Pilots, Weigh In: FAA's Flight Tool Gets Renewal Nod
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The FAA wants to keep using its Service Availability Prediction Tool (SAPT), which helps pilots check if their flight routes meet safety rules for navigation and surveillance. They’re asking for public feedback by January 27, 2026, to make sure the info they collect is useful and not too much work. This tool also lets pilots request special permission if their aircraft don’t fully meet certain equipment rules, keeping flights safe and smooth.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
FAA’s 2026 SAPT Transaction and Burden Estimates
FAA estimates 2026 transaction levels of: RAIM SAPT 3,792,901 automated transactions and ADS‑B SAPT 9,667,021 automated transactions; manual ADS‑B SAPT web form 18,102 transactions (~885 hours); ADAPT 4,823 transactions (~344 hours). ADS‑B SAPT manual entries take about 5 minutes each and ADAPT requests about 7 minutes each.
Pre‑flight Prediction Requirement for TSO‑C129
If your aircraft uses a TSO‑C129 (SA‑On) GPS receiver, the operator must run a pre‑flight prediction to check navigation availability before flying. You may use the FAA Service Availability Prediction Tool (SAPT) or an operator’s own prediction tool to meet this requirement.
Mandatory ADAPT for ADS‑B Deviation Authorization
If you need ATC authorization under 14 CFR 91.225(g) to fly in ADS‑B Out rule airspace without required ADS‑B equipage, you must submit an ADAPT request. ADAPT requires completing the ADS‑B SAPT analysis first and will collect contact details so FAA can reply with approval, rejection, or pending status.
Personal Data Collected for ADAPT Requests
The ADS‑B SAPT flight form collects an aircraft call sign but not personal ID. The ADAPT authorization form does collect personal contact information (name, telephone number, email) plus aircraft registry or ICAO address so FAA can respond to authorization requests.
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Key Dates
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