Search Results for agency_names:"Transportation Department"

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has finalized a rule to implement the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, specifically its section 22425. This rule amends the Freight Car Safety Standards to enforce restrictions on new freight cars introduced in the U.S. It prohibits using sensitive technology and components originating from countries of concern or state-owned enterprises, as well as materials that infringe on U.S. intellectual property rights. From January 21, 2025, freight car manufacturers must certify compliance with these standards to operate their vehicles in the United States.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a new rule to create Class E airspace starting 700 feet above the ground around Monhegan Island Heliport in Maine. This will help facilitate the safe navigation of aircraft using new GPS approach procedures for instrument flight rules in the area. The FAA is inviting public comments on this proposal until March 5, 2021. This proposed change is intended to enhance safety and efficiency in airspace management without significantly impacting small businesses.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Dassault Aviation Model FALCON 7X airplanes, due to problems with crew oxygen mask stowage boxes. This directive mandates the inspection and possible replacement of certain stowage boxes that may have been assembled incorrectly, posing a risk of blocked oxygen flow, which could potentially lead to pilot oxygen deprivation and loss of plane control. The directive takes effect on February 22, 2021, and comments are due by March 22, 2021. The AD implements procedures specified in an emergency directive by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is seeking public comments on its plan to collect information regarding the fit and comfort of motorcycle safety gear, such as helmets, gloves, and jackets, from riders across different motorcycle events. This collection aims to gather opinions on how comfortable and protective their gear is, contributing to improved motorcycle safety programs. Participants will include 625 motorcyclists who will provide data by using tablets and engaging with researchers at events. The public is invited to comment on various aspects of this information collection, including its necessity and potential ways to reduce the burden on those participating.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is looking for nominees to join the Commercial Air Tour Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) to help increase the safety of commercial air tours. This committee was set up in response to the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 and will provide advice and recommendations for creating new safety regulations. Nominees must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as representing the industry or having expertise in aviation safety. Nominations must be submitted by February 28, 2025, and should include a resume, a statement of how the nominee can contribute, and relevant experience or credentials.

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the Department of Transportation, has received a request for a waiver to allow the vessel JAGUAR SHARK, a 41-foot motor yacht, to carry up to twelve passengers for hire. This waiver, if granted, would exempt the vessel from certain U.S. coastwise trade laws, which typically require vessels to be U.S.-built. The intended use for the JAGUAR SHARK is as a "live aboard charter boat" operating in Alaska, excluding Southeastern waters, with Homer, Alaska as its base of operations. Public comments on this waiver request are invited and can be submitted through the specified channels by February 8, 2021.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has made changes to certain airways near Mankato, Kansas, due to the planned shutdown of a navigational aid. The FAA has adjusted the VOR Federal Airway V-216 and has entirely removed VOR Federal Airways V-549 and V-551. These changes are part of a broader program to update and maintain the airspace system for the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations. The FAA has determined that these adjustments will not significantly affect the environment or small businesses.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a final rule regarding a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Leonardo AW189 helicopters. This directive is a response to reports of failures in the main rotor (MR) damper, which, if not fixed, could result in severe helicopter control issues. The rule mandates regular inspections and replacements of the MR dampers, along with other checks to prevent unsafe conditions. The new rule takes effect on April 1, 2021, and aims to ensure these helicopters remain safe to operate.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has granted an exemption to Wilson Logistics, allowing commercial learner's permit (CLP) holders who have passed the commercial driver's license (CDL) skills test to drive commercial vehicles without a CDL holder in the passenger seat. This exemption is intended to ease Wilson Logistics' operational burdens and will apply to 400-500 CLP holders annually. While the accompanying CDL holder must remain in the vehicle, they do not need to be in the front seat. FMCSA believes this exemption will maintain or improve safety levels and has granted similar exemptions to other companies in the past. The exemption is valid from February 23, 2021, to February 23, 2026, with conditions to ensure compliance and public safety.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is asking for public feedback on their intention to resume a previously approved information collection. This information collection, linked to the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act, requires federal agencies to provide annual reports on property acquisition activities. It involves 56 respondents and is set to occur annually, with an estimated 5-hour burden per response. Public comments are welcome until February 3, 2025, particularly on the necessity and efficiency of this data collection process.