Overview
Title
Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of Renewed
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The FAA wants to hear what people think about forms that pilots need to fill out to fly planes safely in certain areas. They are asking for help to make sure the questions on the forms are good and easy to understand.
Summary AI
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, is inviting public comments on its proposal to renew the information collection related to Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) operations. This is required for aircraft operators flying outside the U.S. when their aircraft are not equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance—Broadcast (ADS-B) Out. The FAA estimates processing around 856 initial applications and 1,998 updates annually, with an estimated total annual burden of approximately 13,813 hours. Comments on aspects such as the necessity and effectiveness of the information collection are welcome until March 16, 2021.
Abstract
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, FAA invites public comments about our intention to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval to renew information collection. Aircraft Operators seeking specific operational approval to conduct Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) operations must submit application to the FAA. Specific approval is required when aircraft operators intend to operate outside the United States (U.S.) or their aircraft are not equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-- Broadcast (ADS-B) Out.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, outlines the agency's intention to renew information collection practices related to Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) operations. In essence, this collection is fundamental for aircraft operators who intend to conduct flight operations outside of the United States when their aircraft lack a system called Automatic Dependent Surveillance—Broadcast (ADS-B) Out. Stakeholders and the public are encouraged to submit their comments on this proposal by March 16, 2021.
General Summary
The FAA is seeking public input as it plans to renew its data collection activities required for RVSM operations approval. The paperwork allows FAA to process about 856 new applications for flight operations approvals and 1,998 updates to existing approvals each year. Such operations are necessary for flights that would take place outside the U.S. or in cases where aircraft lack specific onboard surveillance equipment. The proposal is aimed at ensuring safe and efficient international air navigation.
Significant Issues
A primary concern is the use of technical terms such as "RVSM" and "ADS-B Out" without index or glossary. Such jargon can be confusing to individuals not versed in aviation regulations. The document further refers to the complexities of the Code of Federal Regulations, which might be difficult for those outside the aviation sector to navigate. There is also no mention of data protection measures, raising potential concerns about the privacy of the collected information. Furthermore, the explanation of the estimated burden, in terms of processing time, lacks transparency and could benefit from more detail.
Public Impact
From the public's perspective, this document represents one more layer of regulatory oversight intended to maintain high safety standards in aviation. Those who routinely travel internationally might indirectly benefit, as consistent regulations help prevent accidents in congested flight paths. However, it may seem like additional bureaucratic red tape to individuals unfamiliar with such procedures, potentially leading to misunderstandings about its necessity.
Impact on Stakeholders
For aircraft operators, the information collection for RVSM approval presents both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, the process adds an administrative requirement, which could be seen as burdensome, particularly if operators lack the resources to easily comply. On the other hand, successful completion provides them with certification that is internationally recognized, enhancing their operational capabilities. Additionally, these regulations assure that only suitably equipped and verified aircraft are part of the international airspace, potentially limiting competition from operators who fail to comply.
In summary, while the objectives of this document are vital for maintaining aviation safety, the presentation and accessibility of the information could be improved for broader understanding. Simplifying the language and offering more context around technical terms and regulatory references would greatly enhance its utility for a non-specialist audience.
Issues
• The document uses some technical terms such as 'Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM)' and 'Automatic Dependent Surveillance—Broadcast (ADS-B) Out' without providing layman explanations, which may be unclear to those unfamiliar with aviation jargon.
• The document specifies particular actions and compliance requirements for aircraft operators without clearly defining call-to-action for those not familiar with the process.
• The document assumes a level of understanding of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR), Part 91, which may be complex for individuals outside the aviation regulatory environment.
• There is a potential issue with the lack of discussion around what measures are in place to ensure data protection and privacy in the collection of information from aircraft operators.
• The rationale behind the estimated average burden per response and total annual burden could benefit from a more detailed explanation or breakdown for clarity.