Search Results for agency_names:"Transportation Department"

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS airplanes, specifically models in the A300 and A310 series. This initiative was prompted by findings of cracks caused by fatigue in the main deck cargo door actuator bearing fittings, which could lead to potential safety hazards during operations. The proposal mandates limiting the opening angle of the cargo door, performing regular inspections, and replacing defective components as outlined by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD. Comments on this proposed rule must be submitted by January 27, 2025.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has announced that the Association of American Railroads (AAR) has requested an extension of relief from certain safety regulations for rail cars with end-of-car cushioning units. The AAR wants to keep using these rail cars even if they show minor leaks, as long as a condition indicator shows the cushioning unit is still working. They argue that this waiver has helped protect workers and avoid unnecessary repairs. The public can submit their comments on this request until April 2, 2025, through the official regulations website.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a final rule revoking the Class D and Class E airspace in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) because the RMI is a sovereign nation, and the FAA does not have the authority to regulate its airspace as per Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Although this airspace was originally established when the United States had authority over the area, it was never revoked following the 1986 Compact of Free Association that recognized RMI's sovereignty. This rule addresses that oversight, and the change is considered routine with minimal impact. The rule is effective on April 17, 2025.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) have announced the availability of the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for a project on Interstate 15 in Cedar City, Utah. This project aims to improve the I-15 South Cedar Interchange and surrounding roads to enhance safety, mobility, and active transportation connectivity. UDOT has completed the necessary environmental evaluations and has issued permits and approvals required by federal law for this project. The final agency actions were made available on December 4, 2024, and any legal claims against these actions must be filed by May 12, 2025.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a final rule amending the Class E airspace at South Arkansas Regional Airport at Goodwin Field in El Dorado, Arkansas. This update involves changes to the geographic coordinates and name of the airport and the El Dorado VOR/DME to match the FAA's aeronautical database. The amendment is meant to support IFR operations and ensure safety and efficiency. The FAA determined that the changes do not have significant economic impacts and qualify for a categorical exclusion from an environmental review.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is considering a temporary waiver for the Buy America requirements on battery electric minibuses due to the lack of U.S.-manufactured options that meet these standards. This waiver would allow transit providers to buy these buses despite not meeting local manufacturing rules, as long as certain conditions are met, like having a battery-powered system and specific vehicle size and design features. The FTA seeks public feedback on whether they should implement this waiver or make any changes to it. If the waiver is granted, it will help improve access to zero-emission public transportation for routes with fewer passengers, potentially leading to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is proposing a waiver of certain Buy America requirements for transit-oriented development (TOD) housing projects financed through specific credit programs. This waiver would apply to projects that go through credit review before the end of 2025 and aims to balance the need for quick development with domestic content standards. They're encouraging public comments on this proposal. The waiver mainly affects requirements for manufactured products but retains standards for steel, iron, and construction materials.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed changes to several navigation routes in the eastern United States to enhance safety and efficiency in air travel under the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). This proposal includes amending existing routes Q-64 and T-414 and establishing new routes T-461 and T-463. These changes aim to modernize the route structure, improving connectivity and air traffic flow. The FAA invites the public to comment on these proposed changes, with the deadline for submissions being April 14, 2025.

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) under the Department of Transportation has received a request for a waiver of the coastwise trade laws for a vessel over three years old, named ISLAND REEF, to allow it to carry up to twelve passengers for hire. The vessel is intended to be used for snorkel, sport fishing, and scuba tours in Puerto Rico. The public is invited to submit comments on this request by February 8, 2021. Comments can be submitted through the Federal eRulemaking Portal or by mail, and they will be made publicly available.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a final rule changing the Class E airspace around Greater Kankakee Airport in Illinois. This change is due to a review triggered by the shutting down of the Kankakee VOR navigation aid, part of a larger program. The modification alters the size and structure of the airspace to enhance safety and efficiency at the airport. The rule is designed to be non-controversial, with minimal impact on small businesses, and doesn't require a detailed environmental review.