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Testing oversight needed
Flight training organizations are concerned about how a recent change in the FAA knowledge exam reimbursement structure might impact testing center availability, access to exams in a timely and cost-effective manner, and the quality of test facilitation.
PSI, the testing contractor that is responsible for administering FAA knowledge exams, introduced a new reimbursement structure in January that reduced reimbursement rates—a move that has disproportionally affected third-party providers. In a letter to the FAA, AOPA and other industry leaders detailed concerns with the knowledge test system.
“Diminished access to testing could not come at a worse time. It is widely held that the availability of a diverse, qualified workforce is the biggest threat to growth in our industry,” AOPA said. “Further barriers to testing will only exacerbate an already tenuous situation.”
Four recommendations were offered: Include an independent FAA assessment of knowledge test accessibility before and after fee change; development of additional ways to increase testing capacity; an assessment of PSI’s performance; and an assessment of the FAA’s emphasis of knowledge exams in the certification process.
aopa.org/pilot/testing
AOPA advocacy influencing decline in registration backlog
By Murray Huling, AOPA vice president, regulatory affairs
As of this writing, the FAA’s aircraft registration renewal wait time has decreased from more than 190 days in December 2022 to 119 days. The FAA is anticipating a 75-day renewal by the end of April and between 30 and 50 days by the end of September, with the goal being 30 days. AOPA is focused on the latter.
This timeframe is steadily diminishing for several reasons. One is AOPA’s continued professional persistence in helping ensure that fixing the registry renewal remains a top FAA priority. The bulk mailing of new registration cards based on a January 23 rule change that extended registration renewals from three years to seven years is going well, with the FAA staying well ahead of expiration dates. If your experience differs, please reach out so we can provide that feedback accordingly.
The FAA anticipates completion of all new registration cards by the end of November 2023 by sending around 7,000 per week. Also, the FAA has already updated all aircraft registrations in the electronic registry system to the new expiration dates. You can look up your registration number online at the FAA Aircraft Registry before you get your new registration in the mail. Remember your address must be correct in the FAA registry database. AOPA will continue to work with the registry office to ensure this trend continues and that we have an open line of communication when issues arise. Making the transition to the Civil Aviation Registry Electronic Services (CARES) for your registry needs instead of the previous methods is important. You will need to create an account and begin using the system to benefit from the new automation. You can also provide feedback on the system through AOPA to make the system better as more capability is added.
On the front lines
Airport security and general aviation
By Kyle Lewis, AOPA Great Lakes regional manager
Many of our members are based at airports that provide commercial airline service—which means TSA-mandated security protocols. The tasking of backgrounding and badging tenants can fall to airport administration or an FBO, depending on the specific TSA-approved airport security plan. These plans are not available to the public, AOPA, or individual tenants. The governing regulation can be found in 49 C.F.R. Part 1542, and this details how each specific airport must establish a security program.
General aviation tenants are usually required to complete a training program to include vehicle operations and aircraft security, then receive a badge for airport access controls. Many airports only allow badged tenants and guests to access the hangar areas, and then only for “mission critical” tasks. Lounging can be discouraged, as are hangar parties and other events that attract large groups.
AOPA advises tenants at TSA airports to become involved in the planning processes, working with the Airport Security Coordinator (ASC). AOPA also recommends following all security protocols and coordinating with airport administration before holding special events in the GA area.
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