2021 – Edition 10 – November 5

Table of Contents

Note: The order of material varies in hotline emails, but is always presented the same on this landing page. Readers scrolling through content on or printing this page will find it organized consistent with the table of contents.

From ARSA President Terrell Siegfried
ARSA Works
2022 Annual Conference
Legal Brief
ARSA on the Hill
Training
Membership
Resources
Industry Calendar

From ARSA President Terrell Siegfried

Throwing Our Weight Around

Fellow ARSA member,

While I am relatively new to the board, I’m proud to represent a company that was a founding member of the Aeronautical Repair Station Association. That company, NORDAM, was itself founded on family values more than 50 years ago in Tulsa, Oklahoma by my father, Ray Siegfried. He foresaw a need to represent the shared interests of the global civil-aviation maintenance industry, providing seed money for the association in 1984.

Both organizations have grown through the decades by turning challenges into opportunities. Today, both are internationally known hard-hitters in the industry they serve.

In addition to aviation and many other interests, my dad loved boxing. So, while working with the ARSA team on a news release announcing my election as 2022 president, a familiar phrase kept coming to mind: “ARSA punches way above its weight class.” This consortium of a few dedicated, extremely knowledgeable people – fueled by a lean operating budget – has left a mark much greater than the sum of its parts on the global aviation marketplace.

Here’s their secret: While ARSA’s team provides the punch, its members provide the weight. Through investment, time and expertise, every company and contact in our member directory allows the association to be seen, heard and remembered while demanding consideration from international regulators and legislatures.

As your president, I am adding my personal weight to the association’s punch by asking you to practice your footwork, starting with these simple steps (click the links to learn more):

(1) Keep your membership in good standing. If your membership has lapsed, take the time to renew it; you won’t regret it. ARSA membership is insurance against future industry issues.
(2) Get everyone in your company signed up to receive ARSA communications to stay up to date on the latest industry news.
(3) Sponsor, register for and attend our Annual Conference to visit with congressmen, meet industry counterparts, show your face to international regulatory leaders and bring home lessons on how government action impacts your business’ future.
(4) Respond to the annual member survey, as well as the “quick questions” we ask every month. Your feedback shows what is important to you and prepares ARSA to fight for it.
(5) Recruit new members! Each one earns you a discount on your dues. In fact, scout enough rookies and your membership is free.
(6) Actually use your member benefits – These include access to model publications, discounts on training, and the right to Ask ARSA First! By taking full advantage of your member benefits, you’ll score a return on investment every year.

Like any boxer worth his salt, everyone who benefits from ARSA’s good work must pay their dues. This year let’s put in the effort to keep our stance strong as we generate the power and defensive skills to continue our mutual winning streak.

Sincerely,

Terrell Siegfried

2022 ARSA president | NORDAM assistant general counsel and corporate secretary

Return to Top of Page

Return to Top of Page

ARSA Works

What ARSA Has Done Lately – Third Quarter 2021

Each quarter the board of directors receives reports on the association’s activities and fiscal health. Step into a board member’s shoes by reviewing the financial, operations, legislative and regulatory reports highlighting advocacy on behalf of aviation safety between July and October 2021.

Fiscal Health

The association’s balance sheet remains consistent with previous years and stronger than 2020, plus ARSA is reserving funds.

Membership

The membership team has transitioned to a new invoicing system (that should not change the member payment experience) and is developing a framework for a recruitment campaign. The year-to-date renewal rate is 84 percent.

Regulatory Advocacy

• Published materials from “Special Arrangement” briefing by the FAA and UK CAA.
• Joined coalition letter to White House outlining executive branch actions supporting technician career development.
• Delivered a letter to FAA Administrator Dickson and Transportation Secretary Buttigieg urging use of Executive Order promoting competition to end inconsistent enforcement of ICA rules.
• Sought clarification of FAA authority to issue an Airworthiness Directive against a parachute.
• Drafted Instructions for Continued Airworthiness Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC) task and related strategy.
• Coordinated industry engagement with FAA re: Japan Civil Aviation Bureau certification and bilateral negotiation issues.

Pandemic Response

• Distributed multiple updates on Dept. of Transportation solicitation/selection of applications for the Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection (AMJP) Program.
• Publicized two executive orders on pandemic safety and vaccination requirements (see Operations Report for related “Quick Question”).

Legislative and Lobbying

• Instructions for Continued Airworthiness:
  • Worked with members to introduce issue on Capitol Hill and bring congressional pressure to bear on FAA.
  • Developed legislative strategy to support regulatory strategy.
• Grassroots development:
  • Coordinated congressional facility visit by Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) to Aviation Safety Products.
  • Prioritized requests for Florida and Oklahoma congressional meetings.
  • Continued grassroots action site

Communications and Surveys

ARSA in the News – Selected Industry Coverage

Two Dozen Industry Groups Release Blueprint To Reopen International Travel
July 7, 2021
U.S. Travel Association
A coalition of 24 trade organizations representing a large and diverse swath of the U.S. economy is renewing urgent calls to lift restrictions on international visitation to the United States, and on Wednesday released a policy blueprint for reopening borders safely.

U.S. Executive Order Opens Door For Maintenance Manual Discussion
Aug. 4, 2021
Aviation Week
A recently issued executive order from U.S. President Joe Biden could help revive efforts by some in the aviation maintenance community to increase access to manuals and other service information.

Cincinnati State offers classes to NKY high schoolers in new aviation maintenance program
Sept. 14, 2021
Cincinnati Enquirer
A new partnership between Cincinnati State Technical and Community College and Kenton County School District will allow more than a dozen high schoolers to graduate with nearly 30 college credit hours in the next two years.

ARSA Industry Editorials

Surveys

Conducted “Quick Question” surveys:

• Recovery (August)
• Pandemic HR (September)
• Sustainability (September)

Events, Meetings and Training

Events

• Planned Fall 2021 Leadership Roundtables.
• Initiated planning for 2022 ARSA Annual Conference.

Meetings

• Sarah conducted numerous meetings with the FAA Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC) Part 145 working group, FAA AFS personnel and the SOCAC Workforce Development taskforce.
• Sarah and Brett convened meetings related to ARSA’s repair station manual compilation.
• Brett participated in numerous meetings of the Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force.
• Christian participated in multiple meetings with congressional staff, industry allies and members related to industry economic recovery, federal support for maintenance workforce development, FAA enforcement of ICA rules, FAA approval of technical data required to perform a major repair or alteration and hanger infrastructure investment.
• Christian and Brett participated in an FAA webinar on the Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection Program (AMJP) (July 1).
• Christian participated in meetings of the Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC) and related subcommittees (July 21, Sept. 8).
• Christian and Brett met w/ Government Accountability Office representatives to provide feedback on AMJP implementation (July 26).
• Christian participated in a webinar with FAA and UK CAA representatives re: transatlantic regulatory issues (July 27).
• Christian met with IATA personnel to coordinate activities on workforce development (July 28, 30, Aug. 25, Sept. 14).
• Brett was interviewed by Wingspan TV News (July 29).
• Christian attended the Remanufacturing Industries Council meeting (July 29).
• Sarah, Brett and Christian held a Government Accountability Office interview on Urban Air Mobility/Advanced Air Mobility (Sept 8).
• Brett, Sarah, and Christian held a sustainability interview with Aviation Week (Sept 9).
• Christian and Brett held a collaboration call with Oliver Wyman (Sept 20).
• Brett attended the FAA Global Leadership Conference (Sept 22).
• Christian presented at the Transport Strategy Center Consortium on “Regional Aviation of Russia and CIS-Commonwealth of Independent States -2021” (Sept 23).
• Christian and Marshall attended a Certification Management Team meeting (Sept 24).
• Christian participated in the Regional Airline Association Leaders Conference Workforce Panel (Sept 27).
• Brett held a meeting with Amy Spowart of the National Aviation Hall of Fame on the educational offerings (Sept 28).

