Overview
Title
Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of a Renewed Approval of Information Collection: Notice of Proposed Outdoor Laser Operation(s)
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The FAA wants to hear what people think about their plan to continue checking where outdoor lasers are used, so they don't mess up where planes fly. They need to make sure lasers don't cause problems in the sky.
Summary AI
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking public comments on its request for approval to continue collecting information about outdoor laser operations, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This information helps ensure such operations do not interfere with air traffic and may require an FDA variance. The FAA uses this information to evaluate and respond to proposed laser operations that could affect the National Airspace System. Comments must be submitted by March 30, 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 an information collection. The collection involves the gathering of information necessary for the FAA to ensure proposed outdoor laser operations will not interfere with air traffic operations. The information to be collected will be used to and/or is necessary because the FAA must evaluate proposed outdoor laser operations requiring a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) variance from a laser light show, display, or device.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), part of the Department of Transportation (DOT), has issued a notice inviting public comments on their plan to renew an information collection related to outdoor laser operations. This initiative, governed by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, aims to ensure that outdoor laser activities do not interfere with air traffic operations. The FAA requests approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to continue this important data collection, which is crucial for maintaining safety in national airspace.
General Summary
The document is essentially a call for feedback from the public regarding the FAA's ongoing collection of information on outdoor laser operations. The FAA needs this information to determine whether such operations could affect air traffic, and if so, to devise appropriate responses. This initiative not only involves evaluating laser operations but also handling requests for variance from compliance with existing FDA regulations for laser devices. The key detail here is that outdoor laser shows or similar activities must not disrupt airspace safety, hence the need for a structured review and approval process.
Significant Issues or Concerns
The principal issue outlined in the document is ensuring that proposed outdoor laser activities do not compromise the safety and efficiency of air traffic operations. The information collection process is designed to identify any potential conflicts and mitigate them before they occur. Stakeholders are asked to consider whether this data collection is necessary, and whether the associated administrative burden is justified.
Impact on the Public
For the general public, this data collection effort underscores the meticulous planning required to safely integrate new forms of technology and entertainment - like laser shows - into public and commercial spaces. The public's ability to safely and effectively enjoy such displays without affecting commercial and private air travel is the main benefit of such regulatory oversight.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Positive Impacts
Aviation and Air Traffic Safety: By anticipating potential airspace disruptions, the FAA plays a crucial role in safeguarding against accidents involving aircraft and laser projections. This contributes to maintaining the integrity of national airspace operations.
Event Organizers and Laser Display Firms: Clear guidelines and approval processes can provide a pathway to legally and safely execute laser shows, reducing the likelihood of legal issues or regulatory fines.
Negative Impacts
Administrative Burden: For businesses involved in laser displays, the necessity for FAA approval may add bureaucratic layers to their operations. The estimated four hours per response can add up, particularly for companies managing multiple events.
Innovation Restrictions: Regulations might unintentionally stifle creative and technological advancement by imposing strict guidelines on how laser displays are conceived and executed.
Conclusion
Overall, the FAA's request for public comments reflects its commitment to transparency and public safety in air traffic operations. While this document indicates a diligent approach to risk management, it also highlights the balance that must be struck between regulatory oversight and allowing innovation and entertainment to flourish without unnecessary hindrance. Public input is pivotal in refining this balance, ensuring the ongoing safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System while also accommodating new technological opportunities.