden the denial places on the person; or

(ii) would not be in the public interest.

(2) A decision of the Administrator under paragraph (1)(B)(i) or (ii) of this subsection is within the discretion of the Administrator. That decision or failure to make a decision is not subject to administrative or judicial review.

(c) Certificates as Evidence.—A certificate of registration issued under this section is—

(1) conclusive evidence of the nationality of an aircraft for international purposes, but not conclusive evidence in a proceeding under the laws of the United States; and

(2) not evidence of ownership of an aircraft in a proceeding in which ownership is or may be in issue.

(d) Certificates Available for Inspection.—An operator of an aircraft shall make available for inspection a certificate of registration for the aircraft when requested by a United States Government, State, or local law enforcement officer.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1162.)

In subsection (a)(1), the words "On application" are substituted for "upon request", and the words "meets the requirements of section 44102 of this title" are substituted for "eligible for registration", for consistency in this subchapter. The text of 49 App.:1401(d) is omitted as unnecessary because of 49:322(a).

In subsection (b)(1)(B), before subclause (i), the words "after the one-year period beginning on the date of the revocation" are substituted for "before the end of such five-year period (but not before the end of the one-year period beginning on the date of such revocation)" for clarity and to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "otherwise meets the requirements of section 44102 of this title" are substituted for "is otherwise eligible for registration under this section" because of the restatement. The words "denial of a certificate" are substituted for "revocation of the certificate" for clarity.

In subsection (c), before clause (1), the words "A certificate of registration" are substituted for "Registration" for clarity. In clause (2), the words "by a particular person" are omitted as surplus.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Aircraft Registration

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §556, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3383, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall initiate a rulemaking to increase the duration of aircraft registrations for noncommercial general aviation aircraft to 7 years.

"(b) Considerations.—In promulgating the notice of proposed rulemaking described in subsection (a), the Administrator may consider any events, circumstances, changes in any ownership entity or structure, or other condition that would necessitate renewal prior to the expiration of an aircraft registration."

Right to Privacy When Using Air Traffic Control System

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §566, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3385, provided that: "Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall, upon request of a private aircraft owner or operator, block the registration number of the aircraft of the owner or operator from any public dissemination or display, except in data made available to a Government agency, for the noncommercial flights of the owner or operator."

Aircraft Situational Display Data

Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §729, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 168, provided that:

"(a) In General.—A memorandum of agreement between the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] and any person that directly obtains aircraft situational display data from the Federal Aviation Administration shall require that—

"(1) the person demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Administrator that the person is capable of selectively blocking the display of any aircraft-situation-display-to-industry derived data related to any identified aircraft registration number; and

"(2) the person agree to block selectively the aircraft registration numbers of any aircraft owner or operator upon the Administration's request.

"(b) Existing Memoranda To Be Conformed.—Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000], the Administrator shall conform any memoranda of agreement, in effect on such date of enactment, between the Federal Aviation Administration and a person under which that person obtains aircraft situational display data to incorporate the requirements of subsection (a)."

§44104. Registration of aircraft components and dealers' certificates of registration

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may prescribe regulations—

(1) in the interest of safety for registering and identifying an aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance; and

(2) in the public interest for issuing, suspending, and revoking a dealer's certificate of registration under this chapter and for its use by a person manufacturing, distributing, or selling aircraft.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1162.)

In this section, before clause (1), the words "prescribe regulations" are substituted for "establish reasonable rules and regulations" in 49 App.:1402 and "by such reasonable regulations" in 49 App.:1405 (1st sentence) because of 49:322(a). In clause (1), the words "and no aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance shall be used in violation of any such rule or regulation" are omitted as surplus because of section 46301 of the revised title. In clause (2), the words "in connection with" are omitted as surplus.

§44105. Suspension and revocation of aircraft certificates

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may suspend or revoke a certificate of registration issued under section 44103 of this title when the aircraft no longer meets the requirements of section 44102 of this title.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1163.)

The words "when the aircraft no longer meets" are substituted for "for any cause which renders the aircraft ineligible" for consistency.

§44106. Revocation of aircraft certificates for controlled substance violations

(a) Definition.—In this section, "controlled substance" has the same meaning given that term in section 102 of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (21 U.S.C. 802).

(b) Revocations.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue an order revoking the certificate of registration for an aircraft issued to an owner under section 44103 of this title and any other certificate of registration that the owner of the aircraft holds under section 44103, if the Administrator finds that—

(A) the aircraft was used to carry out, or facilitate, an activity that is punishable by death or imprisonment for more than one year under a law of the United States or a State related to a controlled substance (except a law related to simple possession of a controlled substance); and

(B) the owner of the aircraft permitted the use of the aircraft knowing that the aircraft was to be used for the activity described in clause (A) of this paragraph.

(2) An aircraft owner that is not an individual is deemed to have permitted the use of the aircraft knowing that the aircraft was to be used for the activity described in paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection only if a majority of the individuals who control the owner of the aircraft or who are involved in forming the major policy of the owner permitted the use of the aircraft knowing that the aircraft was to be used for the activity described in paragraph (1)(A).

(c) Advice to Holders and Opportunity To Answer.—Before the Administrator revokes a certificate under subsection (b) of this section, the Administrator shall—

(1) advise the holder of the certificate of the charges or reasons on which the Administrator bases the proposed action; and

(2) provide the holder of the certificate an opportunity to answer the charges and state why the certificate should not be revoked.

(d) Appeals.—(1) A person whose certificate is revoked by the Administrator under subsection (b) of this section may appeal the revocation order to the National Transportation Safety Board. The Board shall affirm or reverse the order after providing notice and a hearing on the record. In conducting the hearing, the Board is not bound by the findings of fact of the Administrator.

(2) When a person files an appeal with the Board under this subsection, the order of the Administrator revoking the certificate is stayed. However, if the Administrator advises the Board that safety in air transportation or air commerce requires the immediate effectiveness of the order—

(A) the order remains effective; and

(B) the Board shall dispose of the appeal not later than 60 days after notification by the Administrator under this paragraph.

(3) A person substantially affected by an order of the Board under this subsection may seek judicial review of the order under section 46110 of this title. The Administrator shall be made a party to that judicial proceeding.

(e) Acquittal.—(1) The Administrator may not revoke, and the Board may not affirm a revocation of, a certificate of registration under this section on the basis of an activity described in subsection (b)(1)(A) of this section if the holder of the certificate is acquitted of all charges related to a controlled substance in an indictment or information arising from the activity.

(2) If the Administrator has revoked a certificate of registration of a person under this section because of an activity described in subsection (b)(1)(A) of this section, the Administrator shall reissue a certificate to the person if the person—

(A) subsequently is acquitted of all charges related to a controlled substance in an indictment or information arising from the activity; and

(B) otherwise meets the requirements of section 44102 of this title.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1163.)

In subsection (b)(2), the words "knowing that the aircraft was to be used for the activity described in paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection" are substituted for "with knowledge of such intended use" for clarity.

§44107. Recordation of conveyances, leases, and security instruments

(a) Establishment of System.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish a system for recording—

(1) conveyances that affect an interest in civil aircraft of the United States;

(2) leases and instruments executed for security purposes, including conditional sales contracts, assignments, and amendments, that affect an interest in—

(A) a specifically identified aircraft engine having at least 550 rated takeoff horsepower or its equivalent;

(B) a specifically identified aircraft propeller capable of absorbing at least 750 rated takeoff shaft horsepower;

(C) an aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance maintained for installation or use in an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller, by or for an air carrier holding a certificate issued under section 44705 of this title; and

(D) spare parts maintained by or for an air carrier holding a certificate issued under section 44705 of this title; and

(3) releases, cancellations, discharges, and satisfactions related to a conveyance, lease, or instrument recorded under paragraph (1) or (2).

(b) General Description Required.—A lease or instrument recorded under subsection (a)(2)(C) or (D) of this section only has to describe generally the engine, propeller, appliance, or spare part by type and designate its location.

(c) Acknowledgment.—Except as the Administrator otherwise may provide, a conveyance, lease, or instrument may be recorded under subsection (a) of this section only after it has been acknowledged before—

(1) a notary public; or

(2) another officer authorized under the laws of the United States, a State, the District of Columbia, or a territory or possession of the United States to acknowledge deeds.

(d) Records and Indexes.—The Administrator shall—

(1) keep a record of the time and date that each conveyance, lease, and instrument is filed and recorded with the Administrator; and

(2) record each conveyance, lease, and instrument filed with the Administrator, in the order of their receipt, and index them by—

(A) the identifying description of the aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller, or location specified in a lease or instrument recorded under subsection (a)(2)(C) or (D) of this section; and

(B) the names of the parties to each conveyance, lease, and instrument.

(e) International Registry.—

(1) Designation of united states entry point.—As permitted under the Cape Town Treaty, the Federal Aviation Administration Civil Aviation Registry is designated as the United States Entry Point to the International Registry relating to—

(A) civil aircraft of the United States;

(B) an aircraft for which a United States identification number has been assigned but only with regard to a notice filed under paragraph (2); and

(C) aircraft engines.

(2) System for filing notice of prospective interests.—

(A) Establishment.—The Administrator shall establish a system for filing notices of prospective assignments and prospective international interests in, and prospective sales of, aircraft or aircraft engines described in paragraph (1) under the Cape Town Treaty.

(B) Maintenance of validity.—A filing of a notice of prospective assignment, interest, or sale under this paragraph and the registration with the International Registry relating to such assignment, interest, or sale shall not be valid after the 60th day following the date of the filing unless documents eligible for recording under subsection (a) relating to such notice are filed for recordation on or before such 60th day.

(3) Authorization for registration of aircraft.—A registration with the International Registry relating to an aircraft described in paragraph (1) (other than subparagraph (C)) is valid only if (A) the person seeking the registration first files documents eligible for recording under subsection (a) and relating to the registration with the United States Entry Point, and (B) the United States Entry Point authorizes the registration.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1164; Pub. L. 108–297, §3, Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1096.)

In subsection (a)(1) and (2), the words "title to" are omitted as being included in "interest in".

In subsection (a)(2), before subclause (A), the word "instruments" is substituted for "any mortgage, equipment trust . . . or other instrument" because it is inclusive. The word "supplement" is omitted as being included in "amendments".

In subsection (a)(3), the words "The Secretary of Transportation shall also record under the system" are omitted as unnecessary because of the restatement.

In subsections (a)(3) and (c), the words "lease, or instrument" are substituted for "other instrument" for clarity and consistency in this subchapter.

In subsections (b) and (d), the words "or locations" are omitted because of 1:1.

In subsection (b), the words "recorded under subsection (a)(2)(C) or (D) of this section" are added for clarity. The words "lease or instrument" are substituted for "instrument" for clarity and consistency in this subchapter.

In subsection (c), before clause (1), the words "by regulation" are omitted because of 49:322(a). In clause (2), the words "possession of the United States" are substituted for "possession thereof" for clarity.

In subsection (d), the words "lease, and instrument" are substituted for "other instruments" for clarity and consistency in this subchapter. In clause (1), the words "of the time and date of" before "recordation" are omitted as unnecessary because of the restatement. In clause (2), before subclause (A), the words "in files to be kept for that purpose" are omitted as unnecessary. In subclause (A), the words "location specified in a lease or instrument recorded under subsection (a)(2)(C) or (D) of this section" are substituted for "in the case of an instrument referred to in subsection (a)(3) of this section, the location or locations specified therein" for clarity and consistency in this subchapter.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2004—Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 108–297, §3(a)(1), substituted "550" for "750".

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 108–297, §3(a)(2), substituted "paragraph (1) or (2)" for "clause (1) or (2) of this subsection".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 108–297, §3(b), added subsec. (e).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2004 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–297 effective Mar. 1, 2006, and not applicable to any registration or recordation that was made before such date under this chapter or any legal rights relating to such registration or recordation, see section 7 of Pub. L. 108–297, set out as a note under section 44101 of this title.

§44108. Validity of conveyances, leases, and security instruments

(a) Validity Before Filing.—Until a conveyance, lease, or instrument executed for security purposes that may be recorded under section 44107(a)(1) or (2) of this title is filed for recording, the conveyance, lease, or instrument is valid only against—

(1) the person making the conveyance, lease, or instrument;

(2) that person's heirs and devisees; and

(3) a person having actual notice of the conveyance, lease, or instrument.

(b) Period of Validity.—When a conveyance, lease, or instrument is recorded under section 44107 of this title, the conveyance, lease, or instrument is valid from the date of filing against all persons, without other recordation, except that—

(1) a lease or instrument recorded under section 44107(a)(2)(A) or (B) of this title is valid for a specifically identified engine or propeller without regard to a lease or instrument previously or subsequently recorded under section 44107(a)(2)(C) or (D); and

(2) a lease or instrument recorded under section 44107(a)(2)(C) or (D) of this title is valid only for items at the location designated in the lease or instrument.

(c) Applicable Laws.—(1) The validity of a conveyance, lease, or instrument that may be recorded under section 44107 of this title is subject to the laws of the State, the District of Columbia, or the territory or possession of the United States at which the conveyance, lease, or instrument is delivered, regardless of the place at which the subject of the conveyance, lease, or instrument is located or delivered. If the conveyance, lease, or instrument specifies the place at which delivery is intended, it is presumed that the conveyance, lease, or instrument was delivered at the specified place.

(2) This subsection does not take precedence over the Convention on the International Recognition of Rights in Aircraft (4 U.S.T. 1830) or the Cape Town Treaty, as applicable.

(d) Nonapplication.—This section does not apply to—

(1) a conveyance described in section 44107(a)(1) of this title that was made before August 22, 1938; or

(2) a lease or instrument described in section 44107(a)(2) of this title that was made before June 20, 1948.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1165; Pub. L. 108–297, §5, Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1097.)

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the words "conveyance, lease, or instrument executed for security purposes" are substituted for "conveyance or instrument" for clarity and consistency in this subchapter. The words "in respect of such aircraft, aircraft engine or engines, propellers, appliances, or spare parts" are omitted as surplus. The text of 49 App.:1403(c) (proviso words before semicolon) is omitted because of section 7(d) of this bill. In clause (1), the words "person making the conveyance, lease, or instrument" are substituted for "the person by whom the conveyance or other instrument is made or given" to eliminate unnecessary words and for consistency in this subchapter.

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "When a conveyance, lease, or instrument is recorded under section 44107 of this title . . . from the date of filing" are substituted for "Each conveyance or other instrument recorded by means of or under the system provided for in subsection (a) or (b) of the section shall from the time of its filing for recordation" for clarity and consistency in this subchapter and to eliminate unnecessary words. In clause (1), the words "is valid" are substituted for "Provided, That . . . shall not be affected" for consistency in this subchapter. The words "or engines . . . or propellers" are omitted because of 1:1. In clause (2), the words "is valid" are substituted for "shall be effective" for consistency in this subchapter. The words "for items at the location designated in the lease or instrument" are substituted for "which may from time to time be situated at the designated location or locations and only while so situated" for clarity and to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (c)(1), the words "conveyance, lease, or" are added for consistency in this subchapter. The words "the conveyance, lease, or instrument" are substituted for "therein", and the words "it is presumed" are substituted for "it shall constitute presumptive evidence", for clarity.

In subsection (d)(2), the words "lease or instrument" are substituted for "instrument" for clarity and consistency in this subchapter.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2004—Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 108–297 inserted "or the Cape Town Treaty, as applicable" before period at end.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2004 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–297 effective Mar. 1, 2006, and not applicable to any registration or recordation that was made before such date under this chapter or any legal rights relating to such registration or recordation, see section 7 of Pub. L. 108–297, set out as a note under section 44101 of this title.

§44109. Reporting transfer of ownership

(a) Filing Notices.—A person having an ownership interest in an aircraft for which a certificate of registration was issued under section 44103 of this title shall file a notice with the Secretary of the Treasury that the Secretary requires by regulation, not later than 15 days after a sale, conditional sale, transfer, or conveyance of the interest.

(b) Exemptions.—The Secretary—

(1) shall prescribe regulations that establish guidelines for exempting a person or class from subsection (a) of this section; and

(2) may exempt a person or class under the regulations.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1166.)

In subsection (a), the text of 49 App.:1509(f) (last sentence) is omitted as unnecessary.

In subsection (b)(1), the words "Within 30 days after the date of enactment of subsection (f) of section 1109 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 as added by this subsection" are omitted as obsolete.

§44110. Information about aircraft ownership and rights

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may provide by regulation for—

(1) endorsing information on each certificate of registration issued under section 44103 of this title and each certificate issued under section 44704 of this title about ownership of the aircraft for which each certificate is issued; and

(2) recording transactions affecting an interest in, and for other records, proceedings, and details necessary to decide the rights of a party related to, a civil aircraft of the United States, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, or spare part.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1166.)

In clause (1), the words "each certificate of registration issued under section 44103 of this title and each certificate issued under section 44704 of this title" are substituted for "certificates of registration, or aircraft certificates" for clarity and because of the restatement.

In clause (2), the words "recording transactions" are substituted for "recording of discharges and satisfactions of recorded instruments, and other transactions" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "title to" are omitted as being included in "interest in". The words "to decide" are substituted for "to facilitate the determination" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "related to" are substituted for "dealing with" for clarity. The word "spare" is added for consistency in this section.

§44111. Modifications in registration and recordation system for aircraft not providing air transportation

(a) Application.—This section applies only to aircraft not used to provide air transportation.

(b) Authority To Make Modifications.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make modifications in the system for registering and recording aircraft necessary to make the system more effective in serving the needs of—

(1) buyers and sellers of aircraft;

(2) officials responsible for enforcing laws related to the regulation of controlled substances (as defined in section 102 of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (21 U.S.C. 802)); and

(3) other users of the system.

(c) Nature of Modifications.—Modifications made under subsection (b) of this section—

(1) may include a system of titling aircraft or registering all aircraft, even aircraft not operated;

(2) shall ensure positive, verifiable, and timely identification of the true owner; and

(3) shall address at least each of the following deficiencies in and abuses of the existing system:

(A) the registration of aircraft to fictitious persons.

(B) the use of false or nonexistent addresses by persons registering aircraft.

(C) the use by a person registering an aircraft of a post office box or "mail drop" as a return address to evade identification of the person's address.

(D) the registration of aircraft to entities established to facilitate unlawful activities.

(E) the submission of names of individuals on applications for registration of aircraft that are not identifiable.

(F) the ability to make frequent legal changes in the registration markings assigned to aircraft.

(G) the use of false registration markings on aircraft.

(H) the illegal use of "reserved" registration markings on aircraft.

(I) the large number of aircraft classified as being in "self-reported status".

(J) the lack of a system to ensure timely and adequate notice of the transfer of ownership of aircraft.

(K) the practice of allowing temporary operation and navigation of aircraft without the issuance of a certificate of registration.

(d) Regulations.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prescribe regulations to carry out this section and provide a written explanation of how the regulations address each of the deficiencies and abuses described in subsection (c) of this section. In prescribing the regulations, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consult with the Administrator of Drug Enforcement, the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, other law enforcement officials of the United States Government, representatives of State and local law enforcement officials, representatives of the general aviation aircraft industry, representatives of users of general aviation aircraft, and other interested persons.

(2) Regulations prescribed under this subsection shall require that—

(A) each individual listed in an application for registration of an aircraft provide with the application the individual's driver's license number; and

(B) each person (not an individual) listed in an application for registration of an aircraft provide with the application the person's taxpayer identifying number.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1166; Pub. L. 114–125, title VIII, §802(d)(2), Feb. 24, 2016, 130 Stat. 210.)

In subsection (c)(3)(D), the words "corporations and others" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(1), the words "Not later than September 18, 1989" and "final" are omitted as obsolete. The words "Administrator of Drug Enforcement" are substituted for "Drug Enforcement Administration of the Department of Justice" because of section 5(a) of Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1973 (eff. July 1, 1973, 87 Stat. 1092).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection" substituted for "Commissioner of Customs" in subsec. (d)(1) on authority of section 802(d)(2) of Pub. L. 114–125, set out as a note under section 211 of Title 6, Domestic Security.

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the United States Customs Service of the Department of the Treasury, including functions of the Secretary of the Treasury relating thereto, to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 203(1), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6. For establishment of U.S. Customs and Border Protection in the Department of Homeland Security, treated as if included in Pub. L. 107–296 as of Nov. 25, 2002, see section 211 of Title 6, as amended generally by Pub. L. 114–125, and section 802(b) of Pub. L. 114–125, set out as a note under section 211 of Title 6.

Drug Enforcement Status and Progress; Reports to Congress; Definitions

Pub. L. 100–690, title VII, §7207(d), (e), Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4428, provided that:

"(d) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this subtitle [Nov. 18, 1988] and annually thereafter during the 5-year period beginning on such 180th day, the Administrator shall prepare and transmit to Congress a report on the following:

"(1) The status of the rulemaking process, issuance of regulations, and implementation of regulations in accordance with this section [see subsec. (d) of this section].

"(2) The progress being made in reducing the number of aircraft classified by the Federal Aviation Administration as being in 'sale-reported status'.

"(3) The progress being made in expediting the filing and processing of forms for major repairs and alterations of fuel tanks and fuel systems of aircraft.

"(4) The status of establishing and collecting fees under section 313(f) of the Federal Aviation Act [see section 45302(b) of this title].

"(e) Definitions.—For purposes of this subtitle [subtitle E (§§7201–7214) of title VII of Pub. L. 100–690, see Tables for classification]—

"(1) Administrator.—The term 'Administrator' means the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.

"(2) Aircraft.—The term 'aircraft' has the meaning such term has under section 101 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 [see section 40102 of this title]."

Information Coordination

Pub. L. 100–690, title VII, §7210, Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4432, provided that: "Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this subtitle [Nov. 18, 1988] and annually thereafter during the 3-year period beginning on such 180th day, the Administrator shall prepare and transmit to Congress a report on the following:

"(1) The progress made in establishing a process for provision of informational assistance by such Administration to officials of Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies.

"(2) The progress made in establishing a process for effectively pursuing suspensions and revocations of certificates of registration and airman certificates in accordance with the amendments made to the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 by the Aviation Drug-Trafficking Control Act [Pub. L. 98–499, see Tables for classification], section 3401 of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 [Pub. L. 99–570], and this subtitle [subtitle E (§§7201–7214) of title VII of Pub. L. 100–690].

"(3) The efforts of such Administration in assessing and defining the appropriate relationship of such Administration's informational assistance resources (including the El Paso Intelligence Center and the Law Enforcement Assistance Unit of the Aeronautical Center of such Administration).

"(4) The progress made in issuing guidelines on (A) the reporting of aviation sensitive drug-related information, and (B) the development, in coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration of the Department of Justice and the United States Customs Service, of training and educational policies to assist employees of such Administration to better understand (i) the trafficking of controlled substances (as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act [21 U.S.C. 802]), and (ii) the role of such Administration with respect to such trafficking.

"(5) The progress made in improving and expanding such Administration's role in the El Paso Intelligence Center."

Applicability of Paperwork Reduction Act

Pub. L. 100–690, title VII, §7211(b), Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4433, provided that: "No information collection requests necessary to carry out the objectives of this subtitle [subtitle E (§§7201–7214) of title VI of Pub. L. 100–690, see Tables for classification] (including the amendments made by this subtitle) shall be subject to or affect, directly or indirectly, the annual information collection budget goals established for the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Transportation under chapter 35 of title 44, United States Code."

§44112. Limitation of liability

(a) Definitions.—In this section—

(1) "lessor" means a person leasing for at least 30 days a civil aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller.

(2) "owner" means a person that owns a civil aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller.

(3) "secured party" means a person having a security interest in, or security title to, a civil aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller under a conditional sales contract, equipment trust contract, chattel or corporate mortgage, or similar instrument.

(b) Liability.—A lessor, owner, or secured party is liable for personal injury, death, or property loss or damage only when a civil aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller is in the actual possession or operational control of the lessor, owner, or secured party, and the personal injury, death, or property loss or damage occurs because of—

(1) the aircraft, engine, or propeller; or

(2) the flight of, or an object falling from, the aircraft, engine, or propeller.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1167; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §514, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3358.)

In subsection (a), clauses (1) and (3) are derived from 49 App.:1404 (2d–57th words). Clause (2) is added for clarity. In clause (1), the words "bona fide" are omitted as surplus. In clause (3), the word "nature" is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "personal injury, death" are substituted for "any injury to or death of persons", and the words "on land or water" are substituted for "on the surface of the earth (whether on land or water)", to eliminate unnecessary words. In clause (2), the words "ascent, descent, or" and "dropping or" are omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 115–254, in introductory provisions, struck out "on land or water" before "only when" and inserted "operational" before "control".

§44113. Definitions

In this chapter, the following definitions apply:

(1) Cape town treaty.—The term "Cape Town Treaty" means the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment, as modified by the Protocol to the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment on Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment, signed at Rome on May 9, 2003.

(2) United states entry point.—The term "United States Entry Point" means the Federal Aviation Administration Civil Aviation Registry.

(3) International registry.—The term "International Registry" means the registry established under the Cape Town Treaty.

(Added Pub. L. 108–297, §6(a), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1097.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section effective Mar. 1, 2006, and not applicable to any registration or recordation that was made before such date under this chapter or any legal rights relating to such registration or recordation, see section 7 of Pub. L. 108–297, set out as an Effective Date of 2004 Amendment note under section 44101 of this title.

CHAPTER 443—INSURANCE

§44301. Definitions

In this chapter—

(1) "aircraft manufacturer" means any company or other business entity, the majority ownership and control of which is by United States citizens, that manufactures aircraft or aircraft engines.

(2) "American aircraft" means—

(A) a civil aircraft of the United States; and

(B) an aircraft owned or chartered by, or made available to—

(i) the United States Government; or

(ii) a State, the District of Columbia, a territory or possession of the United States, or a political subdivision of the State, territory, or possession.

(3) "insurance carrier" means a person authorized to do aviation insurance business in a State, including a mutual or stock insurance company and a reciprocal insurance association.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1168; Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §106(a)(2), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2498.)

In this section, the text of 49 App.:1531(3) is omitted as surplus because the complete name of the Secretary of Transportation is used the first time the term appears in a section.

In clause (1)(B)(i), the words "United States Government" are substituted for "United States or any department or agency thereof" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In clause (1)(B)(ii), the words "the government of" are omitted for consistency in the revised title.

In clause (2), the words "insurance company" are omitted as being included in "insurance carrier". The words "means a person" are added because they are inclusive. The words "group or association" are omitted as being included in "person". The word "State" is substituted for "State of the United States" to eliminate unnecessary words.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2003—Pub. L. 108–176 added par. (1) and redesignated former pars. (1) and (2) as (2) and (3), respectively.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

§44302. General authority

(a) Insurance and Reinsurance.—(1) Subject to subsection (c) of this section and section 44305(a) of this title, the Secretary of Transportation may provide insurance and reinsurance against loss or damage arising out of any risk from the operation of an American aircraft or foreign-flag aircraft.

(2) An aircraft may be insured or reinsured for not more than its reasonable value as determined by the Secretary in accordance with reasonable business practices in the commercial aviation insurance industry. Insurance or reinsurance may be provided only when the Secretary decides that the insurance cannot be obtained on reasonable terms from an insurance carrier.

(b) Reimbursement of Insurance Cost Increases.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary may reimburse an air carrier for the increase in the cost of insurance, with respect to a premium for coverage ending before October 1, 2002, against loss or damage arising out of any risk from the operation of an American aircraft over the insurance premium that was in effect for a comparable operation during the period beginning September 4, 2001, and ending September 10, 2001, as the Secretary may determine. Such reimbursement is subject to subsections (a)(2), (c), and (d) of this section and to section 44303.

(2) Payment from revolving fund.—A reimbursement under this subsection shall be paid from the revolving fund established by section 44307.

(3) Further conditions.—The Secretary may impose such further conditions on insurance for which the increase in premium is subject to reimbursement under this subsection as the Secretary may deem appropriate in the interest of air commerce.

(4) Termination of authority.—The authority to reimburse air carriers under this subsection shall expire 180 days after the date of enactment of this paragraph.

(c) Presidential Approval.—The Secretary may provide insurance or reinsurance under subsection (a) of this section, or reimburse an air carrier under subsection (b) of this section, only with the approval of the President. The President may approve the insurance or reinsurance or the reimbursement only after deciding that the continued operation of the American aircraft or foreign-flag aircraft to be insured or reinsured is necessary in the interest of air commerce or national security or to carry out the foreign policy of the United States Government.

(d) Consultation.—The President may require the Secretary to consult with interested departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Government before providing insurance or reinsurance or reimbursing an air carrier under this chapter.

(e) Additional Insurance.—With the approval of the Secretary, a person having an insurable interest in an aircraft may insure with other underwriters in an amount that is more than the amount insured with the Secretary. However, the Secretary may not benefit from the additional insurance. This subsection does not prevent the Secretary from making contracts of coinsurance.

(f) Extension of Policies.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary shall extend through December 11, 2014, the termination date of any insurance policy that the Department of Transportation issued to an air carrier under subsection (a) and that is in effect on the date of enactment of this subsection on no less favorable terms to the air carrier than existed on June 19, 2002; except that the Secretary shall amend the insurance policy, subject to such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe, to add coverage for losses or injuries to aircraft hulls, passengers, and crew at the limits carried by air carriers for such losses and injuries as of such date of enactment and at an additional premium comparable to the premium charged for third-party casualty coverage under such policy.

(2) Special rules.—Notwithstanding paragraph (1)—

(A) in no event shall the total premium paid by the air carrier for the policy, as amended, be more than twice the premium that the air carrier was paying to the Department of Transportation for its third party policy as of June 19, 2002; and

(B) the coverage in such policy shall begin with the first dollar of any covered loss that is incurred.

(g) Aircraft Manufacturers.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary may provide to an aircraft manufacturer insurance for loss or damage resulting from operation of an aircraft by an air carrier and involving war or terrorism.

(2) Amount.—Insurance provided by the Secretary under this subsection shall be for loss or damage in excess of the greater of the amount of available primary insurance or $50,000,000.

(3) Terms and conditions.—Insurance provided by the Secretary under this subsection shall be subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this chapter and such other terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1168; Pub. L. 105–137, §2(a), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2640; Pub. L. 107–42, title II, §201(a), Sept. 22, 2001, 115 Stat. 234; Pub. L. 107–296, title XII, §1202, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2286; Pub. L. 108–11, title IV, §4001(a), Apr. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 606; Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §106(a)(1), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2498; Pub. L. 108–447, div. H, title I, §106(a), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3204; Pub. L. 109–115, div. A, title I, §108(a), Nov. 30, 2005, 119 Stat. 2402; Pub. L. 110–161, div. K, title I, §114(a), Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2381; Pub. L. 110–253, §3(c)(6), June 30, 2008, 122 Stat. 2418; Pub. L. 110–330, §5(c), Sept. 30, 2008, 122 Stat. 3718; Pub. L. 111–12, §5(b), Mar. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 1458; Pub. L. 111–69, §5(c), Oct. 1, 2009, 123 Stat. 2055; Pub. L. 111–116, §5(b), Dec. 16, 2009, 123 Stat. 3032; Pub. L. 111–117, div. A, title I, §114(a), Dec. 16, 2009, 123 Stat. 3042; Pub. L. 111–153, §5(b), Mar. 31, 2010, 124 Stat. 1085; Pub. L. 111–161, §5(b), Apr. 30, 2010, 124 Stat. 1127; Pub. L. 111–197, §5(b), July 2, 2010, 124 Stat. 1354; Pub. L. 111–216, title I, §104(b), Aug. 1, 2010, 124 Stat. 2349; Pub. L. 111–249, §5(c), Sept. 30, 2010, 124 Stat. 2628; Pub. L. 111–329, §5(b), Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3567; Pub. L. 112–7, §5(b), Mar. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 32; Pub. L. 112–16, §5(b), May 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 219; Pub. L. 112–21, §5(b), June 29, 2011, 125 Stat. 234; Pub. L. 112–27, §5(b), Aug. 5, 2011, 125 Stat. 271; Pub. L. 112–30, title II, §205(c), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 358; Pub. L. 112–91, §5(c), Jan. 31, 2012, 126 Stat. 4; Pub. L. 112–95, title VII, §701, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 118; Pub. L. 113–46, div. A, §152, Oct. 17, 2013, 127 Stat. 565; Pub. L. 113–76, div. L, title I, §119E(a), Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 582; Pub. L. 113–164, §148(a), Sept. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 1874; Pub. L. 113–235, div. L, §102(a), Dec. 16, 2014, 128 Stat. 2767.)

In subsection (a)(1), before clause (A), the words "Subject to subsection (b) of this section" are added, and the words "American aircraft or foreign-flag aircraft" are substituted for "aircraft" in 49 App.:1532(a), for clarity. The words "in the manner and to the extent provided by this subchapter" are omitted as unnecessary. The words "Insurance shall be issued under this subchapter only to cover any risk from the operation of an aircraft . . . such aircraft is" are omitted because of the restatement. In clause (B), the word "places" is substituted for "points" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (a)(2), the words "An aircraft may be insured or reinsured for not more than" are substituted for "and such stated amount shall not exceed" in 49 App.:1537(a) for clarity and because of the restatement. The words "its reasonable value" are substituted for "an amount . . . to represent the fair and reasonable value of the aircraft" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "Insurance or reinsurance may be provided only" are added because of the restatement. The word "conditions" is omitted as being included in "terms".

In subsection (b), the words "The Secretary may provide insurance or reinsurance under subsection (a) of this section only with the approval of the President" are substituted for "with the approval of the President" for clarity and because of the restatement. The words "The President may" are substituted for "The President shall" because the authority of the President is discretionary.

In subsection (c), the words "the Secretary to consult . . . before providing insurance or reinsurance under this chapter" are substituted for "and after such consultation . . . as" because of the restatement. The words "departments, agencies, and instrumentalities" are substituted for "agencies" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (d), the words "However, the Secretary may not benefit from the additional insurance" are substituted for "in that event, the Secretary shall not be entitled to the benefit of such insurance" for clarity.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of enactment of this paragraph, referred to in subsec. (b)(4), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 107–42, which was approved Sept. 22, 2001.

The date of enactment of this subsection, referred to in subsec. (f)(1), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 107–296, which was approved Nov. 25, 2002.

Amendments

2014—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 113–235 substituted "December 11, 2014" for "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2015".

Pub. L. 113–164 substituted "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2015" for "September 30, 2014".

Pub. L. 113–76 substituted "September 30, 2014" for "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014".

2013—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 113–46 substituted "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014" for "September 30, 2013, and may extend through December 31, 2013".

2012—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 112–95 substituted "shall extend through September 30, 2013, and may extend through December 31, 2013, the termination date" for "shall extend through February 17, 2012, and may extend through May 17, 2012, the termination date".

Pub. L. 112–91 substituted "February 17, 2012," for "January 31, 2012," and "May 17, 2012," for "April 30, 2012,".

2011—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 112–30 substituted "January 31, 2012," for "September 16, 2011," and "April 30, 2012," for "December 31, 2011,".

Pub. L. 112–27 substituted "September 16, 2011," for "July 22, 2011," and "December 31, 2011," for "October 31, 2011,".

Pub. L. 112–21 substituted "July 22, 2011," for "June 30, 2011," and "October 31, 2011," for "September 30, 2011,".

Pub. L. 112–16 substituted "June 30, 2011," for "May 31, 2011," and "September 30, 2011," for "August 31, 2011,".

Pub. L. 112–7 substituted "May 31, 2011," for "March 31, 2011," and "August 31, 2011," for "June 30, 2011,".

2010—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 111–329, §5(b), substituted "March 31, 2011," for "December 31, 2010," and "June 30, 2011," for "March 31, 2011,".

Pub. L. 111–249 substituted "December 31, 2010," for "September 30, 2010," and "March 31, 2011," for "December 31, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–216 substituted "September 30, 2010," for "August 1, 2010," and "December 31, 2010," for "October 31, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–197 substituted "August 1, 2010," for "July 3, 2010," and "October 31, 2010," for "September 30, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–161 substituted "July 3, 2010," for "April 30, 2010," and "September 30, 2010," for "July 31, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–153 substituted "April 30, 2010," for "March 31, 2010," and "July 31, 2010," for "June 30, 2010,".

2009—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 111–117, which directed the substitution of "September 30, 2010," for "September 30, 2009," and "December 31, 2010," for "December 31, 2009,", could not be executed because of the intervening amendment by Pub. L. 111–69. See below.

Pub. L. 111–116 substituted "March 31, 2010," for "December 31, 2009," and "June 30, 2010," for "March 31, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–69 substituted "December 31, 2009," for "September 30, 2009," and "March 31, 2010," for "December 31, 2009,".

Pub. L. 111–12 substituted "September 30, 2009," for "March 31, 2009," and "December 31, 2009," for "May 31, 2009,".

2008—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 110–330 substituted "March 31, 2009," for "November 30, 2008," and "May 31, 2009," for "December 31, 2008,".

Pub. L. 110–253 substituted "November 30, 2008" for "August 31, 2008".

2007—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 110–161 substituted "2008" for "2006" in two places.

2005—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 109–115 substituted "2006" for "2005" in two places.

2004—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 108–447 substituted "2005" for "2004" in two places.

2003—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 108–11, substituted "2004" for "2003" in two places.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 108–176 added subsec. (g).

2002—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 107–296 added subsec. (f).

2001—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 107–42, §201(a)(1), substituted "subsection (c)" for "subsection (b)" and "foreign-flag aircraft." for "foreign-flag aircraft—" and struck out subpars. (A) and (B) which read as follows:

"(A) in foreign air commerce; or

"(B) between at least 2 places, all of which are outside the United States."

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 107–42, §201(a)(3), added subsec. (b). Former subsec. (b) redesignated (c).

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 107–42, §201(a)(2), (4), redesignated subsec. (b) as (c), in first sentence inserted ", or reimburse an air carrier under subsection (b) of this section," before "only with the approval", and in second sentence inserted "or the reimbursement" before "only after deciding" and "in the interest of air commerce or national security or" before "to carry out the foreign policy". Former subsec. (c) redesignated (d).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 107–42, §201(a)(2), (5), redesignated subsec. (c) as (d) and inserted "or reimbursing an air carrier" before "under this chapter". Former subsec. (d) redesignated (e).

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 107–42, §201(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (d) as (e).

1997—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 105–137 substituted "as determined by the Secretary in accordance with reasonable business practices in the commercial aviation insurance industry." for "as determined by the Secretary."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2011 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–27 effective July 23, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 112–27, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–21 effective July 1, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 112–21, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–16 effective June 1, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 112–16, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–7 effective Apr. 1, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 112–7, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Effective Date of 2010 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–329 effective Jan. 1, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–329, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–249 effective Oct. 1, 2010, see section 5(l) of Pub. L. 111–249, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–216 effective Aug. 2, 2010, see section 104(j) of Pub. L. 111–216, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–197 effective July 4, 2010, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–197, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–161 effective May 1, 2010, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–161, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–153 effective Apr. 1, 2010, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–153, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Effective Date of 2009 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–116 effective Jan. 1, 2010, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–116, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–12 effective Apr. 1, 2009, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–12, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Effective Date of 2008 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 110–330 effective Oct. 1, 2008, see section 5(l) of Pub. L. 110–330, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 110–253 effective July 1, 2008, see section 3(d) of Pub. L. 110–253, set out as a note under section 9502 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 2002 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 107–296 effective 60 days after Nov. 25, 2002, see section 4 of Pub. L. 107–296, set out as an Effective Date note under section 101 of Title 6, Domestic Security.

Extension of Termination Date of Policies

Pub. L. 109–289, div. B, title II, §21002(a), as added by Pub. L. 110–5, §2, Feb. 15, 2007, 121 Stat. 47, provided that subsec. (f)(1) of this section would be applied by substituting "September 30, 2007" for "August 31, 2006, and may extend through December 31, 2006".

Executive Documents

Provision of Aviation Insurance Coverage for Commercial Air Carrier Service

Determination of President of the United States, No. 94–39, July 26, 1994, 59 F.R. 38551, provided:

By virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, including 3 U.S.C. 301 and 49 U.S.C. 44302, I hereby:

(1) determine that continuation of authorized humanitarian relief air services to Haiti is necessary to carry out the foreign policy of the United States;

(2) approve provision by the Secretary of Transportation of insurance against loss or damage arising out of any risk from the operation of an aircraft in the manner and to the extent provided in 49 U.S.C. 44301–44310, whenever he determines that such insurance cannot be obtained on reasonable terms and conditions from any company authorized to conduct an insurance business in a State of the United States;

(3) delegate to the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the authority vested in me by 49 U.S.C. 44302(b) [now 44302(c)], for purposes of responding to the current crisis in Haiti; and

(4) delegate to the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the authority vested in me by 49 U.S.C. 44306(b) [now 44306(c)] for purposes of responding to the current crisis in Haiti.

The Secretary of Transportation is directed to bring this determination immediately to the attention of all air carriers within the meaning of 49 U.S.C. 40102(a)(2), and to arrange for its publication in the Federal Register.

William J. Clinton.      

Provision of Aviation Insurance Coverage for Commercial Air Carrier Service in Domestic and International Operations

Memorandum for the Secretary of Transportation

Memorandum of President of the United States, Dec. 27, 2013, 79 F.R. 527, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including 49 U.S.C. 44301–44310, I hereby:

1. Determine that the continuation of U.S. air transportation is necessary in the interest of air commerce, national security, and the foreign policy of the United States.

2. Approve provision by the Secretary of Transportation of insurance or reinsurance to U.S.-certificated air carriers against loss or damage arising out of any risk from the operation of an aircraft, in the manner and to the extent provided in chapter 443 of title 49, United States Code, until January 15, 2014, if he determines that such insurance or reinsurance cannot be obtained on reasonable terms from any company authorized to conduct an insurance business in a State of the United States.

3. Delegate to the Secretary of Transportation the authority, vested in me by 49 U.S.C. 44306(c), to extend this approval and determination through December 31, 2014, or until any date prior to December 31, 2014, provided that the Congress further extends the date contained in section 44310 and further provided that he not use this delegation to extend this determination and approval beyond the dates authorized under any such provision of law with an ending effective date prior to December 31, 2014.

You are directed to bring this determination immediately to the attention of all air carriers, as defined in 49 U.S.C. 40102(a)(2), and to arrange for its publication in the Federal Register.

Barack Obama.      

Prior Presidential documents related to provision of insurance to U.S.-flag commercial air service were contained in the following:

Memorandum of President of the United States, Sept. 27, 2012, 77 F.R. 60035.

Memorandum of President of the United States, Sept. 28, 2011, 76 F.R. 61247.

Memorandum of President of the United States, Sept. 29, 2010, 75 F.R. 61033.

Memorandum of President of the United States, Aug. 21, 2009, 74 F.R. 43617.

Memorandum of President of the United States, Dec. 23, 2008, 73 F.R. 79589.

Memorandum of President of the United States, Dec. 27, 2007, 73 F.R. 1813.

Memorandum of President of the United States, Dec. 21, 2006, 71 F.R. 77243.

Memorandum of President of the United States, Dec. 22, 2005, 70 F.R. 76669.

Determination of President of the United States, No. 2005–15, Dec. 21, 2004, 69 F.R. 77607.

Determination of President of the United States, No. 2004–13, Dec. 11, 2003, 69 F.R. 5237.

Determination of President of the United States, No. 01–29, Sept. 23, 2001, 66 F.R. 49075.

§44303. Coverage

(a) In General.—The Secretary of Transportation may provide insurance and reinsurance, or reimburse insurance costs, as authorized under section 44302 of this title for the following:

(1) an American aircraft or foreign-flag aircraft engaged in aircraft operations the President decides are necessary in the interest of air commerce or national security or to carry out the foreign policy of the United States Government.

(2) property transported or to be transported on aircraft referred to in clause (1) of this section, including—

(A) shipments by express or registered mail;

(B) property owned by citizens or residents of the United States;

(C) property—

(i) imported to, or exported from, the United States; and

(ii) bought or sold by a citizen or resident of the United States under a contract putting the risk of loss or obligation to provide insurance against risk of loss on the citizen or resident; and

(D) property transported between—

(i) a place in a State or the District of Columbia and a place in a territory or possession of the United States;

(ii) a place in a territory or possession of the United States and a place in another territory or possession of the United States; or

(iii) 2 places in the same territory or possession of the United States.

(3) the personal effects and baggage of officers and members of the crew of an aircraft referred to in clause (1) of this section and of other individuals employed or transported on that aircraft.

(4) officers and members of the crew of an aircraft referred to in clause (1) of this section and other individuals employed or transported on that aircraft against loss of life, injury, or detention.

(5) statutory or contractual obligations or other liabilities, customarily covered by insurance, of an aircraft referred to in clause (1) of this section or of the owner or operator of that aircraft.

(6) loss or damage of an aircraft manufacturer resulting from operation of an aircraft by an air carrier and involving war or terrorism.

(b) Air Carrier Liability for Third Party Claims Arising Out of Acts of Terrorism.—For acts of terrorism committed on or to an air carrier during the period beginning on September 22, 2001, and ending on December 11, 2014, the Secretary may certify that the air carrier was a victim of an act of terrorism and in the Secretary's judgment, based on the Secretary's analysis and conclusions regarding the facts and circumstances of each case, shall not be responsible for losses suffered by third parties (as referred to in section 205.5(b)(1) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations) that exceed $100,000,000, in the aggregate, for all claims by such parties arising out of such act. If the Secretary so certifies, the air carrier shall not be liable for an amount that exceeds $100,000,000, in the aggregate, for all claims by such parties arising out of such act, and the Government shall be responsible for any liability above such amount. No punitive damages may be awarded against an air carrier (or the Government taking responsibility for an air carrier under this subsection) under a cause of action arising out of such act. The Secretary may extend the provisions of this subsection to an aircraft manufacturer (as defined in section 44301) of the aircraft of the air carrier involved.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1169; Pub. L. 107–42, title II, §201(b)(1), Sept. 22, 2001, 115 Stat. 235; Pub. L. 107–296, title XII, §1201, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2286; Pub. L. 108–11, title IV, §4001(b), Apr. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 606; Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §106(a)(3), (b), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2499; Pub. L. 108–447, div. H, title I, §106(b), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3204; Pub. L. 109–115, div. A, title I, §108(b), Nov. 30, 2005, 119 Stat. 2402; Pub. L. 110–161, div. K, title I, §114(b), Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2381; Pub. L. 110–253, §3(c)(7), June 30, 2008, 122 Stat. 2418; Pub. L. 110–330, §5(d), Sept. 30, 2008, 122 Stat. 3718; Pub. L. 111–12, §5(c), Mar. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 1458; Pub. L. 111–69, §5(d), Oct. 1, 2009, 123 Stat. 2055; Pub. L. 111–116, §5(c), Dec. 16, 2009, 123 Stat. 3032; Pub. L. 111–117, div. A, title I, §114(b), Dec. 16, 2009, 123 Stat. 3043; Pub. L. 111–153, §5(c), Mar. 31, 2010, 124 Stat. 1085; Pub. L. 111–161, §5(c), Apr. 30, 2010, 124 Stat. 1127; Pub. L. 111–197, §5(c), July 2, 2010, 124 Stat. 1354; Pub. L. 111–216, title I, §104(c), Aug. 1, 2010, 124 Stat. 2349; Pub. L. 111–249, §5(d), Sept. 30, 2010, 124 Stat. 2628; Pub. L. 111–329, §5(c), Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3567; Pub. L. 112–7, §5(c), Mar. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 32; Pub. L. 112–16, §5(c), May 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 219; Pub. L. 112–21, §5(c), June 29, 2011, 125 Stat. 234; Pub. L. 112–27, §5(c), Aug. 5, 2011, 125 Stat. 271; Pub. L. 112–30, title II, §205(d), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 358; Pub. L. 112–91, §5(d), Jan. 31, 2012, 126 Stat. 4; Pub. L. 112–95, title VII, §702, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 118; Pub. L. 113–46, div. A, §153, Oct. 17, 2013, 127 Stat. 565; Pub. L. 113–76, div. L, title I, §119E(b), Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 582; Pub. L. 113–164, §148(b), Sept. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 1874; Pub. L. 113–235, div. L, §102(b), Dec. 16, 2014, 128 Stat. 2767.)

In this section, before clause (1), the words "persons, property, or interest" are omitted as unnecessary. In clause (2), the word "property" is substituted for "Cargoes" and "air cargoes" for consistency in the revised title. In clause (2)(B) and (C), the words "its territories, or possessions" are omitted as unnecessary because of the definition of "United States" in section 40102(a) of the revised title. In clause (2)(C)(ii), the word "contract" is substituted for "contracts of sale or purchase", and the words "putting . . . on" are substituted for "is assumed by or falls upon", to eliminate unnecessary words. In clause (2)(D), the word "place" is substituted for "point" for consistency in the revised title. In subclause (i), the words "a State or the District of Columbia" are substituted for "the United States" for clarity and consistency because the definition of "United States" in section 40102(a) of the revised title is too broad for the context of the clause. The definition in section 40102(a) includes territories and possession and would therefore overlap with subclauses (ii) and (iii). In subclause (iii), the words "2 places in the same territory or possession of the United States" are substituted for "any point in any such territory or possession and any other point in the same territory or possession" for clarity. In clauses (3) and (4), the word "individuals" is substituted for "persons" as being more appropriate. The words "captains" and "pilots" are omitted as being included in "officers and members of the crew".

Editorial Notes

Codification

The text of section 201(b)(2) of Pub. L. 107–42, which was transferred and redesignated so as to appear as subsec. (b) of this section and amended by Pub. L. 107–296, was based on Pub. L. 107–42, title II, §201(b)(2), Sept. 22, 2001, 115 Stat. 235, formerly included in a note set out under section 40101 of this title.

Amendments

2014—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 113–235 substituted "December 11, 2014" for "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2015".

Pub. L. 113–164 substituted "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2015" for "September 30, 2014".

Pub. L. 113–76 substituted "September 30, 2014" for "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014".

2013—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 113–46 substituted "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014" for "December 31, 2013".

2012—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 112–95 substituted "ending on December 31, 2013, the Secretary may certify" for "ending on May 17, 2012, the Secretary may certify".

Pub. L. 112–91 substituted "May 17, 2012," for "April 30, 2012,".

2011—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 112–30 substituted "April 30, 2012," for "December 31, 2011,".

Pub. L. 112–27 substituted "December 31, 2011," for "October 31, 2011,".

Pub. L. 112–21 substituted "October 31, 2011," for "September 30, 2011,".

Pub. L. 112–16 substituted "September 30, 2011," for "August 31, 2011,".

Pub. L. 112–7 substituted "August 31, 2011," for "June 30, 2011,".

2010—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 111–329 substituted "June 30, 2011," for "March 31, 2011,".

Pub. L. 111–249 substituted "March 31, 2011," for "December 31, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–216 substituted "December 31, 2010," for "October 31, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–197 substituted "October 31, 2010," for "September 30, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–161 substituted "September 30, 2010," for "July 31, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–153 substituted "July 31, 2010," for "June 30, 2010,".

2009—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 111–117, which directed the substitution of "December 31, 2010," for "December 31, 2009,", could not be executed due to the intervening amendment by Pub. L. 111–69. See below.

Pub. L. 111–116 substituted "June 30, 2010," for "March 31, 2010,".

Pub. L. 111–69 substituted "March 31, 2010," for "December 31, 2009,".

Pub. L. 111–12 substituted "December 31, 2009," for "May 31, 2009,".

2008—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 110–330 substituted "May 31, 2009," for "March 31, 2009,".

Pub. L. 110–253 substituted "March 31, 2009" for "December 31, 2008".

2007—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 110–161 substituted "2008," for "2006,".

2005—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 109–115 substituted "2006" for "2005".

2004—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 108–447 substituted "2005" for "2004'.

2003—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–176, §106(a)(3)(A), substituted "In General" for "In general" in heading.

Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 108–176, §106(a)(3)(B), added par. (6).

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 108–176, §106(b), inserted at end "The Secretary may extend the provisions of this subsection to an aircraft manufacturer (as defined in section 44301) of the aircraft of the air carrier involved."

Pub. L. 108–11 substituted "2004" for "2003".

2002—Pub. L. 107–296 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a), inserted heading, transferred and redesignated the text of section 201(b)(2) of Pub. L. 107–42 so as to appear as subsec. (b), in heading substituted "Air Carrier Liability for Third Party Claims Arising Out of Acts of Terrorism" for "Discretion of the Secretary", and in text substituted "the period beginning on September 22, 2001, and ending on December 31, 2003, the Secretary" for "the 180-day period following the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation" and "this subsection" for "this paragraph". See Codification note above.

2001—Pub. L. 107–42, §201(b)(1)(A), inserted ", or reimburse insurance costs, as" after "insurance and reinsurance" in introductory provisions.

Par. (1). Pub. L. 107–42, §201(b)(1)(B), inserted "in the interest of air commerce or national security or" before "to carry out the foreign policy".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2011 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–27 effective July 23, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 112–27, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–21 effective July 1, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 112–21, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–16 effective June 1, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 112–16, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–7 effective Apr. 1, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 112–7, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Effective Date of 2010 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–329 effective Jan. 1, 2011, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–329, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–249 effective Oct. 1, 2010, see section 5(l) of Pub. L. 111–249, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–216 effective Aug. 2, 2010, see section 104(j) of Pub. L. 111–216, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–197 effective July 4, 2010, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–197, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–161 effective May 1, 2010, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–161, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–153 effective Apr. 1, 2010, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–153, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Effective Date of 2009 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–116 effective Jan. 1, 2010, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–116, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 111–12 effective Apr. 1, 2009, see section 5(j) of Pub. L. 111–12, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Effective Date of 2008 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 110–330 effective Oct. 1, 2008, see section 5(l) of Pub. L. 110–330, set out as a note under section 40117 of this title.

Amendment by Pub. L. 110–253 effective July 1, 2008, see section 3(d) of Pub. L. 110–253, set out as a note under section 9502 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 2002 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 107–296 effective 60 days after Nov. 25, 2002, see section 4 of Pub. L. 107–296, set out as an Effective Date note under section 101 of Title 6, Domestic Security.

Extension of Limitation of Air Carrier Liability

Pub. L. 109–289, div. B, title II, §21002(b), as added by Pub. L. 110–5, §2, Feb. 15, 2007, 121 Stat. 48, provided that subsec. (b) of this section would be applied by substituting "September 30, 2007" for "December 31, 2006".

§44304. Reinsurance

To the extent the Secretary of Transportation is authorized to provide insurance under this chapter, the Secretary may reinsure any part of the insurance provided by an insurance carrier. The Secretary may reinsure with, transfer to, or transfer back to, any insurance carrier any insurance or reinsurance provided by the Secretary under this chapter.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1169; Pub. L. 107–42, title II, §201(c), Sept. 22, 2001, 115 Stat. 235; Pub. L. 112–95, title VII, §703, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 118.)

In subsection (a), the words "may reinsure any part of the insurance provided by an insurance carrier" are substituted for "may reinsure, in whole or in part, any company authorized to do an insurance business" for clarity and consistency with source provisions restated in this subchapter and the definition of "insurance carrier" in section 44301 of the revised title. The words "transfer to, or transfer back to" are substituted for "cede or retrocede to" for clarity.

In subsection (b), the word "same" is omitted as being included in "similar". The words "on account of the cost of" are omitted as surplus. The word "providing" is substituted for "rendered" and "furnished" because it is inclusive. The words "except for" are substituted for "but such allowance to the carrier shall not provide for" to eliminate unnecessary words.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2012—Pub. L. 112–95 substituted "any insurance carrier" for "the carrier".

2001—Pub. L. 107–42 struck out subsec. (a) designation and heading "General Authority" and struck out subsec. (b) which read as follows:

"(b) Premium Levels.—The Secretary may provide reinsurance at premiums not less than, or obtain reinsurance at premiums not higher than, the premiums the Secretary establishes on similar risks or the premiums the insurance carrier charges for the insurance to be reinsured by the Secretary, whichever is most advantageous to the Secretary. However, the Secretary may make allowances to the insurance carrier for expenses incurred in providing services and facilities that the Secretary considers good business practice, except for payments by the carrier for the stimulation or solicitation of insurance business."

§44305. Insuring United States Government property

(a) General.—With the approval of the President, a department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government may obtain—

(1) insurance under this chapter, including insurance for risks from operating an aircraft in intrastate or interstate air commerce, but not including insurance on valuables subject to sections 17302 and 17303 of title 40; and

(2) insurance for risks arising from providing goods or services directly related to and necessary for operating an aircraft covered by insurance obtained under clause (1) of this subsection if the aircraft is operated—

(A) in carrying out a contract of the department, agency, or instrumentality; or

(B) to transport military forces or materiel on behalf of the United States under an agreement between the Government and the government of a foreign country.

(b) Premium Waivers and Indemnification.—With the approval required under subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary of Transportation may provide the insurance without premium at the request of the Secretary of Defense or the head of a department, agency, or instrumentality designated by the President when the Secretary of Defense or the designated head agrees to indemnify the Secretary of Transportation against all losses covered by the insurance. The Secretary of Defense and any designated head may make indemnity agreements with the Secretary of Transportation under this section. If such an agreement is countersigned by the President or the President's designee, the agreement shall constitute, for purposes of section 44302(c), a determination that continuation of the aircraft operations to which the agreement applies is necessary to carry out the foreign policy of the United States.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1170; Pub. L. 105–137, §3, Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2640; Pub. L. 107–42, title II, §201(e), Sept. 22, 2001, 115 Stat. 236; Pub. L. 107–217, §3(n)(6), Aug. 21, 2002, 116 Stat. 1303.)

In this section, the words "a department, agency, or instrumentality" are substituted for "Any department or agency" for clarity and consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (a)(1), the words "obtain insurance under this chapter" are substituted for "procure from the Secretary any of the insurance provided under this subchapter" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "overseas air commerce" are omitted for the reasons given in the revision note for section 40101.

In subsection (b), the words "or the head of a department, agency, or instrumentality designated by the President" are substituted for "and such other agencies as the President may prescribe" as being more precise and for consistency in the revised title. The words "when the Secretary of Defense or the designated head agrees" are substituted for "in consideration of" for clarity. The words "any designated head" are substituted for "the agreement of . . . such agency" and "such other agencies" for clarity and because of the restatement.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2002—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 107–217 substituted "sections 17302 and 17303 of title 40" for "sections 1 and 2 of the Government Losses in Shipment Act (40 U.S.C. 721, 722)".

2001—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 107–42 substituted "44302(c)" for "44302(b)".

1997—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–137 inserted at end "If such an agreement is countersigned by the President or the President's designee, the agreement shall constitute, for purposes of section 44302(b), a determination that continuation of the aircraft operations to which the agreement applies is necessary to carry out the foreign policy of the United States."

§44306. Premiums and limitations on coverage and claims

(a) Premiums Based on Risk.—To the extent practical, the premium charged for insurance or reinsurance under this chapter shall be based on consideration of the risk involved.

(b) Allowances in Setting Premium Rates for Reinsurance.—In setting premium rates for reinsurance, the Secretary may make allowances to the insurance carrier for expenses incurred in providing services and facilities that the Secretary considers good business practices, except for payments by the insurance carrier for the stimulation or solicitation of insurance business.

(c) Time Limits.—The Secretary of Transportation may provide insurance and reinsurance under this chapter for a period of not more than 1 year. The period may be extended for additional periods of not more than 1 year each only if the President decides, before each additional period, that the continued operation of the aircraft to be insured or reinsured is necessary in the interest of air commerce or national security or to carry out the foreign policy of the United States Government.

(d) Maximum Insured Amount.—The insurance policy on an aircraft insured or reinsured under this chapter shall specify a stated amount that is not more than the value of the aircraft, as determined by the Secretary in accordance with reasonable business practices in the commercial aviation insurance industry. A claim under the policy may not be paid for more than that stated amount.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1170; Pub. L. 105–137, §2(b), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2640; Pub. L. 107–42, title II, §201(d), Sept. 22, 2001, 115 Stat. 235; Pub. L. 107–71, title I, §§124(b), 147, Nov. 19, 2001, 115 Stat. 631, 645; Pub. L. 107–296, title XII, §1203, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2287; Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §106(c), (e), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2499.)

