2023-21887: Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification

Summary

This action extends the comment period for the NPRM titled "Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification," that was published on July 24, 2023. In that document, the FAA proposed to amend rules for the manufacture, certification, operation, maintenance, and alteration of light-sport aircraft. The proposed amendments would enable enhancements in safety and performance and would increase privileges under a number of sport pilot and light-sport aircraft rules. These enhancements include increasing suitability for flight training, limited aerial work, and personal travel. This proposed rule would expand what aircraft sport pilots may operate. The NPRM also proposed to amend the special purpose operations for restricted category aircraft; amend the duration, eligible purposes, and operating limitations for experimental aircraft; and add operating limitations applicable to experimental aircraft engaged in space support vehicle flights to codify statutory language. The FAA is extending the comment period for this NPRM to allow commenters additional time to analyze the proposed rule and prepare a response.

The agency’s own summary, as published.

What this changes

Amends 10 parts of the Code of Federal Regulations — the standing rules this notice rewrites.

• 14 CFR 1 Definitions and Abbreviations
• 14 CFR 21 Certification Procedures for Products and Articles
• 14 CFR 22 Design, Production, and Airworthiness Requirements for Non-Type Certificated Aircraft
• 14 CFR 36 Noise Standards: Aircraft Type and Airworthiness Certification
• 14 CFR 43 Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Rebuilding, and Alteration
• 14 CFR 45 Identification and Registration Marking
• 14 CFR 61 Certification: Pilots, Flight Instructors, and Ground Instructors
• 14 CFR 65 Certification: Airmen Other Than Flight Crewmembers
• 14 CFR 91 General Operating and Flight Rules
• 14 CFR 119 Certification: Air Carriers and Commercial Operators