Drone Dream Team Wanted: FAA Seeks Autonomous Experts

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: 2025-18471 — TBL Group, Inc.-Acquisition of Control-BTM Coaches, Inc.

TBL Group, Inc. wants to buy BTM Coaches, Inc., another bus company that travels between states. The government board is giving a thumbs-up to this deal, as long as no one objects soon. This means TBL Group will grow bigger and stronger, with no extra costs or delays expected right now.

Next: 2025-18474 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension: Rule 18f-1 and Form N-18f-1

The SEC is asking for comments on extending a rule that lets certain investment funds choose how they pay back investors. Fewer funds are filing the required form now, so the paperwork time dropped from 12 to 8 hours a year—no extra costs involved. If you’re part of these funds, now’s the time to weigh in before the extension gets approved!