Overview
Title
Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of Renewed Approval of Information Collection: Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out Performance Requirements To Support Air Traffic Control (ATC)
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The FAA wants to know what people think about their plan to keep track of a special system in airplanes that helps them know where they are in the sky. This system helps airplanes and traffic controllers communicate better, but the FAA needs to check if they can make this system easier and cheaper to use.
Summary AI
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking public comments on its plan to renew an information collection related to Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out systems. These systems are necessary for aircraft certification and recordkeeping, enabling air traffic control functions. The FAA is asking for feedback on whether the collection is needed, its burden estimate, and how it might be improved or reduced in burden. Comments are due by June 29, 2025, and details for submission are provided by the FAA.
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 Automatic Dependent Surveillance- Broadcast (ADS-B) Out equipage and subsequent maintenance post- installation recordkeeping. The information to be collected will be used to and/or is necessary for continued aircraft certification and recordkeeping.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a request for public comments on the renewal of information collection concerning Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out systems. These systems play an important role in air traffic control and aircraft certification, ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel. By collecting information on ADS-B equipment and maintenance, the FAA aims to maintain high standards in aircraft operations.
General Summary
The document seeks to gather feedback on the necessity, accuracy, and potential burden of the information collection associated with ADS-B Out systems. Public comments are due by June 29, 2025. The FAA is particularly interested in understanding whether the information collection is needed, if the estimates on the imposed burden are precise, and how the process might be improved. This initiative underscores the FAA's commitment to refining air traffic systems through stakeholder engagement.
Significant Issues and Concerns
Several concerns arise from the document. Firstly, there is no detailed financial analysis regarding the costs associated with the ADS-B program, which could have budgeting implications for the FAA and stakeholders. Secondly, the document presumes familiarity with technical terms like 'ADS-B Out' and specific CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) references that may be unfamiliar to many. This could limit the accessibility of the notice to a broader audience. Additionally, the frequency section lacks clarity, creating potential confusion about the projected total annual burden on relevant personnel. The document's use of technical jargon might alienate non-technical stakeholders or the general public, reducing overall engagement and understanding.
Impact on the Public
The focus on renewing the information collection surrounding ADS-B systems signals ongoing efforts by the FAA to ensure aviation safety and efficiency. For the general public, this initiative may translate into enhanced air travel safety and potentially smoother experiences due to improved air traffic management.
However, there could be indirect impacts, such as potential increases in airfares if new costs are passed down from the airlines. While the document does not directly address these costs, it indicates additional compliance requirements that may need resource allocation, possibly influencing ticket pricing for travelers.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For maintenance personnel and those involved in aircraft certification, the information collection represents an additional administrative task requiring time and resources. While the estimated burden per installation is 15 minutes, the total impact depends on the number of installations, which remains unspecified.
Aircraft operators and airlines are key stakeholders who stand to benefit from improved flight efficiency and safety standards. However, they might also face financial implications due to the cost of ADS-B equipment and compliance with regulatory requirements. The lack of thorough financial analysis means stakeholders need to evaluate potential costs themselves, complicating informed decision-making.
Overall, the FAA's invitation for public comments reflects an inclusive approach to policy-making, aspiring to gather a wide range of perspectives. However, navigating the technical and financial implications would benefit from clearer descriptions and explanations to ensure all stakeholders can provide informed and constructive feedback.
Issues
• The document does not provide a detailed cost analysis for the overall financial burden and resource allocation related to the ADS-B Out program, potentially overlooking budget implications.
• The document assumes familiarity with terms such as 'ADS-B Out,' '14 CFR 91.225(a) and (d),' and '14 CFR 91.227,' which may not be understood by all stakeholders reviewing the notice, thereby reducing accessibility.
• There is a lack of clarity on the frequency of installations despite being under the 'frequency' section, which leads to ambiguity about the projected total annual burden.
• The document contains technical jargon such as 'Mode C veil,' 'Class B airport's airspace,' and 'appendix A of FAR part 43,' which could be difficult for non-technical stakeholders to understand.