In subsection (a), the words "To the extent" are substituted for "insofar as" for consistency.

In subsection (b), the word "initial" is omitted as surplus. The words "The period" are substituted for "Such insurance or reinsurance", and the words "the President decides . . . that the continued operation of the aircraft to be insured or reinsured is necessary to carry out the foreign policy of the United States Government" are substituted for "the President makes the same determination with respect to such extension as he is required to make under paragraph (2) of subsection (a) of this section for the initial provision of such insurance or reinsurance", for clarity.

In subsection (c), the words "or reinsured" are added for consistency. The words "to be paid in the event of total loss" are omitted as unnecessary because of the last sentence. The words "A claim under the policy may not be paid for more than that stated amount" are substituted for "the amount of any claim which is compromised, settled, adjusted, or paid shall in no event exceed such stated amount" to eliminate unnecessary words.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2003—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 108–176, §106(c), substituted "by the insurance carrier" for "by the air carrier".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 108–176, §106(e), made technical correction to directory language of Pub. L. 107–71, §124(b). See 2001 Amendment note below.

2002—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 107–296 made technical correction to directory language of Pub. L. 107–71, §147. See 2001 Amendment note below.

2001—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 107–42, §201(d)(2), added subsec. (b). Former subsec. (b) redesignated (c).

Subsec. (c). Pub.L. 107–71, §147, as amended by Pub. L. 107–296, substituted "1 year" for "60 days" in two places.

Pub. L. 107–71, §124(b), as amended by Pub. L. 108–176, §106(e), inserted "in the interest of air commerce or national security or" before "to carry out the foreign policy".

Pub. L. 107–42, §201(d)(1), redesignated subsec. (b) as (c). Former subsec. (c) redesignated (d).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 107–42, §201(d)(1), redesignated subsec. (c) as (d).

1997—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 105–137 substituted "as determined by the Secretary in accordance with reasonable business practices in the commercial aviation insurance industry." for "as determined by the Secretary."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by section 106(c) of Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §106(e), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2499, provided that the amendment made by section 106(e) is effective Nov. 19, 2001.

Effective Date of 2002 Amendment

Pub. L. 107–296, title XII, §1203, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2287, provided that the amendment made by section 1203 is effective Nov. 19, 2001.

Delegation of Authority

Authority of President under subsec. (c) of this section delegated to Secretary of Transportation, with certain conditions, by Memorandum of President of the United States, Dec. 27, 2013, 79 F.R. 527, set out as a note under section 44302 of this title.

§44307. Revolving fund

(a) Existence, Disbursements, Appropriations, and Deposits.—(1) There is a revolving fund in the Treasury. The Secretary of the Treasury shall disburse from the fund payments to carry out this chapter.

(2) Necessary amounts to carry out this chapter may be appropriated to the fund. The amounts appropriated and other amounts received in carrying out this chapter shall be deposited in the fund.

(b) Investment.—On request of the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of the Treasury may invest any part of the amounts in the revolving fund in interest-bearing securities of the United States Government. The interest on, and the proceeds from the sale or redemption of, the securities shall be deposited in the fund.

(c) Excess Amounts.—The balance in the revolving fund in excess of an amount the Secretary of Transportation determines is necessary for the requirements of the fund and for reasonable reserves to maintain the solvency of the fund shall be deposited at least annually in the Treasury as miscellaneous receipts.

(d) Expenses.—The Secretary of Transportation shall deposit annually an amount in the Treasury as miscellaneous receipts to cover the expenses the Government incurs when the Secretary of Transportation uses appropriated amounts in carrying out this chapter. The deposited amount shall equal an amount determined by multiplying the average monthly balance of appropriated amounts retained in the revolving fund by a percentage that is at least the current average rate payable on marketable obligations of the Government. The Secretary of the Treasury shall determine annually in advance the percentage applied.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1170.)

In subsection (a)(1), the first sentence is added for clarity. The last sentence is substituted for 49 App.:1536(a) (last sentence) to eliminate unnecessary words and for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (a)(2), the words "The amounts appropriated and other amounts received in carrying out this chapter" are substituted for "Moneys appropriated by Congress to carry out the provisions of this subchapter and all moneys received from premiums, salvage, or other recoveries and all receipts in connection with this subchapter" to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (b), the words "any part" are substituted for "all or any part" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "held in the revolving fund" are omitted as surplus. The words "deposited in" are substituted for "credited to and form a part of" for consistency.

In subsection (d), the words "The Secretary of Transportation shall deposit annually an amount in the Treasury" are substituted for "Annual payments shall be made by the Secretary to the Treasury of the United States", the words "The deposited amount shall equal an amount determined by multiplying" are substituted for "These payments shall be computed by applying to", and the words "a percentage that is at least the current average rate payable on marketable obligations of the Government" are substituted for "a percentage" and "Such percentage shall not be less than the current average rate which the Treasury pays on its marketable obligations", for clarity.

§44308. Administrative

(a) Commercial Practices.—The Secretary of Transportation may carry out this chapter consistent with commercial practices of the aviation insurance business.

(b) Issuance of Policies and Disposition of Claims.—(1) The Secretary may issue insurance policies to carry out this chapter. The Secretary may prescribe the forms, amounts insured under the policies, and premiums charged. Any such policy may authorize the binding arbitration of claims made thereunder in such manner as may be agreed to by the Secretary and any commercial insurer that may be responsible for any part of a loss to which such policy relates. The Secretary may change an amount of insurance or a premium for an existing policy only with the consent of the insured.

(2) For a claim under insurance authorized by this chapter, the Secretary may—

(A) settle and pay the claim made for or against the United States Government;

(B) pay the amount of a binding arbitration award made under paragraph (1); and

(C) pay the amount of a judgment entered against the Government.

(c) Underwriting Agent.—(1) The Secretary may, and when practical shall, employ an insurance carrier or group of insurance carriers to act as an underwriting agent. The Secretary may use the agent, or a claims adjuster who is independent of the underwriting agent, to adjust claims under this chapter, but claims may be paid only when approved by the Secretary.

(2) The Secretary may pay reasonable compensation to an underwriting agent for servicing insurance the agent writes for the Secretary. Compensation may include payment for reasonable expenses incurred by the agent but may not include a payment by the agent for stimulation or solicitation of insurance business.

(3) Except as provided by this subsection, the Secretary may not pay an insurance broker or other person acting in a similar capacity any consideration for arranging insurance when the Secretary directly insures any part of the risk.

(d) Budget.—The Secretary shall submit annually a budget program for carrying out this chapter as provided for wholly owned Government corporations under chapter 91 of title 31.

(e) Accounts.—The Secretary shall maintain a set of accounts for audit under chapter 35 of title 31. Notwithstanding chapter 35, the Comptroller General shall allow credit for expenditures under this chapter made consistent with commercial practices in the aviation insurance business when shown to be necessary because of the business activities authorized by this chapter.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1171; Pub. L. 104–316, title I, §127(e), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3840; Pub. L. 105–137, §4, Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2640; Pub. L. 112–95, title VII, §704, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 118.)

In subsection (a), the words "may carry out this chapter" are substituted for "in administering this subchapter, may exercise his powers, perform his duties and functions, and make his expenditures" to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (b)(1), the word "insurance" is added for clarity. The words "rules, and regulations" are omitted as unnecessary because of 49:322(a). The words "as he deems proper" and "subject to the following provisions of this subsection" are omitted as surplus. The words "and change" and "fix, adjust, and change" are omitted as being included in "prescribe". The words "under the policies" are added for clarity. The word "charged" is substituted for "provided for in this subchapter" for consistency in this subchapter.

In subsection (b)(2), before clause (A), the words "the Secretary" are added because of the restatement. In clause (A), the words "adjust and . . . losses, compromise and" are omitted as included in "settle and pay the claim". The word "made" is substituted for "whether" for clarity. In clause (B), the word "entered" is substituted for "rendered" because it is more appropriate. The words "in any suit" are omitted as surplus. The words "or the amount of any settlement agreed upon" are omitted as being included in "settle and pay the claim".

In subsection (c)(1), the words "and when practical shall" are substituted for "and whenever he finds it practical to do so shall" to eliminate unnecessary words. The word "his" is omitted as surplus. The words "The Secretary may use" are substituted for "may be utilized" for consistency. The words "The services of" are omitted as unnecessary.

In subsection (c)(2), the words "pay reasonable compensation" are substituted for "allow . . . fair and reasonable compensation" for consistency in the revised title. The words "an underwriting agent" are substituted for "such companies or groups of companies", and the words "the agent writes" are substituted for "written by such companies or groups of companies as underwriting agent", for clarity. The word "payment" is substituted for "allowance" for consistency.

In subsection (c)(3), the words "intermediary" and "fee or other" are omitted as surplus. The word "for" is substituted for "by virtue of his participation in" to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (d), the word "prepare" is omitted as being included in "submit". The words "for carrying out this chapter" are substituted for "in the performance of, and with respect to, the functions, powers, and duties vested in him by this subchapter" for consistency and to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "under chapter 91 of title 31" are substituted for "by the Government Corporation Control Act, as amended (59 Stat. 597; 31 U.S.C. 841)" in section 1307(f) of the Act of August 23, 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 804) because of section 4(b) of the Act of September 13, 1982 (Public Law 97–258, 96 Stat. 1067).

In subsection (e), the words "under chapter 35 of title 31" are substituted for "in accordance with the provisions of the Accounting and Auditing Act of 1950" in section 1307(f) of the Act of August 23, 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 804) because of section 4(b) of the Act of September 13, 1982 (Public Law 97–258, 96 Stat. 1067). The words "Provided, That . . . the Secretary may exercise the powers conferred in said subchapter, perform the duties and functions" are omitted as surplus. The words "Notwithstanding chapter 35" are added for clarity. The words "Comptroller General" are substituted for "General Accounting Office" because of 31:702.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 112–95 substituted "agent, or a claims adjuster who is independent of the underwriting agent," for "agent" in second sentence.

1997—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 105–137, §4(a), inserted after second sentence "Any such policy may authorize the binding arbitration of claims made thereunder in such manner as may be agreed to by the Secretary and any commercial insurer that may be responsible for any part of a loss to which such policy relates."

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 105–137, §4(b), struck out "and" at end of subpar. (A), added subpar. (B), and redesignated former subpar. (B) as (C).

1996—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 104–316 substituted "for audit" for ". The Comptroller General shall audit those accounts".

§44309. Civil actions

(a) Losses.—

(1) Actions against united states.—A person may bring a civil action in a district court of the United States or in the United States Court of Federal Claims against the United States Government when—

(A) a loss insured under this chapter is in dispute; or

(B)(i) the person is subrogated under a contract between the person and a party insured under this chapter (other than section 44305(b)) to the rights of the insured party against the United States Government; and

(ii) the person has paid to the insured party, with the approval of the Secretary of Transportation, an amount for a physical damage loss that the Secretary has determined is a loss covered by insurance issued under this chapter (other than section 44305(b)).

(2) Limitation.—A civil action involving the same matter (except the action authorized by this subsection) may not be brought against an agent, officer, or employee of the Government carrying out this chapter. A civil action shall not be instituted against the United States under this chapter unless the claimant first presents the claim to the Secretary of Transportation and such claim is finally denied by the Secretary in writing and notice of the denial of such claim is sent by certified or registered mail.

(3) Procedure.—To the extent applicable, the procedure in an action brought under section 1346(a)(2) of title 28, United States Code, applies to an action under this subsection.

(b) Venue and Joinder.—(1) A civil action under subsection (a) of this section may be brought in the judicial district for the District of Columbia or in the judicial district in which the plaintiff or the agent of the plaintiff resides if the plaintiff resides in the United States. If the plaintiff does not reside in the United States, the action may be brought in the judicial district for the District of Columbia or in the judicial district in which the Attorney General agrees to accept service.

(2) An interested person may be joined as a party to a civil action brought under subsection (a) of this section initially or on motion of either party to the action.

(c) Time Requirements.—(1) Except as provided under paragraph (2), an insurance claim made under this chapter against the United States shall be forever barred unless it is presented in writing to the Secretary of Transportation within two years after the date on which the loss event occurred. Any civil action arising out of the denial of such a claim shall be filed by not later than six months after the date of the mailing, by certified or registered mail, of notice of final denial of the claim by the Secretary.

(2)(A) For claims based on liability to persons with whom the insured has no privity of contract, an insurance claim made under the authority of this chapter against the United States shall be forever barred unless it is presented in writing to the Secretary of Transportation by not later than the earlier of—

(i) the date that is 60 days after the date on which final judgment is entered by a tribunal of competent jurisdiction; or

(ii) the date that is six years after the date on which the loss event occurred.

(B) Any civil action arising out of the denial of such claim shall be filed by not later than six months after the date of mailing, by certified or registered mail, of notice of final denial of the claim by the Secretary.

(3) A claim made under this chapter shall be deemed to be administratively denied if the Secretary fails to make a final disposition of the claim before the date that is 6 months after the date on which the claim is presented to the Secretary, unless the Secretary makes a different agreement with the claimant when there is good cause for an agreement.

(d) Interpleader.—(1) If the Secretary admits the Government owes money under an insurance claim under this chapter and there is a dispute about the person that is entitled to payment, the Government may bring a civil action of interpleader in a district court of the United States against the persons that may be entitled to payment. The action may be brought in the judicial district for the District of Columbia or in the judicial district in which any party resides.

(2) The district court may order a party not residing or found in the judicial district in which the action is brought to appear in a civil action under this subsection. The order shall be served in a reasonable manner decided by the district court. If the court decides an unknown person might assert a claim under the insurance that is the subject of the action, the court may order service on that person by publication in the Federal Register.

(3) Judgment in a civil action under this subsection discharges the Government from further liability to the parties to the action and to all other persons served by publication under paragraph (2) of this subsection.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1172; Pub. L. 105–277, div. C, title I, §110(c)(1), Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–587; Pub. L. 113–291, div. A, title X, §1074(a), Dec. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 3518.)

In subsection (a), the words "A person may bring" are substituted for "may be maintained" for clarity. The words "a civil action" are substituted for "suit" because of rule 2 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (28 App. U.S.C.). The words "A civil action . . . (except the action authorized by this subsection) may not be brought" are substituted for "and this remedy shall be exclusive of any other action", and the words "involving the" are substituted for "by reason of", for clarity. The words "carrying out this chapter" are substituted for "employed or retained under this subchapter", and the words "in an action" are substituted for "for suits in the district courts", for consistency. The words "applies to" are substituted for "shall otherwise be the same as that provided for" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "an action under this subsection" are substituted for "such suits" for consistency.

In subsection (b)(1), the words "A civil action under subsection (a) of this section may be brought" are added for clarity. The words "the plaintiff or the agent of the plaintiff resides" are substituted for "the claimant or his agent resides" for consistency in the revised title. The words "if the plaintiff resides in the United States" are added for clarity. The words "notwithstanding the amount of the claim" are omitted as obsolete because jurisdiction under 28:1331 no longer depends on the amount of the claim. The words "and any provision of existing law as to the jurisdiction of United States district courts" are omitted as obsolete.

In subsection (b)(2), the words "interested person" are substituted for "All persons having or claiming or who might have an interest in such insurance" to eliminate unnecessary words. The word "either" is omitted as surplus. The words "to a civil action brought under subsection (a) of this section" are added for clarity.

In subsection (c), the words "during which, under section 2401 of title 28, a civil action must be brought under subsection (a) of this section" are substituted for "within which suits may be commenced contained in section 2401 of title 28 providing for bringing of suits against the United States" for clarity. The words "from such time of filing" are omitted as surplus. The words "60 days after the Secretary of Transportation denies the claim" are substituted for "the claim shall have been administratively denied by the Secretary and for sixty days thereafter" for clarity.

In subsection (d)(1), the words "a civil action of interpleader" are substituted for "an action in the nature of a bill of interpleader" because of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (28 App. U.S.C.). The words "persons that may be entitled to payment" are substituted for "such parties" for clarity.

In subsection (d)(2), the words "in which the action is brought" are added for clarity. The words "The order shall be" are added because of the restatement. The words "the court may order service on that person" are substituted for "it may direct service upon such persons unknown" as being more precise.

In subsection (d)(3), the words "in a civil action under this subsection" are substituted for "in any such suit" for clarity.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2014—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 113–291, §1074(a)(1), inserted at end "A civil action shall not be instituted against the United States under this chapter unless the claimant first presents the claim to the Secretary of Transportation and such claim is finally denied by the Secretary in writing and notice of the denial of such claim is sent by certified or registered mail."

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 113–291, §1074(a)(2), added subsec. (c) and struck out former subsec. (c). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "When an insurance claim is made under this chapter, the period during which, under section 2401 of title 28, a civil action must be brought under subsection (a) of this section is suspended until 60 days after the Secretary of Transportation denies the claim. The claim is deemed to be administratively denied if the Secretary does not act on the claim not later than 6 months after filing, unless the Secretary makes a different agreement with the claimant when there is good cause for an agreement."

1998—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–277 amended heading and text of subsec. (a) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "A person may bring a civil action in a district court of the United States against the United States Government when a loss insured under this chapter is in dispute. A civil action involving the same matter (except the action authorized by this subsection) may not be brought against an agent, officer, or employee of the Government carrying out this chapter. To the extent applicable, the procedure in an action brought under section 1346(a)(2) of title 28 applies to an action under this subsection."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2014 Amendment

Pub. L. 113–291, div. A, title X, §1074(b), Dec. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 3519, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to a claim arising after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 19, 2014]."

§44310. Ending effective date

(a) In General.—The authority of the Secretary of Transportation to provide insurance and reinsurance under any provision of this chapter other than section 44305 is not effective after December 11, 2014.

(b) Insurance of United States Government Property.—The authority of the Secretary of Transportation to provide insurance and reinsurance for a department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government under section 44305 is not effective after September 30, 2023.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1173; Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title X, §1088(a), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1921; Pub. L. 105–137, §5(a), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2641; Pub. L. 105–277, div. C, title I, §110(c)(2), Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–588; Pub. L. 106–6, §6, Mar. 31, 1999, 113 Stat. 10; Pub. L. 106–31, title VI, §6002(f), May 21, 1999, 113 Stat. 113; Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §711, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 160; Pub. L. 108–11, title IV, §4001(c), Apr. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 606; Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §106(d), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2499; Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title III, §378, Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 85; Pub. L. 113–46, div. A, §154, Oct. 17, 2013, 127 Stat. 565; Pub. L. 113–66, div. A, title X, §1093, Dec. 26, 2013, 127 Stat. 878; Pub. L. 113–76, div. L, title I, §119E(c), Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 582; Pub. L. 113–164, §148(c), Sept. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 1874; Pub. L. 113–235, div. L, §102(c), Dec. 16, 2014, 128 Stat. 2767; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title X, §1046, Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2395; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title III, §374, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1332.)

The words "is not effective after" are substituted for "shall expire at the termination of" for clarity and consistency in the revised title.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–92 substituted "September 30, 2023" for "December 31, 2019".

2016—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 114–328 substituted "December 31, 2019" for "December 31, 2018".

2014—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 113–235 substituted "December 11, 2014" for "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2015".

Pub. L. 113–164 substituted "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2015" for "September 30, 2014".

Pub. L. 113–76 substituted "September 30, 2014" for "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014".

2013—Pub. L. 113–66 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a) and inserted heading, substituted "any provision of this chapter other than section 4430" for "this chapter", and added subsec. (b).

Pub. L. 113–46 substituted "the date specified in section 106(3) of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014" for "December 31, 2013".

2008—Pub. L. 110–181 substituted "December 31, 2013" for "March 30, 2008".

2003—Pub. L. 108–176 substituted "March 30, 2008" for "December 31, 2004".

Pub. L. 108–11, substituted "2004" for "2003".

2000—Pub. L. 106–181 substituted "after December 31, 2003." for "after August 6, 1999."

1999—Pub. L. 106–31 substituted "August 6, 1999" for "May 31, 1999".

Pub. L. 106–6 substituted "May" for "March".

1998—Pub. L. 105–277 substituted "March 31, 1999" for "December 31, 1998".

1997—Pub. L. 105–137 substituted "December 31, 1998" for "September 30, 2002".

Pub. L. 105–85 substituted "September 30, 2002" for "September 30, 1997".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 1997 Amendments

Pub. L. 105–137, §5(b), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2641, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] takes effect on October 1, 1997."

Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title X, §1088(b), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1921, provided that: "This section [amending this section] shall take effect as of September 30, 1997."

Continuation of Aviation Insurance Laws

Pub. L. 102–581, title IV, §404, Oct. 31, 1992, 106 Stat. 4898, provided that: "Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the provisions of title XIII of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 [now this chapter] and all insurance policies issued by the Secretary of Transportation under such title, as in effect on September 30, 1992, shall be treated as having continued in effect until the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 31, 1992]."

CHAPTER 445—FACILITIES, PERSONNEL, AND RESEARCH

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2020—Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §112(b), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2332, added item 44519.

2018—Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §524(b), title VII, §762(b), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3364, 3428, substituted "Regions and centers" for "Civil aeromedical research" in item 44507 and added item 44518.

2003—Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §183(b), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2517, added item 44517.

2000—Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §713(c), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 161, added item 44516.

§44501. Plans and policy

(a) Long Range Plans and Policy Requirements.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make long range plans and policy for the orderly development and use of the navigable airspace, and the orderly development and location of air navigation facilities, that will best meet the needs of, and serve the interests of, civil aeronautics and the national defense, except for needs of the armed forces that are peculiar to air warfare and primarily of military concern.

(b) Airway Capital Investment Plan.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall review, revise, and publish a national airways system plan, known as the Airway Capital Investment Plan, before the beginning of each fiscal year. The plan shall set forth—

(1) for a 10-year period, the research, engineering, and development programs and the facilities and equipment that the Administrator considers necessary for a system of airways, air traffic services, and navigation aids that will—

(A) meet the forecasted needs of civil aeronautics;

(B) meet the requirements that the Secretary of Defense establishes for the support of the national defense; and

(C) provide the highest degree of safety in air commerce;

(2) for the first and 2d years of the plan, detailed annual estimates of—

(A) the number, type, location, and cost of acquiring, operating, and maintaining required facilities and services;

(B) the cost of research, engineering, and development required to improve safety, system capacity, and efficiency; and

(C) personnel levels required for the activities described in subclauses (A) and (B) of this clause;

(3) for the 3d, 4th, and 5th years of the plan, estimates of the total cost of each major program for the 3-year period, and additional major research programs, acquisition of systems and facilities, and changes in personnel levels that may be required to meet long range objectives and that may have significant impact on future funding requirements;

(4) a 10-year investment plan that considers long range objectives that the Administrator considers necessary to—

(A) ensure that safety is given the highest priority in providing for a safe and efficient airway system; and

(B) meet the current and projected growth of aviation and the requirements of interstate commerce, the United States Postal Service, and the national defense; and

(5) a list of capital projects that are part of the Next Generation Air Transportation System and funded by amounts appropriated under section 48101(a).

(c) National Aviation Research Plan.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prepare and publish annually a national aviation research plan and submit the plan to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives. The plan shall be submitted not later than the date of submission of the President's budget to Congress.

(2)(A) The plan shall describe, for a 5-year period, the research, engineering, and development that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration considers necessary—

(i) to ensure the continued capacity, safety, and efficiency of aviation in the United States, considering emerging technologies and forecasted needs of civil aeronautics; and

(ii) to provide the highest degree of safety in air travel.

(B) The plan shall—

(i) provide estimates by year of the schedule, cost, and work force levels for each active and planned major research and development project under sections 40119,¹ 44504, 44505, 44507, 44509, 44511–44513, and 44912 of this title, including activities carried out under cooperative agreements with other Federal departments and agencies;

(ii) specify the goals and the priorities for allocation of resources among the major categories of research and development activities, including the rationale for the priorities identified;

(iii) identify the allocation of resources among long-term research, near-term research, and development activities;

(iv) identify the individual research and development projects in each funding category that are described in the annual budget request;

(v) highlight the research and development activities that address specific recommendations of the research advisory committee established under section 44508 of this title, and document the recommendations of the committee that are not accepted, specifying the reasons for nonacceptance; and

(vi) highlight the research and development technology transfer activities that promote technology sharing among government, industry, and academia through the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980.

(3) Subject to section 40119(b) ¹ of this title and regulations prescribed under section 40119(b),¹ the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall submit to the committees named in paragraph (1) of this subsection an annual report on the accomplishments of the research completed during the prior fiscal year, including a description of the dissemination to the private sector of research results and a description of any new technologies developed. The report shall be submitted with the plan required under paragraph (1) and be organized to allow comparison with the plan in effect for the prior fiscal year. The report shall be prepared in accordance with requirements of section 1116 of title 31.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1173; Pub. L. 104–264, title XI, §1105, Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3279; Pub. L. 104–287, §5(74), Oct. 11, 1996, 110 Stat. 3396; Pub. L. 106–181, title IX, §902(a), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 195; Pub. L. 112–95, title I, §105, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 17.)

In subsection (a), the word "Administrator" in section 312(a) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 752) is retained on authority of 49:106(g). The words "air navigation facilities" are substituted for "landing areas, Federal airways, radar installations and all other aids and facilities for air navigation" because of the definition of "air navigation facility" in section 40102(a) of the revised title. The words "the armed forces" are substituted for "military agencies" because of 10:101.

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "the requirements of" are omitted as surplus. The text of 49 App.:2203(b) (1st sentence) is omitted as executed. The words "thereafter" and "For fiscal year 1991 and thereafter" are omitted as obsolete. In clauses (2)(C) and (3), the word "personnel" is substituted for "manpower" for consistency in the revised title. In clause (2)(C), the word "all" is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c), before clause (1), the word "completed" is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(1), the words "review, revise" are omitted as surplus. The word "annually" is substituted for "for fiscal year 1990, and for each fiscal year thereafter" to eliminate obsolete language.

In subsection (d)(2)(B), before clause (i), the words "an appropriation" are substituted for "funding", and in clause (ii), the word "appropriations" is substituted for "funding", for clarity and consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (d)(3), the words "beginning with the date of transmission of the first aviation research plan as required by paragraph (1)" are omitted as obsolete.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 40119 of this title, referred to in subsec. (c)(2)(B)(i), (3), was repealed by Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, §1991(c)(3), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3627.

The Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980, referred to in subsec. (c)(2)(B)(vi), is Pub. L. 96–480, Oct. 21, 1980, 94 Stat. 2311, as amended, which is classified generally to chapter 63 (§3701 et seq.) of Title 15, Commerce and Trade. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 3701 of Title 15 and Tables.

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 112–95 added par. (5).

2000—Subsec. (c)(2)(B)(iv) to (vi). Pub. L. 106–181, §902(a)(1), added cls. (iv) and (vi) and redesignated former cl. (iv) as (v).

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 106–181, §902(a)(2), inserted at end "The report shall be prepared in accordance with requirements of section 1116 of title 31."

1996—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 104–287 substituted "Committee on Science" for "Committee on Science, Space, and Technology".

Subsec. (c)(2)(A). Pub. L. 104–264, §1105(1), substituted "5-year period" for "15-year period".

Subsec. (c)(2)(B). Pub. L. 104–264, §1105(2), amended subpar. (B) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (B) set out the requirements for research plans including specific requirements for the first two years of the plan, for the 3rd, 4th, and 5th years, and for the 6th and subsequent years.

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 104–264, §1105(3), inserted ", including a description of the dissemination to the private sector of research results and a description of any new technologies developed" after "during the prior fiscal year".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

Committee on Science of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007. Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Except as otherwise specifically provided, amendment by Pub. L. 104–264 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1996, and not to be construed as affecting funds made available for a fiscal year ending before Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104–264, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Consolidation and Realignment of FAA Services and Facilities

Pub. L. 112–95, title VIII, §804, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 119, as amended by Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §§510, 545(b)(2), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3355, 3376, provided that:

"(a) National Facilities Realignment and Consolidation Report.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall develop a report, to be known as the National Facilities Realignment and Consolidation Report, in accordance with the requirements of this subsection.

"(2) Purpose.—The purpose of the report shall be to reduce capital, operating, maintenance, and administrative costs of the FAA where such cost reductions can be implemented without adversely affecting safety.

"(3) Contents.—The report shall include—

"(A) recommendations of the Administrator on realignment and consolidation of services and facilities (including regional offices) of the FAA; and

"(B) for each of the recommendations, a description of—

"(i) the Administrator's justification;

"(ii) the projected costs and savings; and

"(iii) the proposed timing for implementation.

"(4) Input.—The report shall be prepared by the Administrator (or the Administrator's designee) with the participation of—

"(A) representatives of labor organizations representing air traffic control system employees of the FAA; and

"(B) industry stakeholders.

"(5) Submission to congress.—Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall submit the report to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.

"(6) Public notice and comment.—The Administrator shall publish the report in the Federal Register and allow 45 days for the submission of public comments.

"(b) Report to Congress Containing Recommendations of Administrator.—Not later than 60 days after the last day of the period for public comment under subsection (a)(6), the Administrator shall submit to the committees specified in subsection (a)(5)—

"(1) a report containing the recommendations of the Administrator on realignment and consolidation of services and facilities (including regional offices) of the FAA; and

"(2) copies of any public comments received by the Administrator under subsection (a)(6).

"(c) Realignment and Consolidation of FAA Services and Facilities.—Except as provided in subsection (d), the Administrator shall realign and consolidate the services and facilities of the FAA in accordance with the recommendations included in the report submitted under subsection (b).

"(d) Congressional Disapproval.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator may not carry out a recommendation for realignment or consolidation of services or facilities of the FAA that is included in the report submitted under subsection (b) if a joint resolution of disapproval is enacted disapproving such recommendation before the earlier of—

"(A) the last day of the 30-day period beginning on the date of submission of the report; or

"(B) the adjournment of Congress sine die for the session during which the report is transmitted.

"(2) Computation of 30-day period.—For purposes of paragraph (1)(A), the days on which either House of Congress is not in session because of an adjournment of more than 3 days to a day certain shall be excluded in computation of the 30-day period.

"(e) Military Operations Exclusion.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator may not realign or consolidate a combined TRACON and tower with radar facility of the FAA under this section if, in 2015, the total annual military operations at the facility comprised at least 40 percent of the total annual TRACON operations at the facility.

"(2) TRACON defined.—In this subsection, the term 'TRACON' means terminal radar approach control.

"(f) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) FAA.—The term 'FAA' means the Federal Aviation Administration.

"(2) Realignment; consolidation.—

"(A) In general.—The terms 'realignment' and 'consolidation' include any action that—

"(i) relocates functions, services, or personnel positions;

"(ii) discontinues or severs existing facility functions or services; or

"(iii) combines the results described in clauses (i) and (ii).

"(B) Exclusion.—The terms do not include a reduction in personnel resulting from workload adjustments."

[Section 545(b)(2) of Pub. L. 115–254, which directed amendment of section 804 of Pub. L. 112–95, set out above, by substituting "Chief Technology Officer" for "Chief NextGen Officer" in subsec. (a)(4)(A), could not be executed because the words "Chief NextGen Officer" did not appear after the intervening amendment of subsec. (a)(4) by section 510(a)(2) of Pub. L. 115–254.]

Program Authorizations

Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §901(c), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 137, provided that: "From the other accounts described in the national aviation research plan required under section 44501(c) of title 49, United States Code, the following research and development activities are authorized:

"(1) Runway Incursion Reduction.

"(2) System Capacity, Planning, and Improvement.

"(3) Operations Concept Validation.

"(4) NAS Weather Requirements.

"(5) Airspace Management Program.

"(6) NextGen—Air Traffic Control/Technical Operations Human Factors.

"(7) NextGen—Environment and Energy—Environmental Management System and Advanced Noise and Emissions Reduction.

"(8) NextGen—New Air Traffic Management Requirements.

"(9) NextGen—Operations Concept Validation—Validation Modeling.

"(10) NextGen—System Safety Management Transformation.

"(11) NextGen—Wake Turbulence—Recategorization.

"(12) NextGen—Operational Assessments.

"(13) NextGen—Staffed NextGen Towers.

"(14) Center for Advanced Aviation System Development.

"(15) Airports Technology Research Program—Capacity.

"(16) Airports Technology Research Program—Safety.

"(17) Airports Technology Research Program—Environment.

"(18) Airport Cooperative Research—Capacity.

"(19) Airport Cooperative Research—Environment.

"(20) Airport Cooperative Research—Safety."

¹ See References in Text note below.

§44502. General facilities and personnel authority

(a) General Authority.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may—

(A) acquire, establish, improve, operate, and maintain air navigation facilities; and

(B) provide facilities and personnel to regulate and protect air traffic.

(2) The cost of site preparation work associated with acquiring, establishing, or improving an air navigation facility under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection shall be charged to amounts available for that purpose appropriated under section 48101(a) of this title. The Secretary of Transportation may make an agreement with an airport owner or sponsor (as defined in section 47102 of this title) so that the owner or sponsor will provide the work and be paid or reimbursed by the Secretary from the appropriated amounts.

(3) The Secretary of Transportation may authorize a department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government to carry out any duty or power under this subsection with the consent of the head of the department, agency, or instrumentality.

(4) Purchase of instrument landing system.—

(A) Establishment of program.—The Secretary shall purchase precision approach instrument landing system equipment for installation at airports on an expedited basis.

(B) Authorization.—No less than $30,000,000 of the amounts appropriated under section 48101(a) for each of fiscal years 2000 through 2002 shall be used for the purpose of carrying out this paragraph, including acquisition under new or existing contracts, site preparation work, installation, and related expenditures.

(5) Improvements on leased properties.—The Administrator may make improvements to real property leased for no or nominal consideration for an air navigation facility, regardless of whether the cost of making the improvements exceeds the cost of leasing the real property, if—

(A) the improvements primarily benefit the Government;

(B) the improvements are essential for accomplishment of the mission of the Federal Aviation Administration; and

(C) the interest of the United States Government in the improvements is protected.

(b) Certification of Necessity.—Except for Government money expended under this part or for a military purpose, Government money may be expended to acquire, establish, construct, operate, repair, alter, or maintain an air navigation facility only if the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration certifies in writing that the facility is reasonably necessary for use in air commerce or for the national defense. An interested person may apply for a certificate for a facility to be acquired, established, constructed, operated, repaired, altered, or maintained by or for the person.

(c) Ensuring Conformity With Plans and Policies.—(1) To ensure conformity with plans and policies for, and allocation of, airspace by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under section 40103(b)(1) of this title, a military airport, military landing area, or missile or rocket site may be acquired, established, or constructed, or a runway may be altered substantially, only if the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration is given reasonable prior notice so that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may advise the appropriate committees of Congress and interested departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Government on the effect of the acquisition, establishment, construction, or alteration on the use of airspace by aircraft. A disagreement between the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and the Secretary of Defense or the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration may be appealed to the President for a final decision.

(2) To ensure conformity, an airport or landing area not involving the expenditure of Government money may be established or constructed, or a runway may be altered substantially, only if the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration is given reasonable prior notice so that the Administrator may provide advice on the effects of the establishment, construction, or alteration on the use of airspace by aircraft.

(d) Public Use and Emergency Assistance.—(1) The head of a department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government having jurisdiction over an air navigation facility owned or operated by the Government may provide, under regulations the head of the department, agency, or instrumentality prescribes, for public use of the facility.

(2) The head of a department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government having jurisdiction over an airport or emergency landing field owned or operated by the Government may provide, under regulations the head of the department, agency, or instrumentality prescribes, for assistance, and the sale of fuel, oil, equipment, and supplies, to an aircraft, but only when necessary, because of an emergency, to allow the aircraft to continue to the nearest airport operated by private enterprise. The head of the department, agency, or instrumentality shall provide for the assistance and sale at the prevailing local fair market value as determined by the head of the department, agency, or instrumentality. An amount that the head decides is equal to the cost of the assistance provided and the fuel, oil, equipment, and supplies sold shall be credited to the appropriation from which the cost was paid. The balance shall be credited to miscellaneous receipts.

(e) Transfers of Air Traffic Systems.—

(1) In general.—An airport may transfer, without consideration, to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, an eligible air traffic system or equipment that conforms to performance specifications of the Administrator if a Government airport aid program, airport development aid program, or airport improvement project grant was used to assist in purchasing the system or equipment.

(2) Acceptance.—The Administrator shall accept the eligible air traffic system or equipment and operate and maintain it under criteria of the Administrator.

(3) Definition.—In this subsection, the term "eligible air traffic system or equipment" means—

(A) an instrument landing system consisting of a glide slope and localizer (if the Administrator has determined that a satellite navigation system cannot provide a suitable approach to an airport);

(B) an Automated Weather Observing System weather observation system; or

(C) a Remote Communication Air/Ground and Remote Communication Outlet communications facility.

(f) Airport Space.—

(1) Restriction.—The Administrator may not require an airport owner or sponsor (as defined in section 47102) to provide to the Federal Aviation Administration without cost any of the following:

(A) Building construction, maintenance, utilities, or expenses for services relating to air traffic control, air navigation, or weather reporting.

(B) Space in a facility owned by the airport owner or sponsor for services relating to air traffic control, air navigation, or weather reporting.

(2) Rule of construction.—Nothing in this subsection may be construed to affect—

(A) any agreement the Secretary may have or make with an airport owner or sponsor for the airport owner or sponsor to provide any of the items described in paragraph (1)(A) or (1)(B) at below-market rates; or

(B) any grant assurance that requires an airport owner or sponsor to provide land to the Administration without cost for an air traffic control facility.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1175; Pub. L. 103–305, title I, §120(a), Aug. 23, 1994, 108 Stat. 1581; Pub. L. 103–429, §6(54), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4385; Pub. L. 104–287, §5(75), Oct. 11, 1996, 110 Stat. 3396; Pub. L. 106–181, title I, §153, title VII, §712, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 87, 160; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title I, §147, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3213.)

In this section, the words "department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government" are substituted for "Federal department or agency" in 49 App.:1348(b), "agencies" in 49 App.:1349(b), and "department or other agency" and "Government department or other agency" in 49 App.:1507 for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsections (a)(1), (b), and (c), the word "Administrator" in sections 303(c) (1st sentence), 307(b), 308(a) (1st and 2d sentences) and (b), and 309 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 750, 751) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

In subsection (a)(1), before clause (A), the words "within the limits of available appropriations made by the Congress" are omitted as surplus. In clause (A), the words "wherever necessary" are omitted as surplus. In clause (B), the word "necessary" is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(2), the words "by the Secretary" and "to the Secretary" are omitted as surplus. The last sentence is substituted for 49 App.:2205(a)(3) (last sentence) to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (a)(3), the words "subject to such regulations, supervision, and review as he may prescribe" are omitted because of 49:322(a). The words "from time to time make such provision as he shall deem appropriate" are omitted as surplus. The words "duty or power" are substituted for "function" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the Code. The words "the head of" are added for clarity and consistency.

In subsection (b), the words "(whether or not in cooperation with State or other local governmental agencies)" and "thereon" are omitted as surplus. The words "landing area" are omitted as being included in the definition of "air navigation facility" in section 40102(a) of the revised title. The words "recommendation and" are omitted as surplus. The words "under regulations prescribed by him" are omitted because of 49:322(a). The word "proposed" is omitted as surplus. The word "acquired" is added for consistency in this subsection.

In subsection (c)(1), the words "In order", "layout", and "In case of . . . the matter" are omitted as surplus. The words "Secretary of Defense" are substituted for "Department of Defense" because of 10:133(a). The words "the Administrator of" are added because of 42:2472(a).

In subsection (c)(2), the word "layout" is omitted as surplus. The words "pursuant to regulations prescribed by him" are omitted because of 49:322(a). The words "the establishment, building, or alteration" are substituted for "such construction" for clarity and consistency in this section.

In subsection (d)(1), the words "under such conditions and to such extent as . . . deems advisable and" are omitted as surplus. The word "provide" is substituted for "be made available", and the words "of the facility" are added, for clarity.

In subsection (d)(2), the words "All amounts received under this subsection shall be covered into the Treasury" are omitted because of 31:3302(b). The words "services, shelter . . . other" and "if any" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (e), the words "or compact" are omitted as surplus. The words "or States" are omitted because of 1:1. The text of 49 App.:1743 (last sentence) is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (f), the words "Notwithstanding any other provision of law" and "thereafter" are omitted as surplus.

Pub. L. 103–429

This amends 49:44502(b) to clarify the restatement of 49 App.:1349(a) (1st, 2d sentences) by section 1 of the Act of July 5, 1994 (Public Law 103–272, 108 Stat. 1175).

Pub. L. 104–287, §5(75)(A)

This amends 49:44502(c)(1) to correct an error in the codification enacted by section 1 of the Act of July 5, 1994 (Public Law 103–272, 108 Stat. 1175).

Pub. L. 104–287, §5(75)(B)

This strikes 49:44502(e) and redesignates 49:44502(f) as 49:44502(e) because of the restatement of former 49:44502(e) as 49:40121.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 115–254, §147(1), added subsec. (e) and struck out former subsec. (e). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "An airport may transfer, without consideration, to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration an instrument landing system (and associated approach lighting equipment and runway visual range equipment) that conforms to performance specifications of the Administrator if a Government airport aid program, airport development aid program, or airport improvement project grant was used to assist in purchasing the system. The Administrator shall accept the system and operate and maintain it under criteria of the Administrator."

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 115–254, §147(2), added subsec. (f).

2000—Subsec. (a)(4)(B). Pub. L. 106–181, §153, substituted "each of fiscal years 2000 through 2002" for "each of fiscal years 1995 and 1996" and inserted "under new or existing contracts" after "including acquisition".

Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 106–181, §712, added par. (5).

1996—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 104–287, §5(75)(A), substituted "To ensure" for "To ensure that".

Subsecs. (e), (f). Pub. L. 104–287, §5(75)(B), redesignated subsec. (f) as (e) and struck out former subsec. (e) which read as follows:

"(e) Consent of Congress.—Congress consents to a State making an agreement, not in conflict with a law of the United States, with another State to develop or operate an airport facility."

1994—Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 103–305 added par. (4).

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 103–429 inserted "Government" before "money may be expended".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 1994 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 103–429 effective July 5, 1994, see section 9 of Pub. L. 103–429, set out as a note under section 321 of this title.

High Performance, Sustainable, and Cost-Effective Air Traffic Control Facilities

Pub. L. 112–95, title V, §508, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 106, provided that: "The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may implement, to the extent practicable, sustainable practices for the incorporation of energy-efficient design, equipment, systems, and other measures in the construction and major renovation of air traffic control facilities of the Administration in order to reduce energy consumption at, improve the environmental performance of, and reduce the cost of maintenance for such facilities."

Strategy for Staffing, Hiring, and Training Flight Standards and Aircraft Certification Staff

Pub. L. 116–6, div. G, title I, Feb. 15, 2019, 133 Stat. 401, provided in part: "That not later than March 31 of each fiscal year hereafter, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall transmit to Congress a companion report that describes a comprehensive strategy for staffing, hiring, and training flight standards and aircraft certification staff in a format similar to the one utilized for the controller staffing plan, including stated attrition estimates and numerical hiring goals by fiscal year".

Similar provisions were contained in the following appropriation acts:

Pub. L. 116–260, div. L, title I, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 1830.

Pub. L. 116–94, div. H, title I, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 2940.

Pub. L. 115–141, div. L, title I, Mar. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 977.

Pub. L. 115–31, div. K, title I, May 5, 2017, 131 Stat. 730.

Pub. L. 114–113, div. L, title I, Dec. 18, 2015, 129 Stat. 2839.

Pub. L. 113–235, div. K, title I, Dec. 16, 2014, 128 Stat. 2700.

Pub. L. 113–76, div. L, title I, Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 578.

Pub. L. 112–55, div. C, title I, Nov. 18, 2011, 125 Stat. 646.

Pub. L. 111–117, div. A, title I, Dec. 16, 2009, 123 Stat. 3040.

Pilot Program for Innovative Financing of Air Traffic Control Equipment

Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §182, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2515, as amended by Pub. L. 113–188, title XV, §1501(d), Nov. 26, 2014, 128 Stat. 2024, provided that:

"(a) In General.—In order to test the cost effectiveness and feasibility of long-term financing of modernization of major air traffic control systems, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may establish a pilot program to test innovative financing techniques through amending, subject to section 1341 of title 31, United States Code, a contract for more than one, but not more than 20, fiscal years to purchase and install air traffic control equipment for the Administration. Such amendments may be for more than one, but not more than 10, fiscal years.

"(b) Cancellation.—A contract described in subsection (a) may include a cancellation provision if the Administrator determines that such a provision is necessary and in the best interest of the United States. Any such provision shall include a cancellation liability schedule that covers reasonable and allocable costs incurred by the contractor through the date of cancellation plus reasonable profit, if any, on those costs. Any such provision shall not apply if the contract is terminated by default of the contractor.

"(c) Contract Provisions.—If feasible and practicable for the pilot program, the Administrator may make an advance contract provision to achieve economic-lot purchases and more efficient production rates.

"(d) Limitation.—The Administrator may not amend a contract under this section until the program for the terminal automation replacement systems has been rebaselined in accordance with the acquisition management system of the Administration.

"(e) Funding.—Out of amounts appropriated under section 48101 [probably means section 48101 of title 49, United States Code] for fiscal year 2004, such sums as may be necessary shall be available to carry out this section."

Enhanced Vision Technologies

Pub. L. 106–181, title I, §124, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 75, provided that:

"(a) Study.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall enter into a cooperative research and development agreement to study the benefits of utilizing enhanced vision technologies to replace, enhance, or add to conventional airport approach and runway lighting systems.

"(b) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000], the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a progress report on the work accomplished under the cooperative agreements detailing the evaluations performed to determine the potential of enhanced vision technology to meet the operational requirements of the intended application.

"(c) Certification.—Not later than 180 days after the conclusion of work under the research agreements, the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a report on the potential of enhanced vision technology to satisfy the operational requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration and a schedule for the development of performance standards for certification appropriate to the application of the enhanced vision technologies. If the Administrator certifies an enhanced vision technology as meeting such performance standards, the technology shall be treated as a navigation aid or other aid for purposes of section 47102(3)(B)(i) of title 49, United States Code."

Transfer by Airports of Instrument Landing Systems and Associated Equipment to Federal Aviation Administration

Pub. L. 109–115, div. A, title I, §101, Nov. 30, 2005, 119 Stat. 2401, which provided that airports may transfer to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) instrument landing systems (along with associated approach lighting equipment and runway visual range equipment) which conform to FAA design and performance specifications, the purchase of which was assisted by a Federal airport-aid program, airport development aid program or airport improvement program grant, provided that the FAA accept such equipment and operate and maintain it in accordance with agency criteria, was from the Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development, the Judiciary, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006, and was not repeated in subsequent appropriation acts. Similar provisions were contained in the following prior appropriation acts:

Pub. L. 108–447, div. H, title I, §101, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3203.

Pub. L. 108–199, div. F, title I, §101, Jan. 23, 2004, 118 Stat. 284.

Pub. L. 108–7, div. I, title III, §313, Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 410.

Pub. L. 107–87, title III, §313, Dec. 18, 2001, 115 Stat. 858.

Pub. L. 106–346, §101(a) [title III, §314], Oct. 23, 2000, 114 Stat. 1356, 1356A–27.

Pub. L. 106–69, title III, §314, Oct. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1018.

Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, §101(g) [title III, §314], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–439, 2681–468.

Pub. L. 105–66, title III, §314, Oct. 27, 1997, 111 Stat. 1443.

Pub. L. 104–205, title III, §314, Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 2971.

Pub. L. 104–50, title III, §317, Nov. 15, 1995, 109 Stat. 455.

Pub. L. 103–331, title III, §317, Sept. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 2491, repealed by Pub. L. 104–287, §7(4), Oct. 11, 1996, 110 Stat. 3400.

Cost Savings Associated With Purchase

Pub. L. 103–305, title I, §120(b), Aug. 23, 1994, 108 Stat. 1581, provided that: "Notwithstanding other provisions of law or regulations to the contrary, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall establish, within 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 23, 1994], a process through which airport sponsors may take advantage of cost savings associated with the purchase and installation of instrument landing systems, along with associated equipment, under existing or future Federal Aviation Administration contracts. The process established by the Administrator may provide for the direct reimbursement (including administrative costs) of the Administrator by an airport sponsor using grants funds under subchapter I of chapter 471 of subtitle VII of title 49, United States Code, relating to airport improvement, for the ordering of such equipment and installation or for the direct ordering of such equipment and installation by an airport sponsor, using such grant funds, from the suppliers with which the Administrator has contracted."

Grandfather Provision for FAA Demonstration Project

Pub. L. 103–260, title IV, §401, May 26, 1994, 108 Stat. 702, provided that:

"(a) In general.—Notwithstanding the termination of the personnel demonstration project for certain Federal Aviation Administration employees on June 17, 1994, pursuant to section 4703 of title 5, United States Code, the Federal Aviation Administration, subject to subsection (d), shall continue to pay quarterly retention allowance payments in accordance with subsection (b) to those employees who are entitled to quarterly retention allowance payments under the demonstration project as of June 16, 1994.

"(b) Computation Rules.—

"(1) In general.—The amount of each quarterly retention allowance payment to which an employee is entitled under subsection (a) shall be the amount of the last quarterly retention allowance payment paid to such employee under the personnel demonstration project prior to June 17, 1994, reduced by that portion of the amount of any increase in the employee's annual rate of basic pay subsequent to June 17, 1994, from any source, which is allocable to the quarter for which the allowance is to be paid (or, if applicable, to that portion of the quarter for which the allowance is to be paid). For purposes of the preceding sentence, the increase in an employee's annual rate of basic pay includes—

"(A) any increase under section 5303 of title 5, United States Code;

"(B) any increase in locality-based comparability payments under section 5304 of such title 5 (except if, or to the extent that, such increase is offset by a reduction of an interim geographic adjustment under section 302 of the Federal Employees Pay Comparability Act of 1990 (5 U.S.C. 5304 note));

"(C) any establishment or increase in a special rate of pay under section 5305 of such title 5;

"(D) any increase in basic pay pursuant to a promotion under section 5334 of such title 5;

"(E) any periodic step-increase under section 5335 of such title 5;

"(F) any additional step-increase under section 5336 of such title 5; and

"(G) any other increase in annual rate of basic pay under any other provision of law.

"(2) Section rule.—In the case of an employee on leave without pay or other similar status for any part of the quarter prior to June 17, 1994, based on which the amount of the allowance payments for such employee under subsection (a) are computed, the 'amount of the last quarterly retention allowance payment paid to such employee under the personnel demonstration project prior to June 17, 1994' shall, for purposes of paragraph (1), be deemed to be the amount of the allowance which would have been payable to such employee for such quarter under such project had such employee been in pay status throughout such quarter.

"(c) Termination.—An employee's entitlement to quarterly retention allowance payments under this section shall cease when—

"(1) the amount of such allowance is reduced to zero under subsection (b), or

"(2) the employee separates or moves to a position in which the employee would not, prior to June 17, 1994, have been entitled to receive an allowance under the demonstration project,

whichever is earlier.

"(d) Special Payment Rule.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may make payment for the costs incurred under the program established by subsection (a) for the period between June 18, 1994, and September 30, 1994, following the end of the first full pay period that begins on or after October 1, 1994, subject to appropriations made available in fiscal year 1995.

"(e) Study of Recruitment and Retention Incentives.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a study of impediments that may exist to achieving appropriate air traffic controller staffing levels at hard-to-staff facilities. In conducting such study, the Administrator shall identify and evaluate the extent to which special incentives, of a financial or non-financial nature, could be useful in recruiting or retaining air traffic controllers at such facilities. The Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Public Works and Transportation of the House of Representatives not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [May 26, 1994] a report on (1) the results of such study, (2) planned administrative actions, and (3) any recommended legislation."

§44503. Reducing nonessential expenditures

The Secretary of Transportation shall attempt to reduce the capital, operating, maintenance, and administrative costs of the national airport and airway system to the maximum extent practicable consistent with the highest degree of aviation safety. At least annually, the Secretary shall consult with and consider the recommendations of users of the system on ways to reduce nonessential expenditures of the United States Government for aviation. The Secretary shall give particular attention to a recommendation that may reduce, with no adverse effect on safety, future personnel requirements and costs to the Government required to be recovered from user charges.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1176.)

The words "in accordance with this section" and "due" are omitted as surplus. The word "personnel" is substituted for "manpower" for consistency in the revised title.

§44504. Improved aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances

(a) Developmental Work and Service Testing.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may conduct or supervise developmental work and service testing to improve aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances.

(b) Research.—The Administrator shall conduct or supervise research—

(1) to develop technologies and analyze information to predict the effects of aircraft design, maintenance, testing, wear, and fatigue on the life of aircraft, including nonstructural aircraft systems, and air safety;

(2) to develop methods of analyzing and improving aircraft maintenance technology and practices, including nondestructive evaluation of aircraft structures;

(3) to assess the fire and smoke resistance of aircraft material;

(4) to develop improved fire and smoke resistant material for aircraft interiors;

(5) to develop and improve fire and smoke containment systems for inflight aircraft fires;

(6) to develop advanced aircraft fuels with low flammability and technologies that will contain aircraft fuels to minimize post-crash fire hazards;

(7) to develop technologies and methods to assess the risk of and prevent defects, failures, and malfunctions of products, parts, processes, and articles manufactured for use in aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances that could result in a catastrophic failure of an aircraft; and

(8) in conjunction with other Federal agencies, as appropriate, to develop technologies and methods to assess the risk of and prevent defects, failures, and malfunctions of products, parts, and processes for use in all classes of unmanned aircraft systems that could result in a catastrophic failure of the unmanned aircraft that would endanger other aircraft in the national airspace system.

(c) Authority To Buy Items Offering Special Advantages.—In carrying out this section, the Administrator, by negotiation or otherwise, may buy or exchange experimental aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances that the Administrator decides may offer special advantages to aeronautics.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1176; Pub. L. 106–181, title IX, §904, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 196; Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §903(a), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 138.)

In this section, the word "Administrator" in section 312(b) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 752) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

In subsection (a), the words "to improve" are substituted for "such . . . as tends to the creation of improved" to eliminate unnecessary words.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (b)(8). Pub. L. 112–95 added par. (8).

2000—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 106–181 inserted ", including nonstructural aircraft systems," after "life of aircraft".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Crash-Resistant Fuel Systems

Pub. L. 114–190, title II, §2105, July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 620, provided that: "Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [July 15, 2016], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall evaluate and update, as necessary, standards for crash-resistant fuel systems for civilian rotorcraft."

Aviation Fuel Research and Development Program

Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §910, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 141, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Using amounts made available under section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration], in coordination with the Administrator of NASA [National Aeronautics and Space Administration], shall continue research and development activities into the qualification of an unleaded aviation fuel and safe transition to this fuel for the fleet of piston engine aircraft.

"(b) Requirements.—In carrying out the program under subsection (a), the Administrator shall, at a minimum—

"(1) not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], develop a research and development plan containing the specific research and development objectives, including consideration of aviation safety, technical feasibility, and other relevant factors, and the anticipated timetable for achieving the objectives;

"(2) assess the methods and processes by which the FAA and industry may expeditiously certify and approve new aircraft and recertify existing aircraft with respect to unleaded aviation fuel;

"(3) assess technologies that modify existing piston engine aircraft to enable safe operation of the aircraft using unleaded aviation fuel and determine the resources necessary to certify those technologies; and

"(4) develop recommendations for appropriate policies and guidelines to facilitate a transition to unleaded aviation fuel for piston engine aircraft.

"(c) Collaboration.—In carrying out the program under subsection (a), the Administrator shall collaborate with—

"(1) industry groups representing aviation consumers, manufacturers, and fuel producers and distributors; and

"(2) other appropriate Federal agencies.

"(d) Report.—Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall provide to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the plan, information obtained, and policies and guidelines developed pursuant to subsection (b)."

Research Program on Alternative Jet Fuel Technology for Civil Aircraft

Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §911, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 142, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Using amounts made available under section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)] shall establish a research program to assist in the development and qualification of jet fuel from alternative sources (such as natural gas, biomass, ethanol, butanol, and hydrogen) and other renewable sources.

"(b) Authority To Make Grants.—The Administrator shall carry out the program through the use of grants or other measures authorized under section 106(l)(6) of such title, including reimbursable agreements with other Federal agencies.

"(c) Participation in Program.—

"(1) Participation of educational and research institutions.—In carrying out the program, the Administrator shall include participation by—

"(A) educational and research institutions that have existing facilities and leverage private sector partnerships; and

"(B) consortia with experience across the supply chain, including with research, feedstock development and production, small-scale development, testing, and technology evaluation related to the creation, processing, production, and transportation of alternative aviation fuel.

"(2) Use of nasa facilities.—In carrying out the program, the Administrator shall consider utilizing the existing capacity in aeronautics research at Langley Research Center, Glenn Research Center [renamed NASA John H. Glenn Research Center at the Neil A. Armstrong Test Facility by Pub. L. 116–263, 134 Stat. 3316], and other appropriate facilities of NASA [National Aeronautics and Space Administration].

"(d) Designation of Institution as a Center of Excellence.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator may designate an institution described in subsection (c)(1)(A) as a Center of Excellence for Alternative Jet-Fuel Research in Civil Aircraft.

"(2) Effect of designation.—The center designated under paragraph (1) shall become, upon its designation—

"(A) a member of the Consortium for Continuous Low Energy, Emissions, and Noise of the FAA; and

"(B) part of a Joint Center of Excellence with the Partnership for Air Transportation Noise and Emission Reduction FAA Center of Excellence."

Production of Clean Coal Fuel Technology for Civilian Aircraft

Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §914, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 144, provided that:

"(a) Establishment of Research Program.—Using amounts made available under section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall establish a research program related to developing jet fuel from clean coal.

"(b) Authority To Make Grants.—The Administrator shall carry out the program through grants or other measures authorized under section 106(l)(6) of such title, including reimbursable agreements with other Federal agencies.

"(c) Participation in Program.—In carrying out the program, the Administrator shall include participation by educational and research institutions that have existing facilities and experience in the development and deployment of technology that processes coal into aviation fuel.

"(d) Designation of Institution as a Center of Excellence.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator may designate an institution described in subsection (c) as a Center of Excellence for Coal-to-Jet-Fuel Research."

Research and Development of Equipment To Clean and Monitor the Engine and APU Bleed Air Supplied on Pressurized Aircraft

Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §917, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 145, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration], to the extent practicable, shall implement a research program for the identification or development of appropriate and effective air cleaning technology and sensor technology for the engine and auxiliary power unit bleed air supplied to the passenger cabin and flight deck of a pressurized aircraft.

"(b) Technology Requirements.—The technology referred to in subsection (a) shall have the capacity, at a minimum—

"(1) to remove oil-based contaminants from the bleed air supplied to the passenger cabin and flight deck; and

"(2) to detect and record oil-based contaminants in the portion of the total air supplied to the passenger cabin and flight deck from bleed air.

"(c) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives a report on the results of the research and development work carried out under this section."

FAA Center for Excellence for Applied Research and Training in the Use of Advanced Materials in Transport Aircraft

Pub. L. 108–176, title VII, §708, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2582, as amended by Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §916, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 145, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall develop a Center for Excellence focused on applied research and training on the durability and maintainability of advanced materials in transport airframe structures. The Center shall—

"(1) promote and facilitate collaboration among academia, the Federal Aviation Administration's Transportation Division, and the commercial aircraft industry, including manufacturers, commercial air carriers, and suppliers; and

"(2) establish goals set to advance technology, improve engineering practices, and facilitate continuing education in relevant areas of study.

"(b) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator $500,000 for each of fiscal years 2012 through 2015 to carry out this section."

Rotorcraft Research and Development Initiative

Pub. L. 108–176, title VII, §711, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2585, provided that:

"(a) Objective.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish a rotorcraft initiative with the objective of developing, and demonstrating in a relevant environment, within 10 years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2003], technologies to enable rotorcraft with the following improvements relative to rotorcraft existing as of the date of the enactment of this Act:

"(1) 80 percent reduction in noise levels on takeoff and on approach and landing as perceived by a human observer.

"(2) Factor of 10 reduction in vibration.

"(3) 30 percent reduction in empty weight.

