Proposal Would Align Standards With EASA, Transport Canada Guidelines

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing to amend One-Engine-Inoperative (OEI) rating definitions and type certification standards for 30-second OEI, 2-minute OEI, and 30-minute OEI ratings for rotorcraft turbine engines. If adopted, the proposed rule would better align FAA certification standards with the requirements of the European Aviation Safety Agency in the Certification Specifications for Engines (CS.E) and with proposed requirements for Transport Canada Civil Aviation.

If adopted, the proposed changes would establish nearly uniform certification standards for ratings for rotorcraft turbine engines certificated in the United States under part 33 and in European countries under CS.E, thus simplifying airworthiness approvals for import and export.

The One-Engine-Inoperative (OEI) rating powers provide rotorcraft with higher than takeoff and maximum continuous rating powers during takeoff, cruise, and landing when one or more engines of a multi-engine rotorcraft fails or is shutdown. These OEI rating powers enable the rotorcraft to continue safe flight until it reaches a suitable landing site.

Part 33 prescribes airworthiness standards for 30-second OEI, 2-minute OEI, 21.2-minute OEI, 30-minute OEI, and other OEI ratings for the issuance of type certificates for rotorcraft turbine engines. All OEI ratings are optional ratings, that engine manufacturers may select from those specified under section 33.7.

The FAA will accept comments on the NPRM, available in full at the FMI link below, until August 2.

FMI: Read The Full NPRM (.pdf)