Board Administrative

The board re-elected Bob Mabe of HAECO Americas and Terrell Siegfried of the NORDAM Group LLC to new three-year terms and John Riggs of Chromalloy to an initial one-year term.

The board elected Siegfried to serve as president, Josh Krotec of First Aviation Services, Inc. to serve as vice president and Scott Jacob of Columbia Helicopters to serve as treasurer.

The board held a moment of silence in honor of Gary Hudnall of Jet Center MFR, who died in October.

Getting Simpler on IA Renewal

On Oct. 28, ARSA submitted comments to the FAA on Draft Advisory Circular (AC) 65-IART, which would overhaul the agency’s approach to acceptance of training for Inspection Authorization (IA) renewal credit.

For several years, ARSA has been encouraging the FAA to streamline its procedures related to IA renewal course acceptability. Citing the relative simplicity of § 65.93(a)(4), the flexibility afforded the words “acceptable to” under the rules and the value of broad access to professional training, the association has urged the agency to eliminate cumbersome, time-bound reviews of individual training sessions.

“The agency already recognizes this flexibility in both the current procedures outlined in Order 8900.1 and in … the draft AC. Certain entities, including private organizations as well as specified FAA offices, may provide courses that are acceptable to the Administrator without prior review. This practice should be expanded to any provider that demonstrates in writing their ability to offer appropriate training and document completion in a way that is ‘sufficient for the student to claim IA renewal credit,’” ARSA’s comments said, quoting applicable language from the draft AC.

To support the FAA, the association provided a rewritten draft AC that its team has been circulating among trade association allies and referencing in direct engagement with the agency. The rewrite defined basic requirements for acceptable courses while offering three key alterations from current practice:

(1) Eliminating individual acceptance of training courses by setting standards for provider acceptability.

(2) Removing unnecessary time restrictions on course acceptability by eliminating the automatic expiration of acceptance.

(3) Including instruction for eligible mechanics in submitting evidence of course completion.

“By simplifying IA renewal training acceptance, the FAA can limit its own administrative burden while allowing flexibility to both training providers and IA renewal applicants,” ARSA concluded. “The resulting procedures would be consistent with the requirements of § 65.93(a)(4) while advancing agency-wide goals for improving workforce development and training.”

To review the entire comment package, including cover letter and rewritten Draft AC 65-IART, click here.

What you should do…

(1) Contact the FAA and indicate support for the comments (click here to load an email to the responsible agency contractor).

(2) Share IA renewal experiences with the association by emailing Vice President of Operations Brett Levanto (brett.levanto@arsa.org) with the subject line “Overhauling IA Renewal.”

(3) Go deeper by reading this analysis in this month’s “Legal Brief”

Leadership Roundtable Returns to New World

On Oct. 21, ARSA’s Board of Directors returned as a group to the Nation’s Capital – and to face-to-face collaboration – for the first time since March 2020. The association’s volunteer leaders met with industry allies and FAA aviation safety executives during an afternoon event focused on emerging issues in aviation business, particularly workforce and career development. The technology in use was more advanced, the participants more dispersed and the global market more complicated than in previous events, but the focus on good work was the same as ever.

Both online and in-room roundtable participants are visible on the Microsoft Teams Meeting Screen.

On Thursday afternoon, directors gathered at the Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City in Arlington, Virginia (site of ARSA’s Annual Conference, save the dates for 2022). They were joined by colleagues from numerous industry groups both at the Ritz and online, with remote participants connected to the meeting room via Microsoft Teams. During open discussion, the group reviewed key issues related to pandemic recovery, personnel management and aviation career development.

The meeting was then joined by Jodi Baker and Larry Fields, the deputy executive directors of the FAA Aircraft Certification and Flight Standards services. Baker and Fields continued the day’s focus, reviewing agency efforts and plans to overhaul knowledge development and training for government personnel as well as how best to manage oversight of an advancing industry.

Both FAA executives described work – with appropriate references to frustrating experience – to improve how agency personnel approach industry issues. They described problems with inspectors whose oversight is based only on personal experience. After Baker underscored how inspectors have often pressed certificate holders to comply with that tribal

FAA Flight Standards Deputy Executive Director Larry Fields is visible on a Teams meeting screen as in-room participants listen to Aircraft Certification Deputy Executive Director Jodi Baker (behind microphone with red light).

knowledge rather than the plain language of the rules, Fields pressed the government’s desire to change the paradigm.

“You can’t survive thinking that way,” Fields said. “You just can’t.”

Closing out the discussion, ARSA Executive Director Sarah MacLeod welcomed that perspective and extended the challenge. “I’m encouraged by the willingness to hear again,” MacLeod said. “We have to be willing to do the same in industry, in my opinion.”

“Hearing” is central to events like ARSA’s Leadership Roundtable and key to the association’s broad efforts to engage broadly with industry stakeholders. While the pandemic has produced new challenges and opportunities, the long-running work of collaborative engagement must continue.

After completing the afternoon roundtable discussions, the Board reconvened for its Annual Board meeting on Friday, Oct. 22. Association members should refer to the October edition of the hotline for board report details.

Beyond Benevolence with FAA Youth Task Force

On Oct. 8, the FAA convened the fourth public meeting of the Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force.

The session followed the task force’s usual format: updates from each of its subcommittees followed by a special discussion with industry or community stakeholders. The group welcomed Amy Spowart, president and CEO of the National Aviation Hall of Fame and Jennifer Baxmeyer, executive director of the Cradle of Aviation Museum.

Spowart and Baxmeyer contributed to an expansive conversation of aviation resources, talent development programs and in-development efforts to make industry operations front-of-mind for American students of all ages. These opportunities range from direct-to-employment training to elementary school curricula introducing kids to “Will and Orv” as part of an in-development PBS Kids program.

Considering these programs, Centura College Executive Vice President Joel English outlined concern for limiting cost burdens on training program participants and how sustainability demands getting beyond dependence on “giving and benevolence.” Free access to aviation is vital to inspiring youth; the costs of that investment balance against the returns in the form of skill and personnel growth.

Brett Levanto, ARSA vice president of operations, pivoted from general “benevolence” to specific focus on the FAA. During open discussion, Levanto highlighted to association’s focus on “finding the workforce” within the initiatives already underway within the agency.

“We need to recognize and communicate that this is all connected,” Levanto said after the meeting. “We can’t ‘inspire’ aviation careers if the FAA isn’t proactive in growing its own capacity to adapt to the industry and train its people to facilitate good business as well as good safety. We’re talking about selling the youth of America on new and exciting technology in a dynamic industry; we need government oversight that reflects that.”

Task force members are developing recommendations for its report back to Congress. In the coming months, members will focus on general areas including collaboration and engagement, as well as specific concepts for making career information available to educators – whose impact on students is considerable – and seeking reliable funding streams for constant growth.

ARSA Member Actions

Association members have long identified workforce and career development as a pressing challenge facing the maintenance industry. To help the task force, ARSA asks two things:

(1) Learn about the task force’s work by reviewing the content on this page or visiting the committee page on the FAA website, then share workforce development thoughts, questions, needs or lessons learned to arsa.org/contact.

(2) Help distribute the educator survey developed by Levanto’s colleagues on the Trends Subcommittee. If your company has relationships with local educational institutions or programs, send them the following message (or similar written communication):

Dear Educator,

The Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force (YIATF) needs your help. YIATF is an advisory group established to provide the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with recommendations that will encourage students to pursue in-demand careers in aviation. The group is examining trends that directly or indirectly encourage or discourage young people from pursuing aviation careers. To assist the Task Force in understanding the role of the educator and what recommendations would best support the goal, the group would like your input.