"(4) Predicted accident rate equivalent to that of fixed-wing aircraft in commercial service within 10 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.

"(5) Capability for zero-ceiling, zero-visibility operations.

"(b) Implementation.—Within 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2003], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, in cooperation with the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, shall provide a plan to the Committee on Science [now Committee on Science, Space, and Technology] of the House of Representatives and to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate for the implementation of the initiative described in subsection (a)."

Specialty Metals Consortium

Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §742, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 175, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] may work with a consortium of domestic metal producers and aircraft engine manufacturers to improve the quality of turbine engine materials and to address melting technology enhancements.

"(b) Report.—Not later than 6 months after entering into an agreement with a consortium described in subsection (a), the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a report on the goals and efforts of the consortium."

§44505. Systems, procedures, facilities, and devices

(a) General Requirements.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

(A) develop, alter, test, and evaluate systems, procedures, facilities, and devices, and define their performance characteristics, to meet the needs for safe and efficient navigation and traffic control of civil and military aviation, except for needs of the armed forces that are peculiar to air warfare and primarily of military concern; and

(B) select systems, procedures, facilities, and devices that will best serve those needs and promote maximum coordination of air traffic control and air defense systems.

(2) The Administrator may make contracts to carry out this subsection without regard to section 3324(a) and (b) of title 31.

(3) When a substantial question exists under paragraph (1) of this subsection about whether a matter is of primary concern to the armed forces, the Administrator shall decide whether the Administrator or the Secretary of the appropriate military department has responsibility. The Administrator shall be given technical information related to each research and development project of the armed forces that potentially applies to, or potentially conflicts with, the common system to ensure that potential application to the common system is considered properly and that potential conflicts with the system are eliminated.

(b) Research on Human Factors and Simulation Models.—The Administrator shall conduct or supervise research—

(1) to develop a better understanding of the relationship between human factors and aviation accidents and between human factors and air safety;

(2) to enhance air traffic controller, mechanic, and flight crew performance;

(3) to develop a human-factor analysis of the hazards associated with new technologies to be used by air traffic controllers, mechanics, and flight crews;

(4) to identify innovative and effective corrective measures for human errors that adversely affect air safety;

(5) to develop dynamic simulation models of the air traffic control system and airport design and operating procedures that will provide analytical technology—

(A) to predict airport and air traffic control safety and capacity problems;

(B) to evaluate planned research projects; and

(C) to test proposed revisions in airport and air traffic control operations programs;

(6) to develop a better understanding of the relationship between human factors and unmanned aircraft system safety; and

(7) to develop dynamic simulation models for integrating all classes of unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system without any degradation of existing levels of safety for all national airspace system users.

(c) Research on Developing and Maintaining a Safe and Efficient System.—The Administrator shall conduct or supervise research on—

(1) airspace and airport planning and design;

(2) airport capacity enhancement techniques;

(3) human performance in the air transportation environment;

(4) aviation safety and security;

(5) the supply of trained air transportation personnel, including pilots and mechanics; and

(6) other aviation issues related to developing and maintaining a safe and efficient air transportation system.

(d) Research on Design for Certification.—

(1) Research.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, the Administrator shall conduct research on methods and procedures to improve both confidence in and the timeliness of certification of new technologies for their introduction into the national airspace system.

(2) Research plan.—Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, the Administrator shall develop a plan for the research under paragraph (1) that contains objectives, proposed tasks, milestones, and a 5-year budgetary profile.

(3) Review.—The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Research Council to conduct an independent review of the plan developed under paragraph (2) and shall provide the results of that review to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012.

(e) Cooperative Agreements.—The Administrator may enter into cooperative agreements on a cost-shared basis with Federal and non-Federal entities that the Administrator may select in order to conduct, encourage, and promote aviation research, engineering, and development, including the development of prototypes and demonstration models.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1177; Pub. L. 103–305, title III, §307, Aug. 23, 1994, 108 Stat. 1593; Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §§903(b), 905, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 138, 139.)

In this section, the word "Administrator" in section 312(c) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 752) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

In subsection (a)(1) and (3), the words "the armed forces" are substituted for "military agencies" and "the military" because of the definition of "armed forces" in 10:101.

In subsection (a)(3), the words "military department" are substituted for "military agency" because of the definition of "military department" in 10:101. The words "the needs of" and "to the maximum extent necessary" are omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, referred to in subsec. (d), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 112–95, which was approved Feb. 14, 2012.

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (b)(6), (7). Pub. L. 112–95, §903(b), added pars. (6) and (7).

Subsecs. (d), (e). Pub. L. 112–95, §905, added subsec. (d) and redesignated former subsec. (d) as (e).

1994—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 103–305 added subsec. (d).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Research and Deployment of Certain Airfield Pavement Technologies

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title VII, §744, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3413, provided that: "Using amounts made available under section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may carry out a program for the research and development of aircraft pavement technologies under which the Administrator makes grants to, and enters into cooperative agreements with, institutions of higher education and nonprofit organizations that—

"(1) research concrete and asphalt airfield pavement technologies that extend the life of airfield pavements;

"(2) develop and conduct training;

"(3) provide for demonstration projects; and

"(4) promote the latest airfield pavement technologies to aid in the development of safer, more cost effective, and more durable airfield pavements."

Aircraft Departure Queue Management Pilot Program

Pub. L. 112–95, title V, §507, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 106, as amended by Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §539(t), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3372, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Secretary of Transportation shall carry out a pilot program at not more than 5 public-use airports under which the Federal Aviation Administration shall use funds made available under section 48101(a) of title 49, United States Code, to test air traffic flow management tools, methodologies, and procedures that will allow air traffic controllers of the Administration to better manage the flow of aircraft on the ground and reduce the length of ground holds and idling time for aircraft.

"(b) Selection Criteria.—In selecting from among airports at which to conduct the pilot program, the Secretary shall give priority consideration to airports at which improvements in ground control efficiencies are likely to achieve the greatest fuel savings or air quality or other environmental benefits, as measured by the amount of reduced fuel, reduced emissions, or other environmental benefits per dollar of funds expended under the pilot program.

"(c) Maximum Amount.—Not more than a total of $2,500,000 may be expended under the pilot program at any single public-use airport."

Research Program on Runways

Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §904, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 139, provided that: "Using amounts made available under section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall continue to carry out a research program under which the Administrator may make grants to and enter into cooperative agreements with institutions of higher education and pavement research organizations for research and technology demonstrations related to—

"(1) the design, construction, rehabilitation, and repair of airfield pavements to aid in the development of safer, more cost effective, and more durable airfield pavements; and

"(2) engineered material restraining systems for runways at both general aviation airports and airports with commercial air carrier operations."

Wake Turbulence, Volcanic Ash, and Weather Research

Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §915, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 144, provided that: "Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall—

"(1) initiate an evaluation of proposals related to research on the nature of wake vortexes that would increase national airspace system capacity by reducing existing spacing requirements between aircraft of all sizes;

"(2) begin implementation of a system to improve volcanic ash avoidance options for aircraft, including the development of a volcanic ash warning and notification system for aviation; and

"(3) coordinate with NOAA [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration], NASA [National Aeronautics and Space Administration], and other appropriate Federal agencies to conduct research to reduce the hazards presented to commercial aviation related to—

"(A) ground de-icing and anti-icing, ice pellets, and freezing drizzle;

"(B) oceanic weather, including convective weather;

"(C) en route turbulence prediction and detection; and

"(D) all hazards during oceanic operations, where commercial traffic is high and only rudimentary satellite sensing is available."

Assessment of Wake Turbulence Research and Development Program

Pub. L. 108–176, title V, §505, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2559, required the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to enter into an arrangement with the National Research Council for an assessment of the Federal Aviation Administration's proposed wake turbulence research and development program and required that a report on the assessment be provided to Committees of Congress not later than 1 year after Dec. 12, 2003.

Ensuring Appropriate Standards for Airfield Pavements

Pub. L. 108–176, title VII, §705, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2581, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall review and determine whether the Federal Aviation Administration's standards used to determine the appropriate thickness for asphalt and concrete airfield pavements are in accordance with the Federal Aviation Administration's standard 20-year-life requirement using the most up-to-date available information on the life of airfield pavements. If the Administrator determines that such standards are not in accordance with that requirement, the Administrator shall make appropriate adjustments to the Federal Aviation Administration's standards for airfield pavements.

"(b) Report.—Within 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2003], the Administrator shall report the results of the review conducted under subsection (a) and the adjustments, if any, made on the basis of that review to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and Committee on Science [now Committee on Science, Space, and Technology]."

Use of Recycled Materials

Pub. L. 106–181, title I, §157, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 89, provided that:

"(a) Study.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall conduct a study of the use of recycled materials (including recycled pavements, waste materials, and byproducts) in pavement used for runways, taxiways, and aprons and the specification standards in tests necessary for the use of recycled materials in such pavement. The primary focus of the study shall be on the long-term physical performance, safety implications, and environmental benefits of using recycled materials in aviation pavement.

"(b) Contracting.—The Administrator may carry out the study by entering into a contract with a university of higher education with expertise necessary to carry out the study.

"(c) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000], the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of the study, together with recommendations concerning the use of recycled materials in aviation pavement.

"(d) Funding.—Of the amounts appropriated pursuant to section 106(k) of title 49, United States Code, not to exceed $1,500,000 may be used to carry out this section."

Airfield Pavement Conditions

Pub. L. 106–181, title I, §160, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 90, provided that:

"(a) Evaluation of Options.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall evaluate options for improving the quality of information available to the Federal Aviation Administration on airfield pavement conditions for airports that are part of the national air transportation system, including—

"(1) improving the existing runway condition information contained in the airport safety data program by reviewing and revising rating criteria and providing increased training for inspectors;

"(2) requiring such airports to submit pavement condition index information as part of their airport master plan or as support in applications for airport improvement grants; and

"(3) requiring all such airports to submit pavement condition index information on a regular basis and using this information to create a pavement condition database that could be used in evaluating the cost-effectiveness of project applications and forecasting anticipated pavement needs.

"(b) Report to Congress.—Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000], the Administrator shall transmit a report containing an evaluation of the options described in subsection (a) to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure."

Pilot Program To Permit Cost-Sharing of Air Traffic Modernization Projects

Pub. L. 106–181, title III, §304, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 122, provided that:

"(a) Purpose.—It is the purpose of this section to improve aviation safety and enhance mobility of the Nation's air transportation system by encouraging non-Federal investment on a pilot program basis in critical air traffic control facilities and equipment.

"(b) In General.—Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary [of Transportation] shall carry out a pilot program under which the Secretary may make grants to project sponsors for not more than 10 eligible projects.

"(c) Federal Share.—The Federal share of the cost of an eligible project carried out under the program shall not exceed 33 percent. The non-Federal share of the cost of an eligible project shall be provided from non-Federal sources, including revenues collected pursuant to section 40117 of title 49, United States Code.

"(d) Limitation on Grant Amounts.—No eligible project may receive more than $15,000,000 under the program.

"(e) Funding.—The Secretary shall use amounts appropriated under section 48101(a) of title 49, United States Code, for fiscal years 2001 through 2003 to carry out the program.

"(f) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) Eligible project.—The term 'eligible project' means a project relating to the Nation's air traffic control system that is certified or approved by the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] and that promotes safety, efficiency, or mobility. Such projects may include—

"(A) airport-specific air traffic facilities and equipment, including local area augmentation systems, instrument landings systems, weather and wind shear detection equipment, lighting improvements, and control towers;

"(B) automation tools to effect improvements in airport capacity, including passive final approach spacing tools and traffic management advisory equipment; and

"(C) facilities and equipment that enhance airspace control procedures, including consolidation of terminal radar control facilities and equipment, or assist in en route surveillance, including oceanic and offshore flight tracking.

"(2) Project sponsor.—The term 'project sponsor' means a public-use airport or a joint venture between a public-use airport and one or more air carriers.

"(g) Transfers of Equipment.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, project sponsors may transfer, without consideration, to the Federal Aviation Administration, facilities, equipment, and automation tools, the purchase of which was assisted by a grant made under this section. The Administration shall accept such facilities, equipment, and automation tools, which shall thereafter be operated and maintained by the Administration in accordance with criteria of the Administration.

"(h) Guidelines.—Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000], the Administrator shall issue advisory guidelines on the implementation of the program."

Aircraft Dispatchers

Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §516, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 145, provided that:

"(a) Study.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall conduct a study of the role of aircraft dispatchers in enhancing aviation safety.

"(b) Contents.—The study shall include an assessment of whether or not aircraft dispatchers should be required for those operations not presently requiring aircraft dispatcher assistance, operational control issues related to the aircraft dispatching functions, and whether or not designation of positions within the Federal Aviation Administration for oversight of dispatchers would enhance aviation safety.

"(c) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000], the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of the study conducted under this section."

Occupational Injuries of Airport Workers

Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §520, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 149, provided that:

"(a) Study.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall conduct a study to determine the number of persons working at airports who are injured or killed as a result of being struck by a moving vehicle while on an airport tarmac, the seriousness of the injuries to such persons, and whether or not reflective safety vests or other actions should be required to enhance the safety of such workers.

"(b) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000], the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of the study conducted under this section."

Alkali Silica Reactivity Distress

Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §743, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 175, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] may conduct a study on the impact of alkali silica reactivity distress on airport runways and taxiways and the use of lithium salts and other alternatives for mitigation and prevention of such distress. The study shall include a determination based on in-the-field inspections followed by petrographic analysis or other similar techniques.

"(b) Authority To Make Grants.—The Administrator may carry out the study by making a grant to, or entering into a cooperative agreement with, a nonprofit organization for the conduct of all or a part of the study.

"(c) Report.—Not later than 18 months after the date of initiation of the study under subsection (a), the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of the study."

Research Program To Improve Airfield Pavements

Pub. L. 108–176, title VII, §704, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2581, provided that:

"(a) Continuation of Program.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall continue the program to consider awards to nonprofit concrete and asphalt pavement research foundations to improve the design, construction, rehabilitation, and repair of airfield pavements to aid in the development of safer, more cost effective, and more durable airfield pavements.

"(b) Use of Grants or Cooperative Agreements.—The Administrator may use grants or cooperative agreements in carrying out this section.

"(c) Statutory Construction.—Nothing in this section requires the Administrator to prioritize an airfield pavement research program above safety, security, Flight 21, environment, or energy research programs."

Pub. L. 106–181, title IX, §905, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 196, provided that: "The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall consider awards to nonprofit concrete pavement research foundations to improve the design, construction, rehabilitation, and repair of rigid concrete airfield pavements to aid in the development of safer, more cost-effective, and durable airfield pavements. The Administrator may use a grant or cooperative agreement for this purpose. Nothing in this section shall require the Administrator to prioritize an airfield pavement research program above safety, security, Flight 21, environment, or energy research programs."

§44506. Air traffic controllers

(a) Research on Effect of Automation on Performance.—To develop the means necessary to establish appropriate selection criteria and training methodologies for the next generation of air traffic controllers, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct research to study the effect of automation on the performance of the next generation of air traffic controllers and the air traffic control system. The research shall include investigating—

(1) methods for improving and accelerating future air traffic controller training through the application of advanced training techniques, including the use of simulation technology;

(2) the role of automation in the air traffic control system and its physical and psychological effects on air traffic controllers;

(3) the attributes and aptitudes needed to function well in a highly automated air traffic control system and the development of appropriate testing methods for identifying individuals with those attributes and aptitudes;

(4) innovative methods for training potential air traffic controllers to enhance the benefits of automation and maximize the effectiveness of the air traffic control system; and

(5) new technologies and procedures for exploiting automated communication systems, including Mode S Transponders, to improve information transfers between air traffic controllers and aircraft pilots.

(b) Research on Human Factor Aspects of Automation.—The Administrators of the Federal Aviation Administration and National Aeronautics and Space Administration may make an agreement for the use of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's unique human factor facilities and expertise in conducting research activities to study the human factor aspects of the highly automated environment for the next generation of air traffic controllers. The research activities shall include investigating—

(1) human perceptual capabilities and the effect of computer-aided decision making on the workload and performance of air traffic controllers;

(2) information management techniques for advanced air traffic control display systems; and

(3) air traffic controller workload and performance measures, including the development of predictive models.

(c) Collegiate Training Initiative.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may maintain the Collegiate Training Initiative program by making new agreements and continuing existing agreements with institutions of higher education (as defined by the Administrator) under which the institutions prepare students for the position of air traffic controller with the Department of Transportation (as defined in section 2109 of title 5). The Administrator may establish standards for the entry of institutions into the program and for their continued participation.

(2)(A) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may appoint an individual who has successfully completed a course of training in a program described in paragraph (1) of this subsection to the position of air traffic controller noncompetitively in the excepted service (as defined in section 2103 of title 5). An individual appointed under this paragraph serves at the pleasure of the Administrator, subject to section 7511 of title 5. However, an appointment under this paragraph may be converted from one in the excepted service to a career conditional or career appointment in the competitive civil service (as defined in section 2102 of title 5) when the individual achieves full performance level air traffic controller status, as decided by the Administrator.

(B) The authority under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph to make appointments in the excepted service expires on October 6, 1997, except that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may extend the authority for one or more successive one-year periods.

(d) Air Traffic Control Specialist Qualification Training.—

(1) Appointment of air traffic control specialists.—The Administrator is authorized to appoint a qualified air traffic control specialist candidate for placement in an airport traffic control facility if the candidate has—

(A) received a control tower operator certification (referred to in this subsection as a "CTO" certificate); and

(B) satisfied all other applicable qualification requirements for an air traffic control specialist position, including successful completion of orientation training at the Federal Aviation Administration Academy.

(2) Compensation and benefits.—An individual appointed under paragraph (1) shall receive the same compensation and benefits, and be treated in the same manner as, any other individual appointed as a developmental air traffic controller.

(3) Report.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, the Administrator shall submit to Congress a report that evaluates the effectiveness of the air traffic control specialist qualification training provided pursuant to this section, including the graduation rates of candidates who received a CTO certificate and are working in airport traffic control facilities.

(4) Additional appointments.—If the Administrator determines that air traffic control specialists appointed pursuant to this subsection are more successful in carrying out the duties of an air traffic controller than air traffic control specialists hired from the general public without any such certification, the Administrator shall increase, to the maximum extent practicable, the number of appointments of candidates who possess such certification.

(5) Reimbursement for travel expenses associated with certifications.—

(A) In general.—Subject to subparagraph (B), the Administrator may accept reimbursement from an educational entity that provides training to an air traffic control specialist candidate to cover reasonable travel expenses of the Administrator associated with issuing certifications to such candidates.

(B) Treatment of reimbursements.—Notwithstanding section 3302 of title 31, any reimbursement authorized to be collected under subparagraph (A) shall—

(i) be credited as offsetting collections to the account that finances the activities and services for which the reimbursement is accepted;

(ii) be available for expenditure only to pay the costs of activities and services for which the reimbursement is accepted, including all costs associated with collecting such reimbursement; and

(iii) remain available until expended.

(e) Staffing Report.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall submit annually to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report containing—

(1) the staffing standards used to determine the number of air traffic controllers needed to operate the air traffic control system of the United States;

(2) a 3-year projection of the number of controllers needed to be employed to operate the system to meet the standards; and

(3) a detailed plan for employing the controllers, including projected budget requests.

(f) Hiring of Certain Air Traffic Control Specialists.—

(1) Consideration of applicants.—

(A) Ensuring selection of most qualified applicants.—In appointing individuals to the position of air traffic controller, the Administrator shall give preferential consideration to qualified individuals maintaining 52 consecutive weeks of air traffic control experience involving the full-time active separation of air traffic after receipt of an air traffic certification or air traffic control facility rating within 5 years of application while serving at—

(i) a Federal Aviation Administration air traffic control facility;

(ii) a civilian or military air traffic control facility of the Department of Defense (including a facility of the National Guard); or

(iii) a tower operating under contract with the Federal Aviation Administration under section 47124.

(B) Consideration of additional applicants.—

(i) In general.—After giving preferential consideration to applicants under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall consider additional applicants for the position of air traffic controller by giving further preferential consideration, within each qualification category based upon pre-employment testing results (including application of veterans' preference as required under section 40122(g)(2)(B)), to pool 1 applicants described in clause (ii) before pool 2 applicants described in clause (iii).

(ii) Pool 1.—Pool 1 applicants are individuals who—

(I) have successfully completed air traffic controller training and graduated from an institution participating in the Collegiate Training Initiative program maintained under subsection (c)(1) and who have received from the institution—

(aa) an appropriate recommendation; or

(bb) an endorsement certifying that the individual would have met the requirements in effect as of December 31, 2013, for an appropriate recommendation;

(II) are eligible for a veterans recruitment appointment pursuant to section 4214 of title 38 and provide a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty within 120 days of the announcement closing;

(III) are eligible veterans (as defined in section 4211 of title 38) maintaining aviation experience obtained in the course of the individual's military experience; or

(IV) are preference eligible veterans (as defined in section 2108 of title 5).

(iii) Pool 2.—Pool 2 applicants are individuals who apply under a vacancy announcement recruiting from all United States citizens.

(C) Special rule.—

(i) In general.—Notwithstanding subparagraph (B), after giving preferential consideration to applicants under subparagraph (A) and if, after consulting with the labor organization recognized as the exclusive representative of air traffic controllers under section 7111 of title 5, the Administrator determines there are unique circumstances affecting a covered facility that warrant a vacancy announcement with a limited area of consideration, the Administrator may consider applicants for the position of air traffic controller who apply under a vacancy announcement recruiting from the local commuting area for that covered facility.

(ii) Biographical assessments.—The Administrator shall not use any biographical assessment with respect to an applicant under this subparagraph who would otherwise qualify as a Pool 1 applicant under subparagraph (B)(ii).

(iii) Covered facility defined.—In this subparagraph the term "covered facility" means a radar facility with at least 1,000,000 operations annually that is located in a metropolitan statistical area (as defined by the Office of Management and Budget) with a population estimate by the Bureau of the Census of more than 15,000,000 (as of July 1, 2016).

(2) Use of biographical assessments.—

(A) Biographical assessments.—The Administrator shall not use any biographical assessment when hiring under paragraph (1)(A) or paragraph (1)(B)(ii).

(B) Reconsideration of applicants disqualified on basis of biographical assessments.—

(i) In general.—If an individual described in paragraph (1)(A) or paragraph (1)(B)(ii), who applied for the position of air traffic controller with the Administration in response to Vacancy Announcement FAA–AMC–14–ALLSRCE–33537 (issued on February 10, 2014), was disqualified from the position as the result of a biographical assessment, the Administrator shall provide the applicant an opportunity to reapply for the position as soon as practicable under the revised hiring practices.

(ii) Waiver of age restriction.—The Administrator shall waive any maximum age restriction for the position of air traffic controller with the Administration that would otherwise disqualify an individual from the position if the individual—

(I) is reapplying for the position pursuant to clause (i) on or before December 31, 2017; and

(II) met the maximum age requirement on the date of the individual's previous application for the position during the interim hiring process.

(3) Maximum entry age for experienced controllers.—Notwithstanding section 3307 of title 5, except for individuals covered by the program described in paragraph (4), the maximum limit of age for an original appointment to a position as an air traffic controller shall be 35 years of age for those maintaining 52 weeks of air traffic control experience involving the full-time active separation of air traffic after receipt of an air traffic certification or air traffic control facility rating in a civilian or military air traffic control facility.

(4) Retired military controllers.—The Administrator may establish a program to provide an original appointment to a position as an air traffic controller for individuals who—

(A) are on terminal leave pending retirement from active duty military service or have retired from active duty military service within 5 years of applying for the appointment; and

(B) have held either an air traffic certification or air traffic control facility rating according to Administration standards within 5 years of applying for the appointment.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1178; Pub. L. 104–287, §5(9), Oct. 11, 1996, 110 Stat. 3389; Pub. L. 112–95, title VI, §607, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 114; Pub. L. 114–190, title II, §2106(a), July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 620; Pub. L. 115–141, div. M, title I, §108, Mar. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 1047; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title XI, §§1132, 1133, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1615, 1616.)

In subsections (a) and (b), the text of section 8(a) and (b)(3) of the Aviation Safety Research Act of 1988 (Public Law 100–581, 102 Stat. 3015, 3016) and sections 601 and 602(3) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 1989 (Public Law 100–685, 102 Stat. 4102, 4103) is omitted as executed.

In subsection (c), the words "institutions of higher education" are substituted for "post-secondary educational institutions" for consistency in the revised title.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, referred to in subsec. (d)(3), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 112–95, which was approved Feb. 14, 2012.

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (f)(1)(A)(ii). Pub. L. 116–92, §1133, inserted "(including a facility of the National Guard)" after "Department of Defense".

Subsec. (f)(1)(B)(i). Pub. L. 116–92, §1132, substituted "giving further preferential consideration, within each qualification category based upon pre-employment testing results (including application of veterans' preference as required under section 40122(g)(2)(B)), to pool 1 applicants described in clause (ii) before pool 2 applicants described in clause (iii)." for "referring an approximately equal number of individuals for appointment among the 2 applicant pools described in this subparagraph. The number of individuals referred for consideration from each group shall not differ by more than 10 percent."

2018—Subsec. (f)(1)(C). Pub. L. 115–141, §108(1), added subpar. (C).

Subsec. (f)(3). Pub. L. 115–141, §108(2)(A), inserted "except for individuals covered by the program described in paragraph (4)," after "section 3307 of title 5,".

Subsec. (f)(4). Pub. L. 115–141, §108(2)(B), added par. (4).

2016—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 114–190 added subsec. (f).

2012—Subsecs. (d), (e). Pub. L. 112–95 added subsec. (d) and redesignated former subsec. (d) as (e).

1996—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 104–287 substituted "Transportation and Infrastructure" for "Public Works and Transportation".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Notification of Vacancies

Pub. L. 114–190, title II, §2106(b), July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 622, provided that: "The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consider directly notifying secondary schools and institutions of higher learning, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, Minority Institutions, and Tribal Colleges and Universities, of a vacancy announcement under section 44506(f)(1)(B)(iii) of title 49, United States Code."

Air Traffic Controller Staffing Initiatives and Analysis

Pub. L. 112–95, title II, §224, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 55, provided that: "As soon as practicable, and not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

"(1) ensure, to the extent practicable, a sufficient number of contract instructors, classroom space (including off-site locations as needed), and simulators to allow for an increase in the number of air traffic controllers at air traffic control facilities;

"(2) distribute, to the extent practicable, the placement of certified professional air traffic controllers-in-training and developmental air traffic controllers at facilities evenly across the calendar year in order to avoid training bottlenecks;

"(3) initiate an analysis, to be conducted in consultation with the exclusive bargaining representative of air traffic controllers certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code, of scheduling processes and practices, including overtime scheduling practices at those facilities;

"(4) provide, to the extent practicable and where appropriate, priority to certified professional air traffic controllers-in-training when filling staffing vacancies at facilities;

"(5) assess training programs at air traffic control facilities with below-average success rates to determine if training is being carried out in accordance with Administration standards, and conduct exit interview analyses with all candidates to determine potential weaknesses in training protocols, or in the execution of such training protocols; and

"(6) prioritize, to the extent practicable, such efforts to address the recommendations for the facilities identified in the Department of Transportation's Office of the Inspector General Report Number: AV-2009-047."

Facility Training Program

Pub. L. 112–95, title VI, §609(b), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 116, provided that: "Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall conduct a comprehensive review and evaluation of its Academy and facility training efforts. The Administrator shall—

"(1) clarify responsibility for oversight and direction of the Academy's facility training program at the national level;

"(2) communicate information concerning that responsibility to facility managers; and

"(3) establish standards to identify the number of developmental air traffic controllers that can be accommodated at each facility, based on—

"(A) the number of available on-the-job training instructors;

"(B) available classroom space;

"(C) the number of available simulators;

"(D) training requirements; and

"(E) the number of recently placed new personnel already in training."

Controller Staffing

Pub. L. 116–6, div. G, title I, Feb. 15, 2019, 133 Stat. 401, provided in part: "That not later than March 31 of each fiscal year hereafter, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall transmit to Congress an annual update to the report submitted to Congress in December 2004 pursuant to section 221 of Public Law 108–176 [set out below]".

Similar provisions were contained in the following appropriation acts:

Pub. L. 116–260, div. L, title I, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 1830.

Pub. L. 116–94, div. H, title I, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 2940.

Pub. L. 115–141, div. L, title I, Mar. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 977.

Pub. L. 115–31, div. K, title I, May 5, 2017, 131 Stat. 730.

Pub. L. 114–113, div. L, title I, Dec. 18, 2015, 129 Stat. 2839.

Pub. L. 113–235, div. K, title I, Dec. 16, 2014, 128 Stat. 2700.

Pub. L. 113–76, div. L, title I, Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 578.

Pub. L. 112–55, div. C, title I, Nov. 18, 2011, 125 Stat. 645.

Pub. L. 111–117, div. A, title I, Dec. 16, 2009, 123 Stat. 3039.

Pub. L. 111–8, div. I, title I, Mar. 11, 2009, 123 Stat. 918.

Pub. L. 110–161, div. K, title I, Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2378.

Pub. L. 108–176, title II, §221, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2526, provided that:

"(a) Annual Report.—Beginning with the submission of the Budget of the United States to the Congress for fiscal year 2005, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall transmit a report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure that describes the overall air traffic controller staffing plan, including strategies to address anticipated retirement and replacement of air traffic controllers.

"(b) Human Capital Workforce Strategy.—

"(1) Development.—The Administrator shall develop a comprehensive human capital workforce strategy to determine the most effective method for addressing the need for more air traffic controllers that is identified in the June 2002 report of the General Accounting Office [now Government Accountability Office].

"(2) Completion date.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2003], the Administrator shall complete development of the strategy.

"(3) Report.—Not later than 30 days after the date on which the strategy is completed, the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a report describing the strategy."

§44507. Regions and centers

(a) Civil Aeromedical Institute.—The Civil Aeromedical Institute established by section 106(j) of this title may—

(1) conduct civil aeromedical research, including research related to—

(A) the protection and survival of aircraft occupants;

(B) medical accident investigation and airman medical certification;

(C) toxicology and the effects of drugs on human performance;

(D) the impact of disease and disability on human performance;

(E) vision and its relationship to human performance and equipment design;

(F) human factors of flight crews, air traffic controllers, mechanics, inspectors, airway facility technicians, and other individuals involved in operating and maintaining aircraft and air traffic control equipment; and

(G) agency work force optimization, including training, equipment design, reduction of errors, and identification of candidate tasks for automation;

(2) make comments to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration on human factors aspects of proposed air safety regulations;

(3) make comments to the Administrator on human factors aspects of proposed training programs, equipment requirements, standards, and procedures for aviation personnel;

(4) advise, assist, and represent the Federal Aviation Administration in the human factors aspects of joint projects between the Administration and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government, industry, and governments of foreign countries; and

(5) provide medical consultation services to the Administrator about medical certification of airmen.

(b) William J. Hughes Technical Center.—The Secretary of Transportation shall define the roles and responsibilities of the William J. Hughes Technical Center in a manner that is consistent with the defined roles and responsibilities of the Civil Aeromedical Institute under subsection (a).

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1179; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §524(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3363.)

In clause (4), the words "departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government" are substituted for "Government agencies" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Pub. L. 115–254 substituted "Regions and centers" for "Civil aeromedical research" in section catchline, designated existing provisions as subsec. (a) and inserted heading, and added subsec. (b).

§44508. Research advisory committee

(a) Establishment and Duties.—(1) There is a research advisory committee in the Federal Aviation Administration. The committee shall—

(A) provide advice and recommendations to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and Congress about needs, objectives, plans, approaches, content, and accomplishments of all aviation research and development activities and programs carried out, including those under sections 40119,¹ 44504, 44505, 44507, 44511–44513, and 44912 of this title;

(B) assist in ensuring that the research is coordinated with similar research being conducted outside the Administration;

(C) review the operations of the regional centers of air transportation excellence established under section 44513 of this title; and

(D) annually review the allocation made by the Administrator of the amounts authorized by section 48102(a) of this title among the major categories of research and development activities carried out by the Administration and provide advice and recommendations to the Administrator on whether such allocation is appropriate to meet the needs and objectives identified under subparagraph (A).

(2) The Administrator may establish subordinate committees to provide advice on specific areas of research conducted under sections 40119,¹ 44504, 44505, 44507, 44511–44513, and 44912 of this title.

(b) Members, Chairman, Pay, and Expenses.—(1) The committee is composed of not more than 30 members appointed by the Administrator from among individuals who are not employees of the Administration and who are specially qualified to serve on the committee because of their education, training, or experience. In appointing members of the committee, the Administrator shall ensure that the regional centers of air transportation excellence, universities, corporations, associations, consumers, and other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government are represented.

(2) The Administrator shall designate the chairman of the committee.

(3) A member of the committee serves without pay. However, the Administrator may allow a member, when attending meetings of the committee or a subordinate committee, expenses as authorized under section 5703 of title 5.

(c) Support Staff, Information, and Services.—The Administrator shall provide support staff for the committee. On request of the committee, the Administrator shall provide information, administrative services, and supplies that the Administrator considers necessary for the committee to carry out its duties and powers.

(d) Nonapplication.—Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 App. U.S.C.) does not apply to the committee.

(e) Use and Limitation of Amounts.—(1) Not more than .1 percent of the amounts made available to conduct research under sections 40119,¹ 44504, 44505, 44507, 44511–44513, and 44912 of this title may be used by the Administrator to carry out this section.

(2) A limitation on amounts available for obligation by or for the committee does not apply to amounts made available to carry out this section.

(f) Written Reply.—

(1) In general.—Not later than 60 days after receiving any recommendation from the research advisory committee, the Administrator shall provide a written reply to the research advisory committee that, at a minimum—

(A) clearly states whether the Administrator accepts or rejects the recommendation;

(B) explains the rationale for the Administrator's decision;

(C) sets forth the timeframe in which the Administrator will implement the recommendation; and

(D) describes the steps the Administrator will take to implement the recommendation.

(2) Transparency.—The written reply to the research advisory committee, when transmitted to the research advisory committee, shall be—

(A) made publicly available on the research advisory committee website; and

(B) transmitted to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.

(3) National aviation research plan.—The national aviation research plan required under section 44501(c) shall include a summary of all research advisory committee recommendations and a description of the status of their implementation.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1180; Pub. L. 104–264, title XI, §1104, Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3279; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title VII, §712, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3410.)

In subsection (a)(1), before clause (A), the words "There is a" are substituted for "Not later than 180 days after November 3, 1988, the Administrator shall establish" to eliminate obsolete words. In clause (C), the words "operations of" are substituted for "research and training to be carried out by" for consistency with section 44513 of the revised title.

In subsection (a)(2), the words "to the advisory committee" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b)(1), the words "departments, agencies, and instrumentalities" are substituted for "agencies" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (b)(3), the words "travel or transportation" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (e), the words "for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1988" are omitted as obsolete.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 40119 of this title, referred to in subsecs. (a)(1)(A), (2) and (e)(1), was repealed by Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, §1991(c)(3), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3627.

Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, referred to in subsec. (d), is section 14 of Pub. L. 92–463, which is set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (a)(1)(A). Pub. L. 115–254, §712(a), amended subpar. (A) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (A) read as follows: "provide advice and recommendations to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration about needs, objectives, plans, approaches, content, and accomplishments of the aviation research program carried out under sections 40119, 44504, 44505, 44507, 44511–44513, and 44912 of this title;".

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 115–254, §712(b), added subsec. (f).

1996—Subsec. (a)(1)(D). Pub. L. 104–264 added subpar. (D).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Except as otherwise specifically provided, amendment by Pub. L. 104–264 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1996, and not to be construed as affecting funds made available for a fiscal year ending before Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104–264, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

¹ See References in Text note below.

§44509. Demonstration projects

The Secretary of Transportation may carry out under this chapter demonstration projects that the Secretary considers necessary for research and development activities under this chapter.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1181.)

§44510. Airway science curriculum grants

(a) General Authority.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may make competitive grant agreements with institutions of higher education having airway science curricula for the United States Government's share of the allowable direct costs of the following categories of items to the extent that the items are in support of airway science curricula:

(1) the construction, purchase, or lease with an option to purchase, of buildings and associated facilities.

(2) instructional material and equipment.

(b) Cost Guidelines.—The Administrator shall establish guidelines to determine the direct costs allowable under a grant to be made under this section. The Government's share of the allowable cost of a project assisted by a grant under this section may not be more than 65 percent.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1181.)

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the words "With appropriations made for the Airway Science Program, as authorized below in this section" are omitted as unnecessary because of section 48106 of the revised title.

In subsection (b), the proviso is omitted as executed.

§44511. Aviation research grants

(a) General Authority.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may make grants to institutions of higher education and nonprofit research organizations to conduct aviation research in areas the Administrator considers necessary for the long-term growth of civil aviation.

(b) Applications.—An institution of higher education or nonprofit research organization interested in receiving a grant under this section may submit an application to the Administrator. The application must be in the form and contain the information the Administrator requires.

(c) Solicitation, Review, and Evaluation Process.—The Administrator shall establish a solicitation, review, and evaluation process that ensures—

(1) providing grants under this section for proposals having adequate merit and relevancy to the mission of the Administration;

(2) a fair geographical distribution of grants under this section; and

(3) the inclusion of historically black institutions of higher education and other minority nonprofit research organizations for grant consideration under this section.

(d) Records.—Each person receiving a grant under this section shall maintain records that the Administrator requires as being necessary to facilitate an effective audit and evaluation of the use of money provided under the grant.

(e) Annual Report.—The Administrator shall submit an annual report to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on carrying out this section.

(f) Airport Cooperative Research Program.—

(1) Establishment.—The Secretary of Transportation shall maintain an airport cooperative research program to—

(A) identify problems that are shared by airport operating agencies and can be solved through applied research but that are not being adequately addressed by existing Federal research programs; and

(B) fund research to address those problems.

(2) Governance.—The Secretary of Transportation shall appoint an independent governing board for the research program established under this subsection. The governing board shall be appointed from candidates nominated by national associations representing public airport operating agencies, airport executives, State aviation officials, and the scheduled airlines, and shall include representatives of appropriate Federal agencies. Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act shall not apply to the governing board.

(3) Implementation.—The Secretary of Transportation shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences to provide staff support to the governing board established under paragraph (2) and to carry out projects proposed by the governing board that the Secretary considers appropriate.

(4) Report.—Not later than September 30, 2012, the Secretary shall transmit to the Congress a report on the program.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1181; Pub. L. 104–287, §5(74), Oct. 11, 1996, 110 Stat. 3396; Pub. L. 108–176, title VII, §712, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2586; Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §906, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 139.)

In this section, the words "institutions of higher education" and "institution of higher education" are substituted for "colleges, universities", "university, college", and "colleges and universities" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (c), the words "providing grants" are substituted for "the funding", the word "grants" is substituted for "grant funds", and the words "grant consideration" are substituted for "funding consideration", for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (d), the words "money provided under the grant" are substituted for "grant funds" for consistency.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, referred to in subsec. (f)(2), is section 14 of Pub. L. 92–463, which is set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 112–95, §906(1), substituted "maintain an" for "establish a 4-year pilot" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (f)(4). Pub. L. 112–95, §906(2), substituted "Not later than September 30, 2012," for "Not later than 6 months after the expiration of the program under this subsection," and "program" for "program, including recommendations as to the need for establishing a permanent airport cooperative research program".

2003—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 108–176 added subsec. (f).

1996—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 104–287 substituted "Committee on Science" for "Committee on Science, Space, and Technology".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

Committee on Science of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007. Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

§44512. Catastrophic failure prevention research grants

(a) General Authority.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may make grants to institutions of higher education and nonprofit research organizations—

(1) to conduct aviation research related to the development of technologies and methods to assess the risk of, and prevent, defects, failures, and malfunctions of products, parts, processes, and articles manufactured for use in aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances that could result in a catastrophic failure of an aircraft; and

(2) to establish centers of excellence for continuing the research.

(b) Solicitation, Application, Review, and Evaluation Process.—The Administrator shall establish a solicitation, application, review, and evaluation process that ensures providing grants under this section for proposals having adequate merit and relevancy to the research described in subsection (a) of this section.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1182.)

In this section, the words "institutions of higher education" are substituted for "colleges, universities" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (b), the words "providing grants" are substituted for "the funding" for consistency in the revised title.

§44513. Regional centers of air transportation excellence

(a) General Authority.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may make grants to institutions of higher education to establish and operate regional centers of air transportation excellence. The locations shall be distributed in a geographically fair way.

(b) Responsibilities.—(1) The responsibilities of each center established under this section shall include—

(A) conducting research on—

(i) airspace and airport planning and design;

(ii) airport capacity enhancement techniques;

(iii) human performance in the air transportation environment;

(iv) aviation safety and security;

(v) the supply of trained air transportation personnel, including pilots and mechanics; and

(vi) other aviation issues related to developing and maintaining a safe and efficient air transportation system; and

(B) interpreting, publishing, and disseminating the results of the research.

(2) In conducting research described in paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection, each center may make contracts with nonprofit research organizations and other appropriate persons.

(c) Applications.—An institution of higher education interested in receiving a grant under this section may submit an application to the Administrator. The application must be in the form and contain the information that the Administrator requires by regulation.

(d) Selection Criteria.—The Administrator shall select recipients of grants under this section on the basis of the following criteria:

(1) the extent to which the needs of the State in which the applicant is located are representative of the needs of the region for improved air transportation services and facilities.

(2) the demonstrated research and extension resources available to the applicant to carry out this section.

(3) the ability of the applicant to provide leadership in making national and regional contributions to the solution of both long-range and immediate air transportation problems.

(4) the extent to which the applicant has an established air transportation program.

(5) the demonstrated ability of the applicant to disseminate results of air transportation research and educational programs through a statewide or regionwide continuing education program.

(6) the projects the applicant proposes to carry out under the grant.

(e) Expenditure Agreements.—A grant may be made under this section in a fiscal year only if the recipient makes an agreement with the Administrator that the Administrator requires to ensure that the recipient will maintain its total expenditures from all other sources for establishing and operating the center and related research activities at a level at least equal to the average level of those expenditures in the 2 fiscal years of the recipient occurring immediately before November 5, 1990.

(f) Government's Share of Costs.—The United States Government's share of establishing and operating a center and all related research activities that grant recipients carry out shall not exceed 50 percent of the costs, except that the Administrator may increase such share to a maximum of 75 percent of the costs for a fiscal year if the Administrator determines that a center would be unable to carry out the authorized activities described in this section without additional funds.

(g) Allocating Amounts.—The Administrator shall allocate amounts made available to carry out this section in a geographically fair way.

(h) Annual Report.—The Administrator shall transmit annually to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate at the time of the President's budget request a report that lists—

(1) the research projects that have been initiated by each center in the preceding year;

(2) the amount of funding for each research project and the funding source;

(3) the institutions participating in each research project and their shares of the overall funding for each research project; and

(4) the level of cost-sharing for each research project.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1182; Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §907, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 140.)

In this section, the words "institutions of higher education" and "institution of higher education" are substituted for "colleges or universities" and "college or university" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (a), the words "one or more" are omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 112–95, §907(a), amended subsec. (f) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "The United States Government's share of a grant under this section is 50 percent of the costs of establishing and operating the center and related research activities that the grant recipient carries out."

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 112–95, §907(b), added subsec. (h).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

FAA Center of Excellence for Automated Systems and Human Factors in Aircraft

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §127, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2348, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator shall develop or expand a Center of Excellence focused on automated systems and human factors in transport category aircraft.

"(b) Duties.—The Center of Excellence shall, as appropriate—

"(1) facilitate collaboration among academia, the FAA, and the aircraft and airline industries, including aircraft, engine, and equipment manufacturers, air carriers, and representatives of the pilot community;

"(2) establish goals for research in areas of study relevant to advancing technology, improving engineering practices, and facilitating better understanding of human factors concepts in the context of the growing development and reliance on automated or complex systems in commercial aircraft, including continuing education and training;

"(3) examine issues related to human system integration and flight crew and aircraft interfaces, including tools and methods to support the integration of human factors considerations into the aircraft design and certification process; and

"(4) review safety reports to identify potential human factors issues for research.

"(c) Avoiding Duplication of Work.—In developing or expanding the Center of Excellence, the Administrator shall ensure the work of the Center of Excellence does not duplicate or overlap with the work of any other established center of excellence.

"(d) Member Prioritization.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator, when developing or expanding the Center of Excellence, shall prioritize the inclusion of subject-matter experts whose professional experience enables them to be objective and impartial in their contributions to the greatest extent possible.

"(2) Representation.—The Administrator shall require that the membership of the Center of Excellence reflect a balanced viewpoint across broad disciplines in the aviation industry.

"(3) Disclosure.—Any member of the Center of Excellence who is a Boeing Company or FAA employee who participated in the certification of the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System for the 737 MAX-8 airplane must disclose such involvement to the FAA prior to performing any work on behalf of the FAA.

"(4) Transparency.—In developing or expanding the Center of Excellence, the Administrator shall develop procedures to facilitate transparency and appropriate maintenance of records to the maximum extent practicable.

"(5) Coordination.—Nothing in this section shall preclude coordination and collaboration between the Center of Excellence developed or expanded under this section and any other established center of excellence.

"(e) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator $2,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2023, out of funds made available under section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, to carry out this section. Amounts appropriated under the preceding sentence for any fiscal year shall remain available until expended."

[For definitions of terms used in section 127 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Center of Excellence for Aviation Human Resource Research

Pub. L. 112–95, title IX, §908, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 140, provided that:

"(a) Establishment.—Using amounts made available under section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] may establish a center of excellence to conduct research on—

"(1) human performance in the air transportation environment, including among air transportation personnel such as air traffic controllers, pilots, and technicians; and

"(2) any other aviation human resource issue pertinent to developing and maintaining a safe and efficient air transportation system.

"(b) Activities.—Activities conducted under this section may include the following:

"(1) Research, development, and evaluation of training programs for air traffic controllers, aviation safety inspectors, airway transportation safety specialists, and engineers.

"(2) Research and development of best practices for recruitment of individuals into the aviation field for mission critical positions.

"(3) Research, in consultation with other relevant Federal agencies, to develop a baseline of general aviation employment statistics and an analysis of future needs in the aviation field.

"(4) Research and the development of a comprehensive assessment of the airframe and power plant technician certification process and its effect on employment trends.

"(5) Evaluation of aviation maintenance technician school environments.

"(6) Research and an assessment of the ability to develop training programs to allow for the transition of recently unemployed and highly skilled mechanics into the aviation field."

§44514. Flight service stations

(a) Hours of Operation.—(1) The Secretary of Transportation may close, or reduce the hours of operation of, a flight service station in an area only if the service provided in the area after the closing or during the hours the station is not in operation is provided by an automated flight service station with at least model 1 equipment.

(2) The Secretary shall reopen a flight service station closed after March 24, 1987, but before July 15, 1987, as soon as practicable if the service in the area in which the station is located has not been provided since the closing by an automatic flight service station with at least model 1 equipment. The hours of operation for the reopened station shall be the same as were the hours of operation for the station on March 25, 1987. After reopening the station, the Secretary may close, or reduce the hours of operation of, the station only as provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(b) Manned Auxiliary Stations.—The Secretary and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish a system of manned auxiliary flight service stations. The manned auxiliary flight service stations shall supplement the services of the planned consolidation to 61 automated flight service stations under the flight service station modernization program. A manned auxiliary flight service station shall be located in an area of unique weather or operational conditions that are critical to the safety of flight.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1183.)

In subsection (a)(1), the words "On or after July 15, 1987" are omitted as obsolete.

In subsection (a)(2), the words "after December 30, 1987" are omitted as obsolete. The words "the date of" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b), the text of section 9115(b) of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 (Public Law 101–508, 104 Stat. 1388–364) and section 330(a) (last sentence) of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1991 (Public Law 101–516, 104 Stat. 2184) is omitted as obsolete.

§44515. Advanced training facilities for maintenance technicians for air carrier aircraft

(a) General Authority.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may make grants to not more than 4 vocational technical educational institutions to acquire or construct facilities to be used for the advanced training of maintenance technicians for air carrier aircraft.

(b) Eligibility.—The Administrator may make a grant under this section to a vocational technical educational institution only if the institution has a training curriculum that prepares aircraft maintenance technicians who hold airframe and power plant certificates under subpart D of part 65 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to maintain, without direct supervision, air carrier aircraft.

(c) Limitation.—A vocational technical educational institution may not receive more than a total of $5,000,000 in grants under this section.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1184.)

The words "vocational technical educational institution" are used throughout this section for consistency in this section.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Promoting Aviation Regulations for Technical Training

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §135, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2356, provided that:

"(a) New Regulations Required.—

"(1) Interim final regulations.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this section [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall issue interim final regulations to establish requirements for issuing aviation maintenance technician school certificates and associated ratings and the general operating rules for the holders of those certificates and ratings in accordance with the requirements of this section.

"(2) Repeal of current regulations.—Upon the effective date of the interim final regulations required under paragraph (1), part 147 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this title) and any regulations issued under section 624 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115–254) [set out below] shall have no force or effect on or after the effective date of such interim final regulations.

"(b) Aviation Maintenance Technician School Certification Required.—No person may operate an aviation maintenance technician school without, or in violation of, an aviation maintenance technician school certificate and the operations specifications issued under the interim final regulations required under subsection (a)(1), the requirements of this section, or in a manner that is inconsistent with information in the school's operations specifications under subsection (c)(5).

"(c) Certificate and Operations Specifications Requirements.—

"(1) Application requirements.—

"(A) In general.—An application for a certificate or rating to operate an aviation maintenance technician school shall include the following:

"(i) A description of the facilities, including the physical address of the certificate holder's primary location for operation of the school, any additional fixed locations where training will be provided, and the equipment and materials to be used at each location.

"(ii) A description of the manner in which the school's curriculum will ensure the student has the knowledge and skills necessary for attaining a mechanic certificate and associated ratings under subpart D of part 65 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation).

"(iii) A description of the manner in which the school will ensure it provides the necessary qualified instructors to meet the requirements of subsection (d)(4).

"(B) Documented in the school's operations specifications.—Upon issuance of the school's certificate or rating, the information required under subparagraph (A) shall be documented in the school's operations specifications.

"(2) Change applications.—

"(A) In general.—An application for an additional rating or amended certificate shall include only the information necessary to substantiate the reason for the requested additional rating or change.

"(B) Approved changes.—Any approved changes shall be documented in the school's operations specifications.

"(3) Duration.—An aviation maintenance technician school certificate or rating issued under the interim final regulations required under subsection (a)(1) shall be effective from the date of issue until the certificate or rating is surrendered, suspended, or revoked.

"(4) Certificate ratings.—An aviation maintenance technician school certificate issued under the interim final regulations required under subsection (a)(1) shall specify which of the following ratings are held by the aviation maintenance technician school:

"(A) Airframe.

"(B) Powerplant.

"(C) Airframe and Powerplant.

"(5) Operations specifications.—A certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall operate in accordance with operations specifications that include the following:

"(A) The certificate holder's name.

"(B) The certificate holder's air agency certificate number.

"(C) The name and contact information of the certificate holder's primary point of contact.

"(D) The physical address of the certificate holder's primary location, as provided under paragraph (1)(A).

"(E) The physical address of any additional location of the certificate holder, as provided under subsection (d)(2).

"(F) The ratings held, as provided under paragraph (4).

"(G) Any regulatory exemption granted to the school by the Administrator.

"(d) Operations Requirements.—

"(1) Facilities, equipment, and material requirements.—Each certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall provide and maintain the facilities, equipment, and materials that are appropriate to the 1 or more ratings held by the school and the number of students taught.

"(2) Training provided at another location.—A certificated aviation maintenance technician school may provide training at any additional location that meets the requirements of the interim final regulations required under subsection (a)(1) and is listed in the certificate holder's operations specifications.

"(3) Training requirements.—Each certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall—

"(A) establish, maintain, and utilize a curriculum designed to continually align with mechanic airman certification standards as appropriate for the ratings held;

"(B) provide training of a quality that meets the requirements of subsection (f)(1); and

"(C) ensure students have the knowledge and skills necessary to be eligible to test for a mechanic certificate and associated ratings under subpart D of part 65 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation).

"(4) Instructor requirements.—Each certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall—

"(A) provide qualified instructors to teach in a manner that ensures positive educational outcomes are achieved;

"(B) ensure instructors hold a mechanic certificate with 1 or more appropriate ratings (or, with respect to instructors who are not certified mechanics, ensure instructors are otherwise specifically qualified to teach their assigned content); and

"(C) ensure the student-to-instructor ratio does not exceed 25:1 for any shop class.

"(5) Certificate of completion.—Each certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall provide authenticated documentation to each graduating student, indicating the student's date of graduation and curriculum completed, as described in paragraph (3)(A).

"(e) Quality Control System.—

"(1) Accreditation.—Each aviation maintenance technician school shall—

"(A) be accredited as meeting the definition of an institution of higher education provided for in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001); or

"(B) establish and maintain a quality control system that meets the requirements specified in paragraph (2) and is approved by the Administrator.

"(2) FAA-approved system requirements.—In the case of an aviation maintenance technician school that is not accredited as set forth in paragraph (1), the Administrator shall approve a quality control system that provides procedures for recordkeeping, assessment, issuing credit, issuing of final course grades, attendance, ensuring sufficient number of instructors, granting of graduation documentation, and corrective action for addressing deficiencies.

"(f) Additional Requirements.—

"(1) Minimum passage rate.—A certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall maintain a pass rate of at least 70 percent of students who took a written, oral, or practical (or any combination thereof) FAA mechanic tests within 60 days of graduation for the most recent 3-year period .

"(2) FAA inspection.—A certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall allow the Administrator such access as the Administrator determines necessary to inspect the 1 or more locations of the school for purposes of determining the school's compliance with the interim final regulations required under subsection (a)(1), the procedures and information outlined in the school's operations specifications according to subsection (c)(5), and the aviation maintenance technician school certificate issued for the school.

"(3) Display of certificate.—A certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall display its aviation maintenance technician school certificate at a location in the school that is visible by and normally accessible to the public.

"(4) Early testing.—A certificated aviation maintenance technician school may issue authenticated documentation demonstrating a student's satisfactory progress, completion of corresponding portions of the curriculum, and preparedness to take the aviation mechanic written general knowledge test, even if the student has not met the experience requirements of section 65.77 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation). Any such documentation shall specify the curriculum the student completed and the completion date."

Aviation Maintenance Industry Technical Workforce

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title VI, §624, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3404, provided that:

"(a) Regulations.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue a final rule to modernize training programs at aviation maintenance technician schools governed by part 147 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(b) Guidance.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall coordinate with government, educational institutions, labor organizations representing aviation maintenance workers, and businesses to develop and publish guidance or model curricula for aviation maintenance technician schools referred to in subsection (a) to ensure workforce readiness for industry needs, including curricula related to training in avionics, troubleshooting, and other areas of industry needs.

"(c) Review and Periodic Updates.—The Administrator shall—

"(1) ensure training programs referred to in subsection (a) are revised and updated in correlation with aviation maintenance technician airman certification standards as necessary to reflect current technology and maintenance practices; and

"(2) publish updates to the guidance or model curricula required under subsection (b) at least once every 2 years, as necessary, from the date of initial publication.

"(d) Report to Congress.—If the Administrator does not issue such final rule by the deadline specified in subsection (a), the Administrator shall, not later than 30 days after such deadline, submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report containing—

"(1) an explanation as to why such final rule was not issued by such deadline; and

"(2) a schedule for issuing such final rule.

"(e) Study.—The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study on technical workers in the aviation maintenance industry.

"(f) Contents.—In conducting the study under subsection (e), the Comptroller General shall—

"(1) analyze the current Standard Occupational Classification system with regard to the aviation profession, particularly technical workers in the aviation maintenance industry;

"(2) analyze how changes to the Federal employment classification of aviation maintenance industry workers might affect government data on unemployment rates and wages;

"(3) analyze how changes to the Federal employment classification of aviation maintenance industry workers might affect projections for future aviation maintenance industry workforce needs and project technical worker shortfalls;

"(4) analyze the impact of Federal regulation, including Federal Aviation Administration oversight of certification, testing, and education programs, on employment of technical workers in the aviation maintenance industry;

"(5) develop recommendations on how Federal Aviation Administration regulations and policies could be improved to modernize training programs at aviation maintenance technical schools and address aviation maintenance industry needs for technical workers;

"(6) develop recommendations for better coordinating actions by government, educational institutions, and businesses to support workforce growth in the aviation maintenance industry; and

"(7) develop recommendations for addressing the needs for government funding, private investment, equipment for training purposes, and other resources necessary to strengthen existing training programs or develop new training programs to support workforce growth in the aviation industry.

"(g) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the results of the study.

"(h) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) Aviation maintenance industry.—The term 'aviation maintenance industry' means repair stations certificated under part 145 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(2) Technical worker.—The term 'technical worker' means an individual authorized under part 43 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to maintain, rebuild, alter, or perform preventive maintenance on an aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, or component part or employed by an entity so authorized to perform such a function."

Improvement of Curriculum Standards for Aviation Maintenance Technicians

Pub. L. 108–176, title V, §504, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2559, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall ensure that the training standards for airframe and powerplant mechanics under part 65 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, are updated and revised in accordance with this section. The Administrator may update and revise the training standards through the initiation of a formal rulemaking or by issuing an advisory circular or other agency guidance.

"(b) Elements for Consideration.—The updated and revised standards required under subsection (a) shall include those curriculum adjustments that are necessary to more accurately reflect current technology and maintenance practices.

"(c) Certification.—Any adjustment or modification of current curriculum standards made pursuant to this section shall be reflected in the certification examinations of airframe and powerplant mechanics.

"(d) Completion.—The revised and updated training standards required by subsection (a) shall be completed not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2003].

"(e) Periodic Reviews and Updates.—The Administrator shall review the content of the curriculum standards for training airframe and powerplant mechanics referred to in subsection (a) every 3 years after completion of the revised and updated training standards required under subsection (a) as necessary to reflect current technology and maintenance practices."

Improved Training for Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics

Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §517, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 145, provided that: "The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall form a partnership with industry and labor to develop a model program to improve the curricula, teaching methods, and quality of instructors for training individuals that need certification as airframe and powerplant mechanics."

§44516. Human factors program

(a) Human Factors Training.—

(1) Air traffic controllers.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

(A) address the problems and concerns raised by the National Research Council in its report "The Future of Air Traffic Control" on air traffic control automation; and

(B) respond to the recommendations made by the National Research Council.

(2) Pilots and flight crews.—The Administrator shall work with representatives of the aviation industry and appropriate aviation programs associated with universities to develop specific training curricula to address critical safety problems, including problems of pilots—

(A) in recovering from loss of control of an aircraft, including handling unusual attitudes and mechanical malfunctions;

(B) in deviating from standard operating procedures, including inappropriate responses to emergencies and hazardous weather;

(C) in awareness of altitude and location relative to terrain to prevent controlled flight into terrain; and

(D) in landing and approaches, including nonprecision approaches and go-around procedures.

(b) Test Program.—The Administrator shall establish a test program in cooperation with air carriers to use model Jeppesen approach plates or other similar tools to improve precision-like landing approaches for aircraft.

(c) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this section, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the status of the Administration's efforts to encourage the adoption and implementation of advanced qualification programs for air carriers under this section.

(d) Advanced Qualification Program Defined.—In this section, the term "advanced qualification program" means an alternative method for qualifying, training, certifying, and ensuring the competency of flight crews and other commercial aviation operations personnel subject to the training and evaluation requirements of parts 121 and 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

(Added Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §713(a), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 160.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of this section, referred to in subsec. (c), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 106–181, which was approved Apr. 5, 2000.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as an Effective Date of 2000 Amendments note under section 106 of this title.

Human Factors Education Program

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §124, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2346, provided that:

"(a) Human Factors Education Program.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator shall develop a human factors education program that addresses the effects of modern flight deck systems, including automated systems, on human performance for transport airplanes and the approaches for better integration of human factors in aircraft design and certification.

"(2) Target audience.—The human factors education program shall be integrated into the training protocols (as in existence as of the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020]) for, and be routinely administered to, the following:

"(A) Appropriate employees within the Flight Standards Service.

