WASHINGTON, D.C. — NextGen (the Next Generation Air Transportation System) is running into problems, causing delays, which mean the program might not be fully operational before the half-century-old radar-based system is scheduled to be replaced. Seven government agencies and offices are involved with the FAA in developing NextGen. The House Subcommittee on Aviation recently held […]
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FAA reauthorization expected in 2-3 weeks
Within the next two to three weeks, the FAA might have its first full reauthorization in four years, Rep. James Oberstar (D-Miin.) said at a Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing Wednesday. Oberstar, who chairs the full committee, said he and Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-W.Va.), chairman of the Senate committee on transportation, and their staffs have […]
Accidents down last year, due to less flying
General aviation accidents decreased in 2009, while on-demand 135 operations had the lowest number of accidents and fatal accidents in the last 20 years, according to data released by the National Transportation Safety Board. General aviation accidents decreased from 1,566 in 2008 to 1,474 in 2009. Fatal accidents dropped from 275 last year to 272. […]
FAA girds to prevent cyber attacks
“America is at war,” FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt told attendees at an agency information technology conference. Malicious attacks on the FAA’s computer system and industrial networks are occurring at an unprecedented rate, he said, adding that it is an evolving menace on an international scale. The FAA gets pinged every minute of every hour of […]
FAA sets new policy on antidepressants
Pilots taking medication for mild to moderate depression now may be considered for a special issuance of a medical certificate. In a change to take effect April 5, pilots who take one of four antidepressant medications will be allowed to fly if they have been satisfactorily treated on the medication for at least 12 months. […]
Second TSA nominee withdraws
Three days after appearing before a Senate Committee regarding his nomination to lead the Transportation Security Administration, Maj. Gen. Robert Harding withdrew his name from consideration, citing questions about his background as a defense contractor. Harding was the second nominee for the position to withdraw because of concerns that background questions would not be good […]
Senate and House to try after recess to reconcile FAA reauthorization
When the Senate finally passed an FAA reauthorization bill, it appeared there would finally be an end to the string of extensions that have been needed to keep the FAA afloat. But, alas, it was not to be. The 12th three-month extension passed both houses of Congress just before they broke for the Easter recess […]
Senate passes FAA reauthorization
To the surprise of some and the pleasure of many, the Senate passed a reauthorization bill for the FAA Monday evening, March 22. With the House having passed its reauthorization bill last year, the two can go directly to conference for reconciliation and give the FAA a stable base after 11 three-month temporary extensions. The […]
TSA nominee sails through confirmation hearing
Major General Robert A. Harding (ret.) recently appeared before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation for a confirmation hearing to be administrator of the Transportation Security Administration and assistant secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. He sailed through with high praise. Sen. John “Jay” Rockefeller (D-WVa), committee chairman, declared a highly qualified, […]