In response to ARSA’s comments and recommendations the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially withdrawn a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) amending Title 14 CFR part 145. The NPRM would have revised the current repair station rating system and required establishment of a quality program. It also required each facility maintain a detailed capability list of all articles for which it is rated, designate a chief inspector and have permanent housing for facilities, equipment, materials and personnel. The proposed rule also added specific instances where the FAA could deny a repair station certificate.

The agency’s decision to withdraw the proposed rule is based on the realization that it did not reflect the current repair station operating environment. In addition, the comments ARSA and many other entities submitted raised significant issues the FAA needs to consider before amending part 145. Withdrawal of the NPRM does not, however, preclude the FAA from issuing another proposal in the future. The agency indicates that it has already begun the process of drafting a new rule based on the comments and concerns generated during the initial NPRM. The Association will keep its eyes open for any new proposals and inform its members on how they can comment.

For a copy of the withdrawal notice click here.

A copy of the original NPRM may be found here.

To read ARSA’s comments click here.

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