FAA Checks Vital Signs Before Hypoxia Pilot Training

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.

2026-16157, Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report indicating that the protection system on the left fan cowl of the right engine does not sufficiently cover the components and systems from possible cross engine debris. This proposed AD would require performing a maintenance records check or inspection of the right engine to determine the part number of the left fan cowl and applicable on-condition actions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

2026-16129, Special Conditions: ATR-GIE Avions de Transport Régional Model ATR42-500 and ATR72-212A Airplanes; Electronic System Security Protection From Unauthorized Internal Access

The FAA is setting new safety rules for ATR42-500 and ATR72-212A airplanes because they have a cool new digital system that lets people inside the plane access its electronics through wireless and wired networks. These rules make sure this tech is just as safe as older systems. The changes kick in on August 7, 2026, and anyone can share their thoughts by September 21, 2026—no extra costs expected.

2026-16159, Revocation of Class E Airspace; Lake Geneva, WI

This action revokes the Class E airspace at Lake Geneva, WI. This action is due to the instrument procedures being cancelled and the closure of the airport.

Previous: 2025-08450, Determination of Regulatory Review Period for Purposes of Patent Extension; EPKINLY

The FDA has officially set the review period for EPKINLY, a new medicine, so its patent can be extended. This helps the company behind EPKINLY get extra time to protect their invention and encourages more innovation. If you’re involved in drug development or patents, this update affects when and how long patent protections last, potentially impacting money and market timing.

Next: 2025-08452, Senior Executive Service and Senior Level: Performance Review Board Members

The Small Business Administration just announced new members for its Performance Review Board, the team that checks how well top leaders are doing. This update replaces the old board from November 2024 and affects senior executives at SBA. No changes to pay or timing were mentioned, but the fresh lineup means a new crew is ready to keep things running smoothly.