"(B) Appropriate employees within the Aircraft Certification Service.

"(C) Other employees or authorized representatives determined to be necessary by the Administrator.

"(b) Transport Airplane Manufacturer Information Sharing.—The Administrator shall—

"(1) require each transport airplane manufacturer to provide the Administrator with the information or findings necessary for flight crew to be trained on flight deck systems;

"(2) ensure the information or findings under paragraph (1) adequately includes consideration of human factors; and

"(3) ensure that each transport airplane manufacturer identifies any technical basis, justification or rationale for the information and findings under paragraph (1)."

[For definitions of "Administrator" and "transport airplanes" as used in section 124 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

§44517. Program to permit cost sharing of air traffic modernization projects

(a) In General.—Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary may carry out a program under which the Secretary may make grants to project sponsors for not more than 10 eligible projects per fiscal year for the purpose of improving aviation safety and enhancing mobility of the Nation's air transportation system by encouraging non-Federal investment in critical air traffic control equipment and software.

(b) Federal Share.—The Federal share of the cost of an eligible project carried out under the program shall not exceed 33 percent. The non-Federal share of the cost of an eligible project shall be provided from non-Federal sources, including revenues collected pursuant to section 40117.

(c) Limitation on Grant Amounts.—No eligible project may receive more than $5,000,000 in Federal funds under the program.

(d) Funding.—The Secretary shall use amounts appropriated under section 48101(a) to carry out the program.

(e) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) Eligible project.—The term "eligible project" means a project to purchase equipment or software relating to the Nation's air traffic control system that is certified or approved by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and that promotes safety, efficiency, or mobility. Such projects may include—

(A) airport-specific air traffic facilities and equipment, including local area augmentation systems, instrument landing systems, weather and wind shear detection equipment, and lighting improvements;

(B) automation tools to effect improvements in airport capacity, including passive final approach spacing tools and traffic management advisory equipment; and

(C) equipment and software that enhance airspace control procedures or assist in en route surveillance, including oceanic and offshore flight tracking.

(2) Project sponsor.—The term "project sponsor" means any major user of the national airspace system, as determined by the Secretary, including a public-use airport or a joint venture between a public-use airport and one or more air carriers.

(f) Transfers of Equipment.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and upon agreement by the Administrator, a project sponsor may transfer, without consideration, to the Federal Aviation Administration, facilities, equipment, or automation tools, the purchase of which was assisted by a grant made under this section, if such facilities, equipment or tools meet Federal Aviation Administration operation and maintenance criteria.

(g) Guidelines.—The Administrator shall issue advisory guidelines on the implementation of the program. The guidelines shall not be subject to administrative rulemaking requirements under subchapter II of chapter 5 of title 5.

(Added Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §183(a), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2516.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as an Effective Date of 2003 Amendment note under section 106 of this title.

§44518. Advanced Materials Center of Excellence

(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall continue operation of the Advanced Materials Center of Excellence (referred to in this section as the "Center") under its structure as in effect on March 1, 2016, which shall focus on applied research and training on the durability and maintainability of advanced materials in transport airframe structures.

(b) Responsibilities.—The Center shall—

(1) promote and facilitate collaboration among academia, the Transportation Division of the Federal Aviation Administration, and the commercial aircraft industry, including manufacturers, commercial air carriers, and suppliers; and

(2) establish goals set to advance technology, improve engineering practices, and facilitate continuing education in relevant areas of study.

(c) Authorization of Appropriations.—Out of amounts appropriated under section 48102(a), the Administrator may expend not more than $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2023 to carry out this section. Amounts appropriated under the preceding sentence for each fiscal year shall remain available until expended.

(Added Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title VII, §762(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3428; amended Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §134, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2356.)

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–260 added subsec. (c).

§44519. Certification personnel continuing education and training

(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

(1) develop a program for regular recurrent training of engineers, inspectors, and other subject-matter experts employed in the Aircraft Certification Service of the Administration in accordance with the training strategy developed pursuant to section 231 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115–254; 132 Stat. 3256);

(2) to the maximum extent practicable, implement measures, including assignments in multiple divisions of the Aircraft Certification Service, to ensure that such engineers and other subject-matter experts in the Aircraft Certification Service have access to diverse professional opportunities that expand their knowledge and skills;

(3) develop a program to provide continuing education and training to Administration personnel who hold positions involving aircraft certification and flight standards, including human factors specialists, engineers, flight test pilots, inspectors, and, as determined appropriate by the Administrator, industry personnel who may be responsible for compliance activities including designees; and

(4) in consultation with outside experts, develop—

(A) an education and training curriculum on current and new aircraft technologies, human factors, project management, and the roles and responsibilities associated with oversight of designees; and

(B) recommended practices for compliance with Administration regulations.

(b) Implementation.—The Administrator shall, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure that actions taken pursuant to subsection (a)—

(1) permit engineers, inspectors, and other subject matter experts to continue developing knowledge of, and expertise in, new and emerging technologies in systems design, flight controls, principles of aviation safety, system oversight, and certification project management;

(2) minimize the likelihood of an individual developing an inappropriate bias toward a designer or manufacturer of aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, or appliances;

(3) are consistent with any applicable collective bargaining agreements; and

(4) account for gaps in knowledge and skills (as identified by the Administrator in consultation with the exclusive bargaining representatives certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code) between Administration employees and private-sector employees for each group of Administration employees covered under this section.

(c) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator, $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2023 to carry out this section. Amounts appropriated under the preceding sentence for any fiscal year shall remain available until expended.

(Added Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §112(a), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2331.)

References in Text

Section 231 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115–254; 132 Stat. 3256), referred to in subsec. (a)(1), is section 231 of Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title II, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3256, which is not classified to the Code.

CHAPTER 447—SAFETY REGULATION

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2020—Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §§107(d)(2), 119(b), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2326, 2339, added items 44740 to 44743 and struck out second item 44737 "Special rule for certain aircraft operations".

2018—Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title II, §212(b), title III, §317(b), title IV, §§408(b), 417(b), title V, §581(b)(2), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3249, 3269, 3330, 3334, 3398, added item 44736, two items 44737, and items 44738 and 44739.

2016—Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title III, §341(a)(4)(B), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2081, substituted "Structures interfering with air commerce or national security" for "Structures interfering with air commerce" in item 44718.

2012—Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §§303(c)(2), 306(c), 307(c), 308(b), 309(b), 310(b), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 58, 61, 62, 64, 65, substituted "Type certificates, production certificates, airworthiness certificates, and design and production organization certificates" for "Type certificates, production certificates, airworthiness certificates, and design organization certificates" in item 44704 and added items 44730 to 44735.

2007—Pub. L. 110–135, §2(b), Dec. 13, 2007, 121 Stat. 1452, added item 44729.

2003—Pub. L. 108–176, title II, §227(e)(2), title V, §502(b), title VIII, §814(b), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2532, 2557, 2592, substituted "Type certificates, production certificates, airworthiness certificates, and design organization certificates" for "Type certificates, production certificates, and airworthiness certificates" in item 44704 and added items 44727 and 44728.

2000—Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §§504(c), 505(a)(2), title VI, §603(b), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 134, 136, 152, substituted "Aeronautical charts and related products and services" for "Aeronautical maps and charts" in item 44721 and added items 44725 and 44726.

1996—Pub. L. 104–264, title VI, §602(a)(2), Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3264, added item 44724.

§44701. General requirements

(a) Promoting Safety.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall promote safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing—

(1) minimum standards required in the interest of safety for appliances and for the design, material, construction, quality of work, and performance of aircraft, aircraft engines, and propellers;

(2) regulations and minimum standards in the interest of safety for—

(A) inspecting, servicing, and overhauling aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances;

(B) equipment and facilities for, and the timing and manner of, the inspecting, servicing, and overhauling; and

(C) a qualified private person, instead of an officer or employee of the Administration, to examine and report on the inspecting, servicing, and overhauling;

(3) regulations required in the interest of safety for the reserve supply of aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, and aircraft fuel and oil, including the reserve supply of fuel and oil carried in flight;

(4) regulations in the interest of safety for the maximum hours or periods of service of airmen and other employees of air carriers; and

(5) regulations and minimum standards for other practices, methods, and procedure the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce and national security.

(b) Prescribing Minimum Safety Standards.—The Administrator may prescribe minimum safety standards for—

(1) an air carrier to whom a certificate is issued under section 44705 of this title; and

(2) operating an airport serving any passenger operation of air carrier aircraft designed for at least 31 passenger seats.

(c) Reducing and Eliminating Accidents.—The Administrator shall carry out this chapter in a way that best tends to reduce or eliminate the possibility or recurrence of accidents in air transportation. However, the Administrator is not required to give preference either to air transportation or to other air commerce in carrying out this chapter.

(d) Considerations and Classification of Regulations and Standards.—When prescribing a regulation or standard under subsection (a) or (b) of this section or any of sections 44702–44716 of this title, the Administrator shall—

(1) consider—

(A) the duty of an air carrier to provide service with the highest possible degree of safety in the public interest; and

(B) differences between air transportation and other air commerce; and

(2) classify a regulation or standard appropriate to the differences between air transportation and other air commerce.

(e) Bilateral Exchanges of Safety Oversight Responsibilities.—

(1) In general.—Notwithstanding the provisions of this chapter, the Administrator, pursuant to Article 83 bis of the Convention on International Civil Aviation and by a bilateral agreement with the aeronautical authorities of another country, may exchange with that country all or part of their respective functions and duties with respect to registered aircraft under the following articles of the Convention: Article 12 (Rules of the Air); Article 31 (Certificates of Airworthiness); or Article 32a (Licenses of Personnel).

(2) Relinquishment and acceptance of responsibility.—The Administrator relinquishes responsibility with respect to the functions and duties transferred by the Administrator as specified in the bilateral agreement, under the Articles listed in paragraph (1) for United States-registered aircraft described in paragraph (4)(A) transferred abroad and accepts responsibility with respect to the functions and duties under those Articles for aircraft registered abroad and described in paragraph (4)(B) that are transferred to the United States.

(3) Conditions.—The Administrator may predicate, in the agreement, the transfer of functions and duties under this subsection on any conditions the Administrator deems necessary and prudent, except that the Administrator may not transfer responsibilities for United States registered aircraft described in paragraph (4)(A) to a country that the Administrator determines is not in compliance with its obligations under international law for the safety oversight of civil aviation.

(4) Registered aircraft defined.—In this subsection, the term "registered aircraft" means—

(A) aircraft registered in the United States and operated pursuant to an agreement for the lease, charter, or interchange of the aircraft or any similar arrangement by an operator that has its principal place of business or, if it has no such place of business, its permanent residence in another country; and

(B) aircraft registered in a foreign country and operated under an agreement for the lease, charter, or interchange of the aircraft or any similar arrangement by an operator that has its principal place of business or, if it has no such place of business, its permanent residence in the United States.

(5) Foreign airworthiness directives.—

(A) Acceptance.—Subject to subparagraph (D), the Administrator may accept an airworthiness directive, as defined in section 39.3 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, issued by an aeronautical safety authority of a foreign country, and leverage that authority's regulatory process, if—

(i) the country is the state of design for the product that is the subject of the airworthiness directive;

(ii) the United States has a bilateral safety agreement relating to aircraft certification with the country;

(iii) as part of the bilateral safety agreement with the country, the Administrator has determined that such aeronautical safety authority has an aircraft certification system relating to safety that produces a level of safety equivalent to the level produced by the system of the Federal Aviation Administration;

(iv) the aeronautical safety authority of the country utilizes an open and transparent notice and comment process in the issuance of airworthiness directives; and

(v) the airworthiness directive is necessary to provide for the safe operation of the aircraft subject to the directive.

(B) Alternative approval process.—Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Administrator may issue a Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness directive instead of accepting an airworthiness directive otherwise eligible for acceptance under such subparagraph, if the Administrator determines that such issuance is necessary for safety or operational reasons due to the complexity or unique features of the Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness directive or the United States aviation system.

(C) Alternative means of compliance.—The Administrator may—

(i) accept an alternative means of compliance, with respect to an airworthiness directive accepted under subparagraph (A), that was approved by the aeronautical safety authority of the foreign country that issued the airworthiness directive; or

(ii) notwithstanding subparagraph (A), and at the request of any person affected by an airworthiness directive accepted under such subparagraph, approve an alternative means of compliance with respect to the airworthiness directive.

(D) Limitation.—The Administrator may not accept an airworthiness directive issued by an aeronautical safety authority of a foreign country if the airworthiness directive addresses matters other than those involving the safe operation of an aircraft.

(f) Exemptions.—The Administrator may grant an exemption from a requirement of a regulation prescribed under subsection (a) or (b) of this section or any of sections 44702–44716 of this title if the Administrator finds the exemption is in the public interest.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1185; Pub. L. 103–429, §6(55), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4385; Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §714, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 161; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title II, §242, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3258.)

In this section, the word "Administrator" in sections 601(a)–(c) and 604 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 775, 778) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the words "is empowered and it . . . be his duty to" and "and revising from time to time" are omitted as surplus. In clause (1), the words "as may be" are omitted as surplus. In clauses (2)–(5), the words "Reasonable" and "reasonable" are omitted as surplus and the word "rules" is omitted as being synonymous with "regulations". In clause (5), the words "to provide adequately" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b)(1), the words "the operation of" are omitted as surplus. The words "under section 44705 of this title" are added for clarity.

In subsection (b)(2), the words "scheduled or unscheduled" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c), the words "carry out" are substituted for "exercise and perform his powers and duties under", and the words "in carrying out" are substituted for "in the administration and enforcement of", for consistency and to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (d), before clause (1), the word "rules" is omitted as being synonymous with "regulations". In clause (1), before subclause (A), the word "full" is omitted as surplus. In clause (1)(A), the word "provide" is substituted for "perform" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (e), the words "from time to time" are omitted as surplus. The word "rule" is omitted as being synonymous with "regulation".

Pub. L. 103–429

This amends 49:44701(d) and (e) to correct erroneous cross-references.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (e)(5). Pub. L. 115–254 added par. (5).

2000—Subsecs. (e), (f). Pub. L. 106–181 added subsec. (e) and redesignated former subsec. (e) as (f).

1994—Subsecs. (d), (e). Pub. L. 103–429 substituted "any of sections 44702–44716" for "section 44702–44716".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 1994 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 103–429 effective July 5, 1994, see section 9 of Pub. L. 103–429, set out as a note under section 321 of this title.

Safety Management Systems

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §102(a)–(f), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2309, 2310, provided that:

"(a) Rulemaking Proceeding.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator shall initiate a rulemaking proceeding to require that manufacturers that hold both a type certificate and a production certificate issued pursuant to section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, where the United States is the State of Design and State of Manufacture, have in place a safety management system that is consistent with the standards and recommended practices established by ICAO and contained in annex 19 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation (61 Stat. 1180), for such systems.

"(2) Contents of regulations.—The regulations issued under paragraph (1) shall, at a minimum—

"(A) ensure safety management systems are consistent with, and complementary to, existing safety management systems;

"(B) include provisions that would permit operational feedback from operators and pilots qualified on the manufacturers' equipment to ensure that the operational assumptions made during design and certification remain valid;

"(C) include provisions for the Administrator's approval of, and regular oversight of adherence to, a certificate holder's safety management system adopted pursuant to such regulations; and

"(D) require such certificate holder to adopt, not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of this title, a safety management system.

"(b) Final Rule Deadline.—Not later than 24 months after initiating the rulemaking under subsection (a), the Administrator shall issue a final rule.

"(c) Surveillance and Audit Requirement.—The final rule issued pursuant to subsection (b) shall include a requirement for the Administrator to implement a systems approach to risk-based surveillance by defining and planning inspections, audits, and monitoring activities on a continuous basis, to ensure that design and production approval holders of aviation products meet and continue to meet safety management system requirements under the rule.

"(d) Engagement With ICAO.—The Administrator shall engage with ICAO and foreign civil aviation authorities to help encourage the adoption of safety management systems for manufacturers on a global basis, consistent with ICAO standards.

"(e) Safety Reporting Program.—The regulations issued under subsection (a) shall require a safety management system to include a confidential employee reporting system through which employees can report hazards, issues, concerns, occurrences, and incidents. A reporting system under this subsection shall include provisions for reporting, without concern for reprisal for reporting, of such items by employees in a manner consistent with confidential employee reporting systems administered by the Administrator. Such regulations shall also require a certificate holder described in subsection (a) to submit a summary of reports received under this subsection to the Administrator at least twice per year.

"(f) Code of Ethics.—The regulations issued under subsection (a) shall require a safety management system to include establishment of a code of ethics applicable to all appropriate employees of a certificate holder, including officers (as determined by the FAA), which clarifies that safety is the organization's highest priority.

[For definitions of terms used in section 102(a)–(f) of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Certification Oversight Staff

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §104, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2316, provided that:

"(a) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator $27,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2023 to recruit and retain engineers, safety inspectors, human factors specialists, chief scientific and technical advisors, software and cybersecurity experts, and other qualified technical experts who perform duties related to the certification of aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, and new and emerging technologies, and perform other regulatory activities.

"(b) In General.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], and without duplicating any recently completed or ongoing reviews, the Administrator shall initiate a review of—

"(1) the inspectors, human factors specialists, flight test pilots, engineers, managers, and executives in the FAA who are responsible for the certification of the design, manufacture, and operation of aircraft intended for air transportation for purposes of determining whether the FAA has the expertise and capability to adequately understand the safety implications of, and oversee the adoption of, new or innovative technologies, materials, and procedures used by designers and manufacturers of such aircraft; and

"(2) the Senior Technical Experts Program to determine whether the program should be enhanced or expanded to bolster and support the programs of the FAA's Office of Aviation Safety, with particular focus placed on the Aircraft Certification Service and the Flight Standards Service (or any successor organizations), particularly with respect to understanding the safety implications of new or innovative technologies, materials, aircraft operations, and procedures used by designers and manufacturers of such aircraft.

"(c) Deadline for Completion.—Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this title, the Administrator shall complete the review required by subsection (b).

"(d) Briefing.—Not later than 30 days after the completion of the review required by subsection (b), the Administrator shall brief the congressional committees of jurisdiction on the results of the review. The briefing shall include the following:

"(1) An analysis of the Administration's ability to hire safety inspectors, human factors specialists, flight test pilots, engineers, managers, executives, scientists, and technical advisors, who have the requisite expertise to oversee new developments in aerospace design and manufacturing.

"(2) A plan for the Administration to improve the overall expertise of the FAA's personnel who are responsible for the oversight of the design and manufacture of aircraft.

"(e) Consultation Requirement.—In completing the review under subsection (b), the Administrator shall consult and collaborate with appropriate stakeholders, including labor organizations (including those representing aviation workers, FAA aviation safety engineers, human factors specialists, flight test pilots, and FAA aviation safety inspectors), and aerospace manufacturers.

"(f) Recruitment and Retention.—

"(1) Bargaining units.—Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this title, the Administrator shall begin collaboration with the exclusive bargaining representatives of engineers, safety inspectors, systems safety specialists, and other qualified technical experts certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code, to improve recruitment of employees for, and to implement retention incentives for employees holding, positions with respect to the certification of aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances. If the Administrator and such representatives are unable to reach an agreement collaboratively, the Administrator and such representatives shall negotiate in accordance with section 40122(a) of title 49, United States Code, to improve recruitment and implement retention incentives for employees described in subsection (a) who are covered under a collective bargaining agreement.

"(2) Other employees.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this title, the Administrator shall initiate actions to improve recruitment of, and implement retention incentives for, any individual described in subsection (a) who is not covered under a collective bargaining agreement.

"(3) Rule of construction.—Nothing in this section shall be construed to vest in any exclusive bargaining representative any management right of the Administrator, as such right existed on the day before the date of enactment of this title.

"(4) Availability of appropriations.—Any action taken by the Administrator under this section shall be subject to the availability of appropriations authorized under subsection (a)."

[For definitions of terms used in section 104 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Voluntary Safety Reporting Program

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §113, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2332, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator shall establish a voluntary safety reporting program for engineers, safety inspectors, systems safety specialists, and other subject matter experts certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code, to confidentially report instances where they have identified safety concerns during certification or oversight processes.

"(b) Safety Reporting Program Requirements.—In establishing the safety reporting program under subsection (a), the Administrator shall ensure the following:

"(1) The FAA maintains a reporting culture that encourages human factors specialists, engineers, flight test pilots, inspectors, and other appropriate FAA employees to voluntarily report safety concerns.

"(2) The safety reporting program is non-punitive, confidential, and protects employees from adverse employment actions related to their participation in the program.

"(3) The safety reporting program identifies exclusionary criteria for the program.

"(4) Collaborative development of the program with bargaining representatives of employees under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code, who are employed in the Aircraft Certification Service or Flight Standards Service of the Administration (or, if unable to reach an agreement collaboratively, the Administrator shall negotiate with the representatives in accordance with section 40122(a) of title 49, United States Code, regarding the development of the program).

"(5) Full and collaborative participation in the program by the bargaining representatives of employees described in paragraph (4).

"(6) The Administrator thoroughly reviews safety reports to determine whether there is a safety issue, including a hazard, defect, noncompliance, nonconformance, or process error.

"(7) The Administrator thoroughly reviews safety reports to determine whether any aircraft certification process contributed to the safety concern being raised.

"(8) The creation of a corrective action process in order to address safety issues that are identified through the program.

"(c) Outcomes.—Results of safety report reviews under this section may be used to—

"(1) improve—

"(A) safety systems, hazard control, and risk reduction;

"(B) certification systems;

"(C) FAA oversight;

"(D) compliance and conformance; and

"(E) any other matter determined necessary by the Administrator; and

"(2) implement lessons learned.

"(d) Report Filing.—The Administrator shall establish requirements for when in the certification process reports may be filed to—

"(1) ensure that identified issues can be addressed in a timely manner; and

"(2) foster open dialogue between applicants and FAA employees throughout the certification process.

"(e) Integration With Other Safety Reporting Programs.—The Administrator shall implement the safety reporting program established under subsection (a) and the reporting requirements established pursuant to subsection (d) in a manner that is consistent with other voluntary safety reporting programs administered by the Administrator.

"(f) Report to Congress.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this title, and annually thereafter through fiscal year 2023, the Administrator shall submit to the congressional committees of jurisdiction a report on the effectiveness of the safety reporting program established under subsection (a)."

[For definitions of terms used in section 113 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

FAA Safety Oversight and Certification and Performance Metrics

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title II, §§201, 202, 211, 221, 223, 224, 243, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3242, 3246, 3252, 3254, 3255, 3259, as amended by Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §129, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2349, provided that:

"SEC. 201. DEFINITIONS.

"In this title [enacting this note and section 44736 of this title and amending this section and sections 40104, 44704, and 45305 of this title], the following definitions apply:

"(1) Administrator.—The term 'Administrator' means the Administrator of the FAA.

"(2) Advisory committee.—The term 'Advisory Committee' means the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee established under section 202.

"(3) FAA.—The term 'FAA' means the Federal Aviation Administration.

"(4) Secretary.—The term 'Secretary' means the Secretary of Transportation.

"(5) Systems safety approach.—The term 'systems safety approach' means the application of specialized technical and managerial skills to the systematic, forward-looking identification and control of hazards throughout the lifecycle of a project, program, or activity.

"SEC. 202. SAFETY OVERSIGHT AND CERTIFICATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

"(a) Establishment.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Secretary shall establish a Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee.

"(b) Duties.—The Advisory Committee shall provide advice to the Secretary on policy-level issues facing the aviation community that are related to FAA safety oversight and certification programs and activities, including, at a minimum, the following:

"(1) Aircraft and flight standards certification processes, including efforts to streamline those processes.

"(2) Implementation and oversight of safety management systems.

"(3) Risk-based oversight efforts.

"(4) Utilization of delegation and designation authorities, including organization designation authorization.

"(5) Regulatory interpretation standardization efforts.

"(6) Training programs.

"(7) Expediting the rulemaking process and giving priority to rules related to safety.

"(8) Enhancing global competitiveness of United States manufactured and United States certificated aerospace and aviation products and services throughout the world.

"(c) Functions.—In carrying out its duties under subsection (b), the Advisory Committee shall:

"(1) Foster industry collaboration in an open and transparent manner.

"(2) Consult with, and ensure participation by—

"(A) the private sector, including representatives of—

"(i) general aviation;

"(ii) commercial aviation;

"(iii) aviation labor;

"(iv) aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul;

"(v) aviation, aerospace, and avionics manufacturing;

"(vi) unmanned aircraft systems operators and manufacturers; and

"(vii) the commercial space transportation industry;

"(B) members of the public; and

"(C) other interested parties.

"(3) Recommend consensus national goals, strategic objectives, and priorities for the most efficient, streamlined, and cost-effective certification and safety oversight processes in order to maintain the safety of the aviation system and, at the same time, allow the FAA to meet future needs and ensure that aviation stakeholders remain competitive in the global marketplace.

"(4) Provide policy guidance recommendations for the FAA's certification and safety oversight efforts.

"(5) On a regular basis, review and provide recommendations on the FAA's certification and safety oversight efforts.

"(6) Periodically review and evaluate registration, certification, and related fees.

"(7) Provide appropriate legislative, regulatory, and guidance recommendations for the air transportation system and the aviation safety regulatory environment.

"[(8), (9). Repealed. Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §129(b), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2349.]

"(10) Provide a venue for tracking progress toward national goals and sustaining joint commitments.

"(11) Recommend recruiting, hiring, training, and continuing education objectives for FAA aviation safety engineers and aviation safety inspectors.

"(12) Provide advice and recommendations to the FAA on how to prioritize safety rulemaking projects.

"(13) Improve the development of FAA regulations by providing information, advice, and recommendations related to aviation issues.

"(14) Facilitate the validation and acceptance of United States manufactured and United States certificated products and services throughout the world.

"(d) Membership.—

"(1) In general.—The Advisory Committee shall be composed of the following members:

"(A) The Administrator (or the Administrator's designee).

"(B) At least 11 individuals, appointed by the Secretary, each of whom represents at least 1 of the following interests:

"(i) Transport aircraft and engine manufacturers.

"(ii) General aviation aircraft and engine manufacturers.

"(iii) Avionics and equipment manufacturers.

"(iv) Aviation labor organizations, including collective bargaining representatives of FAA aviation safety inspectors and aviation safety engineers.

"(v) General aviation operators.

"(vi) Air carriers.

"(vii) Business aviation operators.

"(viii) Unmanned aircraft systems manufacturers and operators.

"(ix) Aviation safety management experts.

"(x) Aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul.

"(xi) Airport owners and operators.

"(2) Nonvoting members.—

"(A) In general.—In addition to the members appointed under paragraph (1), the Advisory Committee shall be composed of nonvoting members appointed by the Secretary from among individuals representing FAA safety oversight program offices.

"(B) Duties.—The nonvoting members may—

"(i) take part in deliberations of the Advisory Committee; and

"(ii) provide input with respect to any final reports or recommendations of the Advisory Committee.

"(C) Limitation.—The nonvoting members may not represent any stakeholder interest other than that of an FAA safety oversight program office.

"(3) Terms.—Each voting member and nonvoting member of the Advisory Committee appointed by the Secretary shall be appointed for a term of 2 years.

"(4) Committee characteristics.—The Advisory Committee shall have the following characteristics:

"(A) Each voting member under paragraph (1)(B) shall be an executive officer of the organization who has decisionmaking authority within the member's organization and can represent and enter into commitments on behalf of such organization.

"(B) The ability to obtain necessary information from experts in the aviation and aerospace communities.

"(C) A membership size that enables the Advisory Committee to have substantive discussions and reach consensus on issues in a timely manner.

"(D) Appropriate expertise, including expertise in certification and risked-based safety oversight processes, operations, policy, technology, labor relations, training, and finance.

"(5) Limitation on statutory construction.—Public Law 104–65 [the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995] (2 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) may not be construed to prohibit or otherwise limit the appointment of any individual as a member of the Advisory Committee.

"(e) Chairperson.—

"(1) In general.—The Chairperson of the Advisory Committee shall be appointed by the Secretary from among those members of the Advisory Committee that are voting members under subsection (d)(1)(B).

"(2) Term.—Each member appointed under paragraph (1) shall serve a term of 2 years as Chairperson.

"(f) Meetings.—

"(1) Frequency.—The Advisory Committee shall meet at least twice each year at the call of the Chairperson.

"(2) Public attendance.—The meetings of the Advisory Committee shall be open and accessible to the public.

"(g) Special Committees.—

"(1) Establishment.—The Advisory Committee may establish special committees composed of private sector representatives, members of the public, labor representatives, and other relevant parties in complying with consultation and participation requirements under this section.

"(2) Rulemaking advice.—A special committee established by the Advisory Committee may—

"(A) provide rulemaking advice and recommendations to the Advisory Committee with respect to aviation-related issues;

"(B) provide the FAA additional opportunities to obtain firsthand information and insight from those parties that are most affected by existing and proposed regulations; and

"(C) assist in expediting the development, revision, or elimination of rules without circumventing public rulemaking processes and procedures.

"(3) Applicable law.—Public Law 92–463 [the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App.] shall not apply to a special committee established by the Advisory Committee.

"(h) Sunset.—The Advisory Committee shall terminate on the last day of the 6-year period beginning on the date of the initial appointment of the members of the Advisory Committee.

"(i) Termination of Air Traffic Procedures Advisory Committee.—The Air Traffic Procedures Advisory Committee established by the FAA shall terminate on the date of the initial appointment of the members of the Advisory Committee.

"[SECS. 211, 221. Repealed. Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §129(a), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2349.]

"SEC. 223. CENTRALIZED SAFETY GUIDANCE DATABASE.

"(a) Establishment.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall establish a centralized safety guidance database that will—

"(1) encompass all of the regulatory guidance documents of the FAA Office of Aviation Safety;

"(2) contain, for each such guidance document, a link to the Code of Federal Regulations provision to which the document relates; and

"(3) be publicly available in a manner that—

"(A) protects from disclosure identifying information regarding an individual or entity; and

"(B) prevents inappropriate disclosure proprietary information.

"(b) Data Entry Timing.—

"(1) Existing documents.—Not later than 14 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall begin entering into the database established under subsection (a) all of the regulatory guidance documents of the Office of Aviation Safety that are in effect and were issued before the date on which the Administrator begins such entry process.

"(2) New documents and changes.—On and after the date on which the Administrator begins the document entry process under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall ensure that all new regulatory guidance documents of the Office of Aviation Safety and any changes to existing documents are included in the database established under subsection (a) as such documents or changes to existing documents are issued.

"(c) Consultation Requirement.—In establishing the database under subsection (a), the Administrator shall consult and collaborate with appropriate stakeholders, including labor organizations (including those representing aviation workers, FAA aviation safety engineers and FAA aviation safety inspectors) and aviation industry stakeholders.

"(d) Regulatory Guidance Documents Defined.—In this section, the term 'regulatory guidance documents' means all forms of written information issued by the FAA that an individual or entity may use to interpret or apply FAA regulations and requirements, including information an individual or entity may use to determine acceptable means of compliance with such regulations and requirements, such as an order, manual, circular, policy statement, legal interpretation memorandum, or rulemaking document.

"SEC. 224. REGULATORY CONSISTENCY COMMUNICATIONS BOARD.

"(a) Establishment.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall establish a Regulatory Consistency Communications Board (in this section referred to as the 'Board').

"(b) Consultation Requirement.—In establishing the Board, the Administrator shall consult and collaborate with appropriate stakeholders, including FAA labor organizations (including labor organizations representing FAA aviation safety inspectors) and industry stakeholders.

"(c) Membership.—The Board shall be composed of FAA representatives, appointed by the Administrator, from—

"(1) the Flight Standards Service;

"(2) the Aircraft Certification Service; and

"(3) the Office of the Chief Counsel.

"(d) Functions.—The Board shall carry out the following functions:

"(1) Establish, at a minimum, processes by which—

"(A) FAA personnel and persons regulated by the FAA may submit anonymous regulatory interpretation questions without fear of retaliation;

"(B) FAA personnel may submit written questions, and receive written responses, as to whether a previous approval or regulatory interpretation issued by FAA personnel in another office or region is correct or incorrect; and

"(C) any other person may submit written anonymous regulatory interpretation questions.

"(2) Meet on a regular basis to discuss and resolve questions submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) and the appropriate application of regulations and policy with respect to each question.

"(3) Provide to a person that submitted a question pursuant to subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1) a timely written response to the question.

"(4) Establish a process to make resolutions of common regulatory interpretation questions publicly available to FAA personnel, persons regulated by the FAA, and the public without revealing any identifying data of the person that submitted the question and in a manner that protects any proprietary information.

"(5) Ensure the incorporation of resolutions of questions submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) into regulatory guidance documents, as such term is defined in section 223(d).

"(e) Performance Metrics, Timelines, and Goals.—Not later than 180 days after the date on which the Advisory Committee recommends performance objectives and performance metrics for the FAA and the regulated aviation industry under section 202, the Administrator, in collaboration with the Advisory Committee, shall—

"(1) establish performance metrics, timelines, and goals to measure the progress of the Board in resolving regulatory interpretation questions submitted pursuant to subsection (d)(1); and

"(2) implement a process for tracking the progress of the Board in meeting the performance metrics, timelines, and goals established under paragraph (1).

"SEC. 243. FAA LEADERSHIP ABROAD.

"(a) In General.—To promote United States aerospace safety standards, reduce redundant regulatory activity, and facilitate acceptance of FAA design and production approvals abroad, the Administrator shall—

"(1) attain greater expertise in issues related to dispute resolution, intellectual property, and export control laws to better support FAA certification and other aerospace regulatory activities abroad;

"(2) work with United States companies to more accurately track the amount of time it takes foreign authorities, including bilateral partners, to validate United States certificated aeronautical products;

"(3) provide assistance to United States companies that have experienced significantly long foreign validation wait times;

"(4) work with foreign authorities, including bilateral partners, to collect and analyze data to determine the timeliness of the acceptance and validation of FAA design and production approvals by foreign authorities and the acceptance and validation of foreign-certified products by the FAA;

"(5) establish appropriate benchmarks and metrics to measure the success of bilateral aviation safety agreements and to reduce the validation time for United States certificated aeronautical products abroad; and

"(6) work with foreign authorities, including bilateral partners, to improve the timeliness of the acceptance and validation of FAA design and production approvals by foreign authorities and the acceptance and validation of foreign-certified products by the FAA.

"(b) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that—

"(1) describes the FAA's strategic plan for international engagement;

"(2) describes the structure and responsibilities of all FAA offices that have international responsibilities, including the Aircraft Certification Office, and all the activities conducted by those offices related to certification and production;

"(3) describes current and forecasted staffing and travel needs for the FAA's international engagement activities, including the needs of the Aircraft Certification Office in the current and forecasted budgetary environment;

"(4) provides recommendations, if appropriate, to improve the existing structure and personnel and travel policies supporting the FAA's international engagement activities, including the activities of the Aviation Certification Office, to better support the growth of United States aerospace exports; and

"(5) identifies cost-effective policy initiatives, regulatory initiatives, or legislative initiatives needed to improve and enhance the timely acceptance of United States aerospace products abroad.

"(c) International Travel.—The Administrator, or the Administrator's designee, may authorize international travel for any FAA employee, without the approval of any other person or entity, if the Administrator determines that the travel is necessary—

"(1) to promote United States aerospace safety standards; or

"(2) to support expedited acceptance of FAA design and production approvals."

FAA Technical Training

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §302, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3260, provided that:

"(a) E-learning Training Pilot Program.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration], in collaboration with the exclusive bargaining representatives of covered FAA personnel, shall establish an e-learning training pilot program in accordance with the requirements of this section.

"(b) Curriculum.—The pilot program shall—

"(1) include a recurrent training curriculum for covered FAA personnel to ensure that the covered FAA personnel receive instruction on the latest aviation technologies, processes, and procedures;

"(2) focus on providing specialized technical training for covered FAA personnel, as determined necessary by the Administrator;

"(3) include training courses on applicable regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration; and

"(4) consider the efficacy of instructor-led online training.

"(c) Pilot Program Termination.—The pilot program shall terminate 1 year after the date of establishment of the pilot program.

"(d) E-learning Training Program.—Upon termination of the pilot program, the Administrator shall assess and establish or update an e-learning training program that incorporates lessons learned for covered FAA personnel as a result of the pilot program.

"(e) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) Covered faa personnel.—The term 'covered FAA personnel' means airway transportation systems specialists and aviation safety inspectors of the Federal Aviation Administration.

"(2) E-learning training.—The term 'e-learning training' means learning utilizing electronic technologies to access educational curriculum outside of a traditional classroom."

Safety Critical Staffing

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §303, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3261, provided that:

"(a) Update of FAA's Safety Critical Staffing Model.—Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall update the safety critical staffing model of the Administration to determine the number of aviation safety inspectors that will be needed to fulfill the safety oversight mission of the Administration.

"(b) Audit by DOT Inspector General.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 90 days after the date on which the Administrator has updated the safety critical staffing model under subsection (a), the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation shall conduct an audit of the staffing model.

"(2) Contents.—The audit shall include, at a minimum—

"(A) a review of the assumptions and methodologies used in devising and implementing the staffing model to assess the adequacy of the staffing model in predicting the number of aviation safety inspectors needed—

"(i) to properly fulfill the mission of the Administration; and

"(ii) to meet the future growth of the aviation industry; and

"(B) a determination on whether the staffing model takes into account the Administration's authority to fully utilize designees.

"(3) Report on audit.—

"(A) Report to secretary.—Not later than 30 days after the date of completion of the audit, the Inspector General shall submit to the Secretary a report on the results of the audit.

"(B) Report to congress.—Not later than 60 days after the date of receipt of the report, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a copy of the report, together with, if appropriate, a description of any actions taken or to be taken to address the results of the audit."

Emergency Medical Equipment on Passenger Aircraft

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §307, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3263, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall evaluate and revise, as appropriate, regulations in part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, regarding emergency medical equipment, including the contents of first-aid kits, applicable to all certificate holders operating passenger aircraft under that part.

"(b) Consideration.—In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator shall consider whether the minimum contents of approved emergency medical kits, including approved first-aid kits, include appropriate medications and equipment to meet the emergency medical needs of children and pregnant women."

FAA and NTSB Review of General Aviation Safety

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §308, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3263, provided that:

"(a) Study Required.—Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration], in coordination with the Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, shall initiate a study of general aviation safety.

"(b) Study Contents.—The study required under subsection (a) shall include—

"(1) a review of all general aviation accidents since 2000, including a review of—

"(A) the number of such accidents;

"(B) the number of injuries and fatalities, including with respect to both occupants of aircraft and individuals on the ground, as a result of such accidents;

"(C) the number of such accidents investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board;

"(D) the number of such accidents investigated by the FAA [Federal Aviation Administration]; and

"(E) a summary of the factual findings and probable cause determinations with respect to such accidents;

"(2) an assessment of the most common probable cause determinations issued for general aviation accidents since 2000;

"(3) an assessment of the most common facts analyzed by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board in the course of investigations of general aviation accidents since 2000, including operational details;

"(4) a review of the safety recommendations of the National Transportation Safety Board related to general aviation accidents since 2000;

"(5) an assessment of the responses of the FAA and the general aviation community to the safety recommendations of the National Transportation Safety Board related to general aviation accidents since 2000;

"(6) an assessment of the most common general aviation safety issues;

"(7) a review of the total costs to the Federal Government to conduct investigations of general aviation accidents over the last 10 years; and

"(8) other matters the Administrator or the Chairman considers appropriate.

"(c) Recommendations and Actions To Address General Aviation Safety.—Based on the results of the study required under subsection (a), the Administrator, in consultation with the Chairman, shall make such recommendations, including with respect to regulations and enforcement activities, as the Administrator considers necessary to—

"(1) address general aviation safety issues identified under the study;

"(2) protect persons and property on the ground; and

"(3) improve the safety of general aviation operators in the United States.

"(d) Authority.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator shall have the authority to undertake actions to address the recommendations made under subsection (c).

"(e) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report on the results of the study required under subsection (a), including the recommendations described in subsection (c).

"(f) General Aviation Defined.—In this section, the term 'general aviation' means aircraft operation for personal, recreational, or other noncommercial purposes."

Aviation Rulemaking Committee for Part 135 Pilot Rest and Duty Rules

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §315, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3267, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall convene an aviation rulemaking committee to review, and develop findings and recommendations regarding, pilot rest and duty rules under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(b) Duties.—The Administrator shall—

"(1) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report based on the findings of the aviation rulemaking committee; and

"(2) not later than 1 year after the date of submission of the report under paragraph (1), issue a notice of proposed rulemaking based on any consensus recommendations reached by the aviation rulemaking committee.

"(c) Composition.—The aviation rulemaking committee shall consist of members appointed by the Administrator, including—

"(1) representatives of industry;

"(2) representatives of aviation labor organizations, including collective bargaining units representing pilots who are covered by part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and subpart K of part 91 of such title; and

"(3) aviation safety experts with specific knowledge of flight crewmember education and training requirements under part 135 of such title.

"(d) Considerations.—The Administrator shall direct the aviation rulemaking committee to consider—

"(1) recommendations of prior part 135 rulemaking committees;

"(2) accommodations necessary for small businesses;

"(3) scientific data derived from aviation-related fatigue and sleep research;

"(4) data gathered from aviation safety reporting programs;

"(5) the need to accommodate the diversity of operations conducted under part 135, including the unique duty and rest time requirements of air ambulance pilots; and

"(6) other items, as appropriate."

Voluntary Reports of Operational or Maintenance Issues Related to Aviation Safety

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §320, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3269, provided that:

"(a) In General.—There shall be a presumption that an individual's voluntary report of an operational or maintenance issue related to aviation safety under an aviation safety action program meets the criteria for acceptance as a valid report under such program.

"(b) Disclaimer Required.—Any dissemination, within the participating organization, of a report that was submitted and accepted under an aviation safety action program pursuant to the presumption under subsection (a), but that has not undergone review by an event review committee, shall be accompanied by a disclaimer stating that the report—

"(1) has not been reviewed by an event review committee tasked with reviewing such reports; and

"(2) may subsequently be determined to be ineligible for inclusion in the aviation safety action program.

"(c) Rejection of Report.—

"(1) In general.—A report described under subsection (a) shall be rejected from an aviation safety action program if, after a review of the report, an event review committee tasked with reviewing such report, or the Federal Aviation Administration member of the event review committee in the case that the review committee does not reach consensus, determines that the report fails to meet the criteria for acceptance under such program.

"(2) Protections.—In any case in which a report of an individual described under subsection (a) is rejected under paragraph (1)—

"(A) the enforcement-related incentive offered to the individual for making such a report shall not apply; and

"(B) the protection from disclosure of the report itself under section 40123 of title 49, United States Code, shall not apply.

"(3) Aviation safety action program defined.—In this section, the term 'aviation safety action program' means a program established in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular 120–66B, issued November 15, 2002 (including any similar successor advisory circular), to allow an individual to voluntarily disclose operational or maintenance issues related to aviation safety."

Flight Attendant Duty Period Limitations and Rest Requirements

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §335, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3280, provided that:

"(a) Modification of Final Rule.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Secretary of Transportation shall modify the final rule of the Federal Aviation Administration published in the Federal Register on August 19, 1994 (59 Fed. Reg. 42974; relating to flight attendant duty period limitations and rest requirements) in accordance with the requirements of this subsection.

"(2) Contents.—The final rule, as modified under paragraph (1), shall ensure that—

"(A) a flight attendant scheduled to a duty period of 14 hours or less is given a scheduled rest period of at least 10 consecutive hours; and

"(B) the rest period is not reduced under any circumstances.

"(b) Fatigue Risk Management Plan.—

"(1) Submission of plan by part 121 air carriers.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, each air carrier operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (in this section referred to as a 'part 121 air carrier'), shall submit to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration for review and acceptance a fatigue risk management plan for the carrier's flight attendants.

"(2) Contents of plan.—A fatigue risk management plan submitted by a part 121 air carrier under paragraph (1) shall include the following:

"(A) Current flight time and duty period limitations.

"(B) A rest scheme consistent with such limitations that enables the management of flight attendant fatigue, including annual training to increase awareness of—

"(i) fatigue;

"(ii) the effects of fatigue on flight attendants; and

"(iii) fatigue countermeasures.

"(C) Development and use of a methodology that continually assesses the effectiveness of implementation of the plan, including the ability of the plan—

"(i) to improve alertness; and

"(ii) to mitigate performance errors.

"(3) Review.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall review and accept or reject each fatigue risk management plan submitted under this subsection. If the Administrator rejects a plan, the Administrator shall provide suggested modifications for resubmission of the plan.

"(4) Plan updates.—

"(A) In general.—A part 121 air carrier shall update its fatigue risk management plan under paragraph (1) every 2 years and submit the update to the Administrator for review and acceptance.

"(B) Review.—Not later than 1 year after the date of submission of a plan update under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall review and accept or reject the update. If the Administrator rejects an update, the Administrator shall provide suggested modifications for resubmission of the update.

"(5) Compliance.—A part 121 air carrier shall comply with the fatigue risk management plan of the air carrier that is accepted by the Administrator under this subsection.

"(6) Civil penalties.—A violation of this subsection by a part 121 air carrier shall be treated as a violation of chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, for purposes of the application of civil penalties under chapter 463 of that title."

Clarification of Requirements for Living History Flights

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §532, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3366, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Notwithstanding any other law or regulation, in administering sections 61.113(c), 91.9, 91.315, 91.319(a)(1), 91.319(a)(2), 119.5(g), and 119.21(a) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations), the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall allow an aircraft owner or operator to accept monetary or in-kind donations for a flight operated by a living history flight experience provider, if the aircraft owner or operator has—

"(1) volunteered to provide such transportation; and

"(2) notified any individual that will be on the flight, at the time of inquiry about the flight, that the flight operation is for charitable purposes and is not subject to the same requirements as a commercial flight.

"(b) Conditions To Ensure Public Safety.—The Administrator, consistent with current standards of the [Federal Aviation] Administration for such operations, shall impose minimum standards with respect to training and flight hours for operations conducted by an owner or operator of an aircraft providing living history flight experience operations, including mandating that the pilot in command of such aircraft hold a commercial pilot certificate with instrument rating and be current and qualified with respect to all ratings or authorizations applicable to the specific aircraft being flown to ensure the safety of flight operations described in subsection (a).

"(c) Living History Flight Experience Provider Defined.—In this section, the term 'living history flight experience provider' means an aircraft owner, aircraft operator, or organization that provides, arranges, or otherwise fosters living history flight experiences for the purpose of fulfilling its mission."

FAA Civil Aviation Registry Upgrade

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §546, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3376, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall complete covered upgrades of the Administration's Civil Aviation Registry (in this section referred to as the 'Registry').

"(b) Covered Upgrade Defined.—In this section, the term 'covered upgrades' means—

"(1) the digitization of nondigital Registry information, including paper documents, microfilm images, and photographs, from an analog or nondigital format to a digital format;

"(2) the digitalization of Registry manual and paper-based processes, business operations, and functions by leveraging digital technologies and a broader use of digitized data;

"(3) the implementation of systems allowing a member of the public to submit any information or form to the Registry and conduct any transaction with the Registry by electronic or other remote means; and

"(4) allowing more efficient, broader, and remote access to the Registry.

"(c) Applicability.—The requirements of subsection (a) shall apply to the entire Civil Aviation Registry, including the Aircraft Registration Branch and the Airmen Certification Branch.

"(d) Manual Surcharge.—[Enacted section 45306 of this title.]

"(e) Report.—Not later than 1 year after date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the covered upgrades required under subsection (a) are complete, the Administrator shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] describing—

"(1) the schedule for the covered upgrades to the Registry;

"(2) the office responsible for the implementation of the such covered upgrades;

"(3) the metrics being used to measure progress in implementing the covered upgrades; and

"(4) the status of the covered upgrades as of the date of the report."

Undeclared Hazardous Materials Public Awareness Campaign

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §583, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3399, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Secretary of Transportation shall carry out a public awareness campaign to reduce the amount of undeclared hazardous materials traveling through air commerce.

"(b) Campaign Requirements.—The public awareness campaign required under subsection (a) shall do the following:

"(1) Focus on targeting segments of the hazardous materials industry with high rates of undeclared shipments through air commerce and educate air carriers, shippers, manufacturers, and other relevant stakeholders of such segments on properly packaging and classifying such shipments.

"(2) Educate the public on proper ways to declare and ship hazardous materials, examples of everyday items that are considered hazardous materials, and penalties associated with intentional shipments of undeclared hazardous materials.

"(c) Interagency Working Group.—

"(1) Establishment.—Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Secretary of Transportation shall establish an interagency working group to promote collaboration and engagement between the Department of Transportation and other relevant agencies, and develop recommendations and guidance on how best to conduct the public awareness campaign required under subsection (a).

"(2) Duties.—The interagency working group shall consult with relevant stakeholders, including cargo air carriers, passenger air carriers, and labor organizations representing pilots for cargo and passenger air carriers operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(d) Update.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall provide to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] an update on the status of the public awareness campaign required under subsection (a)."

Cockpit Automation Management

Pub. L. 114–190, title II, §2102, July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 619, provided that: "Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [July 15, 2016], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

"(1) develop a process to verify that air carrier training programs incorporate measures to train pilots on—

"(A) monitoring automation systems; and

"(B) controlling the flightpath of aircraft without autopilot or autoflight systems engaged;

"(2) develop metrics or measurable tasks that air carriers can use to evaluate pilot monitoring proficiency;

"(3) issue guidance to aviation safety inspectors responsible for oversight of the operations of air carriers on tracking and assessing pilots' proficiency in manual flight; and

"(4) issue guidance to air carriers and inspectors regarding standards for compliance with the requirements for enhanced pilot training contained in the final rule published in the Federal Register on November 12, 2013 (78 Fed. Reg. 67800)."

Additional Certification Resources

Pub. L. 114–190, title II, §2109, July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 623, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and subject to the requirements of subsection (b), the Administrator of the FAA may enter into a reimbursable agreement with an applicant or certificate-holder for the reasonable travel and per diem expenses of the FAA associated with official travel to expedite the acceptance or validation by a foreign authority of an FAA certificate or design approval or the acceptance or validation by the FAA of a foreign authority certificate or design approval.

"(b) Conditions.—The Administrator may enter into an agreement under subsection (a) only if—

"(1) the travel covered under the agreement is deemed necessary, by both the Administrator and the applicant or certificate-holder, to expedite the acceptance or validation of the relevant certificate or approval;

"(2) the travel is conducted at the request of the applicant or certificate-holder;

"(3) travel plans and expenses are approved by the applicant or certificate-holder prior to travel; and

"(4) the agreement requires payment in advance of FAA services and is consistent with the processes under section 106(l)(6) of title 49, United States Code.

"(c) Report.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [July 15, 2016], the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report on—

"(1) the number of occasions on which the Administrator entered into reimbursable agreements under this section;

"(2) the number of occasions on which the Administrator declined a request by an applicant or certificate-holder to enter into a reimbursable agreement under this section;

"(3) the amount of reimbursements collected in accordance with agreements under this section; and

"(4) the extent to which reimbursable agreements under this section assisted in reducing the amount of time necessary for validations of certificates and design approvals.

"(d) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) Applicant.—The term 'applicant' means a person that has—

"(A) applied to a foreign authority for the acceptance or validation of an FAA certificate or design approval; or

"(B) applied to the FAA for the acceptance or validation of a foreign authority certificate or design approval.

"(2) Certificate-holder.—The term 'certificate-holder' means a person that holds a certificate issued by the Administrator under part 21 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(3) FAA.—The term 'FAA' means the Federal Aviation Administration."

Notices to Airmen

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §394(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3325, provided that: "Beginning on the date that is 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] may not take any enforcement action against any individual for a violation of a NOTAM (as defined in section 3 of the Pilot's Bill of Rights [Pub. L. 112–153] (49 U.S.C. 44701 note)) until the Administrator certifies to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] that the Administrator has complied with the requirements of section 3 of the Pilot's Bill of Rights, as amended by this section."

Pub. L. 112–153, §3, Aug. 3, 2012, 126 Stat. 1162, as amended by Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §394(b), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3325, provided that:

"(a) In General.—

"(1) Definition.—In this section, the term 'NOTAM' means Notices to Airmen.

"(2) Improvements.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of the Fairness for Pilots Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall complete the implementation of a Notice to Airmen Improvement Program (in this section referred to as the 'NOTAM Improvement Program')—

"(A) to improve the system of providing airmen with pertinent and timely information regarding the national airspace system;

"(B) to continue developing and modernizing the NOTAM repository, in a public central location, to maintain and archive all NOTAMs, including the original content and form of the notices, the original date of publication, and any amendments to such notices with the date of each amendment, in a manner that is Internet-accessible, machine-readable, and searchable;

"(C) to apply filters so that pilots can prioritize critical flight safety information from other airspace system information; and

"(D) to specify the times during which temporary flight restrictions are in effect and the duration of a designation of special use airspace in a specific area.

"(b) Goals of Program.—The goals of the NOTAM Improvement Program are—

"(1) to decrease the overwhelming volume of NOTAMs an airman receives when retrieving airman information prior to a flight in the national airspace system;

"(2) make the NOTAMs more specific and relevant to the airman's route and in a format that is more useable to the airman;

"(3) to provide a full set of NOTAM results in addition to specific information requested by airmen;

"(4) to provide a document that is easily searchable; and

"(5) to provide a filtering mechanism similar to that provided by the Department of Defense Notices to Airmen.

"(c) Advice From Private Sector Groups.—The Administrator shall establish a NOTAM Improvement Panel, which shall be comprised of representatives of relevant nonprofit and not-for-profit general aviation pilot groups, to advise the Administrator in carrying out the goals of the NOTAM Improvement Program under this section.

"(d) Designation of Repository as Sole Source for NOTAMs.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator—

"(A) shall consider the repository for NOTAMs under subsection (a)(2)(B) to be the sole location for airmen to check for NOTAMs; and

"(B) may not consider a NOTAM to be announced or published until the NOTAM is included in the repository for NOTAMs under subsection (a)(2)(B).

"(2) Prohibition on taking action for violations of notams not in repository.—

"(A) In general.—Except as provided in subparagraph (B), beginning on the date that the repository under subsection (a)(2)(B) is final and published, the Administrator may not take any enforcement action against an airman for a violation of a NOTAM during a flight if—

"(i) that NOTAM is not available through the repository before the commencement of the flight; and

"(ii) that NOTAM is not reasonably accessible and identifiable to the airman.

"(B) Exception for national security.—Subparagraph (A) shall not apply in the case of an enforcement action for a violation of a NOTAM that directly relates to national security."

Consistency of Regulatory Interpretation

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §313, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 67, provided that:

"(a) Establishment of Advisory Panel.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish an advisory panel comprised of both Government and industry representatives to—

"(1) review the October 2010 report by the Government Accountability Office on certification and approval processes (GAO–11–14); and

"(2) develop recommendations to address the findings in the report and other concerns raised by interested parties, including representatives of the aviation industry.

"(b) Matters To Be Considered.—The advisory panel shall—

"(1) determine the root causes of inconsistent interpretation of regulations by the Administration's Flight Standards Service and Aircraft Certification Service;

"(2) develop recommendations to improve the consistency of interpreting regulations by the Administration's Flight Standards Service and Aircraft Certification Service; and

"(3) develop recommendations to improve communications between the Administration's Flight Standards Service and Aircraft Certification Service and applicants and certificate and approval holders for the identification and resolution of potentially adverse issues in an expeditious and fair manner.

"(c) Report to Congress.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the findings of the advisory panel, together with an explanation of how the Administrator will implement the recommendations of the advisory panel and measure the effectiveness of the recommendations."

Flight Standards Evaluation Program

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §315, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 68, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall modify the Flight Standards Evaluation Program—

"(1) to include periodic and random reviews as part of the Administration's oversight of air carriers; and

"(2) to prohibit an individual from participating in a review or audit of an office with responsibility for an air carrier under the program if the individual, at any time in the 5-year period preceding the date of the review or audit, had responsibility for inspecting, or overseeing the inspection of, the operations of that carrier.

"(b) Annual Report to Congress.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], and annually thereafter, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the Flight Standards Evaluation Program, including the Administrator's findings and recommendations with respect to the program.

"(c) Flight Standards Evaluation Program Defined.—In this section, the term 'Flight Standards Evaluation Program' means the program established by the Federal Aviation Administration in FS 1100.1B CHG3, including any subsequent revisions thereto."

Review of Air Transportation Oversight System Database

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §343, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 80, provided that:

"(a) Reviews.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish a process by which the air transportation oversight system database of the Administration is reviewed by regional teams of employees of the Administration, including at least one employee on each team representing aviation safety inspectors, on a monthly basis to ensure that—

"(1) any trends in regulatory compliance are identified; and

"(2) appropriate corrective actions are taken in accordance with Administration regulations, advisory directives, policies, and procedures.

"(b) Monthly Team Reports.—

"(1) In general.—A regional team of employees conducting a monthly review of the air transportation oversight system database under subsection (a) shall submit to the Administrator, the Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, and the Director of Flight Standards Service a report each month on the results of the review.

"(2) Contents.—A report submitted under paragraph (1) shall identify—

"(A) any trends in regulatory compliance discovered by the team of employees in conducting the monthly review; and

"(B) any corrective actions taken or proposed to be taken in response to the trends.

"(c) Biannual Reports to Congress.—The Administrator, on a biannual basis, shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the reviews of the air transportation oversight system database conducted under this section, including copies of reports received under subsection (b)."

Duty Periods and Flight Time Limitations Applicable to Flight Crewmembers

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §345, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 81, provided that:

"(a) Rulemaking on Applicability of Part 121 Duty Periods and Flight Time Limitations to Part 91 Operations.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall initiate a rulemaking proceeding, if such a proceeding has not already been initiated, to require a flight crewmember who is employed by an air carrier conducting operations under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and who accepts an additional assignment for flying under part 91 of such title from the air carrier or from any other air carrier conducting operations under part 121 or 135 of such title, to apply the period of the additional assignment (regardless of whether the assignment is performed by the flight crewmember before or after an assignment to fly under part 121 of such title) toward any limitation applicable to the flight crewmember relating to duty periods or flight times under part 121 of such title.

"(b) Rulemaking on Applicability of Part 135 Duty Periods and Flight Time Limitations to Part 91 Operations.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall initiate a rulemaking proceeding to require a flight crewmember who is employed by an air carrier conducting operations under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and who accepts an additional assignment for flying under part 91 of such title from the air carrier or any other air carrier conducting operations under part 121 or 135 of such title, to apply the period of the additional assignment (regardless of whether the assignment is performed by the flight crewmember before or after an assignment to fly under part 135 of such title) toward any limitation applicable to the flight crewmember relating to duty periods or flight times under part 135 of such title.

"(c) Separate Rulemaking Proceedings Required.—The rulemaking proceeding required under subsection (b) shall be separate from the rulemaking proceeding required under subsection (a)."

Safety Critical Staffing

Pub. L. 112–95, title VI, §606, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 113, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than October 1, 2012, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall implement, in as cost-effective a manner as possible, the staffing model for aviation safety inspectors developed pursuant to the National Academy of Sciences study entitled 'Staffing Standards for Aviation Safety Inspectors'. In doing so, the Administrator shall consult with interested persons, including the exclusive bargaining representative for aviation safety inspectors certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code.

"(b) Report.—Not later than January 1 of each year beginning after September 30, 2012, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the staffing model described in subsection (a)."

Air Transportation of Lithium Cells and Batteries

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §333, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3274, provided that:

"(a) Harmonization With ICAO Technical Instructions.—

"(1) Adoption of icao instructions.—

"(A) In general.—Pursuant to section 828 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 [Pub. L. 112–95] (49 U.S.C. 44701 note), not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Secretary of Transportation shall conform United States regulations on the air transport of lithium cells and batteries with the lithium cells and battery requirements in the 2015–2016 edition of the International Civil Aviation Organization's (referred to in this subsection as 'ICAO') Technical Instructions (to include all addenda), including the revised standards adopted by ICAO which became effective on April 1, 2016 and any further revisions adopted by ICAO prior to the effective date of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 [probably means Oct. 5, 2018].