Please click here to participate in this short survey. We greatly appreciate your assistance on this important effort.

https://forms.gle/NfH3AHY3U8Doe1An9

Thank you for your time!

Public Viewing of the Oct. 8 Meeting

A recording of the livestreamed meeting is available on the FAA’s YouTube channel.

Final Documents/Your Two Cents

This list includes Federal Register publications, such as final rules, Advisory Circulars and policy statements, as well as proposed rules and policies of interest to ARSA members.

To view the list, click here.

 Return to Top of Page

2022 Annual Conference

See You in March

March 8-11, 2022

Arlington, Virginia and Washington, D.C. with Livestream Options for Online Participants

What began decades ago as ARSA’s Annual Repair Symposium has evolved into a week-long event including executive branch briefings, grassroots legislative advocacy and world-class regulatory compliance and business content. The event provides a regular venue for members and invited guests from around the world to network and discuss issues that matter to the repair station community.

For four days each March, the association brings the aviation world to the nation’s capital.

Stay tuned for updates; registration will open in December 2021.

2024 Conference Agenda

Unless otherwise noted, all Annual Conference activities take place at the Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City in Arlington, Virginia. Stay tuned for agenda updates as the event gets closer.

Executive to Executive Briefings: Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Participation by industry executives with senior executive branch officials is limited to annual conference sponsors.

---

8:30 a.m. | Coffee & Light Breakfast

---

9:00 a.m. | Introductory Briefing

---

10:00 a.m. | U.S. Department of Transportation

Elliott Black, Facilitator, Aerospace Supply Chain Resiliency Task Force, Office of the Under Secretary for Transportation Policy, U.S. Department of Transportation

ARSA is a member of the congressional-mandated task force examining the resiliency of the aerospace supply chain. Black will facilitate a group discussion about issues impacting the maintenance sector supply chain, including workforce, government policy, access to materials, geopolitical challenges, etc.

---

11:00 a.m. | Break

---

11:15 a.m. | U.S. Department of State

Heidi Gomez, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Affairs, Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs

---

12:00 p.m. | Access to Maintenance Data: The ICA ARC

Josh Krotec, Senior Vice President, First Aviation and Member, ARSA Board of Directors 

Krotec has been named industry co-chair of the newly established Instructions for Continued Airworthiness Aviation Rulemaking Committee, which was created at ARSA’s request to address the availability of maintenance data.  He will discuss the ARC’s mandate and objectives, and opportunities to influence the ARC’s work.

---

12:45 p.m. | Lunch & Midday Break

---

2:00 p.m. | U.S. Department of Commerce

Scott Kennedy, Director, Office of Transportation & Machinery, International Trade Administration

---

3:00 p.m. | Break

---

3:00 p.m. | Economic Impacts

Livia Hayes, Director, Market Intelligence Team, Transportation and Services Practice, Oliver Wyman

Hayes will review the findings of the most recent Oliver Wyman MRO industry forecast and lead a roundtable discussion of factors and trends impacting demand for maintenance services.

---

4:00 p.m. | Wrap Up Discussion

---

Legislative Day: Wednesday, March 13, 2024

The day dedicated to educating both the aviation maintenance industry and elected officials. Learn (or brush up) on what ARSA does and what you can do so you're ready for afternoon visits with targeted Capitol Hill legislators and staff.

---

7:30 a.m. | Registration & Breakfast

---

8:00 a.m. | Welcome & Introductions

---

8:15 a.m. | It's All About Your Industry and Your Company

Find out what’s at stake in Washington for your company and your industry, where things stand, and what you can do to impact the process.

---

9:00 a.m. | National Defense Authorization Act Opportunities

ARSA is pursuing legislation as part of the annual Pentagon budget and policy bill to enhance competition and opportunities for small businesses in Department of Defense aircraft maintenance contracting.

---

Josh Krotec, Senior Vice President, First Aviation and ARSA Immediate Past President

---

Alex de Gunten, Senior Vice President for Government & Industry Affairs, HEICO and 2024 ARSA Government Affairs Chairman

---

9:45 a.m. | Break

---

10:00 a.m. | FAA Reauthorization: Industry Perspectives 

Representatives of ARSA ally organizations discuss their priorities in the current FAA reauthorization and share insights about the likelihood of an FAA bill being enacted in 2024. 

---

Karen Huggard, Vice President of Government Affairs, National Air Transportation Association 

---

Jarrod Thompson, Vice President for Legislative and Regulatory Policy, Airlines for America 

---

Sterling Wiggins, Senior Director, Transportation, Infrastructure, and Supply Chains, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

---

Adam Weiss, Counsel (Minority), U.S. House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Subcommittee on Aviation

---

11:00 a.m. | Release of 2024 Global Fleet & MRO Market Report

Livia Hayes, Director, Market Intelligence Team, Transportation and Services Practice, Oliver Wyman

Uktarsh Mishra, Market Intelligence Specialist, Oliver Wyman CAVOK

---

11:30 p.m. | Wrap Up Discussion & Presentation of 2024 Legislative Leadership Award to Garret Graves (R-La.)

---

12:00 p.m. | Lunch

---

1:00 p.m. | Congressional Meetings Begin

Participants head to Capitol Hill for scheduled meetings with members of Congress and staffers covering subject matter or geographic jurisdictions impacting participant home/facility locations. NOTE: participants schedule their meetings directly with the relevant offices; instructions are provided in advance of the event.

---

TBD | Presentation of ARSA Legislative Leadership Award (Special Invitation Only)

---

4:00 p.m. | Symposium Registration Open (for non-Legislative Day attendees)

---

5:30 p.m. | Ice Breaker Reception

---

7:00 p.m. | Special Invitation Dinner

---

Annual Repair Symposium: Thursday, March 14, 2024

The centerpiece of Conference week, ARSA convenes a full day of substantive panel discussions covering key regulatory compliance and business issues.

---

7:30 a.m. | Registration & Breakfast

---

8:00 a.m. | Welcome & Introductory Remarks

ARSA is the voice of the global aviation maintenance industry. How the association advocates your interests with legislators, regulators, and the media sets the stage for corporate growth. Information on how advancement of the industry’s collective interests enables individual companies to shine more brightly.

---

8:30 a.m. | Session 1: Fireside Chat with AVS-1

David Boulter, Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, FAA

---

9:00 a.m. | Break

---

9:15 a.m. | Session 2: Opening Salvo – Conversations with the Regulators

International aviation safety agencies will provide updates on the regulations, policies, and procedures of importance to the global aerospace sector. 

---

Lawrence Josuá Fernandes Costa, Continuing Airworthiness Certification Manager, Department of Flight Standards, ANAC Brazil [In person]

---

Ludovic Aron, Washington Representative, EASA [In person]

---

Karl Specht, Principal Coordinator Organisation Approvals, EASA [Online]

---

Dan Elgas, Director, Policy and Standards Division (AIR-600), Aircraft Certification Service, FAA [In person]

---

Tim Adams, Deputy Director, Office of Safety Standards, Flight Standards Service, FAA [in person]

---

Jackie Black, Manager, Aircraft Maintenance Division, Flight Standards Service, FAA [in person]

---

Jeffrey Phipps, Chief, Operational Airworthiness (AARTN), Transport Canada Civil Aviation [In person]

---

Neil Williams, Head of Airworthiness, Policy & Rulemaking, United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority [In person]

---

12:30 p.m. | Lunch with Special Guest

Billy Nolen, Chief Safety Officer, Archer Aviation

---

2:00 p.m. | Session 3: Defining the Career

Using known pathways and the current regulations, panelists lay out templates for international maintenance technician recruitment, training, and retention.

