The 141 modernization process was first intended to be an “ARC” (Aviation Rulemaking Committee) process. An FAA ARC is a closed group of selected high-level participants hashing out concerns to achieve needed changes. Instead, the 141 Modernization process has been a group of in-person and online meetings to which the public has been invited. The last meeting will be next Tuesday/Wednesday and anyone can participate by registering here.
The FAA is facilitating ongoing public engagement on the Modernization of Part 141 through a series of public meetings. These meetings provide a forum for the aviation community to discuss, prioritize, and make recommendations to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) concerning the modernization of part 141 through written and oral comments. In its commitment to maintaining the safest air transportation system in the world, the FAA finds the best foundation of quality ground and flight training is through certificated pilot schools.
SAFE has actively participated in these discussions with Wayman Lui Alfredo leading this initiative. Wayman has been a 141 Chief instructor for many years and was especially focused on defending the interests of the smaller flight schools (often well-run Part 61 operations). Many of the most active participants were large University programs.
The overall goal of the modernization was to expand access to the 141 training system by removing the traditional “pain points” of acquiring and maintaining an FAA 141 certification. Currently, < 30% of flight schools are 141 approved. FAA 141 certification allows the flow of $$ from government and veteran programs, and also a (proposed) easier pathway to examination authority. SAFE is on the NFTA board, which has coordinated this process with the FAA. Your feedback is welcome (and necessary).
The summary of proposed changes as they approach a solid industry proposal to the FAA was revealed by Jeff Wolf at the Migration in Florida this week. The major (proposed) changes are in the slides below. Please review and log in next week to make your voice heard. The committee is proposing an accelerated NPRM process (which SAFE seeks to extend to allow for more industry comment). Register to participate next week HERE.
The timeline for FAA submission and approval is aggressive (and unlikely) but you can see the summary here:
Next up on the SAFE agenda is our April 12th Webinar on “Checkride Preparation (Endorsements and Experience).” This document will help with preparation.
After that, join us at Sun ‘N Fun in the Alpha Hangar (Booths A61-3). We have FREE wings for members (and *all* CFIs) on Wednesday at noon in the Prop 75 Building. On Saturday we host a “CFI Roundtable” 5-6pm (members and *all* CFIs welcome). This is also in the Prop 75 and features FREE ice cream sundaes. Details here.
Tell us what *you* think!