"(B) Further proceedings.—Beginning on the date the revised regulations under subparagraph (A) are published in the Federal Register, any lithium cell and battery rulemaking action or update commenced on or after that date shall continue to comply with the requirements under section 828 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note).

"(2) Review of other regulations.—Pursuant to section 828 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note), the Secretary of Transportation may initiate a review of other existing regulations regarding the air transportation, including passenger-carrying and cargo aircraft, of lithium batteries and cells.

"(b) Medical Device Batteries.—

"(1) In general.—For United States applicants, the Secretary of Transportation shall consider and either grant or deny, not later than 45 days after receipt of an application, an application submitted in compliance with part 107 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, for special permits or approvals for air transportation of lithium ion cells or batteries specifically used by medical devices. Not later than 30 days after the date of application, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration shall provide a draft special permit to the Federal Aviation Administration based on the application. The Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct an on-site inspection for issuance of the special permit not later than 20 days after the date of receipt of the draft special permit from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

"(2) Limited exceptions to restrictions on air transportation of medical device batteries.—The Secretary shall issue limited exceptions to the restrictions on transportation of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries to allow the shipment on a passenger aircraft of not more than 2 replacement batteries specifically used for a medical device if—

"(A) the intended destination of the batteries is not serviced daily by cargo aircraft if a battery is required for medically necessary care; and

"(B) with regard to a shipper of lithium ion or lithium metal batteries for medical devices that cannot comply with a charge limitation in place at the time, each battery is—

"(i) individually packed in an inner packaging that completely encloses the battery;

"(ii) placed in a rigid outer packaging; and

"(iii) protected to prevent a short circuit.

"(3) Medial [sic] device defined.—ln [sic] this subsection, the term 'medical device' means an instrument, apparatus, implement, machine, contrivance, implant, or in vitro reagent, including any component, part, or accessory thereof, which is intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, of a person.

"(4) Savings clause.—Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as expanding or constricting any other authority the Secretary of Transportation has under section 828 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note).

"(c) Lithium Battery Safety Working Group.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Secretary of Transportation shall establish a lithium battery safety working group (referred to as the 'working group' in this section) to promote and coordinate efforts related to the promotion of the safe manufacture, use, and transportation of lithium batteries and cells.

"(2) Duties.—The working group shall coordinate and facilitate the transfer of knowledge and expertise among the following Federal agencies:

"(A) The Department of Transportation.

"(B) The Consumer Product Safety Commission.

"(C) The National Institute on Standards and Technology.

"(D) The Food and Drug Administration.

"(3) Members.—The Secretary shall appoint not more than 8 members to the working group with expertise in the safe manufacture, use, or transportation of lithium batteries and cells.

"(4) Subcommittees.—The Secretary, or members of the working group, may—

"(A) establish working group subcommittees to focus on specific issues related to the safe manufacture, use, or transportation of lithium batteries and cells; and

"(B) include in a subcommittee the participation of nonmember stakeholders with expertise in areas that the Secretary or members consider necessary.

"(5) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date it is established, the working group shall—

"(A) identify and assess—

"(i) additional ways to decrease the risk of fires and explosions from lithium batteries and cells;

"(ii) additional ways to ensure uniform transportation requirements for both bulk and individual batteries; and

"(iii) new or existing technologies that may reduce the fire and explosion risk of lithium batteries and cells; and

"(B) transmit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the assessments conducted under subparagraph (A), including any legislative recommendations to effectuate the safety improvements described in clauses (i) through (iii) of that subparagraph.

"(6) Termination.—The working group, and any working group subcommittees, shall terminate 90 days after the date the report is transmitted under paragraph (5).

"(d) Lithium Battery Air Safety Advisory Committee.—

"(1) Establishment.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Secretary shall establish, in accordance with the requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.), a lithium ion and lithium metal battery air safety advisory committee (in this subsection referred to as the 'Committee').

"(2) Duties.—The Committee shall—

"(A) facilitate communication between manufacturers of lithium ion and lithium metal cells and batteries, manufacturers of products incorporating both large and small lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, air carriers, and the Federal Government regarding the safe air transportation of lithium ion and lithium metal cells and batteries and the effectiveness and economic and social impacts of the regulation of such transportation;

"(B) provide the Secretary, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration with timely information about new lithium ion and lithium metal battery technology and transportation safety practices and methodologies;

"(C) provide a forum for the Secretary to provide information on and to discuss the activities of the Department of Transportation relating to lithium ion and lithium metal battery transportation safety, the policies underlying the activities, and positions to be advocated in international forums;

"(D) provide a forum for the Secretary to provide information and receive advice on—

"(i) activities carried out throughout the world to communicate and enforce relevant United States regulations and the ICAO Technical Instructions; and

"(ii) the effectiveness of the activities;

"(E) provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary with respect to lithium ion and lithium metal battery air transportation safety, including how best to implement activities to increase awareness of relevant requirements and their importance to travelers and shippers; and

"(F) review methods to decrease the risk posed by air shipment of undeclared hazardous materials and efforts to educate those who prepare and offer hazardous materials for shipment via air transport.

"(3) Membership.—The Committee shall be composed of the following members:

"(A) Individuals appointed by the Secretary to represent—

"(i) large volume manufacturers of lithium ion and lithium metal cells and batteries;

"(ii) domestic manufacturers of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries or battery packs;

"(iii) manufacturers of consumer products powered by lithium ion and lithium metal batteries;

"(iv) manufacturers of vehicles powered by lithium ion and lithium metal batteries;

"(v) marketers of products powered by lithium ion and lithium metal batteries;

"(vi) cargo air service providers based in the United States;

"(vii) passenger air service providers based in the United States;

"(viii) pilots and employees of air service providers described in clauses (vi) and (vii);

"(ix) shippers of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries for air transportation;

"(x) manufacturers of battery-powered medical devices or batteries used in medical devices; and

"(xi) employees of the Department of Transportation, including employees of the Federal Aviation Administration and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

"(B) Representatives of such other Government departments and agencies as the Secretary determines appropriate.

"(C) Any other individuals the Secretary determines are appropriate to comply with Federal law.

"(4) Report.—

"(A) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the establishment of the Committee, the Committee shall submit to the Secretary and the appropriate committees of Congress a report that—

"(i) describes and evaluates the steps being taken in the private sector and by international regulatory authorities to implement and enforce requirements relating to the safe transportation by air of bulk shipments of lithium ion cells and batteries; and

"(ii) identifies any areas of enforcement or regulatory requirements for which there is consensus that greater attention is needed.

"(B) Independent statements.—Each member of the Committee shall be provided an opportunity to submit an independent statement of views with the report submitted pursuant to subparagraph (A).

"(5) Meetings.—

"(A) In general.—The Committee shall meet at the direction of the Secretary and at least twice a year.

"(B) Preparation for icao meetings.—Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall convene a meeting of the Committee in connection with and in advance of each meeting of the International Civil Aviation Organization, or any of its panels or working groups, addressing the safety of air transportation of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries to brief Committee members on positions to be taken by the United States at such meeting and provide Committee members a meaningful opportunity to comment.

"(6) Termination.—The Committee shall terminate on the date that is 6 years after the date on which the Committee is established.

"(7) Termination of future of aviation advisory committee.—The Future of Aviation Advisory Committee shall terminate on the date on which the lithium ion battery air safety advisory committee is established.

"(e) Cooperative Efforts to Ensure Compliance With Safety Regulations.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary of Transportation, in coordination with appropriate Federal agencies, shall carry out cooperative efforts to ensure that shippers who offer lithium ion and lithium metal batteries for air transport to or from the United States comply with U.S. Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical Instructions.

"(2) Cooperative efforts.—The cooperative efforts the Secretary shall carry out pursuant to paragraph (1) include the following:

"(A) Encouraging training programs at locations outside the United States from which substantial cargo shipments of lithium ion or lithium metal batteries originate for manufacturers, freight forwarders, and other shippers and potential shippers of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries.

"(B) Working with Federal, regional, and international transportation agencies to ensure enforcement of U.S. Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical Instructions with respect to shippers who offer noncompliant shipments of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries.

"(C) Sharing information, as appropriate, with Federal, regional, and international transportation agencies regarding noncompliant shipments.

"(D) Pursuing a joint effort with the international aviation community to develop a process to obtain assurances that appropriate enforcement actions are taken to reduce the likelihood of noncompliant shipments, especially with respect to jurisdictions in which enforcement activities historically have been limited.

"(E) Providing information in brochures and on the internet in appropriate foreign languages and dialects that describes the actions required to comply with U.S. Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical Instructions.

"(F) Developing joint efforts with the international aviation community to promote a better understanding of the requirements of and methods of compliance with U.S. Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical Instructions.

"(3) Reporting.—Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for 2 years, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on compliance with the policy set forth in subsection (e) and the cooperative efforts carried out, or planned to be carried out, under this subsection.

"(f) Packaging Improvements.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with interested stakeholders, shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress an evaluation of current practices for the packaging of lithium ion batteries and cells for air transportation, including recommendations, if any, to improve the packaging of such batteries and cells for air transportation in a safe, efficient, and cost-effective manner.

"(g) Department of Transportation Policy on International Representation.—

"(1) In general.—It shall be the policy of the Department of Transportation to support the participation of industry and labor stakeholders in all panels and working groups of the dangerous goods panel of the ICAO and any other international test or standard setting organization that considers proposals on the safety or transportation of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries in which the United States participates.

"(2) Participation.—The Secretary of Transportation shall request that as part of the ICAO deliberations in the dangerous goods panel on these issues, that appropriate experts on issues under consideration be allowed to participate.

"(h) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) ICAO technical instructions.—The term 'ICAO Technical Instructions' has the meaning given that term in section 828(c) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note).

"(2) U.S. hazardous materials regulations.—The term 'U.S. Hazardous Materials Regulations' means the regulations in parts 100 through 177 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (including amendments adopted after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018])."

Pub. L. 112–95, title VIII, §828, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 133, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Secretary of Transportation, including a designee of the Secretary, may not issue or enforce any regulation or other requirement regarding the transportation by aircraft of lithium metal cells or batteries or lithium ion cells or batteries, whether transported separately or packed with or contained in equipment, if the requirement is more stringent than the requirements of the ICAO Technical Instructions.

"(b) Exceptions.—

"(1) Passenger carrying aircraft.—Notwithstanding subsection (a), the Secretary may enforce the prohibition on transporting primary (non-rechargeable) lithium batteries and cells aboard passenger carrying aircraft set forth in special provision A100 under section 172.102(c)(2) of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012]).

"(2) Credible reports.—Notwithstanding subsection (a), if the Secretary obtains a credible report with respect to a safety incident from a national or international governmental regulatory or investigating body that demonstrates that the presence of lithium metal cells or batteries or lithium ion cells or batteries on an aircraft, whether transported separately or packed with or contained in equipment, in accordance with the requirements of the ICAO Technical Instructions, has substantially contributed to the initiation or propagation of an onboard fire, the Secretary—

"(A) may issue and enforce an emergency regulation, more stringent than the requirements of the ICAO Technical Instructions, that governs the transportation by aircraft of such cells or batteries, if that regulation—

"(i) addresses solely deficiencies referenced in the report; and

"(ii) is effective for not more than 1 year; and

"(B) may adopt and enforce a permanent regulation, more stringent than the requirements of the ICAO Technical Instructions, that governs the transportation by aircraft of such cells or batteries, if—

"(i) the Secretary bases the regulation upon substantial credible evidence that the otherwise permissible presence of such cells or batteries would substantially contribute to the initiation or propagation of an onboard fire;

"(ii) the regulation addresses solely the deficiencies in existing regulations; and

"(iii) the regulation imposes the least disruptive and least expensive variation from existing requirements while adequately addressing identified deficiencies.

"(c) ICAO Technical Instructions Defined.—In this section, the term 'ICAO Technical Instructions' means the International Civil Aviation Organization Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (as amended, including amendments adopted after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012])."

Airline Safety and Pilot Training Improvement

Pub. L. 111–216, title II, Aug. 1, 2010, 124 Stat. 2350, as amended by Pub. L. 111–249, §6, Sept. 30, 2010, 124 Stat. 2628, provided that:

"SEC. 201. DEFINITIONS.

"(a) [sic] Definitions.—In this title, the following definitions apply:

"(1) Advanced qualification program.—The term 'advanced qualification program' means the program established by the Federal Aviation Administration in Advisory Circular 120–54A, dated June 23, 2006, including any subsequent revisions thereto.

"(2) Air carrier.—The term 'air carrier' has the meaning given that term in section 40102 of title 49, United States Code.

"(3) Aviation safety action program.—The term 'aviation safety action program' means the program established by the Federal Aviation Administration in Advisory Circular 120–66B, dated November 15, 2002, including any subsequent revisions thereto.

"(4) Flight crewmember.—The term 'flight crewmember' has the meaning given the term 'flightcrew member' in part 1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(5) Flight operational quality assurance program.—The term 'flight operational quality assurance program' means the program established by the Federal Aviation Administration in Advisory Circular 120–82, dated April 12, 2004, including any subsequent revisions thereto.

"(6) Line operations safety audit.—The term 'line operations safety audit' means the procedure referenced by the Federal Aviation Administration in Advisory Circular 120–90, dated April 27, 2006, including any subsequent revisions thereto.

"(7) Part 121 air carrier.—The term 'part 121 air carrier' means an air carrier that holds a certificate issued under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(8) Part 135 air carrier.—The term 'part 135 air carrier' means an air carrier that holds a certificate issued under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"SEC. 202. SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION RESPONSES TO SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS.

"[Amended section 1135 of this title.]

"SEC. 203. FAA PILOT RECORDS DATABASE.

"[Amended section 44703 of this title.]

"SEC. 204. FAA TASK FORCE ON AIR CARRIER SAFETY AND PILOT TRAINING.

"(a) Establishment.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish a special task force to be known as the FAA Task Force on Air Carrier Safety and Pilot Training (in this section referred to as the 'Task Force').

"(b) Composition.—The Task Force shall consist of members appointed by the Administrator and shall include air carrier representatives, labor union representatives, and aviation safety experts with knowledge of foreign and domestic regulatory requirements for flight crewmember education and training.

"(c) Duties.—The duties of the Task Force shall include, at a minimum, evaluating best practices in the air carrier industry and providing recommendations in the following areas:

"(1) Air carrier management responsibilities for flight crewmember education and support.

"(2) Flight crewmember professional standards.

"(3) Flight crewmember training standards and performance.

"(4) Mentoring and information sharing between air carriers.

"(d) Report.—Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], and before the last day of each one-year period thereafter until termination of the Task Force, the Task Force shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report detailing—

"(1) the progress of the Task Force in identifying best practices in the air carrier industry;

"(2) the progress of air carriers and labor unions in implementing the best practices identified by the Task Force;

"(3) recommendations of the Task Force, if any, for legislative or regulatory actions;

"(4) the progress of air carriers and labor unions in implementing training-related, nonregulatory actions recommended by the Administrator; and

"(5) the progress of air carriers in developing specific programs to share safety data and ensure implementation of the most effective safety practices.

"(e) Termination.—The Task Force shall terminate on September 30, 2012.

"(f) Applicability of Federal Advisory Committee Act.—The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to the Task Force.

"SEC. 205. AVIATION SAFETY INSPECTORS AND OPERATIONAL RESEARCH ANALYSTS.

"(a) Review by DOT Inspector General.—Not later than 9 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation shall conduct a review of the aviation safety inspectors and operational research analysts of the Federal Aviation Administration assigned to part 121 air carriers and submit to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration a report on the results of the review.

"(b) Purposes.—The purpose of the review shall be, at a minimum—

"(1) to review the level of the Administration's oversight of each part 121 air carrier;

"(2) to make recommendations to ensure that each part 121 air carrier is receiving an equivalent level of oversight;

"(3) to assess the number and level of experience of aviation safety inspectors assigned to each part 121 air carrier;

"(4) to evaluate how the Administration is making assignments of aviation safety inspectors to each part 121 air carrier;

"(5) to review various safety inspector oversight programs, including the geographic inspector program;

"(6) to evaluate the adequacy of the number of operational research analysts assigned to each part 121 air carrier;

"(7) to evaluate the surveillance responsibilities of aviation safety inspectors, including en route inspections;

"(8) to evaluate whether inspectors are able to effectively use data sources, such as the Safety Performance Analysis System and the Air Transportation Oversight System, to assist in targeting oversight of each part 121 air carrier;

"(9) to assess the feasibility of establishment by the Administration of a comprehensive repository of information that encompasses multiple Administration data sources and allows access by aviation safety inspectors and operational research analysts to assist in the oversight of each part 121 air carrier; and

"(10) to conduct such other analyses as the Inspector General considers relevant to the review.

"SEC. 206. FLIGHT CREWMEMBER MENTORING, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, AND LEADERSHIP.

"(a) Aviation Rulemaking Committee.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall convene an aviation rulemaking committee to develop procedures for each part 121 air carrier to take the following actions:

"(A) Establish flight crewmember mentoring programs under which the air carrier will pair highly experienced flight crewmembers who will serve as mentor pilots and be paired with newly employed flight crewmembers. Mentor pilots should be provided, at a minimum, specific instruction on techniques for instilling and reinforcing the highest standards of technical performance, airmanship, and professionalism in newly employed flight crewmembers.

"(B) Establish flight crewmember professional development committees made up of air carrier management and labor union or professional association representatives to develop, administer, and oversee formal mentoring programs of the carrier to assist flight crewmembers to reach their maximum potential as safe, seasoned, and proficient flight crewmembers.

"(C) Establish or modify training programs to accommodate substantially different levels and types of flight experience by newly employed flight crewmembers.

"(D) Establish or modify training programs for second-in-command flight crewmembers attempting to qualify as pilot-in-command flight crewmembers for the first time in a specific aircraft type and ensure that such programs include leadership and command training.

"(E) Ensure that recurrent training for pilots in command includes leadership and command training.

"(F) Such other actions as the aviation rulemaking committee determines appropriate to enhance flight crewmember professional development.

"(2) Compliance with sterile cockpit rule.—Leadership and command training described in paragraphs (1)(D) and (1)(E) shall include instruction on compliance with flight crewmember duties under part 121.542 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(3) Streamlined program review.—

"(A) In general.—As part of the rulemaking required by subsection (b), the Administrator shall establish a streamlined review process for part 121 air carriers that have in effect, as of the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], the programs described in paragraph (1).

"(B) Expedited approvals.—Under the streamlined review process, the Administrator shall—

"(i) review the programs of such part 121 air carriers to determine whether the programs meet the requirements set forth in the final rule referred to in subsection (b)(2); and

"(ii) expedite the approval of the programs that the Administrator determines meet such requirements.

"(b) Rulemaking.—The Administrator shall issue—

"(1) not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, a notice of proposed rulemaking based on the recommendations of the aviation rulemaking committee convened under subsection (a); and

"(2) not later than 36 months after such date of enactment, a final rule based on such recommendations.

"SEC. 207. FLIGHT CREWMEMBER PAIRING AND CREW RESOURCE MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES.

"(a) Study.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a study on aviation industry best practices with regard to flight crewmember pairing, crew resource management techniques, and pilot commuting.

"(b) Report.—Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study.

"SEC. 208. IMPLEMENTATION OF NTSB FLIGHT CREWMEMBER TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS.

"(a) Rulemaking Proceedings.—

"(1) Stall and upset recognition and recovery training.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a rulemaking proceeding to require part 121 air carriers to provide flight crewmembers with ground training and flight training or flight simulator training—

"(A) to recognize and avoid a stall of an aircraft or, if not avoided, to recover from the stall; and

"(B) to recognize and avoid an upset of an aircraft or, if not avoided, to execute such techniques as available data indicate are appropriate to recover from the upset in a given make, model, and series of aircraft.

"(2) Remedial training programs.—The Administrator shall conduct a rulemaking proceeding to require part 121 air carriers to establish remedial training programs for flight crewmembers who have demonstrated performance deficiencies or experienced failures in the training environment.

"(3) Deadlines.—The Administrator shall—

"(A) not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], issue a notice of proposed rulemaking under each of paragraphs (1) and (2); and

"(B) not later than 36 months after the date of enactment of this Act, issue a final rule for the rulemaking under each of paragraphs (1) and (2).

"(b) Stick Pusher Training and Weather Event Training.—

"(1) Multidisciplinary panel.—Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall convene a multidisciplinary panel of specialists in aircraft operations, flight crewmember training, human factors, and aviation safety to study and submit to the Administrator a report on methods to increase the familiarity of flight crewmembers with, and improve the response of flight crewmembers to, stick pusher systems, icing conditions, and microburst and windshear weather events.

"(2) Report to congress and ntsb.—Not later than one year after the date on which the Administrator convenes the panel, the Administrator shall—

"(A) submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the National Transportation Safety Board a report based on the findings of the panel; and

"(B) with respect to stick pusher systems, initiate appropriate actions to implement the recommendations of the panel.

"(c) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) Flight training and flight simulator.—The terms 'flight training' and 'flight simulator' have the meanings given those terms in part 61.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation).

"(2) Stall.—The term 'stall' means an aerodynamic loss of lift caused by exceeding the critical angle of attack.

"(3) Stick pusher.—The term 'stick pusher' means a device that, at or near a stall, applies a nose down pitch force to an aircraft's control columns to attempt to decrease the aircraft's angle of attack.

"(4) Upset.—The term 'upset' means an unusual aircraft attitude.

"SEC. 209. FAA RULEMAKING ON TRAINING PROGRAMS.

"(a) Completion of Rulemaking on Training Programs.—Not later than 14 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue a final rule with respect to the notice of proposed rulemaking published in the Federal Register on January 12, 2009 (74 Fed. Reg. 1280; relating to training programs for flight crewmembers and aircraft dispatchers).

"(b) Expert Panel To Review Part 121 and Part 135 Training Hours.—

"(1) Establishment.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall convene a multidisciplinary expert panel comprised of, at a minimum, air carrier representatives, training facility representatives, instructional design experts, aircraft manufacturers, safety organization representatives, and labor union representatives.

"(2) Assessment and recommendations.—The panel shall assess and make recommendations concerning—

"(A) the best methods and optimal time needed for flight crewmembers of part 121 air carriers and flight crewmembers of part 135 air carriers to master aircraft systems, maneuvers, procedures, takeoffs and landings, and crew coordination;

"(B) initial and recurrent testing requirements for pilots, including the rigor and consistency of testing programs such as check rides;

"(C) the optimal length of time between training events for such flight crewmembers, including recurrent training events;

"(D) the best methods reliably to evaluate mastery by such flight crewmembers of aircraft systems, maneuvers, procedures, takeoffs and landings, and crew coordination;

"(E) classroom instruction requirements governing curriculum content and hours of instruction;

"(F) the best methods to allow specific academic training courses to be credited toward the total flight hours required to receive an airline transport pilot certificate; and

"(G) crew leadership training.

"(3) Best practices.—In making recommendations under subsection (b)(2), the panel shall consider, if appropriate, best practices in the aviation industry with respect to training protocols, methods, and procedures.

"(4) Report.—Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the National Transportation Safety Board a report based on the findings of the panel.

"SEC. 210. DISCLOSURE OF AIR CARRIERS OPERATING FLIGHTS FOR TICKETS SOLD FOR AIR TRANSPORTATION.

"[Amended section 41712 of this title.]

"SEC. 211. SAFETY INSPECTIONS OF REGIONAL AIR CARRIERS.

"The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall perform, not less frequently than once each year, random, onsite inspections of air carriers that provide air transportation pursuant to a contract with a part 121 air carrier to ensure that such air carriers are complying with all applicable safety standards of the Administration.

"SEC. 212. PILOT FATIGUE.

"(a) Flight and Duty Time Regulations.—

"(1) In general.—In accordance with paragraph (3), the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue regulations, based on the best available scientific information, to specify limitations on the hours of flight and duty time allowed for pilots to address problems relating to pilot fatigue.

"(2) Matters to be addressed.—In conducting the rulemaking proceeding under this subsection, the Administrator shall consider and review the following:

"(A) Time of day of flights in a duty period.

"(B) Number of takeoff and landings in a duty period.

"(C) Number of time zones crossed in a duty period.

"(D) The impact of functioning in multiple time zones or on different daily schedules.

"(E) Research conducted on fatigue, sleep, and circadian rhythms.

"(F) Sleep and rest requirements recommended by the National Transportation Safety Board and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

"(G) International standards regarding flight schedules and duty periods.

"(H) Alternative procedures to facilitate alertness in the cockpit.

"(I) Scheduling and attendance policies and practices, including sick leave.

"(J) The effects of commuting, the means of commuting, and the length of the commute.

"(K) Medical screening and treatment.

"(L) Rest environments.

"(M) Any other matters the Administrator considers appropriate.

"(3) Rulemaking.—The Administrator shall issue—

"(A) not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], a notice of proposed rulemaking under paragraph (1); and

"(B) not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, a final rule under paragraph (1).

"(b) Fatigue Risk Management Plan.—

"(1) Submission of fatigue risk management plan by part 121 air carriers.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, each part 121 air carrier shall submit to the Administrator for review and acceptance a fatigue risk management plan for the carrier's pilots.

"(2) Contents of plan.—A fatigue risk management plan submitted by a part 121 air carrier under paragraph (1) shall include the following:

"(A) Current flight time and duty period limitations.

"(B) A rest scheme consistent with such limitations that enables the management of pilot fatigue, including annual training to increase awareness of—

"(i) fatigue;

"(ii) the effects of fatigue on pilots; and

"(iii) fatigue countermeasures.

"(C) Development and use of a methodology that continually assesses the effectiveness of the program, including the ability of the program—

"(i) to improve alertness; and

"(ii) to mitigate performance errors.

"(3) Review.—Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall review and accept or reject the fatigue risk management plans submitted under this subsection. If the Administrator rejects a plan, the Administrator shall provide suggested modifications for resubmission of the plan.

"(4) Plan updates.—

"(A) In general.—A part 121 air carrier shall update its fatigue risk management plan under paragraph (1) every 2 years and submit the update to the Administrator for review and acceptance.

"(B) Review.—Not later than 12 months after the date of submission of a plan update under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall review and accept or reject the update. If the Administrator rejects an update, the Administrator shall provide suggested modifications for resubmission of the update.

"(5) Compliance.—A part 121 air carrier shall comply with the fatigue risk management plan of the air carrier that is accepted by the Administrator under this subsection.

"(6) Civil penalties.—A violation of this subsection by a part 121 air carrier shall be treated as a violation of chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, for purposes of the application of civil penalties under chapter 463 of that title.

"(c) Effect of Commuting on Fatigue.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall enter into appropriate arrangements with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study of the effects of commuting on pilot fatigue and report its findings to the Administrator.

"(2) Study.—In conducting the study, the National Academy of Sciences shall consider—

"(A) the prevalence of pilot commuting in the commercial air carrier industry, including the number and percentage of pilots who commute;

"(B) information relating to commuting by pilots, including distances traveled, time zones crossed, time spent, and methods used;

"(C) research on the impact of commuting on pilot fatigue, sleep, and circadian rhythms;

"(D) commuting policies of commercial air carriers (including passenger and all-cargo air carriers), including pilot check-in requirements and sick leave and fatigue policies;

"(E) postconference materials from the Federal Aviation Administration's June 2008 symposium titled 'Aviation Fatigue Management Symposium: Partnerships for Solutions';

"(F) Federal Aviation Administration and international policies and guidance regarding commuting; and

"(G) any other matters as the Administrator considers appropriate.

"(3) Preliminary findings.—Not later than 120 days after the date of entering into arrangements under paragraph (1), the National Academy of Sciences shall submit to the Administrator its preliminary findings under the study.

"(4) Report.—Not later than 9 months after the date of entering into arrangements under paragraph (1), the National Academy of Sciences shall submit a report to the Administrator containing its findings under the study and any recommendations for regulatory or administrative actions by the Federal Aviation Administration concerning commuting by pilots.

"(5) Rulemaking.—Following receipt of the report of the National Academy of Sciences under paragraph (4), the Administrator shall—

"(A) consider the findings and recommendations in the report; and

"(B) update, as appropriate based on scientific data, regulations required by subsection (a) on flight and duty time.

"SEC. 213. VOLUNTARY SAFETY PROGRAMS.

"(a) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the aviation safety action program, the flight operational quality assurance program, the line operations safety audit, and the advanced qualification program.

"(b) Contents.—The report shall include—

"(1) a list of—

"(A) which air carriers are using one or more of the voluntary safety programs referred to in subsection (a); and

"(B) the voluntary safety programs each air carrier is using;

"(2) if an air carrier is not using one or more of the voluntary safety programs—

"(A) a list of such programs the carrier is not using; and

"(B) the reasons the carrier is not using each such program;

"(3) if an air carrier is using one or more of the voluntary safety programs, an explanation of the benefits and challenges of using each such program;

"(4) a detailed analysis of how the Administration is using data derived from each of the voluntary safety programs as safety analysis and accident or incident prevention tools and a detailed plan on how the Administration intends to expand data analysis of such programs;

"(5) an explanation of—

"(A) where the data derived from the voluntary safety programs is stored;

"(B) how the data derived from such programs is protected and secured; and

"(C) what data analysis processes air carriers are implementing to ensure the effective use of the data derived from such programs;

"(6) a description of the extent to which aviation safety inspectors are able to review data derived from the voluntary safety programs to enhance their oversight responsibilities;

"(7) a description of how the Administration plans to incorporate operational trends identified under the voluntary safety programs into the air transport oversight system and other surveillance databases so that such system and databases are more effectively utilized;

"(8) other plans to strengthen the voluntary safety programs, taking into account reviews of such programs by the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation; and

"(9) such other matters as the Administrator determines are appropriate.

"SEC. 214. ASAP AND FOQA IMPLEMENTATION PLAN.

"(a) Development and Implementation Plan.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall develop and implement a plan to facilitate the establishment of an aviation safety action program and a flight operational quality assurance program by all part 121 air carriers.

"(b) Matters To Be Considered.—In developing the plan under subsection (a), the Administrator shall consider—

"(1) how the Administration can assist part 121 air carriers with smaller fleet sizes to derive a benefit from establishing a flight operational quality assurance program;

"(2) how part 121 air carriers with established aviation safety action and flight operational quality assurance programs can quickly begin to report data into the aviation safety information analysis sharing database; and

"(3) how part 121 air carriers and aviation safety inspectors can better utilize data from such database as accident and incident prevention tools.

"(c) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a copy of the plan developed under subsection (a) and an explanation of how the Administration will implement the plan.

"(d) Deadline for Beginning Implementation of Plan.—Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall begin implementation of the plan developed under subsection (a).

"SEC. 215. SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS.

"(a) Rulemaking.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a rulemaking proceeding to require all part 121 air carriers to implement a safety management system.

"(b) Matters To Consider.—In conducting the rulemaking under subsection (a), the Administrator shall consider, at a minimum, including each of the following as a part of the safety management system:

"(1) An aviation safety action program.

"(2) A flight operational quality assurance program.

"(3) A line operations safety audit.

"(4) An advanced qualification program.

"(c) Deadlines.—The Administrator shall issue—

"(1) not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], a notice of proposed rulemaking under subsection (a); and

"(2) not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act, a final rule under subsection (a).

"(d) Safety Management System Defined.—In this section, the term 'safety management system' means the program established by the Federal Aviation Administration in Advisory Circular 120–92, dated June 22, 2006, including any subsequent revisions thereto.

"SEC. 216. FLIGHT CREWMEMBER SCREENING AND QUALIFICATIONS.

"(a) Requirements.—

"(1) Rulemaking proceeding.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a rulemaking proceeding to require part 121 air carriers to develop and implement means and methods for ensuring that flight crewmembers have proper qualifications and experience.

"(2) Minimum requirements.—

"(A) Prospective flight crewmembers.—Rules issued under paragraph (1) shall ensure that prospective flight crewmembers undergo comprehensive preemployment screening, including an assessment of the skills, aptitudes, airmanship, and suitability of each applicant for a position as a flight crewmember in terms of functioning effectively in the air carrier's operational environment.

"(B) All flight crewmembers.—Rules issued under paragraph (1) shall ensure that, after the date that is 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], all flight crewmembers—

"(i) have obtained an airline transport pilot certificate under part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and

"(ii) have appropriate multi-engine aircraft flight experience, as determined by the Administrator.

"(b) Deadlines.—The Administrator shall issue—

"(1) not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, a notice of proposed rulemaking under subsection (a); and

"(2) not later than 24 months after such date of enactment, a final rule under subsection (a).

"(c) Default.—The requirement that each flight crewmember for a part 121 air carrier hold an airline transport pilot certificate under part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, shall begin to apply on the date that is 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act even if the Administrator fails to meet a deadline established under this section.

"SEC. 217. AIRLINE TRANSPORT PILOT CERTIFICATION.

"(a) Rulemaking Proceeding.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a rulemaking proceeding to amend part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to modify requirements for the issuance of an airline transport pilot certificate.

"(b) Minimum Requirements.—To be qualified to receive an airline transport pilot certificate pursuant to subsection (a), an individual shall—

"(1) have sufficient flight hours, as determined by the Administrator, to enable a pilot to function effectively in an air carrier operational environment; and

"(2) have received flight training, academic training, or operational experience that will prepare a pilot, at a minimum, to—

"(A) function effectively in a multipilot environment;

"(B) function effectively in adverse weather conditions, including icing conditions;

"(C) function effectively during high altitude operations;

"(D) adhere to the highest professional standards; and

"(E) function effectively in an air carrier operational environment.

"(c) Flight Hours.—

"(1) Numbers of flight hours.—The total flight hours required by the Administrator under subsection (b)(1) shall be at least 1,500 flight hours.

"(2) Flight hours in difficult operational conditions.—The total flight hours required by the Administrator under subsection (b)(1) shall include sufficient flight hours, as determined by the Administrator, in difficult operational conditions that may be encountered by an air carrier to enable a pilot to operate safely in such conditions.

"(d) Credit Toward Flight Hours.—The Administrator may allow specific academic training courses, beyond those required under subsection (b)(2), to be credited toward the total flight hours required under subsection (c). The Administrator may allow such credit based on a determination by the Administrator that allowing a pilot to take specific academic training courses will enhance safety more than requiring the pilot to fully comply with the flight hours requirement.

"(e) Recommendations of Expert Panel.—In conducting the rulemaking proceeding under this section, the Administrator shall review and consider the assessment and recommendations of the expert panel to review part 121 and part 135 training hours established by section 209(b) of this Act.

"(f) Deadline.—Not later than 36 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 2010], the Administrator shall issue a final rule under subsection (a)."

FAA Inspector Training

Pub. L. 108–176, title V, §506, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2560, provided that:

"(a) Study.—

"(1) In general.—The Comptroller General shall conduct a study of the training of the aviation safety inspectors of the Federal Aviation Administration (in this section referred to as 'FAA inspectors').

"(2) Contents.—The study shall include—

"(A) an analysis of the type of training provided to FAA inspectors;

"(B) actions that the Federal Aviation Administration has undertaken to ensure that FAA inspectors receive up-to-date training on the latest technologies;

"(C) the extent of FAA inspector training provided by the aviation industry and whether such training is provided without charge or on a quid pro quo basis; and

"(D) the amount of travel that is required of FAA inspectors in receiving training.

"(3) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2003], the Comptroller General shall transmit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study.

"(b) Sense of the House.—It is the sense of the House of Representatives that—

"(1) FAA inspectors should be encouraged to take the most up-to-date initial and recurrent training on the latest aviation technologies;

"(2) FAA inspector training should have a direct relation to an individual's job requirements; and

"(3) if possible, a FAA inspector should be allowed to take training at the location most convenient for the inspector.

"(c) Workload of Inspectors.—

"(1) Study by national academy of sciences.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2003], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make appropriate arrangements for the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study of the assumptions and methods used by the Federal Aviation Administration to estimate staffing standards for FAA inspectors to ensure proper oversight over the aviation industry, including the designee program.

"(2) Contents.—The study shall include the following:

"(A) A suggested method of modifying FAA inspectors staffing models for application to current local conditions or applying some other approach to developing an objective staffing standard.

"(B) The approximate cost and length of time for developing such models.

"(3) Report.—Not later than 12 months after the initiation of the arrangements under subsection (a), the National Academy of Sciences shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of the study."

Air Transportation Oversight System

Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §513, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 144, provided that:

"(a) Report.—Not later than August 1, 2000, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall transmit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the progress of the Federal Aviation Administration in implementing the air transportation oversight system, including in detail the training of inspectors under the system, the number of inspectors using the system, air carriers subject to the system, and the budget for the system.

"(b) Required Contents.—At a minimum, the report shall indicate—

"(1) any funding or staffing constraints that would adversely impact the Administration's ability to continue to develop and implement the air transportation oversight system;

"(2) progress in integrating the aviation safety data derived from such system's inspections with existing aviation data of the Administration in the safety performance analysis system of the Administration; and

"(3) the Administration's efforts in collaboration with the aviation industry to develop and validate safety performance measures and appropriate risk weightings for such system.

"(c) Update.—Not later than August 1, 2002, the Administrator shall update the report submitted under this section and transmit the updated report to the committees referred to in subsection (a)."

Regulation of Alaska Guide Pilots

Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §732, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 168, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000], flight operations conducted by Alaska guide pilots shall be regulated under the general operating and flight rules contained in part 91 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(b) Rulemaking Proceeding.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall conduct a rulemaking proceeding and issue a final rule to modify the general operating and flight rules referred to in subsection (a) by establishing special rules applicable to the flight operations conducted by Alaska guide pilots.

"(2) Contents of rules.—A final rule issued by the Administrator under paragraph (1) shall require Alaska guide pilots—

"(A) to operate aircraft inspected no less often than after 125 hours of flight time;

"(B) to participate in an annual flight review, as described in section 61.56 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;

"(C) to have at least 500 hours of flight time as a pilot;

"(D) to have a commercial rating, as described in subpart F of part 61 of such title;

"(E) to hold at least a second-class medical certificate, as described in subpart C of part 67 of such title;

"(F) to hold a current letter of authorization issued by the Administrator; and

"(G) to take such other actions as the Administrator determines necessary for safety.

"(3) Consideration.—In making a determination to impose a requirement under paragraph (2)(G), the Administrator shall take into account the unique conditions associated with air travel in the State of Alaska to ensure that such requirements are not unduly burdensome.

"(c) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) Letter of authorization.—The term 'letter of authorization' means a letter issued by the Administrator once every 5 years to an Alaska guide pilot certifying that the pilot is in compliance with general operating and flight rules applicable to the pilot. In the case of a multi-pilot operation, at the election of the operating entity, a letter of authorization may be issued by the Administrator to the entity or to each Alaska guide pilot employed by the entity.

"(2) Alaska guide pilot.—The term 'Alaska guide pilot' means a pilot who—

"(A) conducts aircraft operations over or within the State of Alaska;

"(B) operates single engine, fixed-wing aircraft on floats, wheels, or skis, providing commercial hunting, fishing, or other guide services and related accommodations in the form of camps or lodges; and

"(C) transports clients by such aircraft incidental to hunting, fishing, or other guide services."

Aviation Medical Assistance

Pub. L. 105–170, Apr. 24, 1998, 112 Stat. 47, provided that:

"SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

"This Act may be cited as the 'Aviation Medical Assistance Act of 1998'.

"SEC. 2. MEDICAL KIT EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING.

"Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 24, 1998], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall reevaluate regulations regarding: (1) the equipment required to be carried in medical kits of aircraft operated by air carriers; and (2) the training required of flight attendants in the use of such equipment, and, if the Administrator determines that such regulations should be modified as a result of such reevaluation, shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to modify such regulations.

"SEC. 3. REPORTS REGARDING DEATHS ON AIRCRAFT.

"(a) In General.—During the 1-year period beginning on the 90th day following the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 24, 1998], a major air carrier shall make a good faith effort to obtain, and shall submit quarterly reports to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration on, the following:

"(1) The number of persons who died on aircraft of the air carrier, including any person who was declared dead after being removed from such an aircraft as a result of a medical incident that occurred on such aircraft.

"(2) The age of each such person.

"(3) Any information concerning cause of death that is available at the time such person died on the aircraft or is removed from the aircraft or that subsequently becomes known to the air carrier.

"(4) Whether or not the aircraft was diverted as a result of the death or incident.

"(5) Such other information as the Administrator may request as necessary to aid in a decision as to whether or not to require automatic external defibrillators in airports or on aircraft operated by air carriers, or both.

"(b) Format.—The Administrator may specify a format for reports to be submitted under this section.

"SEC. 4. DECISION ON AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS.

"(a) In General.—Not later than 120 days after the last day of the 1-year period described in section 3, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make a decision on whether or not to require automatic external defibrillators on passenger aircraft operated by air carriers and whether or not to require automatic external defibrillators at airports.

"(b) Form of Decision.—A decision under this section shall be in the form of a notice of proposed rulemaking requiring automatic external defibrillators in airports or on passenger aircraft operated by air carriers, or both, or a recommendation to Congress for legislation requiring such defibrillators or a notice in the Federal Register that such defibrillators should not be required in airports or on such aircraft. If a decision under this section is in the form of a notice of proposed rulemaking, the Administrator shall make a final decision not later than the 120th day following the date on which comments are due on the notice of proposed rulemaking.

"(c) Contents.—If the Administrator decides that automatic external defibrillators should be required—

"(1) on passenger aircraft operated by air carriers, the proposed rulemaking or recommendation shall include—

"(A) the size of the aircraft on which such defibrillators should be required;

"(B) the class flights (whether interstate, overseas, or foreign air transportation or any combination thereof) on which such defibrillators should be required;

"(C) the training that should be required for air carrier personnel in the use of such defibrillators; and

"(D) the associated equipment and medication that should be required to be carried in the aircraft medical kit; and

"(2) at airports, the proposed rulemaking or recommendation shall include—

"(A) the size of the airport at which such defibrillators should be required;

"(B) the training that should be required for airport personnel in the use of such defibrillators; and

"(C) the associated equipment and medication that should be required at the airport.

"(d) Limitation.—The Administrator may not require automatic external defibrillators on helicopters and on aircraft with a maximum payload capacity (as defined in section 119.3 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations) of 7,500 pounds or less.

"(e) Special Rule.—If the Administrator decides that automatic external defibrillators should be required at airports, the proposed rulemaking or recommendation shall provide that the airports are responsible for providing the defibrillators.

"SEC. 5. LIMITATIONS ON LIABILITY.

"(a) Liability of Air Carriers.—An air carrier shall not be liable for damages in any action brought in a Federal or State court arising out of the performance of the air carrier in obtaining or attempting to obtain the assistance of a passenger in an in-flight medical emergency, or out of the acts or omissions of the passenger rendering the assistance, if the passenger is not an employee or agent of the carrier and the carrier in good faith believes that the passenger is a medically qualified individual.

"(b) Liability of Individuals.—An individual shall not be liable for damages in any action brought in a Federal or State court arising out of the acts or omissions of the individual in providing or attempting to provide assistance in the case of an in-flight medical emergency unless the individual, while rendering such assistance, is guilty of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

"SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.

"In this Act—

"(1) the terms 'air carrier', 'aircraft', 'airport', 'interstate air transportation', 'overseas air transportation', and 'foreign air transportation' have the meanings such terms have under section 40102 of title 49, United States Code;

"(2) the term 'major air carrier' means an air carrier certificated under section 41102 of title 49, United States Code, that accounted for at least 1 percent of domestic scheduled-passenger revenues in the 12 months ending March 31 of the most recent year preceding the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 24, 1998], as reported to the Department of Transportation pursuant to part 241 of title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations; and

"(3) the term 'medically qualified individual' includes any person who is licensed, certified, or otherwise qualified to provide medical care in a State, including a physician, nurse, physician assistant, paramedic, and emergency medical technician."

Definitions

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §301, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3260, provided that: "In this title [see Tables for classification], the following definitions apply:

"(1) Administrator.—The term 'Administrator' means the Administrator of the FAA.

"(2) FAA.—The term 'FAA' means the Federal Aviation Administration."

§44702. Issuance of certificates

(a) General Authority and Applications.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may issue airman certificates, design organization certificates, type certificates, production certificates, airworthiness certificates, air carrier operating certificates, airport operating certificates, air agency certificates, and air navigation facility certificates under this chapter. An application for a certificate must—

(1) be under oath when the Administrator requires; and

(2) be in the form, contain information, and be filed and served in the way the Administrator prescribes.

(b) Considerations.—When issuing a certificate under this chapter, the Administrator shall—

(1) consider—

(A) the duty of an air carrier to provide service with the highest possible degree of safety in the public interest; and

(B) differences between air transportation and other air commerce; and

(2) classify a certificate according to the differences between air transportation and other air commerce.

(c) Prior Certification.—The Administrator may authorize an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance for which a certificate has been issued authorizing the use of the aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance in air transportation to be used in air commerce without another certificate being issued.

(d) Delegation.—(1) Subject to regulations, supervision, and review the Administrator may prescribe, the Administrator may delegate to a qualified private person, or to an employee under the supervision of that person, a matter related to—

(A) the examination, testing, and inspection necessary to issue a certificate under this chapter; and

(B) issuing the certificate.

(2) The Administrator may rescind a delegation under this subsection at any time for any reason the Administrator considers appropriate.

(3) A person affected by an action of a private person under this subsection may apply for reconsideration of the action by the Administrator. On the Administrator's own initiative, the Administrator may reconsider the action of a private person at any time. If the Administrator decides on reconsideration that the action is unreasonable or unwarranted, the Administrator shall change, modify, or reverse the action. If the Administrator decides the action is warranted, the Administrator shall affirm the action.

(4)(A) With respect to a critical system design feature of a transport category airplane, the Administrator may not delegate any finding of compliance with applicable airworthiness standards or review of any system safety assessment required for the issuance of a certificate, including a type certificate, or amended or supplemental type certificate, under section 44704, until the Administrator has reviewed and validated any underlying assumptions related to human factors.

(B) The requirement under subparagraph (A) shall not apply if the Administrator determines the matter involved is a routine task.

(C) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term critical system design feature includes any feature (including a novel or unusual design feature) for which the failure of such feature, either independently or in combination with other failures, could result in catastrophic or hazardous failure conditions, as those terms are defined by the Administrator.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1186; Pub. L. 108–176, title II, §227(a), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2531; Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §106, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2320.)

In this section, the word "Administrator" in sections 601(b), 602(a), 603(a)(1), 604(a), 606 (last sentence), 607 (last sentence), and 608 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 775, 776, 778, 779) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

In subsection (a), the reference to a type certificate and production certificate is added for clarity.

In subsection (b)(1), before subclause (A), the word "full" is omitted as surplus. In clause (1)(A), the word "provide" is substituted for "perform" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (d)(1), before clause (A), the words "In exercising the powers and duties vested in him by this chapter" and "properly" are omitted as surplus. The words "or employees" are omitted because of 1:1. The word "matter" is substituted for "work, business, or function" to eliminate unnecessary words. In clause (B), the words "in accordance with standards established by him" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(2), the words "made by him" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(3), the words "exercising delegated authority" and "with respect to the authority granted under subsection (a) of this section" are omitted as surplus. The words "at any time" are substituted for "either before or after it has become effective", and the words "If the Administrator decides on reconsideration that the action is unreasonable or unwarranted" are substituted for "If, upon reconsideration by the Secretary of Transportation, it shall appear that the action in question is in any respect unjust or unwarranted", to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "the action" are substituted for "the same accordingly", and the words "If the Administrator decides the action is warranted, the Administrator shall affirm the action" are substituted for "otherwise, such action shall be affirmed", for clarity. The text of 49 App.:1355(b) (proviso) is omitted as unnecessary because of 5:559 (last sentence).

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (d)(4). Pub. L. 116–260 added par. (4).

2003—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–176 inserted "design organization certificates," after "airman certificates," in introductory provisions.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Pub. L. 108–176, title II, §227(a), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2531, provided that the amendment made by section 227(a) is effective on the last day of the 7-year period beginning on Dec. 12, 2003.

Development of Analytical Tools and Certification Methods

Pub. L. 108–176, title VII, §706, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2582, provided that: "The Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct research to promote the development of analytical tools to improve existing certification methods and to reduce the overall costs for the certification of new products."

§44703. Airman certificates

(a) General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue an airman certificate to an individual when the Administrator finds, after investigation, that the individual is qualified for, and physically able to perform the duties related to, the position to be authorized by the certificate.

(b) Contents.—(1) An airman certificate shall—

(A) be numbered and recorded by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration;

(B) contain the name, address, and description of the individual to whom the certificate is issued;

(C) contain terms the Administrator decides are necessary to ensure safety in air commerce, including terms on the duration of the certificate, periodic or special examinations, and tests of physical fitness;

(D) specify the capacity in which the holder of the certificate may serve as an airman with respect to an aircraft; and

(E) designate the class the certificate covers.

(2) A certificate issued to a pilot serving in scheduled air transportation shall have the designation "airline transport pilot" of the appropriate class.

(c) Public Information.—

(1) In general.—Subject to paragraph (2) and notwithstanding any other provision of law, the information contained in the records of contents of any airman certificate issued under this section that is limited to an airman's name, address, and ratings held shall be made available to the public after the 120th day following the date of the enactment of the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century.

(2) Opportunity to withhold information.—Before making any information concerning an airman available to the public under paragraph (1), the airman shall be given an opportunity to elect that the information not be made available to the public.

(3) Development and implementation of program.—Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century, the Administrator shall develop and implement, in cooperation with representatives of the aviation industry, a one-time written notification to airmen to set forth the implications of making information concerning an airman available to the public under paragraph (1) and to carry out paragraph (2). The Administrator shall also provide such written notification to each individual who becomes an airman after such date of enactment.

(d) Appeals.—(1) An individual whose application for the issuance or renewal of an airman certificate has been denied may appeal the denial to the National Transportation Safety Board, except if the individual holds a certificate that—

(A) is suspended at the time of denial; or

(B) was revoked within one year from the date of the denial.

(2) The Board shall conduct a hearing on the appeal at a place convenient to the place of residence or employment of the applicant. The Board is not bound by findings of fact of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. At the end of the hearing, the Board shall decide whether the individual meets the applicable regulations and standards. The Administrator is bound by that decision.

(3) A person who is substantially affected by an order of the Board under this subsection, or the Administrator if the Administrator decides that an order of the Board will have a significant adverse impact on carrying out this subtitle, may seek judicial review of the order under section 46110. The Administrator shall be made a party to the judicial review proceedings. The findings of fact of the Board in any such case are conclusive if supported by substantial evidence.

(e) Restrictions and Prohibitions.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may—

(1) restrict or prohibit issuing an airman certificate to an alien; or

(2) make issuing the certificate to an alien dependent on a reciprocal agreement with the government of a foreign country.

(f) Controlled Substance Violations.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may not issue an airman certificate to an individual whose certificate is revoked under section 44710 of this title except—

(1) when the Administrator decides that issuing the certificate will facilitate law enforcement efforts; and

(2) as provided in section 44710(e)(2) of this title.

(g) Modifications in System.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make modifications in the system for issuing airman certificates necessary to make the system more effective in serving the needs of airmen and officials responsible for enforcing laws related to the regulation of controlled substances (as defined in section 102 of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (21 U.S.C. 802)) and related to combating acts of terrorism. The modifications shall ensure positive and verifiable identification of each individual applying for or holding a certificate and shall address at least each of the following deficiencies in, and abuses of, the existing system:

(A) the use of fictitious names and addresses by applicants for those certificates.

(B) the use of stolen or fraudulent identification in applying for those certificates.

(C) the use by an applicant of a post office box or "mail drop" as a return address to evade identification of the applicant's address.

(D) the use of counterfeit and stolen airman certificates by pilots.

(E) the absence of information about physical characteristics of holders of those certificates.

(2) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prescribe regulations to carry out paragraph (1) of this subsection and provide a written explanation of how the regulations address each of the deficiencies and abuses described in paragraph (1). In prescribing the regulations, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consult with the Administrator of Drug Enforcement, the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, other law enforcement officials of the United States Government, representatives of State and local law enforcement officials, representatives of the general aviation aircraft industry, representatives of users of general aviation aircraft, and other interested persons.

(3) For purposes of this section, the term "acts of terrorism" means an activity that involves a violent act or an act dangerous to human life that is a violation of the criminal laws of the United States or of any State, or that would be a criminal violation if committed within the jurisdiction of the United States or of any State, and appears to be intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion or to affect the conduct of a government by assassination or kidnaping.

(4) The Administrator is authorized and directed to work with State and local authorities, and other Federal agencies, to assist in the identification of individuals applying for or holding airmen certificates.

(h) Records of Employment of Pilot Applicants.—

(1) In general.—Subject to paragraph (14), before allowing an individual to begin service as a pilot, an air carrier shall request and receive the following information:

(A) FAA records.—From the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, records pertaining to the individual that are maintained by the Administrator concerning—

(i) current airman certificates (including airman medical certificates) and associated type ratings, including any limitations to those certificates and ratings; and

(ii) summaries of legal enforcement actions resulting in a finding by the Administrator of a violation of this title or a regulation prescribed or order issued under this title that was not subsequently overturned.

(B) Air carrier and other records.—From any air carrier or other person (except a branch of the United States Armed Forces, the National Guard, or a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces) that has employed the individual as a pilot of a civil or public aircraft at any time during the 5-year period preceding the date of the employment application of the individual, or from the trustee in bankruptcy for such air carrier or person—

(i) records pertaining to the individual that are maintained by an air carrier (other than records relating to flight time, duty time, or rest time) under regulations set forth in—

(I) section 121.683 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;

(II) paragraph (A) of section VI, appendix I, part 121 of such title;

(III) paragraph (A) of section IV, appendix J, part 121 of such title;

(IV) section 125.401 of such title; and

(V) section 135.63(a)(4) of such title; and

(ii) other records pertaining to the individual's performance as a pilot that are maintained by the air carrier or person concerning—

(I) the training, qualifications, proficiency, or professional competence of the individual, including comments and evaluations made by a check airman designated in accordance with section 121.411, 125.295, or 135.337 of such title;

(II) any disciplinary action taken with respect to the individual that was not subsequently overturned; and

(III) any release from employment or resignation, termination, or disqualification with respect to employment.

(C) National driver register records.—In accordance with section 30305(b)(8) of this title, from the chief driver licensing official of a State, information concerning the motor vehicle driving record of the individual.

(2) Written consent; release from liability.—An air carrier making a request for records under paragraph (1)—

(A) shall be required to obtain written consent to the release of those records from the individual that is the subject of the records requested; and

(B) may, notwithstanding any other provision of law or agreement to the contrary, require the individual who is the subject of the records to request to execute a release from liability for any claim arising from the furnishing of such records to or the use of such records by such air carrier (other than a claim arising from furnishing information known to be false and maintained in violation of a criminal statute).

(3) 5-year reporting period.—A person shall not furnish a record in response to a request made under paragraph (1) if the record was entered more than 5 years before the date of the request, unless the information concerns a revocation or suspension of an airman certificate or motor vehicle license that is in effect on the date of the request.

(4) Requirement to maintain records.—The Administrator and air carriers shall maintain pilot records described in paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B) for a period of at least 5 years.

(5) Receipt of consent; provision of information.—A person shall not furnish a record in response to a request made under paragraph (1) without first obtaining a copy of the written consent of the individual who is the subject of the records requested; except that, for purposes of paragraph (15), the Administrator may allow an individual designated by the Administrator to accept and maintain written consent on behalf of the Administrator for records requested under paragraph (1)(A). A person who receives a request for records under this subsection shall furnish a copy of all of such requested records maintained by the person not later than 30 days after receiving the request.

(6) Right to receive notice and copy of any record furnished.—A person who receives a request for records under paragraph (1) shall provide to the individual who is the subject of the records—

(A) on or before the 20th day following the date of receipt of the request, written notice of the request and of the individual's right to receive a copy of such records; and

(B) in accordance with paragraph (10), a copy of such records, if requested by the individual.

(7) Reasonable charges for processing requests and furnishing copies.—A person who receives a request under paragraph (1) or (6) may establish a reasonable charge for the cost of processing the request and furnishing copies of the requested records.

(8) Standard forms.—The Administrator shall promulgate—

(A) standard forms that may be used by an air carrier to request records under paragraph (1); and

(B) standard forms that may be used by an air carrier to—

(i) obtain the written consent of the individual who is the subject of a request under paragraph (1); and

(ii) inform the individual of—

(I) the request; and

(II) the individual right of that individual to receive a copy of any records furnished in response to the request.

(9) Right to correct inaccuracies.—An air carrier that maintains or requests and receives the records of an individual under paragraph (1) shall provide the individual with a reasonable opportunity to submit written comments to correct any inaccuracies contained in the records before making a final hiring decision with respect to the individual.

(10) Right of pilot to review certain records.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law or agreement, an air carrier shall, upon written request from a pilot who is or has been employed by such carrier, make available, within a reasonable time, but not later than 30 days after the date of the request, to the pilot for review, any and all employment records referred to in paragraph (1)(B)(i) or (ii) pertaining to the employment of the pilot.

(11) Privacy protections.—An air carrier that receives the records of an individual under paragraph (1) may use such records only to assess the qualifications of the individual in deciding whether or not to hire the individual as a pilot. The air carrier shall take such actions as may be necessary to protect the privacy of the pilot and the confidentiality of the records, including ensuring that information contained in the records is not divulged to any individual that is not directly involved in the hiring decision.

(12) Periodic review.—Not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of the Pilot Records Improvement Act of 1996, and at least once every 3 years thereafter, the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a statement that contains, taking into account recent developments in the aviation industry—

(A) recommendations by the Administrator concerning proposed changes to Federal Aviation Administration records, air carrier records, and other records required to be furnished under subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1); or

(B) reasons why the Administrator does not recommend any proposed changes to the records referred to in subparagraph (A).

(13) Regulations.—The Administrator shall prescribe such regulations as may be necessary—

(A) to protect—

(i) the personal privacy of any individual whose records are requested under paragraph (1) and disseminated under paragraph (15); and

(ii) the confidentiality of those records;

(B) to preclude the further dissemination of records received under paragraph (1) by the person who requested those records; and

(C) to ensure prompt compliance with any request made under paragraph (1).

(14) Special rules with respect to certain pilots.—

(A) Pilots of certain small aircraft.—Notwithstanding paragraph (1), an air carrier, before receiving information requested about an individual under paragraph (1), may allow the individual to begin service for a period not to exceed 90 days as a pilot of an aircraft with a maximum payload capacity (as defined in section 119.3 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations) of 7,500 pounds or less, or a helicopter, on a flight that is not a scheduled operation (as defined in such section). Before the end of the 90-day period, the air carrier shall obtain and evaluate such information. The contract between the carrier and the individual shall contain a term that provides that the continuation of the individual's employment, after the last day of the 90-day period, depends on a satisfactory evaluation.

(B) Good faith exception.—Notwithstanding paragraph (1), an air carrier, without obtaining information about an individual under paragraph (1)(B) from an air carrier or other person that no longer exists or from a foreign government or entity that employed the individual, may allow the individual to begin service as a pilot if the air carrier required to request the information has made a documented good faith attempt to obtain such information.

(15) Electronic access to faa records.—For the purpose of increasing timely and efficient access to Federal Aviation Administration records described in paragraph (1), the Administrator may allow, under terms established by the Administrator, an individual designated by the air carrier to have electronic access to a specified database containing information about such records. The terms shall limit such access to instances in which information in the database is required by the designated individual in making a hiring decision concerning a pilot applicant and shall require that the designated individual provide assurances satisfactory to the Administrator that information obtained using such access will not be used for any purpose other than making the hiring decision.

(16) Applicability.—This subsection shall cease to be effective on the date specified in regulations issued under subsection (i).

(i) FAA Pilot Records Database.—

(1) In general.—Before allowing an individual to begin service as a pilot, an air carrier shall access and evaluate, in accordance with the requirements of this subsection, information pertaining to the individual from the pilot records database established under paragraph (2).

