Only One Adverse Comment Derailed Scheduled Rule-Making
Less than a week before it was to take effect, the FAA pulled the SAFE-requested direct-to-final rule to allow pilots up to 20 simulator hours toward an instrument rating, citing "adverse comments." The unexpected January 15 move leaves pilots limited to the 10 simulator hours allowed by FAR 61.65. A SAFE analysis found only one adverse public comment, filed December 17, in the FAA's docket. It had been countered by an immediate SAFE protest labeling the comment as "personal opinion, lacking substantiation and contrary to current education doctrine regarding use of training devices."