TagFederal Register(22)

A legal review of the FAA's new Aircraft Noise Advisory Committee (ANAC) finds that while the committee includes community representatives, aviation industry members are likely to outnumber and outvote them, limiting residents' real influence over noise policy decisions. The review also raises concerns that key technical work done in subcommittees may happen outside public view, with no requirement for minority reports when community members are overruled. The author recommends the FAA adopt clearer voting rules, guaranteed community seats on subcommittees, and routine public disclosure of meeting records and competing recommendations.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) are seeking nominations for membership on the Aircraft Noise Advisory Committee (ANAC), a panel established to provide independent advice on aircraft noise exposure and FAA noise policies. The committee will evaluate noise research, explore alternatives to current noise measurement standards, and assess community engagement efforts around airspace changes near airports. Nominations were due by August 10, 2026, and could be submitted by email to aircraftnoiseadvisorycommittee@faa.gov.

The FAA extends its April 20, 2026, order limiting scheduled aircraft operations at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) through October 30, 2027. The extension is necessitated by ongoing construction projects and airfield adjustments expected to continue through Summer 2027, which continue to limit airport capacity. The order was issued by FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford and

The FAA has proposed updates to its Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant assurances to reflect new requirements from the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 and recent executive orders. Key changes include removing older equity- and climate-related executive orders, adding new ones focused on free speech and ending DEI programs, and introducing a new assurance requiring airports to continue offering leaded aviation fuel (100LL) until a safe unleaded replacement is widely available. Public comments on these changes were accepted through May 9, 2025.