FAA Study Seeks Part 23 Certification Rule Changes

The FAA’s Small Aircraft Directorate in Kansas City is expected to deliver to the FAA Administrator next month a preliminary report on recommended updates to Part 23 certification regulations, according to the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). The report is the result of a certification process study (CPS) that aims to “improve the certification process and requirements and also continue to improve the safety and reliability of such aircraft throughout their lifecycle,” NATA said. Most general aviation aircraft are certified under Part 23 regulations, and the CPS effort “will positively affect general aviation for decades to come,” NATA said. Primary topics covered by the CPS include FAA internal process (streamlining data management); pilot interface; and certification (requirements and process). The August report will be followed by a final report in August 2009. Part 25, which applies to transport-category and generally larger aircraft, has already undergone a similar review and update process.