FAA Behind on ICAO SMS Rules

While the FAA has filed a “difference” explaining that it does not have a formal safety management system (SMS) rule for aircraft operators, despite the ICAO November 18 deadline that is now passed, it is in the process of SMS rulemaking. According to an FAA spokesman, the agency is already sponsoring voluntary SMS implementation by Part 121, 135 and 145 organizations to provide learning and experience for both industry and the FAA in SMS development, implementation and oversight. The agency also published a Part 121 notice of proposed rulemaking on November 5 and is “considering SMS regulations for...Part 135 operators and Part 145 repair stations.”