Man sitting at table with microphone, mug.

Talking Points for Select Regulatory Updates February 2026 It’s Valentine’s Day!

February 13, 2026 | Florida Aviation Network |

This is a monthly list of select regulatory and safety items of interest to General Aviation users, especially FAASTeam Volunteers in the Orlando District. Sources are in the public domain. This is not a forum to debate reg’s or policy, nor discuss specific accidents or enforcements. 

Common, Open sources including, but not limited to…(See end of this report for numerous additional Internet links): 

Green hilight = Story intended for the upcoming edition; remove hilighting after editing. 

Selected Regulatory and Other Updates:

1. Remembering Ron & Barbara Timmermans. (Editor’s note: This newsletter is not a platform to discuss specific accidents, but the readership needs to know about this profound tragedy.) On the evening of Wednesday 11 February, Ron and Barbara Timmermans, beloved leaders of the Florida aviation community, tragically perished during a forced landing in Murchison, Texas, in Henderson County. The FAA and NTSB are investigating. Ron was deeply involved with the Florida Aviation Network, and was a FAASTeam Lead Rep in the Orlando FSDO. Ron was involved in many aviation safety endeavors and had an amazing list of accomplishments under his belt. Ron was a freelance instructor and worked with the Bonanza & Baron Pilot Training organization, AOPA, was a founding member of the WINGS Industry Network, and presented outstanding seminars on many aviation safety topics within the Orlando area and nationwide. Ron was the Orlando CFI of the Year in 2017, and the first winner of the Larry D. Enlow memorial CFI award that same year. In 2021, he was named the national CFI of the Year, and in 2022, Ron was inducted into the NAFI Flight Instructor Hall of Fame. In 2023, Ron was awarded the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, the FAA’s highest award for pilots. One could ask for no better friends than Ron and Barbara; they are already deeply missed. No details yet on celebration-of-life arrangements or related information. FMI: https://www.kltv.com/2026/02/12/first-responders-scene-murchison-area plane-crash/

2. Orlando district GA award winners announced. The Orlando FSDO has selected two GA award winners for the 2025 – 2026 cycle. They are: 

  • CFI of the Year: Rafael Dubena of Daytona Beach; 
  • FAASTeam Rep of the Year: Brent Moran of Sanford; this is Brent’s second award!
  • There was no selection for the Aviation Maintenance Technician award.

Congratulations to both of these outstanding individuals! FMI: See story number 35 below.

3. DOT to re-organize FAA. 

Numerous industry outlets report that the U.S. Department of Transportation announced on Monday (26 Jan) its plans for the FAA to undergo what the department said will be the administration’s largest ever structural reorganization. According to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the reorganization will look to improve safety oversight, advance airspace modernization, and integrate new aviation technologies. New units focusing on SMS and AAM would be established. The overhaul will include the formation of a centralized Aviation Safety Management System office that will unify safety processes previously divided among five separate units. An Airspace Modernization office focused on installing a new air traffic control system will also be created. Additionally, new resources for integrating drones, eVTOLs, and other Advanced Air Mobility vehicles into the National Airspace System will be available through an Advanced Aviation Technologies office. Editor’s note: From the above “wiring diagram”, it looks like FSDO’s and FAASTeam, if left intact, could come under the Aviation Safety Management Organization, but this re-org could change FSDO’s and FAASTeam at a deeper level, so don’t place any bets. No deadline was mentioned in the article. No workforce cuts were expected as part of the re-org. FMI: https://avweb.com/aviation-news/dot-overhaul-faa-organizational-structure/ and https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2026/january/29/faa-to-undergo-largest reorganization-in-agency-history?utm_source=ebrief&utm_medium=email and https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2026-01-27/faa-reorg-creates-sms aam-units-streamlines-activities?utm_campaign=AIN%20Alerts&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz- _XubUlU__6PQB80s1drGp33EdkFSxDT5_tRlBVoRKeHy3NDUUC4R9HhQJFAJl825Wo0 GOmMan_A6cjmvEWch8hcRhvhg&_hsmi=401299032&utm_content=401299032&utm_sou rce=hs_email 

