Drone Delivery Firm Seeks FAA Rule Bend for Faster Shipments

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.

2026-13781 — Airworthiness Directives; Restricted Category Model CH-47D Helicopters

If you own or operate a restricted category CH-47D helicopter, the FAA wants you to check and report on certain parts of the right-hand forward transmission support beam to keep things safe. They’ve updated the rules to focus inspections more narrowly and give you more time to report findings. Comments on these changes are open until August 24, 2026, and following them helps avoid costly repairs or safety issues down the line.

2026-13723 — Notice of Intent To Designate as Abandoned Javelin Conversions, Inc.; Supplemental Type Certificates

The FAA plans to label 11 Javelin Conversions, Inc. aircraft modification certificates as abandoned because they can’t reach the company. This means the FAA will share the engineering data with anyone who asks, helping keep planes safe. If you want to comment, you’ve got until January 4, 2027, so don’t miss out!

2026-13777 — Notice of Request To Release Property at the Dare County Regional Airport Manteo, North Carolina (MQI)

The Dare County Airport Authority wants to free up 8.74 acres of land at Dare County Regional Airport so the county can use it for public works instead of airport stuff. The FAA is asking the public to share their thoughts by August 7, 2026, before deciding. This change won’t affect airport operations but will help the county redevelop the land for local needs.

Previous: 2025-08357 — Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Pile Driving Training Exercises at Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme

The Navy got the green light to do pile driving training at Naval Base Ventura County, which might bother some marine mammals nearby. This is part of their military readiness, and the Navy must follow rules to keep the impact as low as possible. The authorization is for a specific time and helps balance training needs with protecting sea life.

Next: 2025-08359 — Petition for Exemption; Summary of Petition Received; Advanced Air Mobility

A company working on advanced air taxis has asked the FAA to relax some rules so they can test and fly their new aircraft more easily. This could speed up the arrival of cool, futuristic air travel for everyone. If approved, it might change how and when these new flying machines take off, but no costs or deadlines are set yet.