Appleton Skies Get a Class D Tune-Up for Pilot Safety

2026-08943 — Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility

The FAA wants to limit drone flights near important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep people and property safe. Facility owners can ask for special drone flight restrictions, but they must prove it’s needed for safety or security. Comments on this plan are open until July 6, 2026, and these new rules could change how drone operators fly near sensitive places.

2026-09773 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

The FAA wants to make sure certain Airbus Helicopters have their engine parts installed correctly to keep flying safe. If you own or operate models like AS350 or EC130, you’ll need to check the main gearbox engine coupling soon and fix any problems found. Comments on this plan are open until June 29, 2026, and while inspections might cost some time and money, they’re key to avoiding bigger issues.

2026-09801 — Airworthiness Directives; Stemme GmbH Gliders

If you own a Stemme S 12 glider, heads up! The FAA wants you to regularly check your fuel system for leaks caused by certain copper rings and replace any faulty ones. This keeps your glider safe and stops risky fuel leaks, with comments on the plan due by June 29, 2026.

2026-09802 — Establishment of Class E Airspace; Winnie, TX

Starting October 29, 2026, the FAA is creating new Class E airspace around Griffith Ranch Airport in Winnie, TX. This change helps pilots fly safely using instruments, especially in bad weather. Local pilots and air traffic controllers will notice smoother, safer flights with no extra costs or delays.

2026-09771 — Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes

Pilatus PC-12 airplane owners and operators, heads up! The FAA is updating safety rules to fix a problem that could affect certain planes, meaning some extra checks or fixes might be needed. Comments on these changes are open until June 29, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up before any costs or work kicks in.

2026-09772 — Airworthiness Directives; Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc. Airplanes

If you own a Diamond DA20-C1 airplane, the FAA wants you to check the emergency locator transmitter (ELT) because a missing wire might stop it from working in an emergency. They’re asking for a quick inspection and fixes if needed to keep you safe. Comments on this plan are open until June 29, 2026, and the fix should be pretty straightforward without breaking the bank.

Previous: 2026-07643 — Order Providing Exemptive Relief To Facilitate Cross-Margining of Customer Positions Cleared at Chicago Mercantile Exchange, Inc. and Fixed Income Clearing Corporation

Starting April 15, 2026, certain broker-dealers who also clear futures at both the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the Fixed Income Clearing Corporation can combine their customers’ margin funds into one account. This change helps these firms manage money more efficiently and could save customers and firms some cash by reducing extra margin requirements. It’s a smart move to make trading smoother and safer for everyone involved!

Next: 2026-07663 — Extension of Compliance Dates for Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability; Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Government Entities

The Department of Justice is giving state and local governments more time to make their websites and apps accessible to people with disabilities. Big cities now have until April 26, 2027, and smaller places get until April 26, 2028, to meet these rules. This extension helps governments avoid rushing and spending extra money while they get everything just right.