$100M FAA grants for snazzy new air traffic towers available now

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.

2026-19343, Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters

If you own or maintain Leonardo AB139 or AW139 helicopters, the FAA wants you to update your maintenance rules with new safety limits to keep flying safe. This replaces an older rule and means you’ll need to revise your maintenance manuals soon. Comments on this change are open until November 6, 2026, so get ready to act and keep those choppers in top shape!

2026-19345, Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters

If you own or operate Bell Textron Canada Model 429 helicopters, heads up! The FAA wants you to check the sliding door’s lower roller parts for damage and fix any issues to stop doors from jamming. You’ll also need to update the roller setup soon, with comments on this rule due by November 6, 2026. This keeps your chopper safe without breaking the bank.

Previous: 2026-19327, Arms Sales Notification

The U.S. Department of Defense is updating Congress about a big arms sale to Bahrain that includes 12 attack helicopters, missiles, and high-tech gear worth about $911 million. This deal boosts Bahrain’s military power with advanced weapons and support, funded by U.S. national funds. The sale was first notified in 2018, and this update highlights enhancements and ongoing support to keep everything top-notch.

Next: 2026-19330, Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Designation of Fishery Management Council Members and Application for Reinstatement of State Authority

NOAA is asking for approval to keep collecting info from states and tribes about who represents them on Fishery Management Councils and requests to regain control over certain fisheries. This affects 146 people who spend time nominating council members or applying for state authority, with a total yearly effort of about 4,600 hours. The goal is to keep managing fisheries smoothly without adding extra paperwork or costs.