The December 2024 target date for the U.S. to align its notam format with ICAO international standards has been delayed by at least one year, missing both the FAA’s schedule and a congressional deadline. “We are in the process of making changes and plan on implementing the ICAO notam format late next year,” the FAA told AIN.
According to the agency, the updated format will improve accuracy and accessibility of notam data for pilots, dispatchers, and other notam consumers; provide notam consumers with one consistent format for domestic and international operations; and allow for enhanced search, sorting, filtering, and archiving capabilities of notam data.
Meanwhile, there have been no FAA public reports giving the status of the transition process since details of the new format and December 2024 original implementation target were announced in September 2021. For years, aviation trade organizations and the NTSB have been pushing for a more user friendly notam system. Congress last year passed amendments calling on the FAA to implement the modernized notam system by Sept. 30, 2024.
When the new format does become effective, the FAA said it will release the following publications to reflect the changes and provide user guidance: an updated version of 7930.2 Notices to Airmen; Advisory Circular 150/5200-28 Notices to Airmen for Airport Operators; and the Aeronautical Information Services Manual.