Bombardier Jets Get New Landing Rules After Tail-Snagging Scares

2026-13440, Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight

The FAA wants to let supersonic planes fly over land again by updating old rules that banned them because of loud sonic booms. Thanks to new tech that keeps booms quiet, this change will open the door for faster, cooler flights across the U.S., helping America lead the world in supersonic travel. People and companies interested in supersonic flight should share their thoughts by August 17, 2026.

2026-13126, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility; Extension of Comment Period

The FAA is giving more time—until August 5, 2026—for people to share their thoughts on new rules that would limit drone flights near important fixed sites like power plants or airports. This affects drone operators and facility owners who want to keep the skies safe and secure. No new costs yet, just extra time to weigh in and help shape the rules.

2026-08943, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility

The FAA is proposing new rules to keep drones away from certain important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep everyone safe and secure. If you own or operate one of these sites, you can request a drone flight restriction zone to protect your property and people nearby. Comments are open until July 6, 2026, and these changes could affect drone pilots and site operators, but no big costs are expected.

2026-17212, Adoption of Categorical Exclusion Under the National Environmental Policy Act

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has identified a categorical exclusion (CATEX) established by the Department of the Air Force (DAF) that it intends to adopt and describes the categories of proposed actions for which the FAA intends to use this CATEX. The FAA has consulted with the DAF, as described herein, and obtained concurrence on FAA's use of this CATEX.

2026-17209, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2025-17-03, which applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters. AD 2025-17-03 requires inspecting the emergency sea anchor and, depending on the result, replacing the emergency sea anchor. Since the FAA issued AD 2025-17-03, it has been determined that an additional inspection of an affected emergency sea anchor must be accomplished. This proposed AD would retain all of the requirements of AD 2025-17-03, would also require an additional inspection, and depending on the result, replacing the emergency sea anchor. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

2026-16954, Airworthiness Directives; International Aero Engines AG Engines

The FAA is requiring certain International Aero Engines AG models to replace some 3rd stage high pressure compressor blades because they can wear out and break, which is unsafe. This rule starts on September 24, 2026, and affects airlines using these engines. Fixing this might cost some money but keeps flights safe and sound.

Previous: 2025-07837, Special Measure Regarding Huione Group, as a Foreign Financial Institution of Primary Money Laundering Concern

FinCEN is proposing a new rule to stop U.S. banks from opening or keeping accounts for Huione Group, a Cambodian financial company linked to money laundering. Banks will also need to watch their foreign accounts more closely to prevent shady transactions involving Huione. This change aims to protect the U.S. financial system and could start soon once finalized.

Next: 2025-07856, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

The FAA is updating safety rules for certain Airbus A300 and A310 airplanes to fix a safety issue. More airplane models are now included, so more owners need to follow these new checks and fixes. If you own one, expect some extra work soon, and the FAA wants your thoughts before finalizing the rules.