(2) Pilot records database.—Not later than April 30, 2017, the Administrator shall establish and make available for use an electronic database (in this subsection referred to as the "database") containing the following records:

(A) FAA records.—From the Administrator—

(i) records that are maintained by the Administrator concerning current airman certificates, including airman medical certificates and associated type ratings and information on any limitations to those certificates and ratings;

(ii) records that are maintained by the Administrator concerning any failed attempt of an individual to pass a practical test required to obtain a certificate or type rating under part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and

(iii) summaries of legal enforcement actions resulting in a finding by the Administrator of a violation of this title or a regulation prescribed or order issued under this title that was not subsequently overturned.

(B) Air carrier and other records.—From any air carrier or other person (except a branch of the Armed Forces, the National Guard, or a reserve component of the Armed Forces) that has employed an individual as a pilot of a civil or public aircraft, or from the trustee in bankruptcy for the air carrier or person—

(i) records pertaining to the individual that are maintained by the air carrier (other than records relating to flight time, duty time, or rest time) or person, including records under regulations set forth in—

(I) section 121.683 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;

(II) section 121.111(a) of such title;

(III) section 121.219(a) of such title;

(IV) section 125.401 of such title; and

(V) section 135.63(a)(4) of such title; and

(ii) other records pertaining to the individual's performance as a pilot that are maintained by the air carrier or person concerning—

(I) the training, qualifications, proficiency, or professional competence of the individual, including comments and evaluations made by a check airman designated in accordance with section 121.411, 125.295, or 135.337 of such title;

(II) any disciplinary action taken with respect to the individual that was not subsequently overturned; and

(III) any release from employment or resignation, termination, or disqualification with respect to employment.

(C) National driver register records.—In accordance with section 30305(b)(8) of this title, from the chief driver licensing official of a State, information concerning the motor vehicle driving record of the individual.

(3) Written consent; release from liability.—An air carrier—

(A) shall obtain the written consent of an individual before accessing records pertaining to the individual under paragraph (1); and

(B) may, notwithstanding any other provision of law or agreement to the contrary, require an individual with respect to whom the carrier is accessing records under paragraph (1) to execute a release from liability for any claim arising from accessing the records or the use of such records by the air carrier in accordance with this section (other than a claim arising from furnishing information known to be false and maintained in violation of a criminal statute).

(4) Reporting.—

(A) Reporting by administrator.—The Administrator shall enter data described in paragraph (2)(A) into the database promptly to ensure that an individual's records are current.

(B) Reporting by air carriers and other persons.—

(i) In general.—Air carriers and other persons shall report data described in paragraphs (2)(B) and (2)(C) to the Administrator promptly for entry into the database.

(ii) Data to be reported.—Air carriers and other persons shall report, at a minimum, under clause (i) the following data described in paragraph (2)(B):

(I) Records that are generated by the air carrier or other person after the date of enactment of this paragraph.

(II) Records that the air carrier or other person is maintaining, on such date of enactment, pursuant to subsection (h)(4).

(5) Requirement to maintain records.—The Administrator—

(A) shall maintain all records entered into the database under paragraph (2) pertaining to an individual until the date of receipt of notification that the individual is deceased; and

(B) may remove the individual's records from the database after that date.

(6) Receipt of consent.—The Administrator shall not permit an air carrier to access records pertaining to an individual from the database under paragraph (1) without the air carrier first demonstrating to the satisfaction of the Administrator that the air carrier has obtained the written consent of the individual.

(7) Right of pilot to review certain records and correct inaccuracies.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law or agreement, the Administrator, upon receipt of written request from an individual—

(A) shall make available, not later than 30 days after the date of the request, to the individual for review all records referred to in paragraph (2) pertaining to the individual; and

(B) shall provide the individual with a reasonable opportunity to submit written comments to correct any inaccuracies contained in the records.

(8) Reasonable charges for processing requests and furnishing copies.—

(A) In general.—The Administrator may establish a reasonable charge for the cost of processing a request under paragraph (1) or (7) and for the cost of furnishing copies of requested records under paragraph (7).

(B) Crediting appropriations.—Funds received by the Administrator pursuant to this paragraph shall—

(i) be credited to the appropriation current when the amount is received;

(ii) be merged with and available for the purposes of such appropriation; and

(iii) remain available until expended.

(9) Privacy protections.—

(A) Use of records.—An air carrier that accesses records pertaining to an individual under paragraph (1) may use the records only to assess the qualifications of the individual in deciding whether or not to hire the individual as a pilot. The air carrier shall take such actions as may be necessary to protect the privacy of the individual and the confidentiality of the records accessed, including ensuring that information contained in the records is not divulged to any individual that is not directly involved in the hiring decision.

(B) Disclosure of information.—

(i) In general.—Except as provided by clause (ii), information collected by the Administrator under paragraph (2) shall be exempt from the disclosure requirements of section 552(b)(3)(B) of title 5.

(ii) Exceptions.—Clause (i) shall not apply to—

(I) deidentified, summarized information to explain the need for changes in policies and regulations;

(II) information to correct a condition that compromises safety;

(III) information to carry out a criminal investigation or prosecution;

(IV) information to comply with section 44905, regarding information about threats to civil aviation; and

(V) such information as the Administrator determines necessary, if withholding the information would not be consistent with the safety responsibilities of the Federal Aviation Administration.

(10) Periodic review.—Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this paragraph, and at least once every 3 years thereafter, the Administrator shall transmit to Congress a statement that contains, taking into account recent developments in the aviation industry—

(A) recommendations by the Administrator concerning proposed changes to Federal Aviation Administration records, air carrier records, and other records required to be included in the database under paragraph (2); or

(B) reasons why the Administrator does not recommend any proposed changes to the records referred to in subparagraph (A).

(11) Regulations for protection and security of records.—The Administrator shall prescribe such regulations as may be necessary—

(A) to protect and secure—

(i) the personal privacy of any individual whose records are accessed under paragraph (1); and

(ii) the confidentiality of those records; and

(B) to preclude the further dissemination of records received under paragraph (1) by the person who accessed the records.

(12) Good faith exception.—Notwithstanding paragraph (1), an air carrier may allow an individual to begin service as a pilot, without first obtaining information described in paragraph (2)(B) from the database pertaining to the individual, if—

(A) the air carrier has made a documented good faith attempt to access the information from the database; and

(B) the air carrier has received written notice from the Administrator that the information is not contained in the database because the individual was employed by an air carrier or other person that no longer exists or by a foreign government or other entity that has not provided the information to the database.

(13) Limitations on electronic access to records.—

(A) Access by individuals designated by air carriers.—For the purpose of increasing timely and efficient access to records described in paragraph (2), the Administrator may allow, under terms established by the Administrator, an individual designated by an air carrier to have electronic access to the database.

(B) Terms.—The terms established by the Administrator under subparagraph (A) for allowing a designated individual to have electronic access to the database shall limit such access to instances in which information in the database is required by the designated individual in making a hiring decision concerning a pilot applicant and shall require that the designated individual provide assurances satisfactory to the Administrator that—

(i) the designated individual has received the written consent of the pilot applicant to access the information; and

(ii) information obtained using such access will not be used for any purpose other than making the hiring decision.

(14) Authorized expenditures.—Of amounts appropriated under section 106(k)(1), a total of $6,000,000 for fiscal years 2010 through 2013 may be used to carry out this subsection.

(15) Regulations.—

(A) In general.—The Administrator shall issue regulations to carry out this subsection.

(B) Effective date.—The regulations shall specify the date on which the requirements of this subsection take effect and the date on which the requirements of subsection (h) cease to be effective.

(C) Exceptions.—Notwithstanding subparagraph (B)—

(i) the Administrator shall begin to establish the database under paragraph (2) not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this paragraph;

(ii) the Administrator shall maintain records in accordance with paragraph (5) beginning on the date of enactment of this paragraph; and

(iii) air carriers and other persons shall maintain records to be reported to the database under paragraph (4)(B) in the period beginning on such date of enactment and ending on the date that is 5 years after the requirements of subsection (h) cease to be effective pursuant to subparagraph (B).

(16) Special rule.—During the one-year period beginning on the date on which the requirements of this section become effective pursuant to paragraph (15)(B), paragraph (7)(A) shall be applied by substituting "45 days" for "30 days".

(j) Limitations on Liability; Preemption of State Law.—

(1) Limitation on liability.—No action or proceeding may be brought by or on behalf of an individual who has applied for or is seeking a position with an air carrier as a pilot and who has signed a release from liability, as provided for under subsection (h)(2) or (i)(3), against—

(A) the air carrier requesting the records of that individual under subsection (h)(1) or accessing the records of that individual under subsection (i)(1);

(B) a person who has complied with such request;

(C) a person who has entered information contained in the individual's records; or

(D) an agent or employee of a person described in subparagraph (A) or (B);

in the nature of an action for defamation, invasion of privacy, negligence, interference with contract, or otherwise, or under any Federal or State law with respect to the furnishing or use of such records in accordance with subsection (h) or (i).

(2) Preemption.—No State or political subdivision thereof may enact, prescribe, issue, continue in effect, or enforce any law (including any regulation, standard, or other provision having the force and effect of law) that prohibits, penalizes, or imposes liability for furnishing or using records in accordance with subsection (h) or (i).

(3) Provision of knowingly false information.—Paragraphs (1) and (2) shall not apply with respect to a person who furnishes information in response to a request made under subsection (h)(1) or who furnished information to the database established under subsection (i)(2), that—

(A) the person knows is false; and

(B) was maintained in violation of a criminal statute of the United States.

(4) Prohibition on actions and proceedings against air carriers.—

(A) Hiring decisions.—An air carrier may refuse to hire an individual as a pilot if the individual did not provide written consent for the air carrier to receive records under subsection (h)(2)(A) or (i)(3)(A) or did not execute the release from liability requested under subsection (h)(2)(B) or (i)(3)(B).

(B) Actions and proceedings.—No action or proceeding may be brought against an air carrier by or on behalf of an individual who has applied for or is seeking a position as a pilot with the air carrier if the air carrier refused to hire the individual after the individual did not provide written consent for the air carrier to receive records under subsection (h)(2)(A) or (i)(3)(A) or did not execute a release from liability requested under subsection (h)(2)(B) or (i)(3)(B).

(k) Limitation on Statutory Construction.—Nothing in subsection (h) or (i) shall be construed as precluding the availability of the records of a pilot in an investigation or other proceeding concerning an accident or incident conducted by the Administrator, the National Transportation Safety Board, or a court.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1186; Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §715, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 162; Pub. L. 107–71, title I, §§129, 138(b), 140(a), Nov. 19, 2001, 115 Stat. 633, 640, 641; Pub. L. 111–216, title II, §203, Aug. 1, 2010, 124 Stat. 2352; Pub. L. 111–249, §6(3), (4), Sept. 30, 2010, 124 Stat. 2629; Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §§301(a), 310(c), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 56, 65; Pub. L. 112–153, §2(c)(1), Aug. 3, 2012, 126 Stat. 1160; Pub. L. 114–125, title VIII, §802(d)(2), Feb. 24, 2016, 130 Stat. 210; Pub. L. 114–190, title II, §2101, July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 619.)

In subsections (a)–(d), the word "Administrator" in section 602(a), (b)(1), and (c) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 776) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

In subsection (a), the text of 49 App.:1422(b) (1st sentence) is omitted as surplus. The words "is qualified" are substituted for "possesses proper qualifications" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "to be authorized by the certificate" are substituted for "for which the airman certificate is sought" for clarity.

In subsection (b)(1)(C), the words "conditions, and limitations" are omitted as being included in "terms".

In subsection (b)(1)(E), the word "designate" is substituted for "be entitled with the designation of" to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (c)(1), before clause (A), the words "may appeal . . . to" are substituted for "may file with . . . a petition for review of the Secretary of Transportation's action" for consistency with section 1109 of the revised title. The words "the individual holds a certificate that" are substituted for "persons whose certificates" for clarity.

In subsection (c)(2), the words "conduct a hearing on the appeal" are substituted for "thereupon assign such petition for hearing" for consistency. The words "In the conduct of such hearing and in determining whether the airman meets the pertinent rules, regulations, or standards" are omitted as surplus. The word "Administrator" is substituted for "Federal Aviation Administration" because of 49:106(b) and (g). The words "meets the applicable regulations" are substituted for "meets the pertinent rules, regulations" because "rules" and "regulations" are synonymous and for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (d), before clause (1), the words "in his discretion" are omitted as surplus. In clause (2), the words "the terms of" and "entered into" are omitted as surplus. The words "government of a foreign country" are substituted for "foreign governments" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (f)(1), before clause (A), the words "established under this chapter" and "to pilots" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (f)(2), the words "Not later than September 18, 1989" and "final" are omitted as obsolete. The words "Administrator of Drug Enforcement" are substituted for "Drug Enforcement Administration of the Department of Justice" because of section 5(a) of Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1973 (eff. July 1, 1973, 87 Stat. 1092). The words "Commissioner of Customs" are substituted for "United States Customs Service" because of 19:2071.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century, referred to in subsec. (c)(1), (3), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 106–181, which was approved Apr. 5, 2000.

The date of the enactment of the Pilot Records Improvement Act of 1996, referred to in subsec. (h)(12), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 104–264, which was approved Oct. 9, 1996.

The date of enactment of this paragraph, referred to in subsec. (i)(4)(B)(ii), (10), (15)(C), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 111–216, which was approved Aug. 1, 2010.

Codification

The text of section 44936(f) to (h) of this title, which was transferred to the end of this section, redesignated as subsecs. (h) to (j), respectively, and amended by Pub. L. 107–71, §§138(b), 140(a), was based on Pub. L. 104–264, title V, §502(a), Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3259; amended Pub. L. 105–102, §2(25), Nov. 20, 1997, 111 Stat. 2205; Pub. L. 105–142, §1, Dec. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 2650; Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §508(b), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 140.

Amendments

2016—Subsec. (i)(2). Pub. L. 114–190 substituted "Not later than April 30, 2017, the Administrator shall establish and make available for use" for "The Administrator shall establish".

2012—Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 112–153 struck out "but is bound by all validly adopted interpretations of laws and regulations the Administrator carries out unless the Board finds an interpretation is arbitrary, capricious, or otherwise not according to law" after "Federal Aviation Administration".

Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 112–95, §301(a), added par. (3).

Subsec. (i)(9)(B)(i). Pub. L. 112–95, §310(c), substituted "section 552(b)(3)(B) of title 5" for "section 552 of title 5".

2010—Subsec. (h)(16). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(a), added par. (16).

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(b)(2), added subsec. (i). Former subsec. (i) redesignated (j).

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(c)(1)(A), as amended by Pub. L. 111–249, §6(3), substituted "Limitations" for "Limitation" in heading.

Pub. L. 111–216, §203(b)(1), redesignated subsec. (i) as (j). Former subsec. (j) redesignated (k).

Subsec. (j)(1). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(c)(1)(B)(i), (iii), as amended by Pub. L. 111–249, §6(3), substituted "subsection (h)(2) or (i)(3)" for "paragraph (2)" in introductory provisions and "subsection (h) or (i)" for "subsection (h)" in concluding provisions.

Subsec. (j)(1)(A). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(c)(1)(B)(ii), as amended by Pub. L. 111–249, §6(3), inserted "or accessing the records of that individual under subsection (i)(1)" before semicolon.

Subsec. (j)(2). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(c)(1)(C), as amended by Pub. L. 111–249, §6(3), substituted "subsection (h) or (i)" for "subsection (h)".

Subsec. (j)(3). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(c)(1)(D), as amended by Pub. L. 111–249, §6(3), inserted "or who furnished information to the database established under subsection (i)(2)" after "subsection (h)(1)" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (j)(4). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(c)(1)(E), as amended by Pub. L. 111–249, §6(3), added par. (4).

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 111–216, §203(c)(2), as amended by Pub. L. 111–249, §6(4), substituted "subsection (h) or (i)" for "subsection (h)".

Pub. L. 111–216, §203(b)(1), redesignated subsec. (j) as (k).

2001—Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 107–71, §129(1), in first sentence, substituted "needs of airmen" for "needs of pilots" and inserted "and related to combating acts of terrorism" before period at end.

Subsec. (g)(3), (4). Pub. L. 107–71, §129(2), added pars. (3) and (4).

Subsecs. (h) to (j). Pub. L. 107–71, §§138(b), 140(a), amended section identically, redesignating subsecs. (f) to (h) of section 44936 of this title as subsecs. (h) to (j), respectively, of this section, and substituting "subsection (h)" for "subsection (f)" wherever appearing in subsecs. (i) and (j). See Codification note above.

2000—Subsecs. (c) to (g). Pub. L. 106–181 added subsec. (c) and redesignated former subsecs. (c) to (f) as (d) to (g), respectively.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection" substituted for "Commissioner of Customs" in subsec. (g)(2) on authority of section 802(d)(2) of Pub. L. 114–125, set out as a note under section 211 of Title 6, Domestic Security.

Effective Date of 2010 Amendment

Pub. L. 111–249, §6, Sept. 30, 2010, 124 Stat. 2628, provided that the amendments made by section 6 of Pub. L. 111–249 are effective as of Aug. 1, 2010, and as if included in Pub. L. 111–216 as enacted.

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Termination Date

Subsec. (h) of this section ceases to be effective beginning on Sept. 9, 2024, see 14 C.F.R. §111.5(b).

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the United States Customs Service of the Department of the Treasury, including functions of the Secretary of the Treasury relating thereto, to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 203(1), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6. For establishment of U.S. Customs and Border Protection in the Department of Homeland Security, treated as if included in Pub. L. 107–296 as of Nov. 25, 2002, see section 211 of Title 6, as amended generally by Pub. L. 114–125, and section 802(b) of Pub. L. 114–125, set out as a note under section 211 of Title 6.

Deemed References to Chapters 509 and 511 of Title 51

General references to "this title" deemed to refer also to chapters 509 and 511 of Title 51, National and Commercial Space Programs, see section 4(d)(8) of Pub. L. 111–314, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Applicability of Medical Certification Standards to Operators of Air Balloons

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §318, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3269, provided that:

"(a) Short Title.—This section may be cited as the 'Commercial Balloon Pilot Safety Act of 2018'.

"(b) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall revise section 61.3(c) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to second-class medical certificates), to apply to an operator of an air balloon to the same extent such regulations apply to a pilot flight crewmember of other aircraft.

"(c) Air Balloon Defined.—In this section, the term 'air balloon' has the meaning given the term 'balloon' in section 1.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any corresponding similar regulation or ruling)."

Designated Pilot Examiner Reforms

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §319, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3269, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall assign to the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (in this section referred to as the 'Committee') the task of reviewing all regulations and policies related to designated pilot examiners appointed under section 183.23 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. The Committee shall focus on the processes and requirements by which the FAA [Federal Aviation Administration] selects, trains, and deploys individuals as designated pilot examiners, and provide recommendations with respect to the regulatory and policy changes necessary to ensure an adequate number of designated pilot examiners are deployed and available to perform their duties. The Committee also shall make recommendations with respect to the regulatory and policy changes if necessary to allow a designated pilot examiner perform a daily limit of 3 new check rides with no limit for partial check rides and to serve as a designed pilot examiner without regard to any individual managing office.

"(b) Action Based on Recommendations.—Not later than 1 year after receiving recommendations under subsection (a), the Administrator shall take such action as the Administrator considers appropriate with respect to those recommendations."

Public Aircraft Eligible for Logging Flight Times

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §517, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3359, provided that: "The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall issue regulations modifying section 61.51(j)(4) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, so as to include aircraft under the direct operational control of forestry and fire protection agencies as public aircraft eligible for logging flight times."

Portability of Repairman Certificates

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §582, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3399, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall assign to the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee the task of making recommendations with respect to the regulatory and policy changes, as appropriate, to allow a repairman certificate issued under section 65.101 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to be portable from one employing certificate holder to another.

"(b) Action Based on Recommendations.—Not later than 1 year after receiving recommendations under subsection (a), the Administrator may take such action as the Administrator considers appropriate with respect to those recommendations."

Medical Certification of Certain Small Aircraft Pilots

Pub. L. 114–190, title II, §2307, July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 641, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [July 15, 2016], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue or revise regulations to ensure that an individual may operate as pilot in command of a covered aircraft if—

"(1) the individual possesses a valid driver's license issued by a State, territory, or possession of the United States and complies with all medical requirements or restrictions associated with that license;

"(2) the individual holds a medical certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration on the date of enactment of this Act, held such a certificate at any point during the 10-year period preceding such date of enactment, or obtains such a certificate after such date of enactment;

"(3) the most recent medical certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration to the individual—

"(A) indicates whether the certificate is first, second, or third class;

"(B) may include authorization for special issuance;

"(C) may be expired;

"(D) cannot have been revoked or suspended; and

"(E) cannot have been withdrawn;

"(4) the most recent application for airman medical certification submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration by the individual cannot have been completed and denied;

"(5) the individual has completed a medical education course described in subsection (c) during the 24 calendar months before acting as pilot in command of a covered aircraft and demonstrates proof of completion of the course;

"(6) the individual, when serving as a pilot in command, is under the care and treatment of a physician if the individual has been diagnosed with any medical condition that may impact the ability of the individual to fly;

"(7) the individual has received a comprehensive medical examination from a State-licensed physician during the previous 48 months and—

"(A) prior to the examination, the individual—

"(i) completed the individual's section of the checklist described in subsection (b); and

"(ii) provided the completed checklist to the physician performing the examination; and

"(B) the physician conducted the comprehensive medical examination in accordance with the checklist described in subsection (b), checking each item specified during the examination and addressing, as medically appropriate, every medical condition listed, and any medications the individual is taking; and

"(8) the individual is operating in accordance with the following conditions:

"(A) The covered aircraft is carrying not more than 5 passengers.

"(B) The individual is operating the covered aircraft under visual flight rules or instrument flight rules.

"(C) The flight, including each portion of that flight, is not carried out—

"(i) for compensation or hire, including that no passenger or property on the flight is being carried for compensation or hire;

"(ii) at an altitude that is more than 18,000 feet above mean sea level;

"(iii) outside the United States, unless authorized by the country in which the flight is conducted; or

"(iv) at an indicated air speed exceeding 250 knots.

"(b) Comprehensive Medical Examination.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [July 15, 2016], the Administrator shall develop a checklist for an individual to complete and provide to the physician performing the comprehensive medical examination required in subsection (a)(7).

"(2) Requirements.—The checklist shall contain—

"(A) a section, for the individual to complete that contains—

"(i) boxes 3 through 13 and boxes 16 through 19 of the Federal Aviation Administration Form 8500–8 (3–99); and

"(ii) a signature line for the individual to affirm that—

     "(I) the answers provided by the individual on that checklist, including the individual's answers regarding medical history, are true and complete;

     "(II) the individual understands that he or she is prohibited under Federal Aviation Administration regulations from acting as pilot in command, or any other capacity as a required flight crew member, if he or she knows or has reason to know of any medical deficiency or medically disqualifying condition that would make the individual unable to operate the aircraft in a safe manner; and

     "(III) the individual is aware of the regulations pertaining to the prohibition on operations during medical deficiency and has no medically disqualifying conditions in accordance with applicable law;

"(B) a section with instructions for the individual to provide the completed checklist to the physician performing the comprehensive medical examination required in subsection (a)(7); and

"(C) a section, for the physician to complete, that instructs the physician—

"(i) to perform a clinical examination of—

     "(I) head, face, neck, and scalp;

     "(II) nose, sinuses, mouth, and throat;

     "(III) ears, general (internal and external canals), and eardrums (perforation);

     "(IV) eyes (general), ophthalmoscopic, pupils (equality and reaction), and ocular motility (associated parallel movement, nystagmus);

     "(V) lungs and chest (not including breast examination);

     "(VI) heart (precordial activity, rhythm, sounds, and murmurs);

     "(VII) vascular system (pulse, amplitude, and character, and arms, legs, and others);

     "(VIII) abdomen and viscera (including hernia);

     "(IX) anus (not including digital examination);

     "(X) skin;

     "(XI) G–U system (not including pelvic examination);

     "(XII) upper and lower extremities (strength and range of motion);

     "(XIII) spine and other musculoskeletal;

     "(XIV) identifying body marks, scars, and tattoos (size and location);

     "(XV) lymphatics;

     "(XVI) neurologic (tendon reflexes, equilibrium, senses, cranial nerves, and coordination, etc.);

     "(XVII) psychiatric (appearance, behavior, mood, communication, and memory);

     "(XVIII) general systemic;

     "(XIX) hearing;

     "(XX) vision (distant, near, and intermediate vision, field of vision, color vision, and ocular alignment);

     "(XXI) blood pressure and pulse; and

     "(XXII) anything else the physician, in his or her medical judgment, considers necessary;

"(ii) to exercise medical discretion to address, as medically appropriate, any medical conditions identified, and to exercise medical discretion in determining whether any medical tests are warranted as part of the comprehensive medical examination;

"(iii) to discuss all drugs the individual reports taking (prescription and nonprescription) and their potential to interfere with the safe operation of an aircraft or motor vehicle;

"(iv) to sign the checklist, stating: 'I certify that I discussed all items on this checklist with the individual during my examination, discussed any medications the individual is taking that could interfere with their ability to safely operate an aircraft or motor vehicle, and performed an examination that included all of the items on this checklist. I certify that I am not aware of any medical condition that, as presently treated, could interfere with the individual's ability to safely operate an aircraft.'; and

"(v) to provide the date the comprehensive medical examination was completed, and the physician's full name, address, telephone number, and State medical license number.

"(3) Logbook.—The completed checklist shall be retained in the individual's logbook and made available on request.

"(c) Medical Education Course Requirements.—The medical education course described in this subsection shall—

"(1) be available on the Internet free of charge;

"(2) be developed and periodically updated in coordination with representatives of relevant nonprofit and not-for-profit general aviation stakeholder groups;

"(3) educate pilots on conducting medical self-assessments;

"(4) advise pilots on identifying warning signs of potential serious medical conditions;

"(5) identify risk mitigation strategies for medical conditions;

"(6) increase awareness of the impacts of potentially impairing over-the-counter and prescription drug medications;

"(7) encourage regular medical examinations and consultations with primary care physicians;

"(8) inform pilots of the regulations pertaining to the prohibition on operations during medical deficiency and medically disqualifying conditions;

"(9) provide the checklist developed by the Federal Aviation Administration in accordance with subsection (b); and

"(10) upon successful completion of the course, electronically provide to the individual and transmit to the Federal Aviation Administration—

"(A) a certification of completion of the medical education course, which shall be printed and retained in the individual's logbook and made available upon request, and shall contain the individual's name, address, and airman certificate number;

"(B) subject to subsection (d), a release authorizing the National Driver Register through a designated State Department of Motor Vehicles to furnish to the Federal Aviation Administration information pertaining to the individual's driving record;

"(C) a certification by the individual that the individual is under the care and treatment of a physician if the individual has been diagnosed with any medical condition that may impact the ability of the individual to fly, as required under subsection (a)(6);

"(D) a form that includes—

"(i) the name, address, telephone number, and airman certificate number of the individual;

"(ii) the name, address, telephone number, and State medical license number of the physician performing the comprehensive medical examination required in subsection (a)(7);

"(iii) the date of the comprehensive medical examination required in subsection (a)(7); and

"(iv) a certification by the individual that the checklist described in subsection (b) was followed and signed by the physician in the comprehensive medical examination required in subsection (a)(7); and

"(E) a statement, which shall be printed, and signed by the individual certifying that the individual understands the existing prohibition on operations during medical deficiency by stating: 'I understand that I cannot act as pilot in command, or any other capacity as a required flight crew member, if I know or have reason to know of any medical condition that would make me unable to operate the aircraft in a safe manner.'.

"(d) National Driver Register.—The authorization under subsection (c)(10)(B) shall be an authorization for a single access to the information contained in the National Driver Register.

"(e) Special Issuance Process.—

"(1) In general.—An individual who has qualified for the third-class medical certificate exemption under subsection (a) and is seeking to serve as a pilot in command of a covered aircraft shall be required to have completed the process for obtaining an Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate for each of the following:

"(A) A mental health disorder, limited to an established medical history or clinical diagnosis of—

"(i) personality disorder that is severe enough to have repeatedly manifested itself by overt acts;

"(ii) psychosis, defined as a case in which an individual—

     "(I) has manifested delusions, hallucinations, grossly bizarre or disorganized behavior, or other commonly accepted symptoms of psychosis; or

     "(II) may reasonably be expected to manifest delusions, hallucinations, grossly bizarre or disorganized behavior, or other commonly accepted symptoms of psychosis;

"(iii) bipolar disorder; or

"(iv) substance dependence within the previous 2 years, as defined in section 67.307(a)(4) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(B) A neurological disorder, limited to an established medical history or clinical diagnosis of any of the following:

"(i) Epilepsy.

"(ii) Disturbance of consciousness without satisfactory medical explanation of the cause.

"(iii) A transient loss of control of nervous system functions without satisfactory medical explanation of the cause.

"(C) A cardiovascular condition, limited to a one-time special issuance for each diagnosis of the following:

"(i) Myocardial infraction [sic].

"(ii) Coronary heart disease that has required treatment.

"(iii) Cardiac valve replacement.

"(iv) Heart replacement.

"(2) Special rule for cardiovascular conditions.—In the case of an individual with a cardiovascular condition, the process for obtaining an Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate shall be satisfied with the successful completion of an appropriate clinical evaluation without a mandatory wait period.

"(3) Special rule for mental health conditions.—

"(A) In general.—In the case of an individual with a clinically diagnosed mental health condition, the third-class medical certificate exemption under subsection (a) shall not apply if—

"(i) in the judgment of the individual's State-licensed medical specialist, the condition—

     "(I) renders the individual unable to safely perform the duties or exercise the airman privileges described in subsection (a)(8); or

     "(II) may reasonably be expected to make the individual unable to perform the duties or exercise the privileges described in subsection (a)(8); or

"(ii) the individual's driver's license is revoked by the issuing agency as a result of a clinically diagnosed mental health condition.

"(B) Certification.—Subject to subparagraph (A), an individual clinically diagnosed with a mental health condition shall certify every 2 years, in conjunction with the certification under subsection (c)(10)(C), that the individual is under the care of a State-licensed medical specialist for that mental health condition.

"(4) Special rule for neurological conditions.—

"(A) In general.—In the case of an individual with a clinically diagnosed neurological condition, the third-class medical certificate exemption under subsection (a) shall not apply if—

"(i) in the judgment of the individual's State-licensed medical specialist, the condition—

     "(I) renders the individual unable to safely perform the duties or exercise the airman privileges described in subsection (a)(8); or

     "(II) may reasonably be expected to make the individual unable to perform the duties or exercise the privileges described in subsection (a)(8); or

"(ii) the individual's driver's license is revoked by the issuing agency as a result of a clinically diagnosed neurological condition.

"(B) Certification.—Subject to subparagraph (A), an individual clinically diagnosed with a neurological condition shall certify every 2 years, in conjunction with the certification under subsection (c)(10)(C), that the individual is under the care of a State-licensed medical specialist for that neurological condition.

"(f) Identification of Additional Medical Conditions for CACI Program.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [July 15, 2016], the Administrator shall review and identify additional medical conditions that could be added to the program known as the Conditions AMEs Can Issue (CACI) program.

"(2) Consultations.—In carrying out paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consult with aviation, medical, and union stakeholders.

"(3) Report required.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report listing the medical conditions that have been added to the CACI program under paragraph (1).

"(g) Expedited Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator shall implement procedures to expedite the process for obtaining an Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate under section 67.401 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(2) Consultations.—In carrying out paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consult with aviation, medical, and union stakeholders.

"(3) Report required.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report describing how the procedures implemented under paragraph (1) will streamline the process for obtaining an Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate and reduce the amount of time needed to review and decide special issuance cases.

"(h) Report Required.—Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in coordination with the National Transportation Safety Board, shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that describes the effect of the regulations issued or revised under subsection (a) and includes statistics with respect to changes in small aircraft activity and safety incidents.

"(i) Prohibition on Enforcement Actions.—Beginning on the date that is 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator may not take an enforcement action for not holding a valid third-class medical certificate against a pilot of a covered aircraft for a flight if the pilot and the flight meet, through a good faith effort, the applicable requirements under subsection (a), except paragraph (5) of that subsection, unless the Administrator has published final regulations in the Federal Register under that subsection.

"(j) Covered Aircraft Defined.—In this section, the term 'covered aircraft' means an aircraft that—

"(1) is authorized under Federal law to carry not more than 6 occupants; and

"(2) has a maximum certificated takeoff weight of not more than 6,000 pounds.

"(k) Operations Covered.—The provisions and requirements covered in this section do not apply to pilots who elect to operate under the medical requirements under subsection (b) or subsection (c) of section 61.23 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(l) Authority To Require Additional Information.—

"(1) In general.—If the Administrator receives credible or urgent information, including from the National Driver Register or the Administrator's Safety Hotline, that reflects on an individual's ability to safely operate a covered aircraft under the third-class medical certificate exemption in subsection (a), the Administrator may require the individual to provide additional information or history so that the Administrator may determine whether the individual is safe to continue operating a covered aircraft.

"(2) Use of information.—The Administrator may use credible or urgent information received under paragraph (1) to request an individual to provide additional information or to take actions under section 44709(b) of title 49, United States Code."

Federal Aviation Administration Enforcement Proceedings and Elimination of Deference

Pub. L. 112–153, §2, Aug. 3, 2012, 126 Stat. 1159, as amended by Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §392, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3323, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Any proceeding conducted under subpart C, D, or F of part 821 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, relating to denial, amendment, modification, suspension, or revocation of an airman certificate, shall be conducted, to the extent practicable, in accordance with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure [28 U.S.C. App.] and the Federal Rules of Evidence [28 U.S.C. App.].

"(b) Access to Information.—

"(1) In general.—Except as provided under paragraph (3), the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (referred to in this section as the 'Administrator') shall provide timely, written notification to an individual who is the subject of an investigation relating to the approval, denial, suspension, modification, or revocation of an airman certificate under chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code.

"(2) Information required.—The notification required under paragraph (1) shall inform the individual—

"(A) of the nature of the investigation and the specific activity on which the investigation is based;

"(B) that an oral or written response to a Letter of Investigation from the Administrator is not required;

"(C) that no action or adverse inference can be taken against the individual for declining to respond to a Letter of Investigation from the Administrator;

"(D) that any response to a Letter of Investigation from the Administrator or to an inquiry made by a representative of the Administrator by the individual may be used as evidence against the individual;

"(E) that the releasable portions of the Administrator's investigative report will be available to the individual; and

"(F) that the individual is entitled to access or otherwise obtain air traffic data described in paragraph (4).

"(3) Exception.—The Administrator may delay notification under paragraph (1) if the Administrator determines that such notification may threaten the integrity of the investigation.

"(4) Access to air traffic data.—

"(A) FAA air traffic data.—The Administrator shall provide an individual described in paragraph (1) with timely access to any air traffic data in the possession of the Federal Aviation Administration that would facilitate the individual's ability to productively participate in a proceeding relating to an investigation described in such paragraph.

"(B) Air traffic data defined.—As used in subparagraph (A), the term 'air traffic data' includes—

"(i) relevant air traffic communication tapes;

"(ii) radar information;

"(iii) air traffic controller statements;

"(iv) flight data;

"(v) investigative reports; and

"(vi) any other air traffic or flight data in the Federal Aviation Administration's possession that would facilitate the individual's ability to productively participate in the proceeding.

"(C) Government contractor air traffic data.—

"(i) In general.—Any individual described in paragraph (1) is entitled to obtain any air traffic data that would facilitate the individual's ability to productively participate in a proceeding relating to an investigation described in such paragraph from a government contractor that provides operational services to the Federal Aviation Administration, including control towers and flight service stations.

"(ii) Required information from individual.—The individual may obtain the information described in clause (i) by submitting a request to the Administrator that—

     "(I) describes the facility at which such information is located; and

     "(II) identifies the date on which such information was generated.

"(iii) Provision of information to individual.—If the Administrator receives a request under this subparagraph, the Administrator shall—

     "(I) request the contractor to provide the requested information; and

     "(II) upon receiving such information, transmitting the information to the requesting individual in a timely manner.

"(5) Timing.—Except when the Administrator determines that an emergency exists under section 44709(e)(2) or 46105(c) [of title 49, United States Code], the Administrator may not proceed against an individual that is the subject of an investigation described in paragraph (1) during the 30-day period beginning on the date on which the air traffic data required under paragraph (4) is made available to the individual.

"(c) Amendments to Title 49.—

"(1) Airman certificates.—[Amended this section.]

"(2) Amendments, modifications, suspensions, and revocations of certificates.—[Amended section 44709 of this title.]

"(3) Revocation of airman certificates for controlled substance violations.—[Amended section 44710 of this title.]

"(d) Appeal From Certificate Actions.—

"(1) In general.—Upon a decision by the National Transportation Safety Board upholding an order or a final decision by the Administrator denying an airman certificate under section 44703(d) of title 49, United States Code, or imposing a punitive civil action or an emergency order of revocation under subsections (d) and (e) of section 44709 of such title, an individual substantially affected by an order of the Board may, at the individual's election, file an appeal in the United States district court in which the individual resides or in which the action in question occurred, or in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. If the individual substantially affected by an order of the Board elects not to file an appeal in a United States district court, the individual may file an appeal in an appropriate United States court of appeals.

"(2) Emergency order pending judicial review.—Subsequent to a decision by the Board to uphold an Administrator's emergency order under section 44709(e)(2) of title 49, United States Code, and absent a stay of the enforcement of that order by the Board, the emergency order of amendment, modification, suspension, or revocation of a certificate shall remain in effect, pending the exhaustion of an appeal to a Federal district court as provided in this Act [amending this section and sections 44709 and 44710 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 40101 and 44701 of this title].

"(e) Standard of Review.—

"(1) In general.—In an appeal filed under subsection (d) in a United States district court, the district court shall give full independent review of a denial, suspension, or revocation ordered by the Administrator, including substantive independent and expedited review of any decision by the Administrator to make such order effective immediately.

"(2) Evidence.—A United States district court's review under paragraph (1) shall include in evidence any record of the proceeding before the Administrator and any record of the proceeding before the National Transportation Safety Board, including hearing testimony, transcripts, exhibits, decisions, and briefs submitted by the parties.

"(f) Release of Investigative Reports.—

"(1) In general.—

"(A) Emergency orders.—In any proceeding conducted under part 821 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, relating to the amendment, modification, suspension, or revocation of an airman certificate, in which the Administrator issues an emergency order under subsections (d) and (e) of section 44709, section 44710, or section 46105(c) of title 49, United States Code, or another order that takes effect immediately, the Administrator shall provide, upon request, to the individual holding the airman certificate the releasable portion of the investigative report at the time the Administrator issues the order. If the complete Report of Investigation is not available at the time of the request, the Administrator shall issue all portions of the report that are available at the time and shall provide the full report not later than 5 days after its completion.

"(B) Other orders.—In any nonemergency proceeding conducted under part 821 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, relating to the amendment, modification, suspension, or revocation of an airman certificate, in which the Administrator notifies the certificate holder of a proposed certificate action under subsections (b) and (c) of section 44709 or section 44710 of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator shall, upon the written request of the covered certificate holder and at any time after that notification, provide to the covered certificate holder the releasable portion of the investigative report.

"(2) Motion for dismissal.—If the Administrator does not provide the releasable portions of the investigative report to the individual holding the airman certificate subject to the proceeding referred to in paragraph (1) by the time required by that paragraph, the individual may move to dismiss the complaint of the Administrator or for other relief and, unless the Administrator establishes good cause for the failure to provide the investigative report or for a lack of timeliness, the administrative law judge shall order such relief as the judge considers appropriate.

"(3) Releasable portion of investigative report.—For purposes of paragraph (1), the releasable portion of an investigative report is all information in the report, except for the following:

"(A) Information that is privileged.

"(B) Information that constitutes work product or reflects internal deliberative process.

"(C) Information that would disclose the identity of a confidential source.

"(D) Information the disclosure of which is prohibited by any other provision of law.

"(E) Information that is not relevant to the subject matter of the proceeding.

"(F) Information the Administrator can demonstrate is withheld for good cause.

"(G) Sensitive security information, as defined in section 15.5 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or any corresponding similar ruling or regulation).

"(4) Rule of construction.—Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prevent the Administrator from releasing to an individual subject to an investigation described in subsection (b)(1)—

"(A) information in addition to the information included in the releasable portion of the investigative report; or

"(B) a copy of the investigative report before the Administrator issues a complaint."

Medical Certification

Pub. L. 112–153, §4, Aug. 3, 2012, 126 Stat. 1162, provided that:

"(a) Assessment.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 3, 2012], the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate an assessment of the Federal Aviation Administration's medical certification process and the associated medical standards and forms.

"(2) Report.—The Comptroller General shall submit a report to Congress based on the assessment required under paragraph (1) that examines—

"(A) revisions to the medical application form that would provide greater clarity and guidance to applicants;

"(B) the alignment of medical qualification policies with present-day qualified medical judgment and practices, as applied to an individual's medically relevant circumstances; and

"(C) steps that could be taken to promote the public's understanding of the medical requirements that determine an airman's medical certificate eligibility.

"(b) Goals of the Federal Aviation Administration's Medical Certification Process.—The goals of the Federal Aviation Administration's medical certification process are—

"(1) to provide questions in the medical application form that—

"(A) are appropriate without being overly broad;

"(B) are subject to a minimum amount of misinterpretation and mistaken responses;

"(C) allow for consistent treatment and responses during the medical application process; and

"(D) avoid unnecessary allegations that an individual has intentionally falsified answers on the form;

"(2) to provide questions that elicit information that is relevant to making a determination of an individual's medical qualifications within the standards identified in the Administrator's regulations;

"(3) to give medical standards greater meaning by ensuring the information requested aligns with present-day medical judgment and practices; and

"(4) to ensure that—

"(A) the application of such medical standards provides an appropriate and fair evaluation of an individual's qualifications; and

"(B) the individual understands the basis for determining medical qualifications.

"(c) Advice From Private Sector Groups.—The Administrator shall establish a panel, which shall be comprised of representatives of relevant nonprofit and not-for-profit general aviation pilot groups, aviation medical examiners, and other qualified medical experts, to advise the Administrator in carrying out the goals of the assessment required under this section.

"(d) Federal Aviation Administration Response.—Not later than 1 year after the issuance of the report by the Comptroller General pursuant to subsection (a)(2), the Administrator shall take appropriate actions to respond to such report."

Improved Pilot Licenses

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §321, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 71, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue improved pilot licenses consistent with requirements under this section.

"(b) Timing.—Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall—

"(1) provide to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report containing—

"(A) a timeline for the phased issuance of improved pilot licenses under this section that ensures all pilots are issued such licenses not later than 2 years after the initial issuance of such licenses under paragraph (2); and

"(B) recommendations for the Federal installation of infrastructure necessary to take advantage of information contained on improved pilot licenses issued under this section, which identify the necessary infrastructure, indicate the Federal entity that should be responsible for installing, funding, and operating the infrastructure at airport sterile areas, and provide an estimate of the costs of the infrastructure; and

"(2) begin to issue improved pilot licenses consistent with the requirements of title 49, United States Code, and title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(c) Requirements.—Improved pilot licenses issued under this section shall—

"(1) be resistant to tampering, alteration, and counterfeiting;

"(2) include a photograph of the individual to whom the license is issued for identification purposes; and

"(3) be smart cards that—

"(A) accommodate iris and fingerprint biometric identifiers; and

"(B) are compliant with Federal Information Processing Standards-201 (FIPS–201) or Personal Identity Verification-Interoperability Standards (PIV–I) for processing through security checkpoints into airport sterile areas.

"(d) Tampering.—To the extent practicable, the Administrator shall develop methods to determine or reveal whether any component or security feature of an improved pilot license issued under this section has been tampered with, altered, or counterfeited.

"(e) Use of Designees.—The Administrator may use designees to carry out subsection (a) to the extent practicable in order to minimize the burdens on pilots.

"(f) Report to Congress.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], and annually thereafter, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the issuance of improved pilot licenses under this section.

"(2) Expiration.—The Administrator shall not be required to submit annual reports under this subsection after the date on which the Administrator has issued improved pilot licenses under this section to all pilots."

Pub. L. 108–458, title IV, §4022, Dec. 17, 2004, 118 Stat. 3723, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 17, 2004], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall begin to issue improved pilot licenses consistent with the requirements of title 49, United States Code, and title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(b) Requirements.—Improved pilots licenses issued under subsection (a) shall—

"(1) be resistant to tampering, alteration, and counterfeiting;

"(2) include a photograph of the individual to whom the license is issued; and

"(3) be capable of accommodating a digital photograph, a biometric identifier, or any other unique identifier that the Administrator considers necessary.

"(c) Tampering.—To the extent practical, the Administrator shall develop methods to determine or reveal whether any component or security feature of a license issued under subsection (a) has been tampered, altered, or counterfeited.

"(d) Use of Designees.—The Administrator may use designees to carry out subsection (a) to the extent feasible in order to minimize the burdens on pilots."

Crediting of Law Enforcement Flight Time

Pub. L. 106–424, §14, Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1888, provided that: "In determining whether an individual meets the aeronautical experience requirements imposed under section 44703 of title 49, United States Code, for an airman certificate or rating, the Secretary of Transportation shall take into account any time spent by that individual operating a public aircraft as defined in section 40102 of title 49, United States Code, if that aircraft is—

"(1) identifiable by category and class; and

"(2) used in law enforcement activities."

§44704. Type certificates, production certificates, airworthiness certificates, and design and production organization certificates

(a) Type Certificates.—

(1) Issuance, investigations, and tests.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue a type certificate for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller, or for an appliance specified under paragraph (2)(A) of this subsection when the Administrator finds that the aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance is properly designed and manufactured, performs properly, and meets the regulations and minimum standards prescribed under section 44701(a) of this title. On receiving an application for a type certificate, the Administrator shall investigate the application and may conduct a hearing. The Administrator shall make, or require the applicant to make, tests the Administrator considers necessary in the interest of safety.

(2) Specifications.—The Administrator may—

(A) specify in regulations those appliances that reasonably require a type certificate in the interest of safety;

(B) include in a type certificate terms required in the interest of safety; and

(C) record on the certificate a numerical specification of the essential factors related to the performance of the aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller for which the certificate is issued.

(3) Special rules for new aircraft and appliances.—Except as provided in paragraph (4), if the holder of a type certificate agrees to permit another person to use the certificate to manufacture a new aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance, the holder shall provide the other person with written evidence, in a form acceptable to the Administrator, of that agreement. Such other person may manufacture a new aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance based on a type certificate only if such other person is the holder of the type certificate or has permission from the holder.

(4) Limitation for aircraft manufactured before august 5, 2004.—Paragraph (3) shall not apply to a person who began the manufacture of an aircraft before August 5, 2004, and who demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Administrator that such manufacture began before August 5, 2004, if the name of the holder of the type certificate for the aircraft does not appear on the airworthiness certificate or identification plate of the aircraft. The holder of the type certificate for the aircraft shall not be responsible for the continued airworthiness of the aircraft. A person may invoke the exception provided by this paragraph with regard to the manufacture of only one aircraft.

(5) Release of data.—

(A) In general.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator may make available upon request, to a person seeking to maintain the airworthiness or develop product improvements of an aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance, engineering data in the possession of the Administration relating to a type certificate or a supplemental type certificate for such aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance, without the consent of the owner of record, if the Administrator determines that—

(i) the certificate containing the requested data has been inactive for 3 or more years, except that the Administrator may reduce this time if required to address an unsafe condition associated with the product;

(ii) after using due diligence, the Administrator is unable to find the owner of record, or the owner of record's heir, of the type certificate or supplemental type certificate; and

(iii) making such data available will enhance aviation safety.

(B) Engineering data defined.—In this section, the term "engineering data" as used with respect to an aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance means type design drawing and specifications for the entire aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance or change to the aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance, including the original design data, and any associated supplier data for individual parts or components approved as part of the particular certificate for the aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance.

(C) Requirement to maintain data.—The Administrator shall maintain engineering data in the possession of the Administration relating to a type certificate or a supplemental type certificate that has been inactive for 3 or more years.

(b) Supplemental Type Certificates.—

(1) Issuance.—The Administrator may issue a type certificate designated as a supplemental type certificate for a change to an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance.

(2) Contents.—A supplemental type certificate issued under paragraph (1) shall consist of the change to the aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance with respect to the previously issued type certificate for the aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance.

(3) Requirement.—If the holder of a supplemental type certificate agrees to permit another person to use the certificate to modify an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance, the holder shall provide the other person with written evidence, in a form acceptable to the Administrator, of that agreement. A person may change an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance based on a supplemental type certificate only if the person requesting the change is the holder of the supplemental type certificate or has permission from the holder to make the change.

(c) Production Certificates.—The Administrator shall issue a production certificate authorizing the production of a duplicate of an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance for which a type certificate has been issued when the Administrator finds the duplicate will conform to the certificate. On receiving an application, the Administrator shall inspect, and may require testing of, a duplicate to ensure that it conforms to the requirements of the certificate. The Administrator may include in a production certificate terms required in the interest of safety.

(d) Airworthiness Certificates.—(1) The registered owner of an aircraft may apply to the Administrator for an airworthiness certificate for the aircraft. The Administrator shall issue an airworthiness certificate when the Administrator finds that the aircraft conforms to its type certificate and, after inspection, is in condition for safe operation. The Administrator shall register each airworthiness certificate and may include appropriate information in the certificate. The certificate number or other individual designation the Administrator requires shall be displayed on the aircraft. The Administrator may include in an airworthiness certificate terms required in the interest of safety.

(2) A person applying for the issuance or renewal of an airworthiness certificate for an aircraft for which ownership has not been recorded under section 44107 or 44110 of this title must submit with the application information related to the ownership of the aircraft the Administrator decides is necessary to identify each person having a property interest in the aircraft and the kind and extent of the interest.

(3) Nonconformity with approved type design.—

(A) In general.—Consistent with the requirements of paragraph (1), a holder of a production certificate for an aircraft may not present a nonconforming aircraft, either directly or through the registered owner of such aircraft or a person described in paragraph (2), to the Administrator for issuance of an initial airworthiness certificate.

(B) Civil penalty.—Notwithstanding section 46301, a production certificate holder who knowingly violates subparagraph (A) shall be liable to the Administrator for a civil penalty of not more than $1,000,000 for each nonconforming aircraft.

(C) Penalty considerations.—In determining the amount of a civil penalty under subparagraph (B), the Administrator shall consider—

(i) the nature, circumstances, extent, and gravity of the violation, including the length of time the nonconformity was known by the holder of a production certificate but not disclosed; and

(ii) with respect to the violator, the degree of culpability, any history of prior violations, and the size of the business concern.

(D) Nonconforming aircraft defined.—In this paragraph, the term "nonconforming aircraft" means an aircraft that does not conform to the approved type design for such aircraft type.

(e) Disclosure of Safety Critical Information.—

(1) In general.—Notwithstanding a delegation described in section 44702(d), the Administrator shall require an applicant for, or holder of, a type certificate for a transport category airplane covered under part 25 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to submit safety critical information with respect to such airplane to the Administrator in such form, manner, or time as the Administrator may require. Such safety critical information shall include—

(A) any design and operational details, intended functions, and failure modes of any system that, without being commanded by the flight crew, commands the operation of any safety critical function or feature required for control of an airplane during flight or that otherwise changes the flight path or airspeed of an airplane;

(B) the design and operational details, intended functions, failure modes, and mode annunciations of autopilot and autothrottle systems, if applicable;

(C) any failure or operating condition that the applicant or holder anticipates or has concluded would result in an outcome with a severity level of hazardous or catastrophic, as defined in the appropriate Administration airworthiness requirements and guidance applicable to transport category airplanes defining risk severity;

(D) any adverse handling quality that fails to meet the requirements of applicable regulations without the addition of a software system to augment the flight controls of the airplane to produce compliant handling qualities; and

(E) a system safety assessment with respect to a system described in subparagraph (A) or (B) or with respect to any component or other system for which failure or erroneous operation of such component or system could result in an outcome with a severity level of hazardous or catastrophic, as defined in the appropriate Administration airworthiness requirements and guidance applicable to transport category airplanes defining risk severity.

(2) Ongoing communications.—

(A) Newly discovered information.—The Administrator shall require that an applicant for, or holder of, a type certificate disclose to the Administrator, in such form, manner, or time as the Administrator may require, any newly discovered information or design or analysis change that would materially alter any submission to the Administrator under paragraph (1).

(B) System development changes.—The Administrator shall establish multiple milestones throughout the certification process at which a proposed airplane system will be assessed to determine whether any change to such system during the certification process is such that such system should be considered novel or unusual by the Administrator.

(3) Flight manuals.—The Administrator shall ensure that an airplane flight manual and a flight crew operating manual (as appropriate or applicable) for an airplane contains a description of the operation of a system described in paragraph (1)(A) and flight crew procedures for responding to a failure or aberrant operation of such system.

(4) Civil penalty.—

(A) Amount.—Notwithstanding section 46301, an applicant for, or holder of, a type certificate that knowingly violates paragraph (1), (2), or (3) of this subsection shall be liable to the Administrator for a civil penalty of not more than $1,000,000 for each violation.

(B) Penalty considerations.—In determining the amount of a civil penalty under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall consider—

(i) the nature, circumstances, extent, and gravity of the violation, including the length of time that such safety critical information was known but not disclosed; and

(ii) with respect to the violator, the degree of culpability, any history of prior violations, and the size of the business concern.

(5) Revocation and civil penalty for individuals.—

(A) In general.—The Administrator shall revoke any airline transport pilot certificate issued under section 44703 held by any individual who, while acting on behalf of an applicant for, or holder of, a type certificate, knowingly makes a false statement with respect to any of the matters described in subparagraphs (A) through (E) of paragraph (1).

(B) Authority to impose civil penalty.—The Administrator may impose a civil penalty under section 46301 for each violation described in subparagraph (A).

(6) Rule of construction.—Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to affect or otherwise inhibit the authority of the Administrator to deny an application by an applicant for a type certificate or to revoke or amend a type certificate of a holder of such certificate.

(7) Definition of type certificate.—In this subsection, the term "type certificate"—

(A) means a type certificate issued under subsection (a) or an amendment to such certificate; and

(B) does not include a supplemental type certificate issued under subsection (b).

(f) Hearing Requirement.—The Administrator may find that a person has violated subsection (a)(6) or paragraph (1), (2), or (3) of subsection (e) and impose a civil penalty under the applicable subsection only after notice and an opportunity for a hearing. The Administrator shall provide a person—

(1) written notice of the violation and the amount of penalty; and

(2) the opportunity for a hearing under subpart G of part 13 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

(g) Certification Dispute Resolution.—

(1) Dispute resolution process and appeals.—

(A) In general.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator shall issue an order establishing—

(i) an effective, timely, and milestone-based issue resolution process for type certification activities under subsection (a); and

(ii) a process by which a decision, finding of compliance or noncompliance, or other act of the Administration, with respect to compliance with design requirements, may be appealed by a covered person directly involved with the certification activities in dispute on the basis that such decision, finding, or act is erroneous or inconsistent with this chapter, regulations, or guidance materials promulgated by the Administrator, or other requirements.

(B) Escalation.—The order issued under subparagraph (A) shall provide processes for—

(i) resolution of technical issues at pre-established stages of the certification process, as agreed to by the Administrator and the type certificate applicant;

(ii) automatic elevation to appropriate management personnel of the Administration and the type certificate applicant of any major certification process milestone that is not completed or resolved within a specific period of time agreed to by the Administrator and the type certificate applicant;

(iii) resolution of a major certification process milestone elevated pursuant to clause (ii) within a specific period of time agreed to by the Administrator and the type certificate applicant;

(iv) initial review by appropriate Administration employees of any appeal described in subparagraph (A)(ii); and

(v) subsequent review of any further appeal by appropriate management personnel of the Administration and the Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety.

(C) Disposition.—

(i) Written decision.—The Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety shall issue a written decision that states the grounds for the decision of the Associate Administrator on—

(I) each appeal submitted under subparagraph (A)(ii); and

(II) An appeal to the Associate Administrator submitted under subparagraph (B)(v).

(ii) Report to congress.—Not later than December 31 of each calendar year through calendar year 2025, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report summarizing each appeal resolved under this subsection.

(D) Final review.—

(i) In general.—A written decision of the Associate Administrator under subparagraph (C) may be appealed to the Administrator for a final review and determination.

(ii) Decline to review.—The Administrator may decline to review an appeal initiated pursuant to clause (i).

(iii) Judicial review.—No decision under this paragraph (including a decision to decline to review an appeal) shall be subject to judicial review.

(2) Prohibited contacts.—

(A) Prohibition generally.—During the course of an appeal under this subsection, no covered official may engage in an ex parte communication (as defined in section 551 of title 5) with an individual representing or acting on behalf of an applicant for, or holder of, a certificate under this section in relation to such appeal unless such communication is disclosed pursuant to subparagraph (B).

(B) Disclosure.—If, during the course of an appeal under this subsection, a covered official engages in, receives, or is otherwise made aware of an ex parte communication, the covered official shall disclose such communication in the public record at the time of the issuance of the written decision under paragraph (1)(C), including the time and date of the communication, subject of communication, and all persons engaged in such communication.

(3) Definitions.—In this subsection:

(A) Covered person.—The term "covered person" means either—

(i) an employee of the Administration whose responsibilities relate to the certification of aircraft, engines, propellers, or appliances; or

(ii) an applicant for, or holder of, a type certificate or amended type certificate issued under this section.

(B) Covered official.—The term "covered official" means the following officials:

(i) The Executive Director or any Deputy Director of the Aircraft Certification Service.

(ii) The Deputy Executive Director for Regulatory Operations of the Aircraft Certification Service.

(iii) The Director or Deputy Director of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division of the Aircraft Certification Service.

(iv) The Director or Deputy Director of the System Oversight Division of the Aircraft Certification Service.

(v) The Director or Deputy Director of the Policy and Innovation Division of the Aircraft Certification Service.

(vi) The Executive Director or any Deputy Executive Director of the Flight Standards Service.

(vii) The Associate Administrator or Deputy Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety.

(viii) The Deputy Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.

(ix) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.

(x) Any similarly situated or successor FAA management position to those described in clauses (i) through (ix), as determined by the Administrator.

(C) Major certification process milestone.—The term "major certification process milestone" means a milestone related to the type certification basis, type certification plan, type inspection authorization, issue paper, or other major type certification activity agreed to by the Administrator and the type certificate applicant.

(4) Rule of construction.—Nothing in this subsection shall apply to the communication of a good-faith complaint by any individual alleging—

(A) gross misconduct;

(B) a violation of title 18; or

(C) a violation of any of the provisions of part 2635 or 6001 of title 5, Code of Federal Regulations.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1188; Pub. L. 104–264, title IV, §403, Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3256; Pub. L. 108–176, title II, §227(b)(2), (e)(1), title VIII, §811, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2531, 2532, 2590; Pub. L. 109–59, title IV, §4405, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1776; Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §§302, 303(a), (c)(1), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 56, 57; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title II, §214, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3250; Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §§105(a), (b), 110, 120, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2317, 2328, 2343.)

In subsections (a)–(c)(1), the word "Administrator" in section 603 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 776) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

In subsection (a)(1), the text of 49 App.:1423(a)(2) (1st sentence 1st–16th words) and the words "in regulations" are omitted as surplus. The words "properly designed and manufactured, performs properly" are substituted for "of proper design, material, specification, construction, and performance for safe operation" to eliminate unnecessary words. The word "rules" is omitted as being synonymous with "regulations". The words "under section 44701(a) of this title" and "for a type certificate" are added for clarity. The words "including flight tests and tests of raw materials or any part or appurtenance of such aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(2)(A), the words "issuance of" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(2)(B), the words "the duration thereof and such other" are omitted as surplus. The words "conditions, and limitations" are omitted as being included in "terms".

In subsection (a)(2)(C), the words "issued for aircraft, aircraft engines, or propellers" and "all of" are omitted as surplus. The word "specification" is substituted for "determination" for clarity.

