Are airworthiness standards for the certification of aircraft adequate for today’s modern aircraft? Probably not. A joint FAA-industry study of FAA Part 23 over the past 18 months is nearing completion, with AOPA playing a big role.
“It’s time to review the original aircraft certification assumptions including how well these assumptions match actual aircraft operations and maintenance practices,” said Leisha Bell, AOPA manager of regulatory affairs.
A final report on recommendations is nearing completion and will be used for a Part 23 Regulatory Review scheduled for 2010. AOPA officials headed the Pilot Interface Group during the process. Under study are certification standards, pilot training, operations, and maintenance.
Some of the recommendations call for better understanding of climb performance, greater competency in short field operations (especially for small business jets), and better stall recovery training. Stay tuned to AOPA as the FAA moves forward with the first Part 23 review in 20 years.
