Controversial Insulation Rule Is Amended

New regulations regarding aircraft thermal and acoustic insulation have been amended in response to concerns raised by the business aviation industry that the requirements–effective Sept. 2, 2005-applied to a much broader range of components in in-service airplanes than was originally intended. In addition, since publishing a final rule on July 31, 2003, the FAA has learned that some requirements for improved flammability covered materials “do not have a significant effect on airplane fire safety.” Further, in many cases, “compliant replacements are not readily available.” The agency says the amendments “focus the requirements on replacement materials that have a greater effect on safety and are readily available, and is necessary to avoid grounding of airplanes.” This final rule will be effective January 30, but the rulemaking is still open to comments until February 28.