Helicopter Flange Fiasco: FAA Orders Urgent Checks

2026-15585, Requirements for Interference-Tolerant Radio Altimeter Systems

In July 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Section 40002 of that law re-institutes the Federal Communications Commission's general auction authority and specifically directs the Commission to complete a system of competitive bidding for not less than 100 megahertz in the 3.98-4.2 gigahertz band (Upper C- band). This final rule supports the Federal Communications Commission's July 2026 Report and Order that makes 160 megahertz of the Upper C-band available for terrestrial wireless flexible use via a system of competitive bidding. To ensure safe, efficient, and reliable aviation operations in the presence of wireless signals in the C-band, the Federal Aviation Administration is issuing new regulations that require all radio altimeters to meet specific minimum performance requirements. These new radio altimeters must withstand interference from wireless signals in neighboring spectrum bands and continue to provide accurate altitude readings to both pilots and integrated aircraft safety systems. These regulations require all aircraft equipped with radio altimeters operating under part 121 and those aircraft with radio altimeters operating under part 129 with 30 or more passenger seats or a payload capacity of more than 7,500 pounds to comply with the minimum performance requirements by December 30, 2030, which is prior to the date the Federal Communications Commission authorizes the use of the Upper C-band for new wireless services, as stated in its Report and Order. All other aircraft equipped with radio altimeters that are required to comply with part 91, including aircraft operating under parts 125, 133, 135, 136, 137, 194, and all other aircraft operating under part 129 that are not subject to the initial deadline, must comply with the same minimum performance requirements on or before October 31, 2034.

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.

2026-19255, Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

The FAA wants to make sure certain Boeing 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200 planes are super safe by checking if some elevator parts were put together right. They’re asking for inspections to spot cracks or missing sealant on bearings and fixing any problems found. Plane owners need to act soon, with comments due by November 5, 2026, and this could mean some inspection costs but keeps flights safe and sound.

2026-19149, Standard Instrument Approach Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Miscellaneous Amendments

The FAA is updating flight rules for certain airports to keep flying safe and smooth. They’re changing how pilots approach, take off, and avoid obstacles based on new tech and airspace changes. These updates kick in on September 18, 2026, and affect pilots and airports, but won’t cost anyone extra.

Previous: 2026-16043, Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters

If you own a Bell Textron Canada Model 505 helicopter, listen up! The FAA found a problem with a washer on the tail rotor pitch link that might not be installed right. Starting September 10, 2026, you’ll need to do a one-time check and fix it if needed—keeping your chopper safe without breaking the bank.

Next: 2026-16049, Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan; Amendment 36; Limited Entry Fixed Gear Follow-On Actions; Correction

NMFS corrects the final rule published on July 22, 2026 to implement Amendment 36 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan (91 FR 46000). The final rule inadvertently omitted portions of three amendatory instructions. This correction fixes the omissions.