Bill > S3866

This bill aims to modernize the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) type certification process to encourage the development of new and innovative aviation technologies, such as advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft. Key provisions include requiring the FAA to publish a plan for improving its "issue paper" process, which addresses technical questions during certification, and to explore using industry consensus standards where appropriate for safety. The bill also mandates the establishment of standard expected timelines for various stages of the certification process, including FAA response times, with exceptions for complex safety issues. Furthermore, it requires the FAA to define clear criteria for when an issue paper is necessary and to work towards converting stable means of compliance into published policy to reduce recurring paperwork. Finally, the bill calls for updated guidance on how the FAA delegates certification responsibilities to industry, considering how this delegation impacts the predictability of certification for new technologies and maintains U.S. global leadership in aviation innovation.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3866/all-info