FAA Publishes Another Round of Takeoff and Landing Fixes

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.

2026-14248 — Establishment of Class E Airspace; Crown Point, IN

Starting October 29, 2026, the FAA is creating new Class E airspace around the Franciscan Health Crown Point Hospital Heliport in Crown Point, Indiana. This change helps pilots fly safely using instruments, especially in bad weather. If you fly helicopters or planes near this hospital, get ready for updated flight rules—no extra costs, just smoother skies!

2026-14205 — Amendment of Class D Airspace and Removal of Class E4 Airspace Over Nashua, NH

The FAA is updating the airspace rules over Nashua, NH by removing some unnecessary Class E airspace around Boire Field Airport and tweaking the Class D airspace wording to stay current. These changes take effect on October 29, 2026, and won’t cost anyone extra or cause delays. Pilots flying in and out of Nashua will notice clearer, simpler airspace rules that keep things safe and smooth.

2026-14238 — Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters

If you fly Bell Model 407 helicopters, listen up! The FAA wants you to check your tailboom bolts more often, tighten them right, and swap out any worn parts to keep things safe. Plus, you’ll need to update your maintenance manual with new bolt life limits—all to stop bolts from breaking and keep your chopper flying strong. Comments on this plan are open until August 31, 2026.

Previous: 2026-10895 — Standard Instrument Approach Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Miscellaneous Amendments

Starting June 1, 2026, the FAA is updating how pilots approach and take off from certain airports to keep flights safe and smooth. These changes affect pilots and airports by adjusting flight paths and rules based on new tech and obstacles. No big costs here—just smarter, safer skies for everyone flying under instrument rules!

Next: 2026-10898 — Medical Devices; Hematology and Pathology Devices; Classification of the Von Willebrand Factor Assay

The FDA is officially putting the von Willebrand factor assay into Class II, meaning it now has special safety rules but fewer red tape hurdles. This change helps labs and patients get access to this important blood test faster and safer, starting June 1, 2026. If you make or use these devices, expect smoother approvals and no big cost jumps.