In the wake of the Boeing Max crashes, the FAA is continuing to evolve its organization designation authority (ODA) process, issuing a draft revision to its order surrounding oversight. Comments are due by October 21 on the draft Revision C of its ODA Order 8100.15. This order establishes the ground rules for a manufacturer to obtain ODA approval and provides the procedures for FAA personnel conducting oversight of ODA holders.
Under draft Revision C, 54 changes are proposed that aim to tighten up manufacturer ODA approval rules and to improve FAA oversight of ODA holders. This draft also introduces the Airmen Certification ODA type, reorganizes the existing content, and applies a “systems-based approach” to oversight.
The FAA’s ODA oversight has come under intense scrutiny since the Boeing Max crashes. Among other changes, the FAA has established and reorganized its ODA office to report directly to the associate administrator for aviation safety. The FAA said the change reflects its “priority to oversee, standardize, and ensure consistency” with its ODA activities.
Last month, FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker testified before the Senate Commerce Committee that the agency is “continuously improving our oversight practices to ensure each design and manufacturing organization meets all regulatory requirements and produces safe and compliant products.” This includes stepped-up audits and inspections to have better visibility into all of the manufacturers.