In subsection (b), the word "satisfactorily" is omitted as surplus. The words "shall inspect, and may require testing of, a duplicate to ensure that it conforms to the requirements of the certificate" are substituted for "shall make such inspection and may require such tests of any aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance manufactured under a production certificate as may be necessary to assure manufacture of each unit in conformity with the type certificate or any amendment or modification thereof" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "the duration thereof and such other . . . conditions, and limitations" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c)(1), the words "may apply to" are substituted for "may file with . . . an application" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Transportation" are omitted because of 49:322(a). The words "the duration of such certificate, the type of service for which the aircraft may be used, and such other . . . conditions, and limitations" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c)(2), the words "having a property interest" are substituted for "who are holders of property interests" to eliminate unnecessary words.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of enactment of this subsection, referred to in subsec. (g)(1)(A), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 116–260, which was approved Dec. 27, 2020.

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 116–260, §110(b), struck out par. (6) which related to type certification resolution process.

Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 116–260, §120, added par. (3).

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 116–260, §105(a), added subsec. (e) and struck out former subsec. (e) which related to design and production organization certificates.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 116–260, §105(b), added subsec. (f).

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 116–260, §110(a), added subsec. (g).

2018—Pub. L. 115–254, §214(b), substituted "airworthiness certificates," for "airworthiness certificates,," in section catchline.

Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 115–254, §214(a), added par. (6).

2012—Pub. L. 112–95, §303(c)(1), substituted ", and design and production organization certificates" for "and design organization certificates" in section catchline.

Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 112–95, §302, added par. (5).

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 112–95, §303(a), amended subsec. (e) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (e) related to design organization certificates.

2005—Subsec. (a)(1) to (3). Pub. L. 109–59, §4405(1)–(3), (5), (6), inserted par. headings, realigned margins, and substituted "Except as provided in paragraph (4), if" for "If" in par. (3).

Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 109–59, §4405(4), added par. (4).

2003—Pub. L. 108–176, §227(e)(1), added section catchline and struck out former section catchline which read as follows: "Type certificates, production certificates, and airworthiness certificates".

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 108–176, §811, added par. (3).

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 108–176, §227(b)(2), added subsec. (e).

1996—Subsecs. (b) to (d). Pub. L. 104–264 added subsec. (b) and redesignated former subsecs. (b) and (c) as (c) and (d), respectively.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Except as otherwise specifically provided, amendment by Pub. L. 104–264 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1996, and not to be construed as affecting funds made available for a fiscal year ending before Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104–264, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Required Submission of Outline of System Changes at the Beginning of the Certification Process

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §105(c), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2319, provided that:

"(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator shall initiate a process to revise procedures to require an applicant for an amendment to a type certificate for a transport category aircraft to disclose to the Administrator, in a single document submitted at the beginning of the process for amending such certificate, all new systems and intended changes to existing systems then known to such applicant. The Administrator shall finalize the revision of such procedures not later than 18 months after initiating such process.

"(2) Application.—Compliance with the procedures revised pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not preclude an applicant from making additional changes to aircraft systems as the design and application process proceeds.

"(3) Savings provision.—Nothing in this subsection may be construed to limit the obligations of an applicant for an amended type certificate for a transport category airplane under section 44704(e) of title 49, United States Code, as amended in this title."

[For definitions of "Administrator" and "type certificate" as used in section 105(c) of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Integrated Project Teams

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §108, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2326, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Upon receipt of an application for a type certificate for a transport category airplane, the Administrator shall convene an interdisciplinary integrated project team responsible for coordinating review and providing advice and recommendations, as appropriate, to the Administrator on such application.

"(b) Membership.—In convening an interdisciplinary integrated project team under subsection (a), the Administrator shall appoint employees of the Administration or other Federal agencies, such as the Air Force, Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (with the concurrence of the head of such other Federal agency), with specialized expertise and experience in the fields of engineering, systems design, human factors, and pilot training, including, at a minimum—

"(1) not less than 1 designee of the Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety whose duty station is in the Administration's headquarters;

"(2) representatives of the Aircraft Certification Service of the Administration;

"(3) representatives of the Flight Standards Service of the Administration;

"(4) experts in the fields of human factors, aerodynamics, flight controls, software, and systems design; and

"(5) any other subject matter expert whom the Administrator determines appropriate.

"(c) Availability.—In order to carry out its duties with respect to the areas specified in subsection (d), a project team shall be available to the Administrator, upon request, at any time during the certification process.

"(d) Duties.—A project team shall advise the Administrator and make written recommendations to the Administrator, to be retained in the certification project file, including recommendations for any plans, analyses, assessments, and reports required to support and document the certification project, in the following areas associated with a new technology or novel design:

"(1) Initial review of design proposals proposed by the applicant and the establishment of the certification basis.

"(2) Identification of new technology, novel design, or safety critical design features or systems that are potentially catastrophic, either alone or in combination with another failure.

"(3) Determination of compliance findings, system safety assessments, and safety critical functions the Administration should retain in terms of new technology, novel design, or safety critical design features or systems.

"(4) Evaluation of the Administration's expertise or experience necessary to support the project.

"(5) Review and evaluation of an applicant's request for exceptions or exemptions from compliance with airworthiness standards codified in title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the date of application for the change.

"(6) Conduct of design reviews, procedure evaluations, and training evaluations.

"(7) Review of the applicant's final design documentation and other data to evaluate compliance with all relevant Administration regulations.

"(e) Documentation of FAA Response.—The Administrator shall provide a written response to each recommendation of each project team and shall retain such response in the certification project file.

"(f) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section [Dec. 27, 2020], and annually thereafter through fiscal year 2023, the Administrator shall submit to the congressional committees of jurisdiction a report on the establishment of each integrated project team in accordance with this section during such fiscal year, including the role and composition of each such project team."

[For definitions of terms used in section 108 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Employment Restrictions: Disqualification Based on Prior Employment

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §111(a), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2330, provided that: "An employee of the [Federal Aviation] Administration with supervisory responsibility may not direct, conduct, or otherwise participate in oversight of a holder of a certificate issued under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, that previously employed such employee in the preceding 1-year period."

System Safety Assessments and Other Requirements

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §115, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2333, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator shall issue such regulations as are necessary to amend part 25 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and any associated advisory circular, guidance, or policy of the Administration, in accordance with this section.

"(b) System Safety Assessments and Other Requirements.—In developing regulations under subsection (a), the Administrator shall—

"(1) require an applicant for an amended type certificate for a transport airplane to—

"(A) perform a system safety assessment with respect to each proposed design change that the Administrator determines is significant, with such assessment considering the airplane-level effects of individual errors, malfunctions, or failures and realistic pilot response times to such errors, malfunctions, or failures;

"(B) update such assessment to account for each subsequent proposed design change that the Administrator determines is significant;

"(C) provide appropriate employees of the Administration with the data and assumptions underlying each assessment and amended assessment; and

"(D) provide for document traceability and clarity of explanations for changes to aircraft type designs and system safety assessment certification documents; and

"(2) work with other civil aviation authorities representing states of design to ensure such regulations remain harmonized internationally.

"(c) Guidance.—Guidance or an advisory circular issued under subsection (a) shall, at minimum—

"(1) emphasize the importance of clear documentation of the technical details and failure modes and effects of a design change described in subsection (b)(1); and

"(2) ensure appropriate review of any change that results in a functional hazard assessment classification of major or greater, as such term is defined in FAA Advisory Circular 25.1309-1A (or any successor or replacement document).

"(d) FAA Review.—Appropriate employees of the Aircraft Certification Service and the Flight Standards Service of the Administration shall review each system safety assessment required under subsection (b)(1)(A), updated assessment required under subsection (b)(1)(B), and supporting data and assumptions required under subsection (b)(1)(C), to ensure that each such assessment sufficiently addresses the considerations listed in subsection (b)(1)(A)."

[For definitions of terms used in section 115 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Flight Crew Alerting

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §116, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2334, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator shall implement National Transportation Safety Board recommendations A–19–11 and A–19–12 (as contained in the safety recommendation report adopted on September 9, 2019).

"(b) Prohibition.—Beginning on the date that is 2 years after the date of enactment of this title, the Administrator may not issue a type certificate for a transport category aircraft unless—

"(1) in the case of a transport airplane, such airplane incorporates a flight crew alerting system that, at a minimum, displays and differentiates among warnings, cautions, and advisories, and includes functions to assist the flight crew in prioritizing corrective actions and responding to systems failures; or

"(2) in the case of a transport category aircraft other than a transport airplane, the type certificate applicant provides a means acceptable to the Administrator to assist the flight crew in prioritizing corrective actions and responding to systems failures (including by cockpit or flight manual procedures).

"(c) Existing Airplane Designs.—It is the sense of Congress that the FAA shall ensure that any system safety assessment with respect to the Boeing 737-7, 737-8, 737-9, and 737-10 airplanes, as described in National Transportation Safety Board recommendation A-19-10, is conducted in accordance with such recommendation."

[For definitions of terms used in section 116 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Changed Product Rule

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §117, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2335, provided that:

"(a) Review and Reevaluation of Amended Type Certificates.—

"(1) International leadership.—The Administrator shall exercise leadership in the creation of international policies and standards relating to the issuance of amended type certificates within the Certification Management Team.

"(2) Reevaluation of amended type certificates.—In carrying out this subsection, the Administrator shall—

"(A) encourage Certification Management Team members to examine and address any relevant covered recommendations (as defined in section 121(c) [134 Stat. 2344]) relating to the issuance of amended type certificates;

"(B) reevaluate existing assumptions and practices inherent in the amended type certificate process and assess whether such assumptions and practices are valid; and

"(C) ensure, to the greatest extent practicable, that Federal regulations relating to the issuance of amended type certificates are harmonized with the regulations of other international states of design.

"(b) Amended Type Certificate Report and Rulemaking.—

"(1) Briefings.—Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], and annually thereafter through fiscal year 2023, the Administrator shall brief the congressional committees of jurisdiction on the work and status of the development of such recommendations by the Certification Management Team.

"(2) Initiation of action.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this title, the Administrator shall take action to revise and improve the process of issuing amended type certificates in accordance with this section. Such action shall include, at minimum—

"(A) initiation of a rulemaking proceeding; and

"(B) development or revision of guidance and training materials.

"(3) Contents.—In taking actions required under paragraph (2), the Administrator shall do the following:

"(A) Ensure that proposed changes to an aircraft are evaluated from an integrated whole aircraft system perspective that examines the integration of proposed changes with existing systems and associated impacts.

"(B) Define key terms used for the changed product process under sections 21.19 and 21.101 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(C) Consider—

"(i) the findings and work of the Certification Management Team and other similar international harmonization efforts;

"(ii) any relevant covered recommendations (as defined in section 121(c) [134 Stat. 2344]); and

"(iii) whether a fixed time beyond which a type certificate may not be amended would improve aviation safety.

"(D) Establish the extent to which the following design characteristics should preclude the issuance of an amended type certificate:

"(i) A new or revised flight control system.

"(ii) Any substantial changes to aerodynamic stability resulting from a physical change that may require a new or modified software system or control law in order to produce positive and acceptable stability and handling qualities.

"(iii) A flight control system or augmented software to maintain aerodynamic stability in any portion of the flight envelope that was not required for a previously certified derivative.

"(iv) A change in structural components (other than a stretch or shrink of the fuselage) that results in a change in structural load paths or the magnitude of structural loads attributed to flight maneuvers or cabin pressurization.

"(v) A novel or unusual system, component, or other feature whose failure would present a hazardous or catastrophic risk.

"(E) Develop objective criteria for helping to determine what constitutes a substantial change and a significant change.

"(F) Implement mandatory aircraft-level reviews throughout the certification process to validate the certification basis and assumptions.

"(G) Require maintenance of relevant records of agreements between the FAA and an applicant that affect certification documentation and deliverables.

"(H) Ensure appropriate documentation of any exception or exemption from airworthiness requirements codified in title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the date of application for the change.

"(4) Guidance materials.—The Administrator shall consider the following when developing orders and regulatory guidance, including advisory circulars, where appropriate:

"(A) Early FAA involvement and feedback paths in the aircraft certification process to ensure the FAA is aware of changes to design assumptions and product design impacting a changed product assessment.

"(B) Presentation to the FAA of new technology, novel design, or safety critical features or systems, initially and throughout the certification process, when development and certification prompt design or compliance method revision.

"(C) Examples of key terms used for the changed product process under sections 21.19 and 21.101 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(D) Type certificate data sheet improvements to accurately state which regulations and amendment level the aircraft complies to and when compliance is limited to a subset of the aircraft.

"(E) Policies to guide applicants on proper visibility, clarity, and consistency of key design and compliance information that is submitted for certification, particularly with new design features.

"(F) The creation, validation, and implementation of analytical tools appropriate for the analysis of complex system for the FAA and applicants.

"(G) Early coordination processes with the FAA for the functional hazard assessments validation and preliminary system safety assessments review.

"(5) Training materials.—The Administrator shall—

"(A) develop training materials for establishing the certification basis for changed aeronautical products pursuant to section 21.101 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, applications for a new type certificate pursuant to section 21.19 of such title, and the regulatory guidance developed as a result of the rulemaking conducted pursuant to paragraph (2); and

"(B) procedures for disseminating such materials to implementing personnel of the FAA, designees, and applicants.

"(6) Certification management team defined.—In this section, the term 'Certification Management Team' means the team framework under which the FAA, the European Aviation Safety Agency, the Transport Canada Civil Aviation, and the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil, manage the technical, policy, certification, manufacturing, export, and continued airworthiness issues common among the 4 authorities.

"(7) Deadline.—The Administrator shall finalize the actions initiated under paragraph (2) not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this title.

"(c) International Leadership.—The Administrator shall exercise leadership within the ICAO and among other civil aviation regulators representing states of aircraft design to advocate for the adoption of an amended changed product rule on a global basis, consistent with ICAO standards."

[For definitions of terms used in section 117 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Expert Safety Review

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §119(c), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2339, provided that:

"(1) In general.—Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator shall initiate an expert safety review of assumptions relied upon by the Administration and manufacturers of transport category aircraft in the design and certification of such aircraft.

"(2) Contents.—The expert safety review required under paragraph (1) shall include—

"(A) a review of Administration regulations, guidance, and directives related to pilot response assumptions relied upon by the FAA and manufacturers of transport category aircraft in the design and certification of such aircraft, and human factors and human system integration, particularly those related to pilot and aircraft interfaces;

"(B) a focused review of the assumptions relied on regarding the time for pilot responses to non-normal conditions in designing such aircraft's systems and instrumentation, including responses to safety-significant failure conditions and failure scenarios that trigger multiple, and possibly conflicting, warnings and alerts;

"(C) a review of human factors assumptions with applicable operational data, human factors research and the input of human factors experts and FAA operational data, and as appropriate, recommendations for modifications to existing assumptions;

"(D) a review of revisions made to the airman certification standards for certificates over the last 4 years, including any possible effects on pilot competency in basic manual flying skills;

"(E) consideration of the global nature of the aviation marketplace, varying levels of pilot competency, and differences in pilot training programs worldwide;

"(F) a process for aviation stakeholders, including pilots, airlines, inspectors, engineers, test pilots, human factors experts, and other aviation safety experts, to provide and discuss any observations, feedback, and best practices;

"(G) a review of processes currently in place to ensure that when carrying out the certification of a new aircraft type, or an amended type, the cumulative effects that new technologies, and the interaction between new technologies and unchanged systems for an amended type certificate, may have on pilot interactions with aircraft systems are properly assessed through system safety assessments or otherwise; and

"(H) a review of processes currently in place to account for any necessary adjustments to system safety assessments, pilot procedures and training requirements, or design requirements when there are changes to the assumptions relied upon by the Administration and manufacturers of transport category aircraft in the design and certification of such aircraft.

"(3) Report and recommendations.—Not later than 30 days after the conclusion of the expert safety review pursuant to paragraph (1), the Administrator shall submit to the congressional committees of jurisdiction a report on the results of the review, including any recommendations for actions or best practices to ensure the FAA and the manufacturers of transport category aircraft have accounted for pilot response assumptions to be relied upon in the design and certification of transport category aircraft and tools or methods identified to better integrate human factors throughout the process for such certification.

"(4) International engagement.—The Administrator shall notify other international regulators that certify transport category aircraft type designs of the expert panel report and encourage them to review the report and evaluate their regulations and processes in light of the recommendations included in the report.

"(5) Termination.—The expert safety review shall end upon submission of the report required pursuant to paragraph (3).

"(6) Regulations.—The Administrator shall issue or update such regulations as are necessary to implement the recommendations of the expert safety review that the Administrator determines are necessary to improve aviation safety."

[For definitions of terms used in section 119(c) of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Human Factors Research

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §126, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2347, provided that:

"(a) Human Factors.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator, in consultation with aircraft manufacturers, operators, and pilots, and in coordination with the head of such other Federal agency that the Administrator determines appropriate, shall develop research requirements to address the integration of human factors in the design and certification of aircraft that are intended for use in air transportation.

"(b) Requirements.—In developing such research requirements, the Administrator shall—

"(1) establish goals for research in areas of study relevant to advancing technology, improving design engineering and certification practices, and facilitating better understanding of human factors concepts in the context of the growing development and reliance on automated or complex flight deck systems in aircraft operations, including the development of tools to validate pilot recognition and response assumptions and diagnostic tools to improve the clarity of failure indications presented to pilots;

"(2) take into consideration and leverage any existing or planned research that is conducted by, or conducted in partnership with, the FAA; and

"(3) focus on—

"(A) preventing a recurrence of the types of accidents that have involved transport category airplanes designed and manufactured in the United States; and

"(B) increasingly complex aircraft systems and designs.

"(c) Implementation.—In implementing the research requirements developed under this section, the Administrator shall work with appropriate organizations and authorities with expertise including, to the maximum extent practicable, the Center of Excellence for Technical Training and Human Performance and the Center of Excellence developed or expanded pursuant to section 127 [set out as a note under section 44513 of this title].

"(d) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator $7,500,000 for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2023, out of funds made available under section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, to carry out this section."

[For definitions of terms used in section 126 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Pilot Operational Evaluations

Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §128, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2349, provided that:

"(a) Pilot Operational Evaluations.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this title [Dec. 27, 2020], the Administrator shall revise existing policies for manufacturers of transport airplanes to ensure that pilot operational evaluations for airplane types that are submitted for certification utilize pilots from air carriers that are expected to operate such airplanes.

"(b) Requirement.—Such manufacturer shall ensure, to the satisfaction of the Administrator, that the air carrier and foreign air carrier pilots used for such evaluations include pilots of varying levels of experience."

[For definitions of terms used in section 128 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out above, see section 137 of div. V of Pub. L. 116–260, set out as a note under section 40101 of this title.]

Securing Aircraft Avionics Systems

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §506, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3354, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall consider, where appropriate, revising Federal Aviation Administration regulations regarding airworthiness certification—

"(1) to address cybersecurity for avionics systems, including software components; and

"(2) to require that aircraft avionics systems used for flight guidance or aircraft control be secured against unauthorized access via passenger in-flight entertainment systems through such means as the Administrator determines appropriate to protect the avionics systems from unauthorized external and internal access.

"(b) Consideration.—In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator shall consider the recommendations of the Aircraft Systems Information Security Protection Working Group under section 2111 of the FAA Extension Safety and Security Act of 2016 (Public Law 114–190; 130 Stat. 615 [625]) [49 U.S.C. 44903 note]."

Small Airplane Revitalization

Pub. L. 113–53, Nov. 27, 2013, 127 Stat. 584, provided that:

"SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

"This Act may be cited as the 'Small Airplane Revitalization Act of 2013'.

"SEC. 2. FINDINGS.

"Congress makes the following findings:

"(1) A healthy small aircraft industry is integral to economic growth and to maintaining an effective transportation infrastructure for communities and countries around the world.

"(2) Small airplanes comprise nearly 90 percent of general aviation aircraft certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.

"(3) General aviation provides for the cultivation of a workforce of engineers, manufacturing and maintenance professionals, and pilots who secure the economic success and defense of the United States.

"(4) General aviation contributes to well-paying jobs in the manufacturing and technology sectors in the United States and products produced by those sectors are exported in great numbers.

"(5) Technology developed and proven in general aviation aids in the success and safety of all sectors of aviation and scientific competence.

"(6) The average small airplane in the United States is now 40 years old and the regulatory barriers to bringing new designs to the market are resulting in a lack of innovation and investment in small airplane design.

"(7) Since 2003, the United States lost 10,000 active private pilots per year on average, partially due to a lack of cost-effective, new small airplanes.

"(8) General aviation safety can be improved by modernizing and revamping the regulations relating to small airplanes to clear the path for technology adoption and cost-effective means to retrofit the existing fleet with new safety technologies.

"SEC. 3. SAFETY AND REGULATORY IMPROVEMENTS FOR GENERAL AVIATION.

"(a) In General.—Not later than December 15, 2015, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue a final rule—

"(1) to advance the safety and continued development of small airplanes by reorganizing the certification requirements for such airplanes under part 23 to streamline the approval of safety advancements; and

"(2) that meets the objectives described in subsection (b).

"(b) Objectives Described.—The objectives described in this subsection are based on the recommendations of the Part 23 Reorganization Aviation Rulemaking Committee:

"(1) The establishment of a regulatory regime for small airplanes that will improve safety and reduce the regulatory cost burden for the Federal Aviation Administration and the aviation industry.

"(2) The establishment of broad, outcome-driven safety objectives that will spur innovation and technology adoption.

"(3) The replacement of current, prescriptive requirements under part 23 with performance-based regulations.

"(4) The use of consensus standards accepted by the Federal Aviation Administration to clarify how the safety objectives of part 23 may be met using specific designs and technologies.

"(c) Consensus-Based Standards.—In prescribing regulations under this section, the Administrator shall use consensus standards, as described in section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1996 [1995] (15 U.S.C. 272 note), to the extent practicable while continuing traditional methods for meeting part 23.

"(d) Safety Cooperation.—The Administrator shall lead the effort to improve general aviation safety by working with leading aviation regulators to assist them in adopting a complementary regulatory approach for small airplanes.

"(e) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) Consensus standards.—

"(A) In general.—The term 'consensus standards' means standards developed by an organization described in subparagraph (B) that may include provisions requiring that owners of relevant intellectual property have agreed to make that intellectual property available on a nondiscriminatory, royalty-free, or reasonable royalty basis to all interested persons.

"(B) Organizations described.—An organization described in this subparagraph is a domestic or international organization that—

"(i) plans, develops, establishes, or coordinates, through a process based on consensus and using agreed-upon procedures, voluntary standards; and

"(ii) operates in a transparent manner, considers a balanced set of interests with respect to such standards, and provides for due process and an appeals process with respect to such standards.

"(2) Part 23.—The term 'part 23' means part 23 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(3) Part 23 reorganization aviation rulemaking committee.—The term 'Part 23 Reorganization Aviation Rulemaking Committee' means the aviation rulemaking committee established by the Federal Aviation Administration in August 2011 to consider the reorganization of the regulations under part 23.

"(4) Small airplane.—The term 'small airplane' means an airplane which is certified to part 23 standards."

Applicability

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §303(b), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 57, provided that: "Before January 1, 2013, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may continue to issue certificates under section 44704(e) of title 49, United States Code, as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012]."

Aircraft Certification Process Review and Reform

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §312, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 66, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, in consultation with representatives of the aviation industry, shall conduct an assessment of the certification and approval process under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code.

"(b) Contents.—In conducting the assessment, the Administrator shall consider—

"(1) the expected number of applications for product certifications and approvals the Administrator will receive under section 44704 of such title in the 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year periods following the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012];

"(2) process reforms and improvements necessary to allow the Administrator to review and approve the applications in a fair and timely fashion;

"(3) the status of recommendations made in previous reports on the Administration's certification process;

"(4) methods for enhancing the effective use of delegation systems, including organizational designation authorization;

"(5) methods for training the Administration's field office employees in the safety management system and auditing; and

"(6) the status of updating airworthiness requirements, including implementing recommendations in the Administration's report entitled 'Part 23—Small Airplane Certification Process Study' (OK–09–3468, dated July 2009).

"(c) Recommendations.—In conducting the assessment, the Administrator shall make recommendations to improve efficiency and reduce costs through streamlining and reengineering the certification process under section 44704 of such title to ensure that the Administrator can conduct certifications and approvals under such section in a manner that supports and enables the development of new products and technologies and the global competitiveness of the United States aviation industry.

"(d) Report to Congress.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the assessment, together with an explanation of how the Administrator will implement recommendations made under subsection (c) and measure the effectiveness of the recommendations.

"(e) Implementation of Recommendations.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall begin to implement the recommendations made under subsection (c)."

Historical Aircraft Documents

Pub. L. 112–95, title VIII, §816, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 126, provided that:

"(a) Preservation of Documents.—

"(1) In general.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall take such actions as the Administrator determines necessary to preserve original aircraft type certificate engineering and technical data in the possession of the Federal Aviation Administration related to—

"(A) approved aircraft type certificate numbers ATC 1 through ATC 713; and

"(B) Group-2 approved aircraft type certificate numbers 2–1 through 2–544.

"(2) Revision of order.—Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall revise FAA Order 1350.15C, Item Number 8110. Such revision shall prohibit the destruction of the historical aircraft documents identified in paragraph (1).

"(3) Consultation.—The Administrator may carry out paragraph (1) in consultation with the Archivist of the United States and the Administrator of General Services.

"(b) Availability of Documents.—

"(1) Freedom of information act requests.—The Administrator shall make the documents to be preserved under subsection (a)(1) available to a person—

"(A) upon receipt of a request made by the person pursuant to section 552 of title 5, United States Code; and

"(B) subject to a prohibition on use of the documents for commercial purposes.

"(2) Trade secrets, commercial, and financial information.—Section 552(b)(4) of such title shall not apply to requests for documents to be made available pursuant to paragraph (1).

"(c) Holder of Type Certificate.—

"(1) Rights of holder.—Nothing in this section shall affect the rights of a holder or owner of a type certificate identified in subsection (a)(1), nor require the holder or owner to provide, surrender, or preserve any original or duplicate engineering or technical data to or for the Federal Aviation Administration, a person, or the public.

"(2) Liability.—There shall be no liability on the part of, and no cause of action of any nature shall arise against, a holder of a type certificate, its authorized representative, its agents, or its employees, or any firm, person, corporation, or insurer related to the type certificate data and documents identified in subsection (a)(1).

"(3) Airworthiness.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the holder of a type certificate identified in subsection (a)(1) shall only be responsible for Federal Aviation Administration regulation requirements related to type certificate data and documents identified in subsection (a)(1) for aircraft having a standard airworthiness certificate issued prior to the date the documents are released to a person by the Federal Aviation Administration under subsection (b)(1)."

Plan for Development and Oversight of System for Certification of Design Organizations

Pub. L. 108–176, title II, §227(b)(1), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2531, provided that, not later than 4 years after Dec. 12, 2003, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration was to transmit to Congress a plan for the development and oversight of a certification system of design organizations to ensure compliance with the requirements and minimum standards of section 44701(a) of this title.

§44705. Air carrier operating certificates

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue an air carrier operating certificate to a person desiring to operate as an air carrier when the Administrator finds, after investigation, that the person properly and adequately is equipped and able to operate safely under this part and regulations and standards prescribed under this part. An air carrier operating certificate shall—

(1) contain terms necessary to ensure safety in air transportation; and

(2) specify the places to and from which, and the airways of the United States over which, a person may operate as an air carrier.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1189.)

In this section, the word "Administrator" in section 604(b) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 778) is retained on authority of 49:106(g). Before clause (1), the words "may file with the Secretary of Transportation an application for an air carrier operating certificate" and "the requirements of" are omitted as surplus. The word "rules" is omitted as being synonymous with "regulations". In clause (1), the words "conditions, and limitations . . . reasonably" are omitted as surplus. In clause (2), the word "places" is substituted for "points" for consistency in the revised title. The words "under an air carrier operating certificate" are omitted as surplus.

§44706. Airport operating certificates

(a) General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue an airport operating certificate to a person desiring to operate an airport—

(1) that serves an air carrier operating aircraft designed for at least 31 passenger seats;

(2) that is not located in the State of Alaska and serves any scheduled passenger operation of an air carrier operating aircraft designed for more than 9 passenger seats but less than 31 passenger seats; and

(3) that the Administrator requires to have a certificate;

if the Administrator finds, after investigation, that the person properly and adequately is equipped and able to operate safely under this part and regulations and standards prescribed under this part.

(b) Terms.—An airport operating certificate issued under this section shall contain terms necessary to ensure safety in air transportation. Unless the Administrator decides that it is not in the public interest, the terms shall include conditions related to—

(1) operating and maintaining adequate safety equipment, including firefighting and rescue equipment capable of rapid access to any part of the airport used for landing, takeoff, or surface maneuvering of an aircraft; and

(2) friction treatment for primary and secondary runways that the Secretary of Transportation decides is necessary.

(c) Exemptions.—The Administrator may exempt from the requirements of this section, related to firefighting and rescue equipment, an operator of an airport described in subsection (a) of this section having less than .25 percent of the total number of passenger boardings each year at all airports described in subsection (a) when the Administrator decides that the requirements are or would be unreasonably costly, burdensome, or impractical.

(d) Commuter Airports.—In developing the terms required by subsection (b) for airports covered by subsection (a)(2), the Administrator shall identify and consider a reasonable number of regulatory alternatives and select from such alternatives the least costly, most cost-effective or the least burdensome alternative that will provide comparable safety at airports described in subsections (a)(1) and (a)(2).

(e) Effective Date.—Any regulation establishing the terms required by subsection (b) for airports covered by subsection (a)(2) shall not take effect until such regulation, and a report on the economic impact of the regulation on air service to the airports covered by the rule, has been submitted to Congress and 120 days have elapsed following the date of such submission.

(f) Limitation on Statutory Construction.—Nothing in this title may be construed as requiring a person to obtain an airport operating certificate if such person does not desire to operate an airport described in subsection (a).

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1189; Pub. L. 104–264, title IV, §404, Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3256.)

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the words "may file with the Administrator an application for an airport operating certificate" are omitted as surplus. In clause (3), the words "the requirements of" are omitted as surplus. The word "rules" is omitted as being synonymous with "regulations".

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "conditions, and limitations . . . reasonably" are omitted as surplus. In clause (2), the words "grooving or other" are omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–264, §404(a), added par. (2), redesignated former par. (2) as (3), substituted "if" for "(3) when" in former par. (3) and adjusted the margins of that par. to make it a flush provision following par. (3).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 104–264, §404(b), added subsec. (d).

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 104–264, §404(c), added subsec. (e).

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 104–264, §404(d), added subsec. (f).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Except as otherwise specifically provided, amendment by Pub. L. 104–264 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1996, and not to be construed as affecting funds made available for a fiscal year ending before Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104–264, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Deemed References to Chapters 509 and 511 of Title 51

General references to "this title" deemed to refer also to chapters 509 and 511 of Title 51, National and Commercial Space Programs, see section 4(d)(8) of Pub. L. 111–314, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Firefighting Foam and Fluorinated Chemicals

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §332(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3273, provided that: "Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration], using the latest version of National Fire Protection Association 403, 'Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Fire-Fighting Services at Airports', and in coordination with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, aircraft manufacturers and airports, shall not require the use of fluorinated chemicals to meet the performance standards referenced in chapter 6 of AC No: 150/5210–6D and acceptable under [section] 139.319(l) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations."

Improvement of Runway Safety Areas

Pub. L. 109–115, div. A, title I, Nov. 30, 2005, 119 Stat. 2401, provided in part: "That not later than December 31, 2015, the owner or operator of an airport certificated under 49 U.S.C. 44706 shall improve the airport's runway safety areas to comply with the Federal Aviation Administration design standards required by 14 CFR part 139: Provided further, That the Federal Aviation Administration shall report annually to the Congress on the agency's progress toward improving the runway safety areas at 49 U.S.C. 44706 airports."

Small Airport Certification

Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §518, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 145, provided that, not later than 60 days after Apr. 5, 2000, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration would issue a notice of proposed rulemaking on implementing subsec. (a)(2) of this section relating to issuance of airport operating certificates for small scheduled passenger air carrier operations, and not later than 1 year after the last day of the period for public comment provided for in the notice of proposed rulemaking, the Administrator would issue a final rule on implementing this program.

§44707. Examining and rating air agencies

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may examine and rate the following air agencies:

(1) civilian schools giving instruction in flying or repairing, altering, and maintaining aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances, on the adequacy of instruction, the suitability and airworthiness of equipment, and the competency of instructors.

(2) repair stations and shops that repair, alter, and maintain aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances, on the adequacy and suitability of the equipment, facilities, and materials for, and methods of, repair and overhaul, and the competency of the individuals doing the work or giving instruction in the work.

(3) other air agencies the Administrator decides are necessary in the public interest.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1190.)

In this section, the word "Administrator" in section 607 (1st sentence) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 779) is retained on authority of 49:106(g). In clauses (1) and (2), the word "overhaul" is omitted as surplus. In clause (1), the words "course of" are omitted as surplus. In clause (3), the words "in his opinion" are omitted as surplus.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Aircraft Repair and Maintenance Advisory Panel

Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §734, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 170, provided that:

"(a) Establishment of Panel.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration]—

"(1) shall establish an aircraft repair and maintenance advisory panel to review issues related to the use and oversight of aircraft and aviation component repair and maintenance facilities (in this section referred to as 'aircraft repair facilities') located within, or outside of, the United States; and

"(2) may seek the advice of the panel on any issue related to methods to increase safety by improving the oversight of aircraft repair facilities.

"(b) Membership.—The panel shall consist of—

"(1) nine members appointed by the Administrator as follows:

"(A) three representatives of labor organizations representing aviation mechanics;

"(B) one representative of cargo air carriers;

"(C) one representative of passenger air carriers;

"(D) one representative of aircraft repair facilities;

"(E) one representative of aircraft manufacturers;

"(F) one representative of on-demand passenger air carriers and corporate aircraft operations; and

"(G) one representative of regional passenger air carriers;

"(2) one representative from the Department of Commerce, designated by the Secretary of Commerce;

"(3) one representative from the Department of State, designated by the Secretary of State; and

"(4) one representative from the Federal Aviation Administration, designated by the Administrator.

"(c) Responsibilities.—The panel shall—

"(1) determine the amount and type of work that is being performed by aircraft repair facilities located within, and outside of, the United States; and

"(2) provide advice and counsel to the Secretary [of Transportation] with respect to the aircraft and aviation component repair work performed by aircraft repair facilities and air carriers, staffing needs, and any balance of trade or safety issues associated with that work.

"(d) DOT To Request Information From Air Carriers and Repair Facilities.—

"(1) Collection of information.—The Secretary, by regulation, shall require air carriers, foreign air carriers, domestic repair facilities, and foreign repair facilities to submit such information as the Secretary may require in order to assess balance of trade and safety issues with respect to work performed on aircraft used by air carriers, foreign air carriers, United States corporate operators, and foreign corporate operators.

"(2) Drug and alcohol testing information.—Included in the information the Secretary requires under paragraph (1) shall be information on the existence and administration of employee drug and alcohol testing programs in place at the foreign repair facilities, if applicable. The Secretary, if necessary, shall work with the International Civil Aviation Organization to increase the number and improve the administration of employee drug and alcohol testing programs at the foreign repair facilities.

"(3) Description of work done.—Included in the information the Secretary requires under paragraph (1) shall be information on the amount and type of work performed on aircraft registered in and outside of the United States.

"(e) DOT To Facilitate Collection of Information About Aircraft Maintenance.—The Secretary shall facilitate the collection of information from the National Transportation Safety Board, the Federal Aviation Administration, and other appropriate agencies regarding maintenance performed by aircraft repair facilities.

"(f) DOT To Make Information Available to Public.—The Secretary shall make any relevant information received under subsection (d) available to the public, consistent with the authority to withhold trade secrets or commercial, financial, and other proprietary information under section 552 of title 5, United States Code.

"(g) Termination.—The panel established under subsection (a) shall terminate on the earlier of—

"(1) the date that is 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 5, 2000]; or

"(2) December 31, 2001.

"(h) Definitions.—The definitions contained in section 40102 of title 49, United States Code, shall apply to this section."

§44708. Inspecting and rating air navigation facilities

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may inspect, classify, and rate an air navigation facility available for the use of civil aircraft on the suitability of the facility for that use.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1190.)

The word "Administrator" in section 606 (1st sentence) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 779) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

§44709. Amendments, modifications, suspensions, and revocations of certificates

(a) Reinspection and Reexamination.—

(1) In general.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may reinspect at any time a civil aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, design organization, production certificate holder, air navigation facility, or air agency, or reexamine an airman holding a certificate issued under section 44703 of this title.

(2) Notification of reexamination of airman.—Before taking any action to reexamine an airman under paragraph (1) the Administrator shall provide to the airman—

(A) a reasonable basis, described in detail, for requesting the reexamination; and

(B) any information gathered by the Federal Aviation Administration, that the Administrator determines is appropriate to provide, such as the scope and nature of the requested reexamination, that formed the basis for that justification.

(b) Actions of the Administrator.—The Administrator may issue an order amending, modifying, suspending, or revoking—

(1) any part of a certificate issued under this chapter if—

(A) the Administrator decides after conducting a reinspection, reexamination, or other investigation that safety in air commerce or air transportation and the public interest require that action; or

(B) the holder of the certificate has violated an aircraft noise or sonic boom standard or regulation prescribed under section 44715(a) of this title; and

(2) an airman certificate when the holder of the certificate is convicted of violating section 13(a) of the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956 (16 U.S.C. 742j–1(a)).

(c) Advice to Certificate Holders and Opportunity To Answer.—Before acting under subsection (b) of this section, the Administrator shall advise the holder of the certificate of the charges or other reasons on which the Administrator relies for the proposed action. Except in an emergency, the Administrator shall provide the holder an opportunity to answer the charges and be heard why the certificate should not be amended, modified, suspended, or revoked.

(d) Appeals.—(1) A person adversely affected by an order of the Administrator under this section may appeal the order to the National Transportation Safety Board. After notice and an opportunity for a hearing, the Board may amend, modify, or reverse the order when the Board finds—

(A) if the order was issued under subsection (b)(1)(A) of this section, that safety in air commerce or air transportation and the public interest do not require affirmation of the order; or

(B) if the order was issued under subsection (b)(1)(B) of this section—

(i) that control or abatement of aircraft noise or sonic boom and the public health and welfare do not require affirmation of the order; or

(ii) the order, as it is related to a violation of aircraft noise or sonic boom standards and regulations, is not consistent with safety in air commerce or air transportation.

(2) The Board may modify a suspension or revocation of a certificate to imposition of a civil penalty.

(3) When conducting a hearing under this subsection, the Board is not bound by findings of fact of the Administrator.

(e) Effectiveness of Orders Pending Appeal.—

(1) In general.—When a person files an appeal with the Board under subsection (d), the order of the Administrator is stayed.

(2) Exception.—Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the order of the Administrator is effective immediately if the Administrator advises the Board that an emergency exists and safety in air commerce or air transportation requires the order to be effective immediately.

(3) Review of emergency order.—A person affected by the immediate effectiveness of the Administrator's order under paragraph (2) may petition for a review by the Board, under procedures promulgated by the Board, of the Administrator's determination that an emergency exists. Any such review shall be requested not later than 48 hours after the order is received by the person. If the Board finds that an emergency does not exist that requires the immediate application of the order in the interest of safety in air commerce or air transportation, the order shall be stayed, notwithstanding paragraph (2). The Board shall dispose of a review request under this paragraph not later than 5 days after the date on which the request is filed.

(4) Final disposition.—The Board shall make a final disposition of an appeal under subsection (d) not later than 60 days after the date on which the appeal is filed.

(f) Judicial Review.—A person substantially affected by an order of the Board under this section, or the Administrator when the Administrator decides that an order of the Board under this section will have a significant adverse impact on carrying out this part, may obtain judicial review of the order under section 46110 of this title. The Administrator shall be made a party to the judicial review proceedings. Findings of fact of the Board are conclusive if supported by substantial evidence.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1190; Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §716, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 162; Pub. L. 108–176, title II, §227(c), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2532; Pub. L. 112–153, §2(c)(2), Aug. 3, 2012, 126 Stat. 1161; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §393(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3325.)

In this section, the word "Administrator" in section 609(a) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 779) is retained on authority of 49:106(g). The words "modifying", "modify", and "modified" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a), the words "airman holding a certificate issued under section 44703 of this title" are substituted for "civil airman" for clarity.

In subsection (b)(1), before subclause (A), the words "certificate issued under this chapter" are substituted for "type certificate, production certificate, airworthiness certificate, airman certificate, air carrier operating certificate, air navigation facility certificate (including airport operating certificate), or air agency certificate" to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (b)(2), the words "in his discretion" and "regarding the use or operation of an aircraft" in 49 App.:1429(b) are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c), the words "cases of" in 49 App.:1429(a) are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(1), before clause (A), the word "adversely" is substituted for "whose certificate is" in 49 App.:1429(a), and the words "an opportunity for a" are added, for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code. The words "of the FAA" in 49 App.:1431(e) are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(2), the words "consistent with this subsection" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(3), the word "Administrator" is substituted for "Federal Aviation Administration" because of 49:106(b) and (g).

In subsection (e), before clause (1), the words "the effectiveness of" are omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 115–254 designated existing provisions as par. (1), inserted heading, and added par. (2).

2012—Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 112–153 struck out "but is bound by all validly adopted interpretations of laws and regulations the Administrator carries out and of written agency policy guidance available to the public related to sanctions to be imposed under this section unless the Board finds an interpretation is arbitrary, capricious, or otherwise not according to law" after "Administrator".

2003—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–176 inserted "design organization, production certificate holder," after "appliance,".

2000—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 106–181 amended heading and text of subsec. (e) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "When a person files an appeal with the Board under subsection (d) of the section, the order of the Administrator is stayed. However, if the Administrator advises the Board that an emergency exists and safety in air commerce or air transportation requires the order to be effective immediately—

"(1) the order is effective; and

"(2) the Board shall make a final disposition of the appeal not later than 60 days after the Administrator so advises the Board."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

§44710. Revocations of airman certificates for controlled substance violations

(a) Definition.—In this section, "controlled substance" has the same meaning given that term in section 102 of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (21 U.S.C. 802).

(b) Revocation.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue an order revoking an airman certificate issued an individual under section 44703 of this title after the individual is convicted, under a law of the United States or a State related to a controlled substance (except a law related to simple possession of a controlled substance), of an offense punishable by death or imprisonment for more than one year if the Administrator finds that—

(A) an aircraft was used to commit, or facilitate the commission of, the offense; and

(B) the individual served as an airman, or was on the aircraft, in connection with committing, or facilitating the commission of, the offense.

(2) The Administrator shall issue an order revoking an airman certificate issued an individual under section 44703 of this title if the Administrator finds that—

(A) the individual knowingly carried out an activity punishable, under a law of the United States or a State related to a controlled substance (except a law related to simple possession of a controlled substance), by death or imprisonment for more than one year;

(B) an aircraft was used to carry out or facilitate the activity; and

(C) the individual served as an airman, or was on the aircraft, in connection with carrying out, or facilitating the carrying out of, the activity.

(3) The Administrator has no authority under paragraph (1) of this subsection to review whether an airman violated a law of the United States or a State related to a controlled substance.

(c) Advice to Holders and Opportunity To Answer.—Before the Administrator revokes a certificate under subsection (b) of this section, the Administrator must—

(1) advise the holder of the certificate of the charges or reasons on which the Administrator relies for the proposed revocation; and

(2) provide the holder of the certificate an opportunity to answer the charges and be heard why the certificate should not be revoked.

(d) Appeals.—(1) An individual whose certificate is revoked by the Administrator under subsection (b) of this section may appeal the revocation order to the National Transportation Safety Board. The Board shall affirm or reverse the order after providing notice and an opportunity for a hearing on the record. When conducting the hearing, the Board is not bound by findings of fact of the Administrator.

(2) When an individual files an appeal with the Board under this subsection, the order of the Administrator revoking the certificate is stayed. However, if the Administrator advises the Board that safety in air transportation or air commerce requires the immediate effectiveness of the order—

(A) the order remains effective; and

(B) the Board shall make a final disposition of the appeal not later than 60 days after the Administrator so advises the Board.

(3) An individual substantially affected by an order of the Board under this subsection, or the Administrator when the Administrator decides that an order of the Board will have a significant adverse effect on carrying out this part, may obtain judicial review of the order under section 46110 of this title. The Administrator shall be made a party to the judicial review proceedings. Findings of fact of the Board are conclusive if supported by substantial evidence.

(e) Acquittal.—(1) The Administrator may not revoke, and the Board may not affirm a revocation of, an airman certificate under subsection (b)(2) of this section on the basis of an activity described in subsection (b)(2)(A) if the holder of the certificate is acquitted of all charges related to a controlled substance in an indictment or information arising from the activity.

(2) If the Administrator has revoked an airman certificate under this section because of an activity described in subsection (b)(2)(A) of this section, the Administrator shall reissue a certificate to the individual if—

(A) the individual otherwise satisfies the requirements for a certificate under section 44703 of this title; and

(B)(i) the individual subsequently is acquitted of all charges related to a controlled substance in an indictment or information arising from the activity; or

(ii) the conviction on which a revocation under subsection (b)(1) of this section is based is reversed.

(f) Waivers.—The Administrator may waive the requirement of subsection (b) of this section that an airman certificate of an individual be revoked if—

(1) a law enforcement official of the United States Government or of a State requests a waiver; and

(2) the Administrator decides that the waiver will facilitate law enforcement efforts.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1191; Pub. L. 112–153, §2(c)(3), Aug. 3, 2012, 126 Stat. 1161.)

In subsection (b)(1) and (2), before each clause (A), the words "of any person" are omitted as surplus. The words "issued . . . under section 44703 of this title" are added for clarity.

In subsection (b)(1), the word "offense" is substituted for "crime" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (b)(2)(C), the words "in connection with carrying out, or facilitating the carrying out of, the activity" are substituted for "in connection with such activity or the facilitation of such activity" for consistency with the source provisions restated in paragraph (1)(B) of this subsection.

In subsection (d)(1), the word "Administrator" is substituted for "Federal Aviation Administration" because of 49:106(b) and (g).

In subsection (e)(1), the words "on appeal" and "contained" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (e)(2)(B)(i), the word "contained" is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (e)(2)(B)(ii), the words "judgment of" are omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 112–153 struck out "but shall be bound by all validly adopted interpretations of laws and regulations the Administrator carries out and of written agency policy guidance available to the public related to sanctions to be imposed under this section unless the Board finds an interpretation is arbitrary, capricious, or otherwise not according to law" after "findings of fact of the Administrator".

§44711. Prohibitions and exemption

(a) Prohibitions.—A person may not—

(1) operate a civil aircraft in air commerce without an airworthiness certificate in effect or in violation of a term of the certificate;

(2) serve in any capacity as an airman with respect to a civil aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance used, or intended for use, in air commerce—

(A) without an airman certificate authorizing the airman to serve in the capacity for which the certificate was issued; or

(B) in violation of a term of the certificate or a regulation prescribed or order issued under section 44701(a) or (b) or any of sections 44702–44716 of this title;

(3) employ for service related to civil aircraft used in air commerce an airman who does not have an airman certificate authorizing the airman to serve in the capacity for which the airman is employed;

(4) operate as an air carrier without an air carrier operating certificate or in violation of a term of the certificate;

(5) operate aircraft in air commerce in violation of a regulation prescribed or certificate issued under section 44701(a) or (b) or any of sections 44702–44716 of this title;

(6) operate a seaplane or other aircraft of United States registry on the high seas in violation of a regulation under section 3 of the International Navigational Rules Act of 1977 (33 U.S.C. 1602);

(7) violate a term of an air agency, design organization certificate, or production certificate or a regulation prescribed or order issued under section 44701(a) or (b) or any of sections 44702–44716 of this title related to the holder of the certificate;

(8) operate an airport without an airport operating certificate required under section 44706 of this title or in violation of a term of the certificate;

(9) manufacture, deliver, sell, or offer for sale any aviation fuel or additive in violation of a regulation prescribed under section 44714 of this title; or

(10) violate section 44732 or any regulation issued thereunder.

(b) Exemption.—On terms the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration prescribes as being in the public interest, the Administrator may exempt a foreign aircraft and airmen serving on the aircraft from subsection (a) of this section. However, an exemption from observing air traffic regulations may not be granted.

(c) Prohibition on Employment of Convicted Counterfeit Part Traffickers.—No person subject to this chapter may knowingly employ anyone to perform a function related to the procurement, sale, production, or repair of a part or material, or the installation of a part into a civil aircraft, who has been convicted in a court of law of a violation of any Federal law relating to the installation, production, repair, or sale of a counterfeit or fraudulently-represented aviation part or material.

(d) Post-employment Restrictions for Inspectors and Engineers.—

(1) Prohibition.—A person holding a certificate issued under part 21 or 119 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, may not knowingly employ, or make a contractual arrangement that permits, an individual to act as an agent or representative of such person in any matter before the Administration if the individual, in the preceding 2-year period—

(A) served as, or was responsible for oversight of—

(i) a flight standards inspector of the Administration; or

(ii) an employee of the Administration with responsibility for certification functions with respect to a holder of a certificate issued under section 44704(a); and

(B) had responsibility to inspect, or oversee inspection of, the operations of such person.

(2) Written and oral communications.—For purposes of paragraph (1), an individual shall be considered to be acting as an agent or representative of a certificate holder in a matter before the Administration if the individual makes any written or oral communication on behalf of the certificate holder to the Administration (or any of its officers or employees) in connection with a particular matter, whether or not involving a specific party and without regard to whether the individual has participated in, or had responsibility for, the particular matter while serving as an individual covered under paragraph (1).

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1193; Pub. L. 103–429, §6(56), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4385; Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §505(b), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 136; Pub. L. 108–176, title II, §227(d), Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2532; Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §§307(b), 342(a), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 61, 79; Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §111(b), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2330.)

In subsection (a)(1) and (7), the words "condition, or limitation" are omitted as being included in "term".

In subsection (a)(1), the words "without . . . in effect" are substituted for "for which there is not currently in effect an" to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (a)(2), (5), and (7), the word "rule" is omitted as being synonymous with "regulations".

In subsection (a)(2)(B), the word "prescribed" is added for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (a)(5) and (7), the words "prescribed . . . issued" are added for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the Code.

In subsection (a)(5), the words "of the Secretary of Transportation" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(6), the words "proclaimed by the President" are omitted as surplus. The words "section 3 of the International Navigational Rules Act of 1977 (33 U.S.C. 1602)" are substituted for "section 143 of title 33" because the section was part of the Act of October 11, 1951 (ch. 495, 65 Stat. 406), that was repealed by section 3 of the Act of September 24, 1963 (Public Law 88–131, 77 Stat. 194), and replaced by 33:ch. 21. Chapter 21 was repealed by section 10 of the International Navigational Rules Act of 1977 (Public Law 95–75, 91 Stat. 311) and replaced by 33:1601–1608.

In subsection (a)(7), the words "holding . . . such certificate" are omitted because of the restatement.

In subsection (a)(8), the words "by the Administrator" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b), the word "Administrator" in section 610(b) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 780) is retained on authority of 49:106(g). The words "to the extent, and . . . and conditions" and "by such airmen" are omitted as surplus.

Pub. L. 103–429

This amends 49:44711(a)(2)(B), (5), and (7) and 46310(b) to correct erroneous cross-references.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 116–260 amended subsec. (d) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (d) related to postemployment restrictions for flight standards inspectors.

2012—Subsec. (a)(10). Pub. L. 112–95, §307(b), added par. (10).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 112–95, §342(a), added subsec. (d).

2003—Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 108–176 substituted "agency, design organization certificate," for "agency".

2000—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 106–181 added subsec. (c).

1994—Subsec. (a)(2)(B), (5), (7). Pub. L. 103–429 inserted "any of sections" before "44702–44716".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2012 Amendment

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §342(b), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 80, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall not apply to an individual employed by a certificate holder as of the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012]."

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 1994 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 103–429 effective July 5, 1994, see section 9 of Pub. L. 103–429, set out as a note under section 321 of this title.

§44712. Emergency locator transmitters

(a) Installation.—An emergency locator transmitter must be installed on a fixed-wing powered civil aircraft for use in air commerce.

(b) Nonapplication.—Prior to January 1, 2002, subsection (a) does not apply to—

(1) turbojet-powered aircraft;

(2) aircraft when used in scheduled flights by scheduled air carriers holding certificates issued by the Secretary of Transportation under subpart II of this part;

(3) aircraft when used in training operations conducted entirely within a 50 mile radius of the airport from which the training operations begin;

(4) aircraft when used in flight operations related to design and testing, the manufacture, preparation, and delivery of the aircraft, or the aerial application of a substance for an agricultural purpose;

(5) aircraft holding certificates from the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration for research and development;

(6) aircraft when used for showing compliance with regulations, crew training, exhibition, air racing, or market surveys; and

(7) aircraft equipped to carry only one individual.

(c) Nonapplication Beginning on January 1, 2002.—

(1) In general.—Subject to paragraph (2), on and after January 1, 2002, subsection (a) does not apply to—

(A) aircraft when used in scheduled flights by scheduled air carriers holding certificates issued by the Secretary of Transportation under subpart II of this part;

(B) aircraft when used in training operations conducted entirely within a 50-mile radius of the airport from which the training operations begin;

(C) aircraft when used in flight operations related to the design and testing, manufacture, preparation, and delivery of aircraft;

(D) aircraft when used in research and development if the aircraft holds a certificate from the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to carry out such research and development;

(E) aircraft when used in showing compliance with regulations, crew training, exhibition, air racing, or market surveys;

(F) aircraft when used in the aerial application of a substance for an agricultural purpose;

(G) aircraft with a maximum payload capacity of more than 18,000 pounds when used in air transportation; or

(H) aircraft equipped to carry only one individual.

(2) Delay in implementation.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may continue to implement subsection (b) rather than subsection (c) for a period not to exceed 2 years after January 1, 2002, if the Administrator finds such action is necessary to promote—

(A) a safe and orderly transition to the operation of civil aircraft equipped with an emergency locator; or

(B) other safety objectives.

(d) Compliance.—An aircraft meets the requirement of subsection (a) if it is equipped with an emergency locator transmitter that transmits on the 121.5/243 megahertz frequency or the 406 megahertz frequency or with other equipment approved by the Secretary for meeting the requirement of subsection (a).

(e) Removal.—The Administrator shall prescribe regulations specifying the conditions under which an aircraft subject to subsection (a) of this section may operate when its emergency locator transmitter has been removed for inspection, repair, alteration, or replacement.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1194; Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §501(a), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 131.)

In subsection (a), the words "Except with respect to aircraft described in paragraph (2) of this subsection and except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection" are omitted as surplus. The words "minimum standards pursuant to this section shall include a requirement that", the text of 49 App.:1421(d)(1)(A), and the words "after three years and six months following such date" are omitted as executed.

In subsection (b), the word "used" is substituted for "engaged" for consistency. In clause (3), the word "training" is substituted for "local flight" for consistency. In clause (4), the words "chemicals and other" are omitted as surplus. In clause (5), the word "purposes" is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c), the words "prescribe regulations" are substituted for "shall issue regulations . . . as he prescribes in such regulations" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "such limitations and" and "from such aircraft" are omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2000—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 106–181, §501(a)(1), substituted "Prior to January 1, 2002, subsection (a)" for "Subsection (a) of this section" in introductory provisions.

Subsecs. (c) to (e). Pub. L. 106–181, §501(a)(2), (3), added subsecs. (c) and (d) and redesignated former subsec. (c) as (e).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Regulations

Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §501(b), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 132, provided that: "The Secretary [of Transportation] shall issue regulations to carry out section 44712(c) of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this section, not later than January 1, 2001."

Emergency Locator Transmitters on General Aviation Aircraft

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §347, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 82, provided that:

"(a) Inspection.—As part of the annual inspection of general aviation aircraft, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall require a detailed inspection of each emergency locator transmitter (in this section referred to as an 'ELT') installed in general aviation aircraft operating in the United States to ensure that the ELT is mounted and retained in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.

"(b) Mounting and Retention.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator shall determine if the ELT mounting requirements and retention tests specified by Technical Standard Orders C91a and C126 are adequate to assess retention capabilities in ELT designs.

"(2) Revision.—Based on the determination under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall make any necessary revisions to the requirements and retention tests referred to in paragraph (1) to ensure that ELTs are properly retained in the event of an aircraft accident.

"(c) Report.—Upon the completion of any revisions under subsection (b)(2), the Administrator shall submit a report on the implementation of this section to—

"(1) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate; and

"(2) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives."

§44713. Inspection and maintenance

(a) General Equipment Requirements.—An air carrier shall make, or cause to be made, any inspection, repair, or maintenance of equipment used in air transportation as required by this part or regulations prescribed or orders issued by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under this part. A person operating, inspecting, repairing, or maintaining the equipment shall comply with those requirements, regulations, and orders.

(b) Duties of Inspectors.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall employ inspectors who shall—

(1) inspect aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances designed for use in air transportation, during manufacture and when in use by an air carrier in air transportation, to enable the Administrator to decide whether the aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, or appliances are in safe condition and maintained properly; and

(2) advise and cooperate with the air carrier during that inspection and maintenance.

(c) Unsafe Aircraft, Engines, Propellers, and Appliances.—When an inspector decides that an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance is not in condition for safe operation, the inspector shall notify the air carrier in the form and way prescribed by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. For 5 days after the carrier is notified, the aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance may not be used in air transportation or in a way that endangers air transportation unless the Administrator or the inspector decides the aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance is in condition for safe operation.

(d) Modifications in System.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make modifications in the system for processing forms for major repairs or alterations to fuel tanks and fuel systems of aircraft not used to provide air transportation that are necessary to make the system more effective in serving the needs of users of the system, including officials responsible for enforcing laws related to the regulation of controlled substances (as defined in section 102 of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (21 U.S.C. 802)). The modifications shall address at least each of the following deficiencies in, and abuses of, the existing system:

(A) the lack of a special identification feature to allow the forms to be distinguished easily from other major repair and alteration forms.

(B) the excessive period of time required to receive the forms at the Airmen and Aircraft Registry of the Administration.

(C) the backlog of forms waiting for processing at the Registry.

(D) the lack of ready access by law enforcement officials to information contained on the forms.

(2) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prescribe regulations to carry out paragraph (1) of this subsection and provide a written explanation of how the regulations address each of the deficiencies and abuses described in paragraph (1). In prescribing the regulations, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consult with the Administrator of Drug Enforcement, the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, other law enforcement officials of the United States Government, representatives of State and local law enforcement officials, representatives of the general aviation aircraft industry, representatives of users of general aviation aircraft, and other interested persons.

(e) Automated Surveillance Targeting Systems.—

(1) In general.—The Administrator shall give high priority to developing and deploying a fully enhanced safety performance analysis system that includes automated surveillance to assist the Administrator in prioritizing and targeting surveillance and inspection activities of the Federal Aviation Administration.

(2) Deadlines for deployment.—

(A) Initial phase.—The initial phase of the operational deployment of the system developed under this subsection shall begin not later than December 31, 1997.

(B) Final phase.—The final phase of field deployment of the system developed under this subsection shall begin not later than December 31, 1999. By that date, all principal operations and maintenance inspectors of the Administration, and appropriate supervisors and analysts of the Administration shall have been provided access to the necessary information and resources to carry out the system.

(3) Integration of information.—In developing the system under this section, the Administration shall consider the near-term integration of accident and incident data into the safety performance analysis system under this subsection.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1194; Pub. L. 104–264, title IV, §407(b), Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3258; Pub. L. 114–125, title VIII, §802(d)(2), Feb. 24, 2016, 130 Stat. 210.)

In subsections (a)–(c), the word "Administrator" in section 605(a) and (b) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 778) is retained on authority of 49:106(g).

In subsection (a), the word "overhaul" is omitted as being included in "repair". The word "prescribed" is added for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code. The words "A person operating, inspecting, overhauling, or maintaining the equipment shall comply with those requirements, regulations, and orders" are substituted for 49 App.:1425(a) (last sentence) to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "be charged with the duty . . . of" are omitted as surplus. In clause (1), the words "in use" are substituted for "used by an air carrier in air transportation" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "as may be necessary" and "for operation in air transportation" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c), the words "in the performance of his duty", "used or intended to be used by any air carrier in air transportation", and "a period of" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(1), before clause (A), the words "not used to provide air transportation" are substituted for section 7214 of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 (Public Law 100–690, 102 Stat. 4434) because of the restatement.

