FAA Requires Rivet Inspections on Select Airbus Models

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.

2026-13861 — Amendment of Class D and Class E Airspace; Morgantown, WV

The FAA wants to update the airspace rules around Morgantown Municipal Airport in West Virginia to keep flights safe and smooth, especially for pilots using instruments to fly. This change affects pilots and air traffic controllers and won’t cost anyone extra. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until August 24, 2026, to speak up!

2026-13869 — Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

The FAA wants Boeing 747-400 and -8 airplane owners to check certain fuel tank pump parts regularly to keep flights safe. They’re updating rules to require more frequent inspections and fixing or replacing parts if needed. Comments on this plan are open until August 24, 2026, and these changes could mean some extra maintenance costs but will keep planes flying safely.

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.

Previous: 2025-15657 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

If you fly Airbus EC 130 B4 or T2 helicopters, listen up! The FAA found that some tail rotor blades might crack and wants you to check them out ASAP. If cracks show up, you’ll need to swap the blade for a safe one—and you can’t put old blades back in unless you follow the new rules. This keeps everyone flying safe without breaking the bank or the clock.

Next: 2025-15686 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

The FAA is making sure certain Airbus A300 planes stay safe by requiring special inspections of the main landing gear parts because some planes had cracks from past fixes done wrong. If cracks are found, repairs must be made quickly to keep flights safe. This affects specific Airbus models and means owners need to act soon to avoid bigger problems and costs later.