FAA's Epic Blunder: Deletes Whole Aviation Rules by Accident
Published Date: 12/19/2025
Rule
Summary
The FAA fixed a rule mix-up that accidentally deleted whole sections instead of just small parts about lying or messing with official aviation documents. This fix puts those sections back where they belong, affecting airlines, flight schools, and commercial space operators. The corrected rules take effect December 19, 2025, so everyone should update their records to avoid trouble.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Drug-testing Rule Restored for Air Employers
The FAA put back 14 CFR 120.103 on December 19, 2025. This section says employers must follow DOT procedures for drug testing, use HHS‑certified labs, and are responsible for actions of their agents; paragraph 120.103(e) is marked [RESERVED]. You should update company records and programs to match the restored text.
Commercial Space Application Accuracy Restored
The FAA restored 14 CFR 413.17 effective December 19, 2025. This section requires commercial space license or permit applicants to keep application information accurate and complete, submit corrected information if details change, and notes paragraph 413.17(c) is [RESERVED]. Space operators and applicants should ensure their pending applications are updated to comply.
Training Center Application Rules Restored
The FAA restored 14 CFR 142.11 effective December 19, 2025. This section describes how to apply for a training center certificate, required contents of applications, filing timelines (for example, applications generally must be filed at least 120 days before proposed training), and it reserves paragraph 142.11(e)(3). Training schools should update application checklists and timelines to match this restored text.
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