Drone Alliance Petitions FAA for Easier Flying 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.

2026-11957 — Amendment of Class D and Class E Airspace; Chicago/Rockford, IL

The FAA wants to update the airspace rules around Chicago/Rockford, IL to keep flights safe and smooth. This affects pilots flying under instrument rules and helps the airport follow the latest safety standards. If you have thoughts, speak up by July 30, 2026—no costs or delays expected from these changes.

2026-11965 — Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG Engines

If you operate Rolls-Royce Deutschland Trent 1000 engines, this new FAA rule updates how you check and fix high-pressure turbine blades to keep flights safe. Starting June 30, 2026, you’ll need to do more detailed inspections and possibly replace parts sooner, but there’s also a new option to stop repetitive checks by upgrading parts. These changes might cost some time and money but will help prevent engine problems before they happen.

2026-11946 — Revocation of Class E Airspace; Lake Geneva, WI

The FAA is planning to remove the Class E airspace around Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, because the local airport has closed and its instrument flight procedures were canceled. This change affects pilots flying in that area, making the airspace rules simpler. If you want to share your thoughts, you have until July 30, 2026, to comment—no costs or fees involved!

2026-11975 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

If you fly or fix Airbus A350-941 and -1041 planes, listen up! The FAA found some flight control parts got stressed too much during testing, so they’re making airlines swap out those parts for safer ones. This rule kicks in July 20, 2026, to keep flights safe without breaking the bank.

2026-11976 — Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc., Airplanes

The FAA is requiring certain Bombardier BD-700 airplanes to fix seat frames that were put together without the right glue (Loctite), which could be unsafe. Owners must modify the seat fasteners by July 20, 2026, to keep flying safely. This fix might cost some money but keeps passengers secure and planes in top shape.

Previous: 2025-09311 — Environmental Impact Statements; Notice of Availability

The EPA just shared new Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) for projects like space launches, energy, and transportation, giving the public a chance to review and comment before decisions are made. This affects communities near these projects and anyone interested in how the environment might change. Deadlines to weigh in are mostly in June and July 2025, so don’t miss your chance to speak up!

Next: 2025-09314 — Procurement List; Proposed Deletions

The government plans to remove some products and services from its special buying list that helps nonprofit groups employing people who are blind or have serious disabilities. This means those groups might lose some contracts soon. If you’re involved, keep an eye out for updates on when these changes will happen and how they could affect budgets.