---

Ryan Goertzen, Vice President of Workforce Development, AAR

---

Barrington Irving, Founder & CEO, The Flying Classroom and Founder of the Barrington Irving Technical Training School

---

Crystal Maguire, Executive Director, Aviation Technician Education Council

---

3:00 p.m. | ARSA Quiz Show

---

3:30 p.m. | Break

---

4:00 p.m. | Session 4: Training First

Based on recommendations from SOCAC’s Workforce Development and Training (WDAT) Working Group and the ongoing work of the ARAC Repairman Working Group, panelists will explain how industry can push the government to accept standards for competency and skill development.

---

5:00 p.m. | The Club Lounge Happy Hour

---

Member Day: Friday, March 15, 2024

ARSA's leadership briefs members on the state of the association as well as goals and priorities for the coming year. Participants then close out the event by choosing from one of several concurrent breakout sessions.

---

8:00 a.m. | Annual Membership Meeting & Breakfast

---

9:30 a.m. | Break

---

10:00 a.m. | Training: Regulations for Supervisors & Inspectors

This session reviews the cardinal regulatory knowledge necessary for repair station personnel to be “thoroughly familiar with the applicable regulations in this chapter.” ARSA’s training team is rolling out the course for the benefit of Conference attendees.

---

12:00 p.m. | Conference Ends

Attendance Options (In-Person & Livestream)

In-Person

All substantive and social activities were hosted at the Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City in Arlington, Virginia. Legislative Day participants will head to Capitol Hill for meetings with congressional offices as appropriate.

Livestream

The majority of conference events will be available to livestream viewers via a Vimeo web-player embedded into a page on ARSA.org. Access to the livestream in 2024 will be available only to "Conference Ambassadors." These "Ambassadors" are contacts identified by in-person participants to bring the event back to their home facilities.

Sponsorship

For information about committing your organization to the Annual Conference (we can already look ahead to 2025), contact ARSA Vice President of Operations Brett Levanto.

---

Platinum – $10,000

Notation in all publicity, marketing and periodicals (e.g., the hotline, Dispatch, ARSA team email signatures, conference attendee contact list, specific email alerts to association contacts), recognition in event materials and from the podium, specific thank you in ARSA periodicals, sponsorship rights and 10 registrations to an ARSA training session, complimentary registrations for three (3) participants in the Executive to Executive Briefings as well as three (3) in Legislative Day, and free livestream access for personnel unable to attend in person. At the Platinum Level, sponsors may select one of the following to specifically support (may not reflect current availability for 2024):

• Online Conference Experience
• Executive to Executive Briefings
• Legislative Day – All Day
• Annual Repair Symposium – Ice Breaker Reception
• Annual Repair Symposium – Club Lounge Happy Hour
• Congressional Directories/Resources

2023 Platinum Sponsors

---

Gold – $7,500

Notation in all publicity, marketing and periodicals (e.g., the hotline, Dispatch, ARSA team email signatures, conference attendee contact list, specific email alerts to association contacts), recognition in event materials and from the podium, specific thank you in ARSA periodicals, 5 registrations to an ARSA training session, complimentary registrations for two (2) participants in the Executive to Executive Briefings as well as two (2) in Legislative Day, and free livestream access for personnel unable to attend in person. At the Gold Level, sponsors may select one of the following to specifically support (may not reflect current availability for 2024):

• Legislative Priorities Brochures/Resources
• Digital Companion/Electronic Materials
• Legislative Day – Continental Breakfast
• Legislative Day – Congressional Briefing and Luncheon
• Annual Repair Symposium – Continental Breakfast
• Annual Repair Symposium – Luncheon with Special Guest

2023 Gold Sponsors

---

Silver – $3,500

Notation in all publicity, marketing, and periodicals (e.g., the hotline, Dispatch, ARSA team email signatures, conference attendee contact list, specific email alerts to association contacts), recognition in event materials and from the podium, complimentary registrations for one (1) participant in the Executive to Executive Briefings as well as one (1) in Legislative Day. At the Silver Level, sponsors may select one of the following to specifically support (may not reflect current availability for 2024):

• Nametag Lanyards
• Hotel Room Keys
• Annual Repair Symposium – Coffee Break (5)

2023 Silver Sponsors

---

Supporter – $2,500

Notation in all publicity, marketing, and periodicals (e.g., the hotline, Dispatch, ARSA team email signatures, specific email alerts to association contacts), and recognition in event materials and from the podium.

2023 Supporter

---

Contributor – $500 to $2,499 (or equivalent support)

Notation in some publicity, marketing, and periodicals (e.g., the hotline, Dispatch), and recognition in event materials and from the podium.

2023 Contributors

Location & Accommodations

ARSA's block of rooms for Conference participants at the Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City in Arlington, Virginia is now closed. The hotel hosts most of the activities related to the ARSA Conference and is convenient to the Metro as well as Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA). To try and book a room independently, go to the hotel's website or call 703.415.5000.

---

Those seeking other options may consider these hotels (there are no ARSA-related specials or promotions at these locations):

Embassy Suites by Hilton Crystal City National Airport 1393 S Eads St. Arlington, Virginia, 22202

---

Residence Inn Arlington Capital View 2850 South Potomac Avenue Arlington, Virginia, 22202

---

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Washington DC – Crystal City 300 Army Navy Drive Arlington, Virginia, 22202

---

Crowne Plaza Washington National Airport 1480 Crystal Drive Arlington, Virginia, 22202

---

Hampton Inn & Suites Reagan National Airport 2000 Richmond Highway Arlington, Virginia, 22202

---

Radisson Hotel Reagan National Airport 2020 Richmond Hwy Arlington, VA 22202

---

Holiday Inn National Airport/Crystal City 2650 Richmond Highway Arlington, Virginia, 22202

Awards

The Leo Weston Award for Excellence in Government Service

First bestowed on Leo Weston himself in 2005, the Weston award honors an instrumental figure in ARSA's birth by recognizing individuals who embody his commitment to the industry's safety and success. The symposium provides a venue for association members and invited guests from around the world to network and discuss issues that matter to the aviation maintenance industry. It is the perfect time to respect the history of the repair station community and honor the good works of those who support it.

Click here to learn more about Leo, the award bearing his name, and those who have received it.

---

The Legislative Leadership Award

The association regularly recognizes members of Congress who have provided outstanding support to the aviation maintenance community by supporting policies beneficial to the industry. Honorees have each been key in moving forward specific legislation advancing priorities championed by ARSA on behalf of its members.

Click here to see past updates regarding Legislative Leadership Award recipients.

---

The "Golden Shovel" Award

From time to time, ARSA recognizes individuals – usually at the time of their retirement – who have spent their careers in steadfast devotion to good business, good safety, and good oversight. In the colorful illustration of Executive Director Sarah MacLeod, these professionals have spent their lives shoveling against the tide of government bureaucracy; their achievement in never giving up is acknowledged through the "Golden Shovel Award."

Click here to learn more about the "Shovel" and see who has received it.

Anti-Viral Measures

The ARSA team encourages all Annual Conference in-person participants to take measures appropriate to their personal comfort, medical risk, and other needs related to personal health. The following resources are available for attendee reference:

The Ritz-Carlton

The site of all substantive and social gatherings related to the ARSA Conference. The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City follows the Marriott International "Commitment to Clean." The guidance includes protocols and elevated practices and can be found at whattoexpect.marriott.com/waspc.

Virginia

With the exception of any Legislative Day meetings held on Capitol Hill (scheduled individually by participants), the entirety of the Annual Conference takes place in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Guidance related coronavirus protocols can be found at www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/protect-yourself.

Washington, D.C.

No Annual Conference activities open to general participation take place in Washington, D.C. Conference attendees going into the city for business or personal reasons should consult coronavirus.dc.gov for policy and guidance related to the pandemic.

U.S. CDC

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, both Arlington County (the location of the Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City) and Washington, D.C. are classified as "medium" for community transmission. See county-by-county assessments and guidance at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

Going Livestream

If any in-person registrant wishes to opt out of participation because of personal health concerns (including illness) they may switch to livestream access at any time. Access to the livestream is available to all participants via the Digital Companion, a password-protected webpage for participants to access the agenda, speaker information and presentation resources.

