The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has expressed concerns over the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) plan to develop new regulations for certain on-demand public charter carriers. The NBAA argues that the proposed changes could negatively impact aviation service in small communities and questions the safety rationale behind the FAA’s decision.
The FAA’s plan, announced on Monday, applies to public charter operators regulated under FAA Part 135 safety rules and Department of Transportation Part 380 economic requirements. The NBAA has called upon the FAA to provide a data-driven explanation for the need for these changes and to engage in a meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders, particularly those most affected by the new regulations.
In a statement, NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said, “Safety is the top priority for business aviation, and our sector has an impeccable record of leadership in working with government agencies and other stakeholders in the development of regulations that address safety concerns and put operational needs first. The FAA’s announcement suggests an intention to sidestep both considerations.”
As the NBAA continues to engage with the FAA on the development of new public charter rules, the association says it remains committed to working with the agency to ensure that any changes are “data-driven,” address safety concerns, and consider the operational needs of the business aviation community.
The FAA says these types of public charter operators have “rapidly expanded in frequency and complexity in recent years,” noting that some appear to operate like scheduled airlines.
