FAA Updates Airspace Around Alaska's Ketchikan Airport

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.

2026-13541 — Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG Engines

If you operate certain Rolls-Royce Deutschland BR700 engines, the FAA wants you to update your maintenance plans with new, stricter rules to keep parts safe and sound. This means checking and replacing some engine parts sooner than before to avoid problems. Comments on these changes are open until August 20, 2026, so get ready to adjust your schedules and budgets!

2026-13540 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

If you fly Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B, listen up! The FAA found some missing retaining rings on the window hinges that could be unsafe. Starting August 10, 2026, owners must check these hinges and fix any missing rings to keep flights safe—no big costs expected, just a quick safety check.

2026-13546 — Ensuring Passenger Safety by Preempting Duty and Rest Requirements

The FAA wants to make sure airline crew rest and work rules always come first, no matter what state or local laws say about meal and break times. This change affects airlines and their workers by clearing up confusion and keeping flights safe and on schedule. Comments are open until September 4, 2026, so get ready to weigh in!

Previous: 2026-04455 — Rescinding New Construction Requirements Related to Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs or Activities

The Department of Energy is delaying a rule that would remove certain building rules tied to fairness in programs getting federal help. This delay pushes the rule’s start date to July 6, 2026, giving more time to review feedback and follow legal guidance. Anyone involved in federally funded projects should watch this space, as the change could affect construction rules and timelines.

Next: 2026-04465 — Airworthiness Directives; MHI RJ Aviation ULC (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes

If you fly or maintain MHI RJ Aviation ULC regional jets (formerly Bombardier), listen up! The FAA is updating safety checks to catch power control unit problems earlier by requiring more frequent tests on rudder and elevator controls. These new rules kick in March 23, 2026, so operators should get ready to keep these jets flying safe without breaking the bank.