In subsection (d)(2), the words "Not later than September 18, 1989" and "final" are omitted as obsolete. The words "Administrator of Drug Enforcement" are substituted for "Drug Enforcement Administration of the Department of Justice" because of section 5(a) of Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1973 (eff. July 1, 1973, 87 Stat. 1092). The words "Commissioner of Customs" are substituted for "United States Customs Service" because of 19:2071.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1996—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 104–264 added subsec. (e).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection" substituted for "Commissioner of Customs" in subsec. (d)(2) on authority of section 802(d)(2) of Pub. L. 114–125, set out as a note under section 211 of Title 6, Domestic Security.

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Except as otherwise specifically provided, amendment by Pub. L. 104–264 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1996, and not to be construed as affecting funds made available for a fiscal year ending before Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104–264, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the United States Customs Service of the Department of the Treasury, including functions of the Secretary of the Treasury relating thereto, to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 203(1), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6. For establishment of U.S. Customs and Border Protection in the Department of Homeland Security, treated as if included in Pub. L. 107–296 as of Nov. 25, 2002, see section 211 of Title 6, as amended generally by Pub. L. 114–125, and section 802(b) of Pub. L. 114–125, set out as a note under section 211 of Title 6.

Maintenance Providers

Pub. L. 112–95, title III, §319, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 69, provided that:

"(a) Regulations.—Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 14, 2012], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue regulations requiring that covered work on an aircraft used to provide air transportation under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, be performed by persons in accordance with subsection (b).

"(b) Persons Authorized To Perform Certain Work.—A person may perform covered work on aircraft used to provide air transportation under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, only if the person is employed by—

"(1) a part 121 air carrier;

"(2) a part 145 repair station or a person authorized under section 43.17 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation); or

"(3) subject to subsection (c), a person that—

"(A) provides contract maintenance workers, services, or maintenance functions to a part 121 air carrier or part 145 repair station; and

"(B) meets the requirements of the part 121 air carrier or the part 145 repair station, as appropriate.

"(c) Terms and Conditions.—Covered work performed by a person who is employed by a person described in subsection (b)(3) shall be subject to the following terms and conditions:

"(1) The applicable part 121 air carrier shall be directly in charge of the covered work being performed.

"(2) The covered work shall be carried out in accordance with the part 121 air carrier's maintenance manual.

"(3) The person shall carry out the covered work under the supervision and control of the part 121 air carrier directly in charge of the covered work being performed on its aircraft.

"(d) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(1) Covered work.—The term 'covered work' means any of the following:

"(A) Essential maintenance that could result in a failure, malfunction, or defect endangering the safe operation of an aircraft if not performed properly or if improper parts or materials are used.

"(B) Regularly scheduled maintenance.

"(C) A required inspection item (as defined by the Administrator).

"(2) Part 121 air carrier.—The term 'part 121 air carrier' means an air carrier that holds a certificate issued under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(3) Part 145 repair station.—The term 'part 145 repair station' means a repair station that holds a certificate issued under part 145 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(4) Person.—The term 'person' means an individual, firm, partnership, corporation, company, or association that performs maintenance, preventative maintenance, or alterations."

§44714. Aviation fuel standards

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prescribe—

(1) standards for the composition or chemical or physical properties of an aircraft fuel or fuel additive to control or eliminate aircraft emissions the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency decides under section 231 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7571) endanger the public health or welfare; and

(2) regulations providing for carrying out and enforcing those standards.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1195.)

In this section, before clause (1), the words "and from time to time revise" are omitted as surplus. In clause (1), the words "establishing" and "the purpose of" are omitted as surplus.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Aviation Fuel

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §565, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3385, provided that:

"(a) Use of Unleaded Aviation Gasoline.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall allow the use of an unleaded aviation gasoline in an aircraft as a replacement for a leaded gasoline if the Administrator—

"(1) determines that the unleaded aviation gasoline qualifies as a replacement for an approved leaded gasoline;

"(2) identifies the aircraft and engines that are eligible to use the qualified replacement unleaded gasoline; and

"(3) adopts a process (other than the traditional means of certification) to allow eligible aircraft and engines to operate using qualified replacement unleaded gasoline in a manner that ensures safety.

"(b) Timing.—The Administrator shall adopt the process described in subsection (a)(3) not later than 180 days after the later of—

"(1) the date on which the [Federal Aviation] Administration completes the Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative; or

"(2) the date on which the American Society for Testing and Materials publishes a production specification for an unleaded aviation gasoline.

"(c) Type Certification.—Existing regulatory mechanisms by which an unleaded aviation gasoline can be approved for use in an engine or aircraft by Type or Supplemental Type Certificate for individual aircraft and engine types or by Approved Model List Supplemental Type Certificate providing coverage for a broad range of applicable types of aircraft or engines identified in the application shall continue to be fully available as a means of approving and bringing an unleaded aviation gasoline into general use in the United States. Such approvals shall be issued when the Administrator finds that the aircraft or engine performs properly and meets the applicable regulations and minimum standards under the normal certification process."

§44715. Controlling aircraft noise and sonic boom

(a) Standards and Regulations.—(1)(A) To relieve and protect the public health and welfare from aircraft noise and sonic boom, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, as he deems necessary, shall prescribe—

(i) standards to measure aircraft noise and sonic boom; and

(ii) regulations to control and abate aircraft noise and sonic boom.

(B) The Administrator, as the Administrator deems appropriate, shall provide for the participation of a representative of the Environmental Protection Agency on such advisory committees or associated working groups that advise the Administrator on matters related to the environmental effects of aircraft and aircraft engines.

(2) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may prescribe standards and regulations under this subsection only after consulting with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. The standards and regulations shall be applied when issuing, amending, modifying, suspending, or revoking a certificate authorized under this chapter.

(3) An original type certificate may be issued under section 44704(a) of this title for an aircraft for which substantial noise abatement can be achieved only after the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration prescribes standards and regulations under this section that apply to that aircraft.

(b) Considerations and Consultation.—When prescribing a standard or regulation under this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

(1) consider relevant information related to aircraft noise and sonic boom;

(2) consult with appropriate departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government and State and interstate authorities;

(3) consider whether the standard or regulation is consistent with the highest degree of safety in air transportation or air commerce in the public interest;

(4) consider whether the standard or regulation is economically reasonable, technologically practicable, and appropriate for the applicable aircraft, aircraft engine, appliance, or certificate; and

(5) consider the extent to which the standard or regulation will carry out the purposes of this section.

(c) Proposed Regulations of Administrator of Environmental Protection Agency.—The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall submit to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration proposed regulations to control and abate aircraft noise and sonic boom (including control and abatement through the use of the authority of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration) that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency considers necessary to protect the public health and welfare. The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consider those proposed regulations and shall publish them in a notice of proposed regulations not later than 30 days after they are received. Not later than 60 days after publication, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall begin a hearing at which interested persons are given an opportunity for oral and written presentations. Not later than 90 days after the hearing is completed and after consulting with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

(1) prescribe regulations as provided by this section—

(A) substantially the same as the proposed regulations submitted by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency; or

(B) that amend the proposed regulations; or

(2) publish in the Federal Register—

(A) a notice that no regulation is being prescribed in response to the proposed regulations of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency;

(B) a detailed analysis of, and response to, all information the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency submitted with the proposed regulations; and

(C) a detailed explanation of why no regulation is being prescribed.

(d) Consultation and Reports.—(1) If the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency believes that the action of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under subsection (c)(1)(B) or (2) of this section does not protect the public health and welfare from aircraft noise or sonic boom, consistent with the considerations in subsection (b) of this section, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall consult with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and may request a report on the advisability of prescribing the regulation as originally proposed. The request, including a detailed statement of the information on which the request is based, shall be published in the Federal Register.

(2) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall report to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency within the time, if any, specified in the request. However, the time specified must be at least 90 days after the date of the request. The report shall—

(A) be accompanied by a detailed statement of the findings of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and the reasons for the findings;

(B) identify any statement related to an action under subsection (c) of this section filed under section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C));

(C) specify whether and where that statement is available for public inspection; and

(D) be published in the Federal Register unless the request proposes specific action by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and the report indicates that action will be taken.

(e) Supplemental Reports.—The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency may request the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to file a supplemental report if the report under subsection (d) of this section indicates that the proposed regulations under subsection (c) of this section, for which a statement under section 102(2)(C) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)) is not required, should not be prescribed. The supplemental report shall be published in the Federal Register within the time the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency specifies. However, the time specified must be at least 90 days after the date of the request. The supplemental report shall contain a comparison of the environmental effects, including those that cannot be avoided, of the action of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and the proposed regulations of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.

(f) Exemptions.—An exemption from a standard or regulation prescribed under this section may be granted only if, before granting the exemption, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration consults with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. However, if the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration finds that safety in air transportation or air commerce requires an exemption before the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency can be consulted, the exemption may be granted. The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consult with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency as soon as practicable after the exemption is granted.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1196; Pub. L. 104–264, title IV, §406(a), Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3257.)

In subsection (a)(1), before clause (A), the text of 49 App.:1431(a) is omitted because the revised section identifies the appropriate Administrator each time the Administrator is mentioned. The words "present and future" and "and amend" are omitted as surplus. In clause (B), the words "as the FAA may find necessary to provide" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(2), the word "only" is added for clarity.

Subsection (a)(3) is substituted for 49 App.:1431(b)(2) to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "and amending" are omitted as surplus. In clause (1), the words "available . . . including the results of research, development, testing, and evaluation activities conducted pursuant to this chapter and the Department of Transportation Act" are omitted as surplus. In clause (2), the words "departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government and State and interstate authorities" are substituted for "Federal, State, and interstate agencies" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code. The words "as he deems" are omitted as surplus. In clauses (3) and (4), the word "proposed" is omitted as surplus. In clause (4), the word "applicable" is substituted for "particular type of . . . to which it will apply" to eliminate unnecessary words. In clause (5), the words "contribute to" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c), before clause (1), the words "Not earlier than the date of submission of the report required by section 4906 of title 42" are omitted as executed. The words "regulatory . . . over air commerce or transportation or over aircraft or airport operations" and "submitted by the EPA under this paragraph" are omitted as surplus. The word "regulations" is substituted for "rulemaking" for consistency in the revised title. The words "after they are received" are substituted for "of the date of its submission to the FAA" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "of data, views, and arguments" are omitted as surplus. In clause (1), the words "in accordance with subsection (b) of this section" are omitted because of the restatement. In clause (2)(B), the words "documentation or other" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(1), the words "listed" and "the FAA to review, and . . . to EPA . . . by EPA" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d)(2), before clause (A), the words "shall complete the review requested and" are omitted as surplus. In clause (B), the words "of the FAA" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (e), the words "actually taken . . . in response to EPA's proposed regulations" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (f), the words "under any provision of this chapter" and "that . . . be granted" are omitted as surplus. The words "the exemption may be granted" are added for clarity.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1996—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 104–264, which in directing the general amendment of par. (1) inserted an additional subsec. (a) designation and heading identical to the existing subsec. heading as well as restating the text of par. (1), was executed by restating the text only to reflect the probable intent of Congress. Prior to amendment, par. (1) read as follows: "To relieve and protect the public health and welfare from aircraft noise and sonic boom, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prescribe—

"(A) standards to measure aircraft noise and sonic boom; and

"(B) regulations to control and abate aircraft noise and sonic boom."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Except as otherwise specifically provided, amendment by Pub. L. 104–264 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1996, and not to be construed as affecting funds made available for a fiscal year ending before Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104–264, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

§44716. Collision avoidance systems

(a) Development and Certification.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

(1) complete the development of the collision avoidance system known as TCAS–II so that TCAS–II can operate under visual and instrument flight rules and can be upgraded to the performance standards applicable to the collision avoidance system known as TCAS–III;

(2) develop and carry out a schedule for developing and certifying TCAS–II that will result in certification not later than June 30, 1989; and

(3) submit to Congress monthly reports on the progress being made in developing and certifying TCAS–II.

(b) Installation and Operation.—The Administrator shall require by regulation that, not later than 30 months after the date certification is made under subsection (a)(2) of this section, TCAS–II be installed and operated on each civil aircraft that has a maximum passenger capacity of at least 31 seats and is used to provide air transportation of passengers, including intrastate air transportation of passengers. The Administrator may extend the deadline in this subsection for not more than 2 years if the Administrator finds the extension is necessary to promote—

(1) a safe and orderly transition to the operation of a fleet of civil aircraft described in this subsection equipped with TCAS–II; or

(2) other safety objectives.

(c) Operational Evaluation.—Not later than December 30, 1990, the Administrator shall establish a one-year program to collect and assess safety and operational information from civil aircraft equipped with TCAS–II for the operational evaluation of TCAS–II. The Administrator shall encourage foreign air carriers that operate civil aircraft equipped with TCAS–II to participate in the program.

(d) Amending Schedule for Windshear Equipment.—The Administrator shall consider the feasibility and desirability of amending the schedule for installing airborne low-altitude windshear equipment to make the schedule compatible with the schedule for installing TCAS–II.

(e) Deadline for Development and Certification.—(1) The Administrator shall complete developing and certifying TCAS–III as soon as possible.

(2) Necessary amounts may be appropriated from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund established under section 9502 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. 9502) to carry out this subsection.

(f) Installing and Using Transponders.—The Administrator shall prescribe regulations requiring that, not later than December 30, 1990, operating transponders with automatic altitude reporting capability be installed and used for aircraft operating in designated terminal airspace where radar service is provided for separation of aircraft. The Administrator may provide for access to that airspace (except terminal control areas and airport radar service areas) by nonequipped aircraft if the Administrator finds the access will not interfere with the normal traffic flow.

(g) Cargo Collision Avoidance Systems.—

(1) In general.—The Administrator shall require by regulation that, no later than December 31, 2002, collision avoidance equipment be installed on each cargo aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight in excess of 15,000 kilograms.

(2) Extension of deadline.—The Administrator may extend the deadline established by paragraph (1) by not more than 2 years if the Administrator finds that the extension is needed to promote—

(A) a safe and orderly transition to the operation of a fleet of cargo aircraft equipped with collision avoidance equipment; or

(B) other safety or public interest objectives.

(3) Collision avoidance equipment defined.—In this subsection, the term "collision avoidance equipment" means equipment that provides protection from mid-air collisions using technology that provides—

(A) cockpit-based collision detection and conflict resolution guidance, including display of traffic; and

(B) a margin of safety of at least the same level as provided by the collision avoidance system known as TCAS–II.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1198; Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §502, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 132.)

In subsection (c), the words "In conducting the program" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (e)(1), the word "research" is omitted as included in "developing".

In subsection (e)(2), the words "established under section 9502 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. 9502)" are added for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (f), the words "Not later than 6 months after December 30, 1987, the Administrator shall promulgate a final rule" and "Such final rule" are omitted as executed.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2000—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 106–181 added subsec. (g).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Termination of Reporting Requirements

For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of reporting provisions in subsec. (a)(3) of this section, see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance, and the 8th item on page 138 of House Document No. 103–7.

§44717. Aging aircraft

(a) Inspections and Reviews.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prescribe regulations that ensure the continuing airworthiness of aging aircraft. The regulations prescribed under subsection (a) of this section—

(1) at least shall require the Administrator to make inspections, and review the maintenance and other records, of each aircraft an air carrier uses to provide air transportation that the Administrator decides may be necessary to enable the Administrator to decide whether the aircraft is in safe condition and maintained properly for operation in air transportation;

(2) at least shall require an air carrier to demonstrate to the Administrator, as part of the inspection, that maintenance of the aircraft's age-sensitive parts and components has been adequate and timely enough to ensure the highest degree of safety;

(3) shall require the air carrier to make available to the Administrator the aircraft and any records about the aircraft that the Administrator requires to carry out a review; and

(4) shall establish procedures to be followed in carrying out an inspection.

(b) When and How Inspections and Reviews Shall Be Carried Out.—(1) Inspections and reviews required under subsection (a)(1) of this section shall be carried out as part of each heavy maintenance check of the aircraft conducted after the 14th year in which the aircraft has been in service.

(2) Inspections under subsection (a)(1) of this section shall be carried out as provided under section 44701(a)(2)(B) and (C) of this title.

(c) Aircraft Maintenance Safety Programs.—The Administrator shall establish—

(1) a program to verify that air carriers are maintaining their aircraft according to maintenance programs approved by the Administrator;

(2) a program—

(A) to provide inspectors and engineers of the Administration with training necessary to conduct auditing inspections of aircraft operated by air carriers for corrosion and metal fatigue; and

(B) to enhance participation of those inspectors and engineers in those inspections; and

(3) a program to ensure that air carriers demonstrate to the Administrator their commitment and technical competence to ensure the airworthiness of aircraft that the carriers operate.

(d) Foreign Air Transportation.—(1) The Administrator shall take all possible steps to encourage governments of foreign countries and relevant international organizations to develop standards and requirements for inspections and reviews that—

(A) will ensure the continuing airworthiness of aging aircraft used by foreign air carriers to provide foreign air transportation to and from the United States; and

(B) will provide passengers of those foreign air carriers with the same level of safety that will be provided passengers of air carriers by carrying out this section.

(2) Not later than September 30, 1994, the Administrator shall report to Congress on carrying out this subsection.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1199.)

In subsections (a) and (c), before clause (1), the words "Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this title" are omitted as obsolete.

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the text of section 405 of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1992 (Public Law 102–143, 105 Stat. 952) is omitted as surplus because the complete name of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration is used the first time the term appears in a section. The word "regulations" is substituted for "rule" because the terms are synonymous. In clauses (2)–(4), the words "required by the rule" are omitted as surplus. In clause (2), the words "structure, skin, and other" are omitted as surplus. In clause (3), the words "inspection, maintenance, and other" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c)(1), the word "Administrator" is substituted for "Federal Aviation Administration" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (d)(1), before clause (A), the words "governments of foreign countries" are substituted for "foreign governments" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

§44718. Structures interfering with air commerce or national security

(a) Notice.—By regulation or by order when necessary, the Secretary of Transportation shall require a person to give adequate public notice, in the form and way the Secretary prescribes, of the construction, alteration, establishment, or expansion, or the proposed construction, alteration, establishment, or expansion, of a structure or sanitary landfill when the notice will promote—

(1) safety in air commerce;

(2) the efficient use and preservation of the navigable airspace and of airport traffic capacity at public-use airports; or

(3) the interests of national security, as determined by the Secretary of Defense.

(b) Studies.—

(1) In general.—Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary, if the Secretary decides that constructing or altering a structure may result in an obstruction of the navigable airspace, an interference with air or space navigation facilities and equipment or the navigable airspace, or, after consultation with the Secretary of Defense, an adverse impact on military operations and readiness, the Secretary of Transportation shall conduct an aeronautical study to decide the extent of any adverse impact on the safe and efficient use of the airspace, facilities, or equipment. In conducting the study, the Secretary shall—

(A) consider factors relevant to the efficient and effective use of the navigable airspace, including—

(i) the impact on arrival, departure, and en route procedures for aircraft operating under visual flight rules;

(ii) the impact on arrival, departure, and en route procedures for aircraft operating under instrument flight rules;

(iii) the impact on existing public-use airports and aeronautical facilities;

(iv) the impact on planned public-use airports and aeronautical facilities;

(v) the cumulative impact resulting from the proposed construction or alteration of a structure when combined with the impact of other existing or proposed structures;

(vi) the impact on launch and reentry for launch and reentry vehicles arriving or departing from a launch site or reentry site licensed by the Secretary of Transportation; and

(vii) other factors relevant to the efficient and effective use of navigable airspace; and

(B) include the finding made by the Secretary of Defense under subsection (f).

(2) Report.—On completing the study, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a report disclosing the extent of the—

(A) adverse impact on the safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace that the Secretary finds will result from constructing or altering the structure; and

(B) unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States, as determined by the Secretary of Defense under subsection (f).

(3) Severability.—A determination by the Secretary of Transportation on hazard to air navigation under this section shall remain independent of a determination of unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States by the Secretary of Defense under subsection (f).

(c) Broadcast Applications and Tower Studies.—In carrying out laws related to a broadcast application and conducting an aeronautical study related to broadcast towers, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Communications Commission shall take action necessary to coordinate efficiently—

(1) the receipt and consideration of, and action on, the application; and

(2) the completion of any associated aeronautical study.

(d) Limitation on Construction of Landfills.—

(1) In general.—No person shall construct or establish a municipal solid waste landfill (as defined in section 258.2 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the date of the enactment of this subsection) that receives putrescible waste (as defined in section 257.3–8 of such title) within 6 miles of a public airport that has received grants under chapter 471 and is primarily served by general aviation aircraft and regularly scheduled flights of aircraft designed for 60 passengers or less unless the State aviation agency of the State in which the airport is located requests that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration exempt the landfill from the application of this subsection and the Administrator determines that such exemption would have no adverse impact on aviation safety.

(2) Limitation on applicability.—Paragraph (1) shall not apply in the State of Alaska and shall not apply to the construction, establishment, expansion, or modification of, or to any other activity undertaken with respect to, a municipal solid waste landfill if the construction or establishment of the landfill was commenced on or before the date of the enactment of this subsection.

(e) Review of Aeronautical Studies.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall develop procedures to allow the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security to review and comment on an aeronautical study conducted pursuant to subsection (b) prior to the completion of the study.

(f) National Security Finding.—As part of an aeronautical study conducted under subsection (b) and in accordance with section 183a(e) of title 10, the Secretary of Defense shall—

(1) make a finding on whether the construction, alteration, establishment, or expansion of a structure or sanitary landfill included in the study would result in an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States; and

(2) transmit the finding to the Secretary of Transportation for inclusion in the report required under subsection (b)(2).

(g) Special Rule for Identified Geographic Areas.—In the case of a proposed structure to be located within a geographic area identified under section 183a(d)(2)(B) of title 10, the Secretary of Transportation may not issue a determination pursuant to this section until the Secretary of Defense issues a finding under section 183a(e) of title 10, the Secretary of Defense advises the Secretary of Transportation that no finding under section 183a(e) of title 10 will be forthcoming, or 180 days have lapsed since the project was filed with the Secretary of Transportation pursuant to this section, whichever occurs first.

(h) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) Adverse impact on military operations and readiness.—The term "adverse impact on military operations and readiness" has the meaning given the term in section 183a(h)(1) of title 10.

(2) Unacceptable risk to the national security of the united states.—The term "unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States" has the meaning given the term in section 183a(h)(7) ¹ of title 10.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1200; Pub. L. 104–264, title XII, §1220(a), Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3286; Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §503(b), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 133; Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title III, §332, Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1369; Pub. L. 114–248, §1(a), Nov. 28, 2016, 130 Stat. 998; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title III, §341(a)(1)–(4)(A), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2079–2081; Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title III, §311(b)(2), (3), (e), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1347, 1348; Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title X, §1081(e)(2), Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1986; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §539(h), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3371.)

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the words "(hereinafter in this section referred to as the 'Secretary')" and "where necessary" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b)(1), before clause (A), the word "thoroughly" is omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of this subsection, referred to in subsec. (d), probably means the date of enactment of Pub. L. 106–181, which amended subsec. (d) generally, and which was approved Apr. 5, 2000.

Section 183a(h)(7) of title 10, referred to in subsec. (h)(2), was redesignated as section 183a(h)(9) of title 10 by Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title III, §371(5)(A), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1329.

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 115–254, §539(h)(1), substituted "air or space navigation facilities and equipment" for "air navigation facilities and equipment" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(1)(A)(vi), (vii). Pub. L. 115–254, §539(h)(2), added cl. (vi) and redesignated former cl. (vi) as (vii).

Subsec. (h)(1). Pub. L. 115–232, §1081(e)(2)(A), substituted "section 183a(h)(1) of title 10" for "section 183a(g) of title 10".

Subsec. (h)(2). Pub. L. 115–232, §1081(e)(2)(B), substituted "section 183a(h)(7) of title 10" for "section 183a(g) of title 10".

2017—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 115–91, §311(b)(2), inserted "and in accordance with section 183a(e) of title 10" after "conducted under subsection (b)" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 115–91, §311(e)(2), added subsec. (g). Former subsec. (g) redesignated (h).

Pub. L. 115–91, §311(b)(3), substituted "183a(g) of title 10" for "211.3 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on January 6, 2014" in pars. (1) and (2).

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 115–91, §311(e)(1), redesignated subsec. (g) as (h).

2016—Pub. L. 114–328, §341(a)(4)(A), inserted "or national security" after "air commerce" in section catchline.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 114–328, §341(a)(1), added par. (3).

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 114–328, §341(a)(2), amended subsec. (b) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (b) related to studies by Secretary to determine obstruction of airspace by newly contructed or altered structures.

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 114–248, §1(a)(1), substituted "air or space navigation facilities and equipment" for "air navigation facilities and equipment" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(1)(F). Pub. L. 114–248, §1(a)(2)–(4), added subpar. (F).

Subsecs. (f), (g). Pub. L. 114–328, §341(a)(3), added subsecs. (f) and (g).

2011—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 112–81 added subsec. (e).

2000—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 106–181 amended heading and text of subsec. (d) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "For the purposes of enhancing aviation safety, in a case in which 2 landfills have been proposed to be constructed or established within 6 miles of a commercial service airport with fewer than 50,000 enplanements per year, no person shall construct or establish either landfill if an official of the Federal Aviation Administration has stated in writing within the 3-year period ending on the date of the enactment of this subsection that 1 of the landfills would be incompatible with aircraft operations at the airport, unless the landfill is already active on such date of enactment or the airport operator agrees to the construction or establishment of the landfill."

1996—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 104–264 added subsec. (d).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Except as otherwise specifically provided, amendment by Pub. L. 104–264 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1996, and not to be construed as affecting funds made available for a fiscal year ending before Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104–264, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Rulemaking

Pub. L. 114–248, §1(b), Nov. 28, 2016, 130 Stat. 998, provided that: "Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Nov. 28, 2016], the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall initiate a rulemaking to implement the amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section]."

Tower Marking

Pub. L. 114–190, title II, §2110, July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 623, as amended by Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §576, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3391, provided that:

"(a) Application.—

"(1) In general.—Except as provided by paragraph (2), not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 [Oct. 5, 2018] or the date of availability of the database developed by the Administrator pursuant to subsection (c), whichever is later, all covered towers shall be either—

"(A) clearly marked consistent with applicable guidance in the advisory circular of the FAA issued December 4, 2015 (AC 70/7460-IL); or

"(B) included in the database described in subsection (c).

"(2) Meteorological evaluation tower.—A covered tower that is a meteorological evaluation tower shall be subject to the requirements of subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1).

"(b) Definitions.—

"(1) In general.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

"(A) Covered tower.—

"(i) In general.—The term 'covered tower' means a structure that—

     "(I) is a meteorological evaluation tower, a self-standing tower, or [a] tower supported by guy wires and ground anchors;

     "(II) is 10 feet or less in diameter at the above-ground base, excluding concrete footing;

     "(III) at the highest point of the structure is at least 50 feet above ground level;

     "(IV) at the highest point of the structure is not more than 200 feet above ground level;

     "(V) has accessory facilities on which an antenna, sensor, camera, meteorological instrument, or other equipment is mounted; and

     "(VI) is located on land that is—

"(aa) in a rural area; and

"(bb) used for agricultural purposes or immediately adjacent to such land.

"(ii) Exclusions.—The term 'covered tower' does not include any structure that—

     "(I) is adjacent to a house, barn, electric utility station, or other building;

     "(II) is within the curtilage of a farmstead or adjacent to another building or visible structure;

     "(III) supports electric utility transmission or distribution lines;

     "(IV) is a wind-powered electrical generator with a rotor blade radius that exceeds 6 feet;

     "(V) is a street light erected or maintained by a Federal, State, local, or tribal entity;

     "(VI) is designed and constructed to resemble a tree or visible structure other than a tower;

     "(VII) is an advertising billboard;

     "(VIII) is located within the right-of-way of a rail carrier, including within the boundaries of a rail yard, and is used for a railroad purpose;

     "(IX)(aa) is registered with the Federal Communications Commission under the Antenna Structure Registration program set forth under part 17 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations; and

     "(bb) is determined by the Administrator to pose no hazard to air navigation; or

     "(X) has already mitigated any hazard to aviation safety in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration guidance or as otherwise approved by the Administrator.

"(B) Rural area.—The term 'rural area' has the meaning given the term in section 609(a)(5) of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 918c(a)(5)).

"(C) Agricultural purposes.—The term 'agricultural purposes' means farming in all its branches and the cultivation and tillage of the soil, the production, cultivation, growing, and harvesting of any agricultural or horticultural commodities performed by a farmer or on a farm, or on pasture land or rangeland.

"(2) Other definitions.—The Administrator shall define such other terms as may be necessary to carry out this section.

"(c) Database.—The Administrator shall—

"(1) develop a new database, or if appropriate use an existing database that meets the requirements under this section, that contains the location and height of each covered tower that, pursuant to subsection (a), the owner or operator of such tower elects not to mark (unless the Administrator has determined that there is a significant safety risk requiring that the tower be marked), except that meteorological evaluation towers shall be marked and contained in the database;

"(2) keep the database current to the extent practicable;

"(3) ensure that any proprietary information in the database is protected from disclosure in accordance with law;

"(4) ensure that, by virtue of accessing the database, users agree and acknowledge that information in the database—

"(A) may only be used for aviation safety purposes; and

"(B) may not be disclosed for purposes other than aviation safety, regardless of whether or not the information is marked or labeled as proprietary or with a similar designation;

"(5) ensure that the tower information in the database is de-identified and that the information only includes the location and height of covered towers and whether the tower has guy wires;

"(6) ensure that information in the dataset is encrypted at rest and in transit and is protected from unauthorized access and acquisition;

"(7) ensure that towers excluded from the definition of covered tower under subsection (d)(1)(B)(ii)(VIII) must be registered by its owner in the database;

"(8) ensure that a tower to be included in the database pursuant to subsection (c)(1) and constructed after the date on which the database is fully operational is submitted by its owner to the FAA for inclusion in the database before its construction;

"(9) ensure that pilots who intend to conduct low-altitude operations in locations described in subsection (b)(1)(A)(i)(VI) consult the relevant parts of the database before conducting such operations; and

"(10) make the database available for use not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 [Oct. 5, 2018].

"(d) Exclusion and Waiver Authorities.—As part of a rulemaking conducted pursuant to this section, the Administrator—

"(1) may exclude a class, category, or type of tower that is determined by the Administrator, after public notice and comment, to not pose a hazard to aviation safety;

"(2) shall establish a process to waive specific covered towers from the marking requirements under this section as required under the rulemaking if the Administrator later determines such tower or towers do not pose a hazard to aviation safety;

"(3) shall consider, in establishing exclusions and granting waivers under this subsection, factors that may sufficiently mitigate risks to aviation safety, such as the length of time the tower has been in existence or alternative marking methods or technologies that maintains a tower's level of conspicuousness to a degree which adequately maintains the safety of the airspace; and

"(4) shall consider excluding towers located in a State that has enacted tower marking requirements according to the Federal Aviation Administration's recommended guidance for the voluntary marking of meteorological evaluation towers erected in remote and rural areas that are less than 200 feet above ground level to enhance the conspicuity of the towers for low level agricultural operations in the vicinity of those towers.

"(e) Periodic Review.—The Administrator shall, in consultation with the Federal Communications Commission, periodically review any regulations or guidance regarding the marking of covered towers issued pursuant to this section and update them as necessary, consistent with this section, and in the interest of safety of low-altitude aircraft operations.

"(f) FCC Regulations.—The Federal Communications Commission shall amend section 17.7 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, to require a notification to the Federal Aviation Administration for any construction or alteration of an antenna structure, as defined in section 17.2(a) of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, that is a covered tower as defined by this section."

Study of Effects of New Construction of Obstructions on Military Installations and Operations

Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title III, §358, Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4198, as amended by Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title III, §331, Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1369; Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title X, §1076(b)(1), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1949; Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title III, §314, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 790, related to study of effects of new construction of obstructions on military installations and operations, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title III, §311(b)(1), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1347. See section 183a of Title 10, Armed Forces.

Landfills Interfering With Air Commerce

Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §503(a), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 133, provided that: "Congress finds that—

"(1) collisions between aircraft and birds have resulted in fatal accidents;

"(2) bird strikes pose a special danger to smaller aircraft;

"(3) landfills near airports pose a potential hazard to aircraft operating there because they attract birds;

"(4) even if the landfill is not located in the approach path of the airport's runway, it still poses a hazard because of the birds' ability to fly away from the landfill and into the path of oncoming planes;

"(5) while certain mileage limits have the potential to be arbitrary, keeping landfills at least 6 miles away from an airport, especially an airport served by small planes, is an appropriate minimum requirement for aviation safety; and

"(6) closure of existing landfills (due to concerns about aviation safety) should be avoided because of the likely disruption to those who use and depend on such landfills."

¹ See References in Text note below.

§44719. Standards for navigational aids

The Secretary of Transportation shall prescribe regulations on standards for installing navigational aids, including airport control towers. For each type of facility, the regulations shall consider at a minimum traffic density (number of aircraft operations without consideration of aircraft size), terrain and other obstacles to navigation, weather characteristics, passengers served, and potential aircraft operating efficiencies.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1201.)

The words "Not later than December 31, 1988" are omitted as obsolete.

§44720. Meteorological services

(a) Recommendations.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make recommendations to the Secretary of Commerce on providing meteorological services necessary for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in air commerce. In providing the services, the Secretary shall cooperate with the Administrator and give complete consideration to those recommendations.

(b) Promoting Safety and Efficiency.—To promote safety and efficiency in air navigation to the highest possible degree, the Secretary shall—

(1) observe, measure, investigate, and study atmospheric phenomena, and maintain meteorological stations and offices, that are necessary or best suited for finding out in advance information about probable weather conditions;

(2) provide reports to the Administrator ¹ to persons engaged in civil aeronautics that are designated by the Administrator and to other persons designated by the Secretary in a way and with a frequency that best will result in safety in, and facilitating, air navigation;

(3) cooperate with persons engaged in air commerce in meteorological services, maintain reciprocal arrangements with those persons in carrying out this clause, and collect and distribute weather reports available from aircraft in flight;

(4) maintain and coordinate international exchanges of meteorological information required for the safety and efficiency of air navigation;

(5) in cooperation with other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government, meteorological services of foreign countries, and persons engaged in air commerce, participate in developing an international basic meteorological reporting network, including the establishment, operation, and maintenance of reporting stations on the high seas, in polar regions, and in foreign countries;

(6) coordinate meteorological requirements in the United States to maintain standard observations, to promote efficient use of facilities, and to avoid duplication of services unless the duplication tends to promote the safety and efficiency of air navigation; and

(7) promote and develop meteorological science and foster and support research projects in meteorology through the use of private and governmental research facilities and provide for publishing the results of the projects unless publication would not be in the public interest.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1201.)

In subsection (b), the title "Secretary" [of Commerce] is substituted for "Chief of the Weather Bureau" in section 803 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 783) because of sections 1 and 2 of Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1965 (eff. July 13, 1965, 79 Stat. 1318). Before clause (1), the words "In order" and "in addition to any other functions or duties pertaining to weather information for other purposes" are omitted as surplus. In clause (2), the words "forecasts, warnings, and advices" are omitted as being included in "reports". In clause (3), the words "or employees thereof" and "establish and" are omitted as surplus. The words "with those persons" are added for clarity. In clause (5), the words "departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government" are substituted for "governmental agencies of the United States" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Improved Safety in Rural Areas

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §322, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3270, provided that: "The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall permit an air carrier operating pursuant to part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to operate to a destination with a published approach, in a noncontiguous State under instrument flight rules and conduct an instrument approach without a destination Meteorological Aerodrome Report (METAR) if a current Area Forecast, supplemented by noncertified local weather observations (such as weather cameras and human observations) is available, and an alternate airport that has a weather report is specified. The operator shall have approved procedures for departure and en route weather evaluation."

Terminal Aerodrome Forecast

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §516, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3358, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall permit a covered air carrier to operate to or from a location in a noncontiguous State without a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast or Meteorological Aerodrome Report if—

"(1) such location is determined to be under visual meteorological conditions;

"(2) a current Area Forecast, supplemented by other local weather observations or reports, is available; and

"(3) an alternate airport that has an available Terminal Aerodrome Forecast and weather report is specified.

"(b) Procedures.—A covered air carrier shall—

"(1) have approved procedures for dispatch or release and enroute weather evaluation; and

"(2) operate under instrument flight rules enroute to the destination.

"(c) Limitation.—Without a written finding of necessity, based on objective and historical evidence of imminent threat to safety, the Administrator shall not promulgate any operation specification, policy, or guidance document pursuant to this section that is more restrictive than, or requires procedures that are not expressly stated in, the regulations.

"(d) Covered Air Carrier Defined.—In this section, the term 'covered air carrier' means an air carrier operating in a noncontiguous State under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations."

Automated Weather Observing Systems Policy

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title V, §553, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3379, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall—

"(1) update automated weather observing systems standards to maximize the use of new technologies that promote the reduction of equipment or maintenance cost for non-Federal automated weather observing systems, including the use of remote monitoring and maintenance, unless demonstrated to be ineffective;

"(2) review, and if necessary update, existing policies in accordance with the standards developed under paragraph (1); and

"(3) establish a process under which appropriate onsite airport personnel or an aviation official may, with appropriate manufacturer training or alternative training as determined by the Administrator, be permitted to conduct the minimum triannual preventative maintenance checks under the advisory circular for non-Federal automated weather observing systems (AC 150/5220–16E) and any other similar, successor checks.

"(b) Permission.—Permission to conduct the minimum triannual preventative maintenance checks described under subsection (a)(3) and any similar, successor checks shall not be withheld but for specific cause.

"(c) Standards.—In updating the standards under subsection (a)(1), the Administrator shall—

"(1) ensure the standards are performance-based;

"(2) use risk analysis to determine the accuracy of the automated weather observing systems outputs required for pilots to perform safe aircraft operations; and

"(3) provide a cost-benefit analysis to determine whether the benefits outweigh the cost for any requirement not directly related to safety.

"(d) AIP Eligibility of AWOS Equipment.—

"(1) In general.—Notwithstanding any other law, the Administrator is authorized to and shall waive any positive benefit-cost ratio requirement for automated weather-observing system equipment under subchapter I of chapter 471, of title 49, United States Code, if—

"(A) the airport sponsor or State, as applicable, certifies that a grant for such automated weather observing systems equipment under that chapter will assist an applicable airport to respond to regional emergency needs, including medical, firefighting, and search and rescue needs;

"(B) the Secretary determines, after consultation with the airport sponsor or State, as applicable, that the placement of automated weather-observing equipment at the airport will not cause unacceptable radio frequency congestion; and

"(C) the other requirements under that chapter are met.

"(2) Applicability to low population density states.—This subsection is applicable only to airports located in states with a population density, based on the most recent decennial census, of 50 or fewer persons per square mile.

"(e) Report.—Not later than September 30, 2025, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report on the implementation of the requirements under this section."

Automated Surface Observation System Stations

Pub. L. 106–181, title VII, §728, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 168, provided that: "The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall not terminate human weather observers for Automated Surface Observation System stations until—

"(1) the Administrator determines that the system provides consistent reporting of changing meteorological conditions and notifies Congress in writing of that determination; and

"(2) 60 days have passed since the report was transmitted to Congress."

¹ So in original. Probably should be followed by a comma.

§44721. Aeronautical charts and related products and services

(a) Publication.—

(1) In general.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may arrange for the publication of aeronautical maps and charts necessary for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in air navigation, using the facilities and assistance of departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government as far as practicable.

(2) Navigation routes.—In carrying out paragraph (1), the Administrator shall update and arrange for the publication of clearly defined routes for navigating through a complex terminal airspace area and to and from an airport located in such an area, if the Administrator decides that publication of the routes would promote safety in air navigation. The routes shall be developed in consultation with pilots and other users of affected airports and shall be for the optional use of pilots operating under visual flight rules.

(b) Indemnification.—The Government shall make an agreement to indemnify any person that publishes a map or chart for use in aeronautics from any part of a claim arising out of the depiction by the person on the map or chart of a defective or deficient flight procedure or airway if the flight procedure or airway was—

(1) prescribed by the Administrator;

(2) depicted accurately on the map or chart; and

(3) not obviously defective or deficient.

(c) Authority of Office of Aeronautical Charting and Cartography.—Effective October 1, 2000, the Administrator is vested with and shall exercise the functions, powers, and duties of the Secretary of Commerce and other officers of the Department of Commerce that relate to the Office of Aeronautical Charting and Cartography to provide aeronautical charts and related products and services for the safe and efficient navigation of air commerce, under the following authorities:

(1) Sections 1 through 9 of the Act entitled "An Act to define the functions and duties of the Coast and Geodetic Survey, and for other purposes", approved August 6, 1947,¹ (33 U.S.C. 883a–883h).

(2) Section 6082 of the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (33 U.S.C. 883j).

(d) Authority.—In order that full public benefit may be derived from the dissemination of data resulting from activities under this section and of related data from other sources, the Administrator may—

(1) develop, process, disseminate and publish digital and analog data, information, compilations, and reports;

(2) compile, print, and disseminate aeronautical charts and related products and services of the United States and its territories and possessions;

(3) compile, print, and disseminate aeronautical charts and related products and services covering international airspace as are required primarily by United States civil aviation; and

(4) compile, print, and disseminate nonaeronautical navigational, transportation or public-safety-related products and services when in the best interests of the Government.

(e) Contracts, Cooperative Agreements, Grants, and Other Agreements.—

(1) Contracts.—The Administrator is authorized to contract with qualified organizations for the performance of any part of the authorized functions of the Office of Aeronautical Charting and Cartography when the Administrator deems such procedure to be in the public interest and will not compromise public safety.

(2) Cooperative agreements, grants, and other agreements.—The Administrator is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements, grants, reimbursable agreements, memoranda of understanding and other agreements, with a State, subdivision of a State, Federal agency, public or private organization, or individual, to carry out the purposes of this section.

(f) Special Services and Products.—

(1) In general.—The Administrator is authorized, at the request of a State, subdivision of a State, Federal agency, public or private organization, or individual, to conduct special services, including making special studies, or developing special publications or products on matters relating to navigation, transportation, or public safety.

(2) Fees.—The Administrator shall assess a fee for any special service provided under paragraph (1). A fee shall be not more than the actual or estimated full cost of the service. A fee may be reduced or waived for research organizations, educational organizations, or non-profit organizations, when the Administrator determines that reduction or waiver of the fee is in the best interest of the Government by furthering public safety.

(g) Sale and Dissemination of Aeronautical Products.—

(1) In general.—Aeronautical products created or maintained under the authority of this section shall be sold at prices established annually by the Administrator consistent with the following:

(A) Maximum price.—Subject to subparagraph (B), the price of an aeronautical product sold to the public shall be not more than necessary to recover all costs attributable to: (i) data base management and processing; (ii) compilation; (iii) printing or other types of reproduction; and (iv) dissemination of the product.

(B) Adjustment of price.—The Administrator shall adjust the price of an aeronautical product and service sold to the public as necessary to avoid any adverse impact on aviation safety attributable to the price specified under this paragraph.

(C) Costs attributable to acquisition of aeronautical data.—A price established under this paragraph may not include costs attributable to the acquisition of aeronautical data.

(D) Continuation of prices.—The price of any product created under subsection (d) may correspond to the price of a comparable product produced by a department of the United States Government as that price was in effect on September 30, 2000, and may remain in effect until modified by regulation under section 9701 of title 31, United States Code.

(2) Publication of prices.—The Administrator shall publish annually the prices at which aeronautical products are sold to the public.

(3) Distribution.—The Administrator may distribute aeronautical products and provide aeronautical services—

(A) without charge to each foreign government or international organization with which the Administrator or a Federal department or agency has an agreement for exchange of these products or services without cost;

(B) at prices the Administrator establishes, to the departments and officers of the United States requiring them for official use; and

(C) at reduced or no charge where, in the judgment of the Administrator, furnishing the aeronautical product or service to a recipient is a reasonable exchange for voluntary contribution of information by the recipient to the activities under this section.

(4) Fees.—The fees provided for in this subsection are for the purpose of reimbursing the Government for the costs of creating, printing and disseminating aeronautical products and services under this section. The collection of fees authorized by this section does not alter or expand any duty or liability of the Government under existing law for the performance of functions for which fees are collected, nor does the collection of fees constitute an express or implied undertaking by the Government to perform any activity in a certain manner.

(5) Crediting amounts received.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, amounts received for the sale of products created and services performed under this section shall be fully credited to the account of the Federal Aviation Administration that funded the provision of the products or services and shall remain available until expended.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1202; Pub. L. 106–181, title VI, §603(a), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 150; Pub. L. 106–424, §17(a), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1888.)

In subsection (a)(1), the word "Administrator" in section 307(b) of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (Public Law 85–726, 72 Stat. 750) is retained on authority of 49:106(g). The words "within the limits of available appropriations made by the Congress" are omitted as surplus. The words "departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government" are substituted for "existing agencies of the Government" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "Notwithstanding the provisions of section 1341 of title 31 or any other provision of law" are omitted as surplus.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Sections 1 through 9 of the Act entitled "An Act to define the functions and duties of the Coast and Geodetic Survey, and for other purposes", approved August 6, 1947, referred to in subsec. (c)(1), are classified to sections 883a to 883i of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters. Section 883g of Title 33 was repealed by Pub. L. 88–611, §4(a)(2), Oct. 2, 1964, 78 Stat. 991.

Amendments

2000—Pub. L. 106–181 amended section catchline and text generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows:

"(a) Publication.—(1) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may arrange for the publication of aeronautical maps and charts necessary for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in air navigation, using the facilities and assistance of departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government as far as practicable.

"(2) In carrying out paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Administrator shall update and arrange for the publication of clearly defined routes for navigating through a complex terminal airspace area and to and from an airport located in such an area, if the Administrator decides that publication of the routes would promote safety in air navigation. The routes shall be developed in consultation with pilots and other users of affected airports and shall be for the optional use of pilots operating under visual flight rules.

"(b) Indemnification.—The Government shall make an agreement to indemnify any person that publishes a map or chart for use in aeronautics from any part of a claim arising out of the depiction by the person on the map or chart of a defective or deficient flight procedure or airway if the flight procedure or airway was—

"(1) prescribed by the Administrator;

"(2) depicted accurately on the map or chart; and

"(3) not obviously defective or deficient."

Subsec. (c)(3), (4). Pub. L. 106–424, §17(a)(1), struck out pars. (3) and (4) which read as follows:

"(3) Section 1307 of title 44, United States Code.

"(4) The provision of title II of the Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1995 under the heading 'National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration' relating to aeronautical charts (44 U.S.C. 1307 note)."

Subsec. (g)(1)(D). Pub. L. 106–424, §17(a)(2), added subpar. (D).

Subsec. (g)(5). Pub. L. 106–424, §17(a)(3), added par. (5).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendments

Pub. L. 106–424, §17(b), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1889, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] take effect on October 1, 2000."

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Savings Provision

Pub. L. 106–181, title VI, §604, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 152, provided that:

"(a) Continued Effectiveness of Directives.—All orders, determinations, rules, regulations, permits, contracts, certificates, licenses, privileges, and financial assistance that—

"(1) have been issued, made, granted, or allowed to become effective by the President of the United States, the Secretary of Commerce, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, any Federal agency or official thereof, or by a court of competent jurisdiction, in the performance of functions which are transferred by this title [amending this section, sections 883b and 883e of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters, and section 1307 of Title 44, Public Printing and Documents, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section]; and

"(2) are in effect on the date of transfer,

shall continue in effect according to their terms until modified, terminated, superseded, set aside, or revoked in accordance with law by the President of the United States, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, a court of competent jurisdiction, or by operation of law.

"(b) Continued Effectiveness of Pending Actions.—

"(1) In general.—The provisions of this title shall not affect any proceedings, including notices of proposed rulemaking, or any application for any license, permit, certificate, or financial assistance pending on the date of transfer before the Department of Commerce or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or any officer of such Department or Administration, with respect to functions transferred by this title, but such proceedings or applications, to the extent that they relate to functions transferred, shall be continued in accord with transition guidelines promulgated by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under the authority of this section. Orders issued in any such proceedings shall continue in effect until modified, terminated, superseded, or revoked by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, by a court of competent jurisdiction, or by operation of law. Nothing in this subsection prohibits the discontinuance or modification of any such proceeding under the same terms and conditions and to the same extent that such proceeding could have been discontinued or modified if this title had not been enacted.

"(2) Transition guidelines.—The Secretary of Commerce, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration are authorized to issue transition guidelines providing for the orderly transfer of proceedings and otherwise to accomplish the orderly transfer of functions, personnel and property under this title.

"(c) Continued Effectiveness of Judicial Actions.—No cause of action by or against the Department of Commerce or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with respect to functions transferred by this title, or by or against any officer thereof in the official's capacity, shall abate by reason of the enactment of this title. Causes of action and actions with respect to a function or office transferred by this title, or other proceedings may be asserted by or against the United States or an official of the Federal Aviation Administration, as may be appropriate, and, in an action pending when this title takes effect, the court may at any time, on its own motion or that of any party, enter an order that will give effect to the provisions of this subsection.

"(d) Substitution or Addition of Parties to Judicial Actions.—If, on the date of transfer, the Department of Commerce or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or any officer of the Department or Administration in an official capacity, is a party to an action, and under this title any function relating to the action of the Department, Administration, or officer is transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration, then such action shall be continued with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration substituted or added as a party.

"(e) Continued Jurisdiction Over Actions Transferred.—Orders and actions of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration in the exercise of functions transferred by this title shall be subject to judicial review to the same extent and in the same manner as if such orders and actions had been by the Department of Commerce or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or any office or officer of such Department or Administration, in the exercise of such functions immediately preceding their transfer.

"(f) Liabilities and Obligations.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall assume all liabilities and obligations (tangible and incorporeal, present and executory) associated with the functions transferred under this title on the date of transfer, including leases, permits, licenses, contracts, agreements, claims, tariffs, accounts receivable, accounts payable, financial assistance, and litigation relating to such obligations, regardless whether judgment has been entered, damages awarded, or appeal taken."

Transfer of Functions

Pub. L. 106–181, title VI, §601, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 149, provided that: "Effective October 1, 2000, there are transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration and vested in the Administrator the functions, powers, and duties of the Secretary of Commerce and other officers of the Department of Commerce that relate to the Office of Aeronautical Charting and Cartography and are set forth in section 44721 of title 49, United States Code."

Transfer of Office, Personnel, and Funds

Pub. L. 106–181, title VI, §602, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 149, provided that:

"(a) Transfer of Office.—Effective October 1, 2000, the Office of Aeronautical Charting and Cartography of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Commerce, is transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration.

"(b) Other Transfers.—Effective October 1, 2000, the personnel employed in connection with, and the assets, liabilities, contracts, property, equipment, facilities, records, and unexpended balance of appropriations, and other funds employed, held, used, arising from, available to, or to be made available in connection with the function and offices, or portions of offices, transferred by this title [amending this section, sections 883b and 883e of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters, and section 1307 of Title 44, Public Printing and Documents, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section], including all Senior Executive Service positions, subject to section 1531 of title 31, United States Code, are transferred to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration for appropriate allocation. Personnel employed in connection with functions transferred by this title transfer under any applicable law and regulation relating to transfer of functions. Unexpended funds transferred under this section shall be used only for the purposes for which the funds were originally authorized and appropriated, except that funds may be used for expenses associated with the transfer authorized by this title."

Procurement of Private Enterprise Mapping, Charting, and Geographic Information Systems

Pub. L. 106–181, title VI, §607, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 154, provided that: "The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall consider procuring mapping, charting, and geographic information systems necessary to carry out the duties of the Administrator under title 49, United States Code, from private enterprises, if the Administrator determines that such procurement furthers the mission of the Federal Aviation Administration and is cost effective."

¹ So in original. The comma probably should not appear.

§44722. Aircraft operations in winter conditions

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prescribe regulations requiring procedures to improve safety of aircraft operations during winter conditions. In deciding on the procedures to be required, the Administrator shall consider at least aircraft and air traffic control modifications, the availability of different types of deicing fluids (considering their efficacy and environmental limitations), the types of deicing equipment available, and the feasibility and desirability of establishing timeframes within which deicing must occur under certain types of inclement weather.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1202.)

The words "Before November 1, 1992" are omitted as obsolete. The words "prescribe regulations requiring" are substituted for "require, by regulation", and the words "other factors the Administrator considers appropriate" are substituted for "among other things", for consistency in the revised title.

§44723. Annual report

Not later than January 1 of each year, the Secretary of Transportation shall submit to Congress a comprehensive report on the safety enforcement activities of the Federal Aviation Administration during the fiscal year ending the prior September 30th. The report shall include—

(1) a comparison of end-of-year staffing levels by operations, maintenance, and avionics inspector categories to staffing goals and a statement on how staffing standards were applied to make allocations between air carrier and general aviation operations, maintenance, and avionics inspectors;

(2) schedules showing the range of inspector experience by various inspector work force categories, and the number of inspectors in each of the categories who are considered fully qualified;

(3) schedules showing the number and percentage of inspectors who have received mandatory training by individual course, and the number of inspectors by work force categories, who have received all mandatory training;

(4) a description of the criteria used to set annual work programs, an explanation of how these criteria differ from criteria used in the prior fiscal year and how the annual work programs ensure compliance with appropriate regulations and safe operating practices;

(5) a comparison of actual inspections performed during the fiscal year to the annual work programs by field location and, for any field location completing less than 80 percent of its planned number of inspections, an explanation of why annual work program plans were not met;

(6) a statement of the adequacy of Administration internal management controls available to ensure that field managers comply with Administration policies and procedures, including those on inspector priorities, district office coordination, minimum inspection standards, and inspection followup;

(7) the status of efforts made by the Administration to update inspector guidance documents and regulations to include technological, management, and structural changes taking place in the aviation industry, including a listing of the backlog of all proposed regulatory amendments;

(8) a list of the specific operational measures of effectiveness used to evaluate—

(A) the progress in meeting program objectives;

(B) the quality of program delivery; and

(C) the nature of emerging safety problems;

(9) a schedule showing the number of civil penalty cases closed during the 2 prior fiscal years, including the total initial and final penalties imposed, the total number of dollars collected, the range of dollar amounts collected, the average case processing time, and the range of case processing time;

(10) a schedule showing the number of enforcement actions taken (except civil penalties) during the 2 prior fiscal years, including the total number of violations cited, and the number of cited violation cases closed by certificate suspensions, certificate revocations, warnings, and no action taken; and

(11) schedules showing the safety record of the aviation industry during the fiscal year for air carriers and general aviation, including—

(A) the number of inspections performed when deficiencies were identified compared with inspections when no deficiencies were found;

(B) the frequency of safety deficiencies for each air carrier; and

(C) an analysis based on data of the general status of air carrier and general aviation compliance with aviation regulations.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1202.)

In clauses (4) and (7), the word "regulations" is substituted for "Federal regulations" for consistency in the revised title.

In clause (5), the words "by field location" are substituted for "disaggregated to the field locations" for clarity.

In clause (8), before subclause (A), the words " 'best proxies' standing between the ultimate goal of accident prevention and ongoing program activities" are omitted as surplus.

In clause (9), the words "penalties imposed" are substituted for "assessments" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In clause (11)(C), the words "aviation regulations" are substituted for "Federal Aviation Regulations" for consistency in the revised title.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Termination of Reporting Requirements

For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of reporting provisions in this section, see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance. See, also, the 22nd item on page 132 and the 10th item on page 135 of House Document No. 103–7.

§44724. Manipulation of flight controls

(a) Prohibition.—No pilot in command of an aircraft may allow an individual who does not hold—

(1) a valid private pilots certificate issued by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and

(2) the appropriate medical certificate issued by the Administrator under part 67 of such title,

to manipulate the controls of an aircraft if the pilot knows or should have known that the individual is attempting to set a record or engage in an aeronautical competition or aeronautical feat, as defined by the Administrator.

(b) Revocation of Airmen Certificates.—The Administrator shall issue an order revoking a certificate issued to an airman under section 44703 of this title if the Administrator finds that while acting as a pilot in command of an aircraft, the airman has permitted another individual to manipulate the controls of the aircraft in violation of subsection (a).

(c) Pilot in Command Defined.—In this section, the term "pilot in command" has the meaning given such term by section 1.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

(Added Pub. L. 104–264, title VI, §602(a)(1), Oct. 9, 1996, 110 Stat. 3263.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Except as otherwise specifically provided, section applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1996, and not to be construed as affecting funds made available for a fiscal year ending before Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104–264, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 106 of this title.

§44725. Life-limited aircraft parts

(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a rulemaking proceeding to require the safe disposition of life-limited parts removed from an aircraft. The rulemaking proceeding shall ensure that the disposition deter installation on an aircraft of a life-limited part that has reached or exceeded its life limits.

(b) Safe Disposition.—For the purposes of this section, safe disposition includes any of the following methods:

(1) The part may be segregated under circumstances that preclude its installation on an aircraft.

(2) The part may be permanently marked to indicate its used life status.

(3) The part may be destroyed in any manner calculated to prevent reinstallation in an aircraft.

(4) The part may be marked, if practicable, to include the recordation of hours, cycles, or other airworthiness information. If the parts are marked with cycles or hours of usage, that information must be updated every time the part is removed from service or when the part is retired from service.

(5) Any other method approved by the Administrator.

(c) Deadlines.—In conducting the rulemaking proceeding under subsection (a), the Administrator shall—

(1) not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this section, issue a notice of proposed rulemaking; and

(2) not later than 180 days after the close of the comment period on the proposed rule, issue a final rule.

(d) Prior-Removed Life-Limited Parts.—No rule issued under subsection (a) shall require the marking of parts removed from aircraft before the effective date of the rules issued under subsection (a), nor shall any such rule forbid the installation of an otherwise airworthy life-limited part.

(Added Pub. L. 106–181, title V, §504(a), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 134.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of this section, referred to in subsec. (c)(1), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 106–181, which was approved Apr. 5, 2000.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as an Effective Date of 2000 Amendments note under section 106 of this title.

§44726. Denial and revocation of certificate for counterfeit parts violations

(a) Denial of Certificate.—

(1) In general.—Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection and subsection (e)(2), the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may not issue a certificate under this chapter to any person—

(A) convicted in a court of law of a violation of a law of the United States relating to the installation, production, repair, or sale of a counterfeit or fraudulently-represented aviation part or material;

(B) whose certificate is revoked under subsection (b); or

(C) subject to a controlling or ownership interest of an individual described in subparagraph (A) or (B).

(2) Exception.—Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the Administrator may issue a certificate under this chapter to a person described in paragraph (1) if issuance of the certificate will facilitate law enforcement efforts.

(b) Revocation of Certificate.—

(1) In general.—Except as provided in subsections (f) and (g), the Administrator shall issue an order revoking a certificate issued under this chapter if the Administrator finds that the holder of the certificate or an individual who has a controlling or ownership interest in the holder—

(A) was convicted in a court of law of a violation of a law of the United States relating to the installation, production, repair, or sale of a counterfeit or fraudulently-represented aviation part or material; or

(B) knowingly, and with the intent to defraud, carried out or facilitated an activity punishable under a law described in paragraph (1)(A).

(2) No authority to review violation.—In carrying out paragraph (1), the Administrator may not review whether a person violated a law described in paragraph (1)(A).

(c) Notice Requirement.—Before the Administrator revokes a certificate under subsection (b), the Administrator shall—

(1) advise the holder of the certificate of the reason for the revocation; and

(2) provide the holder of the certificate an opportunity to be heard on why the certificate should not be revoked.

(d) Appeal.—The provisions of section 44710(d) apply to the appeal of a revocation order under subsection (b). For the purpose of applying that section to the appeal, "person" shall be substituted for "individual" each place it appears.

(e) Acquittal or Reversal.—