FAA Orders Engine Part Swaps to Keep Skies Safe

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.

2026-13237 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of a Renewed Approval of Information Collection: Flight and Duty Limitations and Rest RequirementsFlightcrew Members

The FAA wants to keep collecting info from airlines about when pilots fly or work longer than allowed and why. This helps spot patterns that could cause safety issues and supports pilot fatigue training. Airlines must keep reporting this, and the public can comment until July 31, 2026—no big cost changes, just keeping safety sharp!

2026-13282 — Mechanic Certification: Inspection Rating and Recent Experience Requirements

The FAA wants to swap the old inspection authorization for a new inspection rating on mechanic certificates, making it easier to keep privileges without renewals or expiration dates. Mechanics will need to keep up with recent experience on their own instead of proving it every couple of years. This change cuts paperwork, saves time, and helps mechanics focus more on safety, with comments open until August 31, 2026.

2026-13293 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of a Renewed Approval of Information Collection: Flight and Duty Limitations and Rest RequirementsFlightcrew Members

The FAA wants to keep collecting info from airlines about when pilots fly or work longer than allowed and why. This helps spot safety risks and improve pilot rest rules. Airlines must keep reporting this, and the public can comment until July 31, 2026—no big cost changes, just smarter safety checks!

2026-13257 — Decommission Remote Communications Outlets (RCOS) Used by Flight Service Stations Within the Conterminous United States, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico

The FAA is retiring 674 remote communication outlets (RCOs) used by pilots in the U.S., Hawaii, and Puerto Rico starting September 3, 2026. This change affects pilots relying on these stations for weather and flight info but keeps 262 outlets active to ensure safety and service. The move modernizes aviation communication without extra costs to users.

Previous: 2025-10759 — Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

If you fly or work with Boeing 787 planes, heads up! The FAA wants to fix a problem where the plane’s transponder can lose signal because of interference. They’re asking to swap out some key hardware soon to keep flights safe and smooth, which might cost some time and money but is totally worth it.

Next: 2025-10765 — Anchorage Regulations; Anchorage D & E Disestablishment, Chicago, IL

The Coast Guard wants to officially close Anchorage D and E near Chicago Harbor because boats don’t use them anymore. This change affects boaters and businesses relying on these spots, but it won’t cost anyone money or cause delays. They’re asking for your thoughts before making it final, so now’s the time to speak up!