How’s Marshall?
July 21, 2021 | Categories:
ARSA News & Updates
On July 8, ARSA Managing Director & General Counsel Marshall S. Filler underwent successful heart surgery. He is recovering at home and is on track to continue his passion as…Read More
Government Watchdog Knocks FAA on Safety
June 26, 2013
On June 20, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) released a report criticizing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the way the agency determines the number of flight standards safety inspectors needed to maintain a robust air carrier network.
The OIG found that while the FAA introduced a new inspector staffing model more than three years ago the agency has failed to rely fully on the model’s results to determine the needed number and location of part 121 air carrier inspectors and continues to utilize incomplete and outdated metrics. Different staffing processes across regions result in inconsistent and subjective staffing decisions that leave potential gaps in safety, according to the report.
The watchdog also outlined deficiencies in the FAA’s geographic surveillance program, which supplements regular inspections by allowing inspectors to request assistance from other regional offices. The OIG highlighted that many inspectors are reluctant to participate in certain aspects of the program since they are not always trained in the specific operations of the assigned air carrier and the process for requesting outside assistance is burdensome.
To address these concerns, the OIG recommended developing a plan with milestones to correct the staffing model’s shortcomings, particularly with regard to data collection and accuracy; implementing training programs to ensure managers and inspectors follow the model; establishing guidance to enhance staffing model analysts’ understanding of their role and responsibilities; and developing a process to ensure inspectors participating in the geographic surveillance program are trained on specific air carrier policies and procedures.
More from ARSA
Lawmakers Explore Aviation Workforce Diversity
July 21, 2021 | Categories:
ARSA News & Updates, FAA
The House Aviation Subcommittee held a hearing July 20 to discuss enhancing diversity in the aviation workforce.
The witnesses were (click a name to download their written testimony):
Rebecca Lutte,…Read More
Unpacking AD Authority
July 20, 2021 | Categories:
ARSA News & Updates, ARSA Works, FAA, Maintenance, Operations, Regulatory, Training
On July 2, ARSA requested clarification of the FAA’s authority to issue an Airworthiness Directive, questioning the April 22 posting of an AD against certain Uninsured United Parachute Technologies, LLC…Read More
Training – Parts Documentation Under the U.S.-EU MAG
To see all of ARSA’s work on the MAG, visit arsa.org/mag. For years, ARSA lead an industry wide effort to “smooth” implementation of parts documentation issues in the U.S.-EU Maintenance Annex…Read MoreAnti-Viral Measures
July 02, 2021 | Categories:
Advocacy, ARSA Works, Aviation Policy, EASA, FAA, Featured Post, Legislative, Maintenance, Operations, Regulatory, Training
For the use of its members and the larger aviation community, ARSA is maintaining this page as a resource for virus-related updates on policy initiatives and business needs. Please bookmark…Read More
