Order On Noise, Atmospheric Emissions Won't Affect Part 36

The Federal Aviation Administration has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) regarding noise levels emitting from new type-certificated aircraft. This measure would reduce noise levels allowed in aircraft ranging from small general-aviation airplanes to large passenger and cargo jets.

Contrary to some published reports, the NPRM will have no impact on the proposed light-sport aircraft rules, nor on homebuilt airplanes. Neither classification is subject to Part 36 rules, as they have their own specifications.

"Some EAA members were concerned after reading the news story," said Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice President of Industry and Regulatory Affairs. "Any indication that this NPRM would affect light-sport aircraft or homebuilts is completely wrong. It does not. This NPRM is designed strictly for factory-built, standard-category aircraft."

Homebuilt aircraft are regulated under the Experimental category, while the new light-sport aircraft will be regulated under specifications currently under development by an industry-government partnership. That process is being coordinated by ATSM International, which helps establish high standards that are accepted and used in research and development, product testing, quality systems, and commercial transactions around the globe.

FMI: www.regulations.gov/freddocs/04-02891.htm, www.eaa.org