Event Photos

ARSA has created a Google Album including photos taken during the 2024 Annual Conference, which allows participants to share their own photos (Sharing event photos constitutes consenting to their use/distribution in association with Conference-related publicity for this or future events, at ARSA’s discretion). To see the album, click here.

Participant Resources & Recording Availability

Materials and Recordings

The Digital Companion (the much discussed online resource for event materials and resources, to which access information is sent to attendees via email and provided from the lectern on each day) is the location for PDFs of all presentations as well as links to additional resources discussed during the event. It also includes an attendee directory (in the “General Resources” area) and information about accessing the livestream sessions and raw recordings.

 Return to Top of Page

Legal Brief

Editor’s note: This material is provided as a service to association members for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or professional advice and is not privileged or confidential.

Layman Lawyer – Acceptability

By Brett Levanto, Vice President of Operations

Non-lawyers whose work requires understanding and applying legal requirements must give attention to the meaning of words.

Working in a law firm it’s easy to become exasperated by colleagues who dwell deeply into a term, even in casual conversation. While it derails office banter, the awareness is a skill born of professional necessity and it is one aviation professionals must emulate.

In October, ARSA submitted comments to the FAA on Draft Advisory Circular 65-IART, which aims to overhaul the agency’s approach to finding Inspection Authorization (IA) training acceptable for credit under 14 CFR § 65.93(a)(4). For the association, IA renewal training guidance is part of a years-long effort to refocus the government on growing industry and inspector knowledge while improving oversight through open access to information. The draft AC is an opportunity to dramatically simplify agency procedures and encourage knowledge far beyond what the rules demand.

Let’s apply critical thinking by considering that opportunity as good layman lawyers and start with the rule. It states IA holders are eligible for renewal of inspection authority if they present evidence of meeting the requirements of § 65.91(c) (1) through (4) (that is they are actively engaged in aviation maintenance) and having “[a]ttended and successfully completed a refresher course, acceptable to the Administrator, of not less than 8 hours of instruction.” (Emphasis added.)

Those 19 quoted words, and particularly those underlined, have become the basis for the FAA’s process of actively accepting and maintaining lists of individual courses for IA refresher credit, each expiring two years after being found acceptable. The procedures outlined in FSIMS include more than 7,500 words and give the IA Refresher Couse Coordinator (IA RCC) the responsibility to “review, accept, renew, or reject/deny all course material submitted by the course provider” before it may be offered as IA refresher training.

A plain reading of the rule doesn’t support the need for such bureaucracy.

FAA guidance regarding elements considered “acceptable to the Administrator” acknowledges “the FAA’s active review and acceptance prior to use is not normally required.” As the rule clearly allows, an IA renewal refresher course can be acceptable to the FAA under § 65.93(a)(4) without being accepted by the agency. Instead, the agency can establish criteria that make such learning experiences acceptable and audit courses presented by renewing IAs and eligible providers for the acceptable elements.

While a past IA RCC told me eliminating individual course review would “require rulemaking,” a critical review of the rule’s plain language belies that statement. The FAA already recognizes the plain words of its regulations through existing policies and procedures, why not take this opportunity to set the standards for training acceptable to the agency?

The specific approach offered by ARSA is evident in its comments (follow the link or see the basic update in the “ARSA Works” section). Read them and provide your thoughts – along with specific experience related to IA training – directly to me at brett.levanto@arsa.org.

Cleaning up IA renewal is part of several missions. Not only does it apply simple and plain reading of rules – ARSA’s everyday mission – it helps the agency leverage training opportunities in all forms. Growing knowledge and competence makes it a better regulator and it provides mutual opportunities to the industry.

Stay tuned for updates. In the meantime, remember that the words matter.

Help continue this discussion. Submit your “layman lawyer” experiences or questions via arsa.org/contact.

Return to Top of Page

ARSA on the Hill

Congress Takes Dickson to Task

FAA Administrator Steve Dickson appeared at a House Aviation Subcommittee hearing on Oct. 21 to review implementation of the 2020 Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act. The law was enacted as part of last December’s omnibus appropriations bill to address apparent issues believed to be related to a pair of fatal accidents involving Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.

Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), the subcommittee chairman, opened the hearing by thanking victims’ families for promoting regulatory changes to prevent future accidents. He also acknowledged workers at the Boeing plants in Renton and Everett in his home state, saying company employees are distraught that products they made were involved in the accidents.

Larsen said that last year’s legislation was the result of an exhaustive investigation and was aimed at restoring the integrity of the certification process and making air travel safer. He highlighted key elements of the bill, which include requiring manufacturers adopt safety management systems, mandatory disclosure of certain safety critical information about aircraft to the FAA, addressing undue pressure on designees working on behalf of the FAA and ensuring that human factors are evaluated during the certification process.

Larsen admitted the legislation was complex and would take time to implement, but also said the law laid out specific timelines for the FAA. While the FAA has provided updates on some actions, the status of many others is unknown.

In his opening comments, subcommittee Ranking Member Garrett Graves (R-La.) said the purpose of the hearing was to hold the agency accountable. He noted there are dozens of unimplemented provisions from the 2019 FAA reauthorization law and that the agency has not completed 35 mandates included in last year’s reform bill.

House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.) pulled no punches during his opening remarks and expressed frustration with the agency’s delays in implementing the new law. “I get pretty tired with this process, particularly when lives are at stake,” DeFazio said. “I want to hear today what we’re going to do to expedite the most critical parts of the legislation … It’s a mandate from Congress that the culture at FAA is going to change, the scrutiny is going to change.”

DeFazio said provisions of the bill were supposed to be self-executing. “Pretty damn clear in the law,” DeFazio said. “Your attorneys over there need a little poke for them to look at explicit things written by Congress that say this goes into law, it’s self executing, you don’t screw around with it for three years, you don’t send it to OMB, you just do it. And it didn’t happen.”

T&I Committee Ranking Member Sam Graves took a different tack. He thanked Dickson for his leadership and cited the praise Dickson has received from industry and labor stakeholders. Graves said last year’s certification reform bill was, “a model of how we can work together and how bipartisan cooperation can yield positive results for the American people.” Graves, himself a pilot, highlighted parts of the bill related to pilot training.

Graves also expressed opposition to the Biden administration’s vaccine mandate and concerns about the impact on the aviation industry. He said Congress provided $30 billion to help save aviation jobs during the pandemic to keep vital aviation workers on the job and that it’s insulting that these same workers are being told that if they don’t get a vaccine, they’re going to get fired. “We had no problem asking pilots and flight attendants and other front-line aviation employees to keep working through the pandemic when there was no vaccine.”

He criticized the Biden administration’s “heavy handed” tactics and “indiscriminate vaccine mandate”, particularly in light of the aviation worker shortage. “We should not be treating pilots and other airline workers any differently than we did in 2020.  We want them to be safe. This mandate is not about safety; it’s about politics, plain and simple.”

In his opening statement, Dickson called safety “a journey not a destination” and said that FAA is constantly evolving as a regulator and air navigation services provider to deliver the safest and most efficient aviation system in the world.

Dickson said the FAA is fully committed to a thorough and complete implementation of the new law. He touted his efforts to reset the relationship between the FAA and Boeing and enhance the certification process. He said the FAA embraces reform and is committed agency-wide to continuous improvement. To address congressional concerns, the agency is delegating fewer responsibilities to manufacturers and demanding more transparency from them.

Dickson also said the agency is revising guidance and criteria used for significant changes to aircraft to ensure the whole aircraft and human interface issues are considered. FAA is also reviewing its data analysis to better anticipate safety problems. The agency is working with partners on a global basis to influence and adjust maintenance and training requirements for U.S. products that operate under the jurisdiction of other authorities.

