Railroads Push to Test Brakes Less Often for Efficiency
Published Date: 4/29/2026
Notice
Summary
BNSF Railway wants to extend the time between air brake system tests on certain locomotives from 184 days to even longer. This change affects rail safety rules and could save time and money for BNSF and other railroads using these brake systems. The public can share their thoughts by June 29, 2026, before the Federal Railroad Administration makes a decision.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Request to Double AFM Test Interval
BNSF asked the Federal Railroad Administration to allow participating railroads to extend air flow method (AFM) locomotive brake test intervals from 184 days to 368 days for locomotives equipped with New York Air Brake (NYAB) CCB‑II and Fastbrake systems. FRA is accepting public comments on the petition through June 29, 2026 before making a decision.
Waiver Reported Safety and Training Gains
BNSF states the existing waiver program reduced risk exposures to craftspeople, standardized AFM calibration processes, improved training, and enhanced air system reliability on locomotives covered by the waiver. Those reported improvements are tied to the AFM evaluation and test waiver program described in the petition.
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