Nearly 60K Aircraft Affected by Radio Altimeter Proposal

Under a notice of proposed rulemaking, the FAA estimated that some 58,579 new and in-service airliner and general aviation aircraft must be equipped with radio altimeters (RAs) that meet minimum performance standards. Notably, the units must withstand interference from wireless signals in neighboring spectrum bands and continue to provide accurate altitude readings to both pilots and integrated aircraft safety systems.

The rule would apply to aircraft currently required to have RAs, including those operating under Part 121; the majority of aircraft operating under Parts 91K, 125, 129, 135, and 194; and a minority of general aviation aircraft operating under Part 91.

“Initial RA performance deadlines will be achievable between 2029 and 2032,” claimed the FAA. Compliance dates will apply first to aircraft operating under Parts 121 and 129 and with 30 or more passenger seats, or a payload capacity exceeding 7,500 pounds. All other affected aircraft would be required to comply two years later.

A joint U.S. and European committee has developed a draft standard for the minimum performance requirements. The FAA has requested that the committee publish the standard by June to align with its anticipated timeline for final-rule publication. Once the standard is validated, it will undergo a final public comment period and then be published around March 2027. Comments on the FAA’s proposed rule are due March 9.