For more information about the hearing, including Dickson’s opening statement and a video of the hearing, click here.

Building Grassroots in Pennsylvania

ARSA Executive Vice President Christian Klein spoke about industry workforce challenges and pandemic recovery at the Aviation Council of Pennsylvania’s (ACP) 41^st Annual Meeting in Lancaster on Oct. 26.

ARSA has a longstanding working relationship with ACP. It was the first local industry organization to endorse ARSA’s proposal for the new aviation maintenance technician training and recruitment grant program. “We have a symbiotic partnership,” Klein said.  “ARSA shares intelligence about opportunities and threats on Capitol Hill and ACP brings its grassroots power to bear on the Pennsylvania congressional delegation.” 

Klein spoke as part of the conference’s general session. Other speakers included ACP President Gabe Monzo, Pennsylvania State Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Wayne Lagerholc, and Bob Shaffer, the chairman of the Pennsylvania Governor’s Aviation Advisory Committee. Conference attendees also heard from representatives of the National Air Transportation Association, the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association and the Pennsylvania Drone Association. 

Klein discussed economic conditions in the maintenance industry in the wake of the pandemic with a heavy focus on the workforce issues. He said the technician shortage the industry was experiencing before the pandemic has been exacerbated by early retirements and other departures. Klein described ARSA’s four-pronged workforce strategy:

(1) Engage the federal government to channel resources to technician training and improve regulations impacting the workforce, including improving repairman certification allowing technician schools to teach about modern technologies using the most current instruction delivery techniques.
(2) Collaborate industry partners to promote aviation careers and technical education (e.g., Choose Aerospace).
(3) Encourage workforce development initiatives by individual companies and share best practices and effective strategies between members.
(4) Improve oversight by enhancing the FAA inspector workforce through better training, professional development and regulatory knowledge.

He finished by reminding attendees that local industry organizations like ACP can have enormous impact on Capitol Hill by highlighting the state-level impact of federal aviation policy.

To request participation by ARSA’s executive team in your next aviation group meeting, Ask ARSA First!

Return to Top of Page

Training

Make ARSA Training Work

ARSA’s online training program represents its most-valuable benefit to the aviation industry: knowledge gained through training and experience. The association’s team has turned its decades of work on behalf of aviation maintenance into more than 80 hours of on-demand content.

While sessions are available for registration at any time – ARSA member discounts available – companies can also incorporate the association’s training into their regular programs:

(1) Subscription. Make up-front, bulk purchases of training hours. The details of each subscription can be customized, including focus on specific subject areas (e.g., human factors) or options for specially-priced session access after the initial hours have been used.

(2) “Championing” a session. Guarantee a certain number of attendees for training in a particular topic that will also be made available for general registration. Variations include open registration for a live session (i.e., company personnel participate at the same time as general registrants) or a company-specific live event for which a recorded version (not including any company-specific information) is made available for on-demand registration.

(3) Tailored training. Contract ARSA’s management firm Obadal, Filler, MacLeod & Klein, P.L.C. to produce or modify training specific to your organization. The team can then re-record it (or offer it as a separate live session) for ARSA’s training program. Tailored programs are priced differently from ARSA’s hourly rate and are administered by OFM&K, which allows for a client engagement and related attorney-client privilege for all discussion.

Click here to go directly to the training platform (operated by ARSA’s management firm) and begin reviewing available sessions.

For more information about ARSA’s training program, review the menus below. If you have questions or would like to learn more about ways to integrate ARSA training into your own program, contact Vice President of Operations Brett Levanto (brett.levanto@arsa.org).

The association’s training program is provided through Obadal, Filler, MacLeod & Klein, P.L.C., the firm that manages ARSA. To go directly to OFM&K’s online training portal, visit potomaclaw.inreachce.com. To learn more about the association’s training program and see course availability, visit arsa.org/training.

What training do you need? Contact ARSA to let the association know and help get it developed.

Multidisciplinary Training at HELI-EXPO 2022

In early March 2022, in the lead up to the 2022 ARSA Annual Conference, ARSA’s training team will offer a multi-disciplinary slate of options during HAI HELI-EXPO 2022 in Dallas, Texas.

Sarah MacLeod and Marshall S. Filler, executive team members of the association (and managing members of Obadal, Filler, MacLeod & Klein, P.L.C.) will lead a number of professional education courses as well as three “Rotor Safety Challenge” presentations.

Any participant who completes one of their professional education courses (which are provided on behalf of OFM&K) and submits his or her completion certificate to Levanto (brett.levanto@arsa.org) will be given a code to access one free hour of ARSA online training.

Click here to register for the event and stay tuned to heliexpo.com/education for registration information.

Professional Education Courses

Note: These sessions are provided by MacLeod and Filler on behalf of OFM&K and are listed in schedule order.

Managing Audits, Investigations, and Penalties

Saturday, March 5 – 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CST

This course reviews the regulations, policies, and procedures that generate letters of investigation (LOI) and the best methods for responding to governmental questions. The instructor will examine objectives and performance standards for FAA inspectors, detail the circumstances that may lead to an LOI, and provide an overview of administrative and enforcement actions that may result from an LOI.

Click here to register.

Drug and Alcohol Testing: From Regulatory Basics to Business Needs

Saturday, March 5 – 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST

This course reviews the drug and alcohol testing requirements in Titles 14 (Aeronautics and Space) and 49 (Transportation) of the US Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). It also provides guidance on setting up these programs, including instruction on how safety-sensitive functions are defined as well as how to avoid many common testing program mistakes that can subject companies to enforcement action.

Click here to register.

Going Global: Business Under International Regulatory Law

Sunday, March 6 – 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CST

This course summarizes the framework for international safety regulation, including how the  International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) allocates regulatory responsibilities among contracting states (countries) and the importance of bilateral aviation safety agreements. These agreements dictate what US companies must do to operate business aircraft or conduct operations in a foreign country for compensation or hire.

Click here to register.

Know the Rules Like You Know Your Tools

Sunday, March 6 – 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST

This session covers the FAA’s organization, authority and process for promulgating rules, then walks through the general requirements in 14 CFR to explain how its various components link together in a “regulatory chain” that must be comprehended by aviation businesses. Topics specific to maintenance include part 43 maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding and alteration; part 65, subpart D mechanics (certification); part 65, subpart E repairmen (certification); and part 145 repair stations.

Click here to register.

Regulations Affecting Aircraft Part Purchase and Sale

Monday, March 7 – 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CST

This course reviews the civil aviation regulations in 14 CFR that impact the purchase, sale, receiving, stocking, inspection and installation of civil aviation articles for maintenance purposes. It also overviews other guidance as well as regulatory and contractual requirements that should be considered.

Click here to register.

Public Aircraft Operations

Monday, March 7 – 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST

This course provides instruction on the statutory provisions and FAA guidance governing public aircraft operations. It covers the basic requirements for an aircraft to be operated as a public aircraft, what constitutes an eligible governmental function, and the practical implications of using the same aircraft to conduct both civil and public operations. It also discusses the FAA policy regarding operations conducted under contract for a government entity.

Click here to register.

Rotor Safety Challenge Sessions

Note: These sessions are provided on behalf of ARSA.

Self Disclosure – Avoiding Self Exposure

Tuesday, March 8 – 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. CST

This session reviews the elements of the FAA’s self-disclosure programs and provides methods for addressing non-compliance with creating unnecessary scrutiny.

Click here to see more information.

Building a Professional Relationship with the Government

Tuesday, March 8 – 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. CST

This session provides a road map for building a positive relationship with civil aviation authorities. It begins by describing the rules that should always be considered when engaging with aviation safety regulators, then provides instruction on how to introduce your company and maintain consistent contact — not just when there’s a problem. The session concludes by providing strategies for maintaining a professional relationship with regulators.

