Trains Get Brake Check Break: Safety Record Pays Off
Published Date: 2/13/2026
Notice
Summary
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) asked the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to extend a break from some air brake maintenance rules for certain electronic brake systems. This means trains using these brakes can wait longer between checkups, thanks to a strong safety record. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by March 16, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Extension request to lengthen brake checkups
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) asked the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) on December 19, 2025 to extend a waiver from 49 CFR 229.29 so trains using New York Air Brake CCB-1, CCB-2, CCB-26; Wabtec EPIC-3102D2 and EPIC-2; and FastBrake electronic air brake systems can use longer time intervals for level two and level three locomotive air brake maintenance. AAR also asked that the extension be granted uniformly to all AAR member railroads. FRA assigned Docket Number FRA-2005-21613 and is accepting public comments through March 16, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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