Click here to see more information.

Best Practices in Maintenance Recordkeeping

Tuesday, March 8 – 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. CST

This session explores the regulatory responsibilities of creating and maintaining maintenance records. It will help participants to define:

• Regulatory responsibilities of the operator versus the maintenance provider in creating and maintaining maintenance records
• How obligations can be shifted by contract but not under aviation safety regulations
• Maintenance recordkeeping regulations, the documents essential to making airworthiness determinations.

Click here to see more information.

Whether you are able to participate in Dallas or not, much of the material presented ARSA’s team members at HELI-EXPO is available through the association’s online training program. To review the library of available courses and register for immediate access to on-demand sessions, click here.

Avoiding ‘Self Exposure’

Walk through the who, what, why, when, where and how of filing voluntary reports with the FAA, then learn how to file without creating unnecessary headaches.

Interested in both sessions on self disclosure? Click here to purchase them together and save.

Self Disclosure – The Elements
This session will review the elements of self-disclosure established by the FAA. It will cover the who, what, why, when, where and how of filing a voluntary self-disclosure report with the agency. Additionally, it will cover how the agency is to handle the report and its expectations for follow up actions.
Click here to register and get access for 90 days.

Self Disclosure – How to Avoid Self-Exposure
This session will review the best methods for investigating a potential non-compliance, including how to distinguish between business and regulatory requirements and how to use language that relates facts to the regulations without creating unnecessary consternation or scrutiny. To obtain the most from this session, participants must have a basic knowledge of the FAA’s program elements.
Click here to register and get access for 90 days.

Instructor: Sarah MacLeod

Registration for an ARSA-provided training includes:

• Access to the on-demand, recording for unlimited viewing over 90 days.
• A copy of the presentation and all reference material with links to relevant resources and citations.
• A certificate upon completion of the class as well as any test material.

The association’s training program is provided through Obadal, Filler, MacLeod & Klein, P.L.C., the firm that manages ARSA. To go directly to OFM&K’s online training portal, visit PotomacLaw.inreachce.com. To learn more about the association’s training program and see course availability, visit arsa.org/training.

Building a Professional Government Relationship

This session provides a roadmap for building a useful relationship with civil aviation authorities. It begins by describing the rules that should always be considered when engaging with aviation safety regulators, then provides instruction on how to introduce your company and maintain consistent contact – not just when there’s a problem. It concludes by providing strategies for maintaining a professional relationship with regulators.

Editor’s Note: When it was recorded the session was titled as offering instruction for a “positive” relationship with the government. Since that recording, the association’s thinking has evolved to recognize that seeking “positivity” is nowhere near as productive or realistic as seeking professionalism.

Instructor: Sarah MacLeod

Click here to register and get access for 90 days.

As a repair station, dealing with the government, particularly the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is inevitable. Building a good relationship with government officials in good times will help keep the bad times at bay. ARSA works to provide its members with the tools to make the most out of every interaction with a regulator. In addition to this training session, members should review the resources available from the association:

Resources for Dealing with the Government

Recordkeeping

Proper maintenance demands proper documentation. Review the association’s recordkeeping sessions – led by Sarah MacLeod and Marshall S. Filler – and learn how to “finish the job with proper paperwork.”

Recordkeeping for Mechanics
Instructor: Sarah MacLeod
This session defines the regulatory responsibilities of the operator versus the maintenance provider in creating and maintaining maintenance records, including how obligations can be shifted by contract, but not under aviation safety regulations. It also covers maintenance recordkeeping regulations; the documents essential to making airworthiness determinations.
Click here to register and get access for 90 days.

Recordkeeping for Repair Stations
Instructor: Sarah MacLeod
This session delineates the differences between operator maintenance records and those required to be created, maintained and provided by repair stations.
Click here to register and get access for 90 days.

Recordkeeping for Airlines
Instructor: Marshall S. Filler
Air carriers have unique recordkeeping requirements under parts 121 and 135 that do not match the requirements for transferring an aircraft under part 91 or obtaining maintenance records from individual mechanics or repair stations under part 43. This session differentiates among and between the varying requirements so regulatory and contractual obligations can be clearly delineated.
Click here to register and get access for 90 days.

Registration for an ARSA-provided training includes:

• Access to the on-demand, recording for unlimited viewing over 90 days.
• A copy of the presentation and all reference material with links to relevant resources and citations.
• A certificate upon completion of the class as well as any test material.

The association’s training program is provided through Obadal, Filler, MacLeod & Klein, P.L.C., the firm that manages ARSA. To go directly to OFM&K’s online training portal, visit PotomacLaw.inreachce.com. To learn more about the association’s training program and see course availability, visit arsa.org/training.

Regulatory Compliance Training

Test your knowledge of 14 CFR §§ 11.39, participating in the rulemaking process.

Click here to download the training sheet.

Return to Top of Page

Membership

NORDAM’s Siegfried Becomes ARSA President

Terrell Siegfried, assistant general counsel and corporate secretary, the NORDAM Group LLC and ARSA 2022 President. Photo courtesy NORDAM.

On Oct. 22, ARSA’s board of directors elected Terrell Siegfried to the association’s senior volunteer leadership position. Siegfried is assistant general counsel and corporate secretary for the NORDAM Group LLC, which has been an involved ARSA member since the association’s founding in 1984. Beginning his fourth year on the board, Siegfried enters his first term as ARSA president.

Siegfried earned his law degree from the University of Notre Dame after graduating with a business degree from the University of Tulsa, where he played football on scholarship and was elected by his teammates as a captain of the team his senior year. He worked in private practice as a corporate attorney with Hall Estill before returning to NORDAM in 2012 as senior legal counsel, assuming his current role in 2016. Through more than 50 years of operation, his family has grown the company into a major industry player, committed to its community and dedicated to its people – many employees have logged decades of service and brought their own children into the business. As ARSA’s new president, Siegfried will bring that same commitment to the broader aviation community.

“The board and the association’s team are delighted that Terrell is following family tradition in supporting the international civil aviation maintenance community as the President of ARSA,” Executive Director Sarah MacLeod said. “It has been rewarding to work with NORDAM’s leadership over the years as it grew and expanded just like the association.”

ARSA’s board represents a broad range of international maintenance interests. Directors are elected to represent specific industry segments to ensure attention to issues that matter across the entire regulatory chain. Siegfried first joined the board in 2017, continuing the long tradition of NORDAM’s representation among the association’s volunteer leaders and ushering in a period of transition during which the body’s most-experienced members have been joined by new faces. Siegfried’s predecessor Gary Fortner will remain on the board, continuing his own service that began in 2001.

“As my personal involvement with ARSA has grown, I’ve seen first-hand how valuable the association is for NORDAM and this industry as a whole,” Siegfried said. “The association has successfully served my company for almost 40 years, so I will be especially committed to showing off that work and demonstrating how supporting ARSA provides a continual return on investment for both large and small MRO’s, both domestically and internationally.”

The Oct. 22 meeting followed a day of roundtable discussions hosted by ARSA for both allied industry associations and FAA executive leadership. While returning to its practice of engaging the aviation community, the board continued its recent work of welcoming new members. Chromalloy Director of Airworthiness John Riggs became the newest member, representing the engine market in the seat previously held by Hugh McElroy of Signature Aviation, PLC.

Josh Krotec, senior vice president for First Aviation Services, Inc., was elected to serve as ARSA vice president. Scott Jacob, Columbia Helicopters director of quality, became the association’s treasurer. The two individuals round out an executive committee that, with Siegfried, is composed of three of the board’s four most-recently elected members. A new director will join the body during the 2022 program year to fill the gap left by the October passing of former President Gary Hudnall.

Siegfried has begun planning for his leadership role and is exploring opportunities for public engagement on the association’s behalf. Among other possible events, ARSA members will be able to meet and visit with him during the 2022 Annual Conference; which will build on pandemic lessons by returning to in-person engagement with livestream options for participants to “bring the Conference home” to their facilities.

ARSA Remembers – Gary Hudnall (1961-2021)

Gary Hudnall

Gary Hudnall, general manager of Jet Center Medford and long-time member of ARSA’s board of directors, died unexpectedly in October. He was 60.

Gary obtained his mechanic’s certificate in 1981 and had served as director of maintenance at Jet Center Medford for 40 years. He first joined ARSA’s board in 2008 and most recently served as its president in 2015. He was a regular attendee at association events and invested constant, quiet attention in the well-being of the maintenance community.

“Gary’s heart and passion encompassed the industry, which made him an invaluable asset to and member of the association’s board,” ARSA Executive Director Sarah MacLeod said. “It was his ability to impart knowledge in his daily work that will be etched in our memories.”

The association received news of Gary’s death just ahead of hosting the board’s annual meeting, which he had planned to attend. His colleagues and family hosted a celebration of his life on Saturday, Oct. 30 PDT at Jet Center’s facility; former board member Chris Erickson attended and spoke on behalf of the association.

“Gary will be remembered as many things: a loving husband, son, brother, stepfather, grandfather, dog dad, colleague, friend, sports referee and even as a pretty good bowler,” Erickson said. “He lives on in the memories and hearts of the many people who loved him and were positively impacted by his life. Any of us would be proud to have a similar legacy.”

If you have memories or messages to share, submit them to arsa.org/contact and ARSA’s team will pass them along. The association will honor his memory at the 2022 Annual Conference.

A Quick Question About Quick Questions

Each month – and sometimes more often – ARSA poses “quick question” surveys for member and industry input.

These short questionnaires allow the association to gather timely intelligence from the industry, to share information about issues that matter to the maintenance community and to prepare for upcoming events and activities. Some produce useful feedback, others gather dust on the website.

Why?

While non-response can be informative by demonstrating a lack of interest or passion for a topic, the ARSA team can’t interpret silence. All members can respond every time a “quick question” is posted; if you have no experience or expertise on a subject, say so. If it doesn’t matter to your business, type that into the comments and hit “submit.” If it does matter (or will matter someday) share your thoughts.

Collecting input allows ARSA to stay on top of what matters, to advocate for change where it is needed and to communicate the realities of aviation maintenance to a larger world.

Just review and participate in a recent survey below or click here to see every one that’s been posted since 2016.

If you have strong feelings about not participating in this kind of outreach, we hope you’ll see past the irony of telling ARSA why. Click here to submit a contact form.

Welcome & Welcome Back – New & Renewing Members

ARSA’s members give the association life – its work on behalf of the maintenance community depends on the commitment of these organizations. Here’s to the companies that joined or renewed in October:

New Members

MHIRJ Aviation ULC , R05
Rose Aircraft Services, Inc. dba Rose Upholstery Inc., R04
Wavestream Corporation, R04

Renewing Members

A.O.G Aircraft Services Inc., R01, 2018
Aerospace Turbine Rotables, Inc., R04, 2011
AerSale Landing Gear Solutions, R02, 2009
Aircraft Inspection Services, Inc., R01, 2013
Alaska Airlines, Assoc, 2019
Aviation & Marketing International, Inc., R01, 2021
Aviation Blade Services Inc., R02, 2018
Bridger Aviation Repair LLC, R03, 2019
Citadel Completions LLC, R04, 2018
Columbia Helicopters, Inc., R06, 1998
Dan Brauhn-Indian Hills Community College, EDU, 2015
Engine Disassembly Services, Inc. dba Engine Overhaul Services, R01, 2018
Fieldtech Avionics & Instruments, Inc., R04, 2016
First Aviation Services, Inc., Assoc, 2018
Fortner Accessory Service Corp., R01, 2002
Gyro Specialist, Inc., R01, 2011
Inflatables International, Inc., R01, 2002
JET Aircraft Maintenance, Inc., R04, 2010
Linear Motion LLC, R02, 2017
PPG Industries Inc.-dba PPG Aerospace Transparencies, R02, 2005
Repairtech International, Inc., R03, 1992
Restored Aircraft Sales & Service, LLC, R01, 2019
SDM Avionics LLC, R01, 2019
Soniq Aerospace, LP, R01, 2016
Southwind Aviation Supply, LLC, R02, 2008
Tennessee Aircraft Company, Inc., R01, 2012
Turbine Standard, Ltd., R03, 2003

Make ARSA’s Voice Your Own: Advertise

ARSA has a menu of advertising opportunities for arsa.org, the hotline and the ARSA Dispatch. Take advantage of these great opportunities today to showcase your company, a new product or event. For more information go to arsa.org/advertise.

Stand Up for ARSA

In order to provide world-class resources for its members, the association depends on the commitment of the aviation community. By sponsoring events and activities, supporters can help ARSA’s work on behalf of repair stations to endure.

Need a place to start? For information about opportunities, contact Vice President of Operations Brett Levanto (brett.levanto@arsa.org).

A Member Asked…

Q: Can a person with a prescription for medical marijuana who tested positive on a pre-employment screening perform safety sensitive duties?

A: No. The federal government does not recognize any medical uses for the controlled substances for which testing is required under the DOT/FAA drug screening protocols. The definition of “prohibited drug” in § 120.7(m) references 49 CFR part 40, which states: “The drugs for which tests are required under this part and DOT agency regulations are marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, phencyclidine (PCP), and opioids.” (See 49 CFR § 40.3).

While the individual may be excused from state mandates (possibility) no person is allowed to test positive for the drugs on the DOT list and work in a safety-sensitive position for a repair station required to follow federal transportation safety anti-drug and alcohol rules.

Return to Top of Page

Resources

ARSA strives to provide resources to educate the general public about the work of the association’s member organizations; should you need to provide a quick reference or introductory overview to the global MRO industry, please utilize AVMRO.ARSA.org.

Anti-Viral Measures

For the use of its members and the larger aviation community, ARSA is maintaining this page as a resource for pandemic-related updates on policy initiatives and business needs. It is the association’s central point of communication on the topic

Resources for Dealing with the Government

As a repair station, dealing with the government, particularly the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is inevitable. Building a good relationship with government officials in good times will help keep the bad times at bay.

Industry News Roundup

ARSA monitors media coverage on aviation maintenance to spread the word about the valuable role repair stations play globally by providing jobs and economic opportunities and in civic engagement. These are some of this month’s top stories highlighting the industry’s contributions. You can explore these stories through ARSA’s Dispatch news portal.

Industry Calendar

the hotline is the monthly publication of the Aeronautical Repair Station Association (ARSA), the not-for-profit international trade association for certificated repair stations. It is for the exclusive use of ARSA members and federal employees on the ARSA mailing list. For a membership application, please call 703.739.9543 or visit arsa.org/membership/join. For information about previous editions, submit a request through arsa.org/contact. This material is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, consulting, tax or any other type of professional advice. Law, regulations, guidance and government policies change frequently. While ARSA updates this material, we do not guarantee its accuracy. In addition, the application of this material to a particular situation is always dependent on the facts and circumstances involved. The use of this material is therefore at your own risk. All content in the hotline, except where indicated otherwise, is the property of ARSA. This content may not be reproduced, distributed or displayed, nor may derivatives or presentations be created from it in whole or in part, in any manner without the prior written consent of ARSA. ARSA grants its members a non-exclusive license to reproduce the content of the hotline. Employees of member organizations are the only parties authorized to receive a duplicate of the hotline. ARSA reserves all remaining rights and will use any means necessary to protect its intellectual property.

© 2021 Aeronautical Repair Station Association