4. Congress approves DOT funding bill with $22.2B for FAA. AvWeb reported on 4 Feb that the House voted 217–214 on Tuesday 3 Feb to approve a comprehensive appropriations package funding the Department of Transportation, including $22.2 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration, ending the partial government shutdown that began 31 Jan. The full Bill has since passed both chambers. The Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies (THUD) bill provides a $235 million increase for the Air Traffic Organization, $824 million for FAA facilities and equipment, and funding to hire 2,500 new air traffic controllers—a long-standing priority as the agency works to address staffing shortages nationwide. The measure also blocks federal funds from being used to privatize the FAA’s air traffic control system, directs the FAA to maintain two qualified, rested pilots on every commercial flight, and adds resources to accelerate pilot and controller medical certifications. FMI: https://avweb.com/aviation-news/house-approves-faa-funding bill-2026/ and https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2026/february/05/congress passes-faa-funding-bill?utm_source=ebrief&utm_medium=email

5. NTSB Chair testifies in Senate hearing; Senate advances FAA review policy bill. Senators questioned National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy during a Senate Commerce Committee hearing Thursday 12 Feb. Although focused on last year’s DCA mid-air collision, questions directed toward Homendy from senators ranged from her views on ADS-B tracking requirements, aviation oversight and coordination between federal agencies. Homendy also addressed the reluctance of FAA whistleblowers to provide feedback to NTSB. In related news, The U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee on Thursday advanced new legislation directing the FAA to convene an independent expert panel to evaluate and recommend improvements to a comprehensive, agencywide safety management system. Introduced Jan. 27 as S. 3700, the FAA SMS Compliance Review Act of 2026 calls for a review of FAA safety policies, safety programs and implementation of safety management practices across the agency. Under the legislation, the FAA administrator would be required to convene the panel within 60 days of enactment. The FAA safety panel would include representatives from NASA, aviation labor organizations, air carriers, certificate holders under Part 21, other industry representatives, the U.S. Mission to the International Civil Aviation Organization and a nonvoting member from the National Transportation Safety Board. FMI: https://avweb.com/flight-safety/accidents ntsb/ntsb-chair-slams-faa-safety-culture-senate/ and https://avweb.com/aviation news/aviation-law/senate-panel-advances-faa-safety-review/ and https://avweb.com/features/is-the-faa-being-asked-to-do-too-much/

6. Government shutdown furloughed over 10,000 FAA employees. Numerous outlets reported that the FAA emerged from a shutdown on 4 Feb following a partial lapse in congressional appropriations. The shutdown was brought to a close with a partial funding bill signed by President Trump. The plan placed more than 10,000 employees on furlough while continuing core safety functions. According to the Department of Transportation’s lapse plan, about 13,800 air traffic controllers are classified as excepted employees and would remain on duty without pay during the funding interruption. As with the previous shutdown, although those air traffic controllers would initially go without pay while the shutdown persists, they should receive back-pay once funding is restored. Under the plan, air traffic control services, navigational aid maintenance, safety inspections and accident investigations would continue as activities deemed necessary to protect life and property. Other functions, including most administrative support, rulemaking and public affairs activities, were suspended until funding had been restored. The FAA has indicated that while immediate operational impacts are not expected, some transactions and responses to public inquiries might have been delayed during the lapse. FMI: https://avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-shutdown-plan-calls-for-10000- furlough/ and https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2026-02-03/faa-12b budget-passes-govt-ends-partial-shutdown?utm_campaign=AIN%20Alerts&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-893VmJsw71oO99AMs2asCtm6dTX6LtMpoCBt-BmQYnACZH1TNzDC-jpEr7xC9Vcmqk-B71QjoEAUWV1fh3QeXUVWFJgQ&_hsmi=401865790&utm_content=401865790&utm_s ource=hs_email

7. DOT OIG to audit Air Traffic Controller training. 

AvWeb reported on 5 Feb that the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG) dwill conduct an audit of the way the FAA trains Air Traffic Controllers. The audit will place special emphasis on instructor shortages, capacity limits and curriculum updates at the FAA Academy in OKC. DOT OIG announced Thursday 5 Feb that it will begin an audit of air traffic controller training at the Federal Aviation Administration’s Academy. The office cited efforts to increase the number of certified controllers supporting the National Airspace System. The review follows a February 2025 hiring campaign the Secretary of Transportation announced that was intended to “supercharge” recruitment and drew more than 10,000 applications. About 600 trainees entered the Academy as a result, according to a DOT OIG memorandum. In fiscal year 2024, the Academy faced a failure rate of more than 30 percent, the office’s memorandum noted. The audit will evaluate the FAA’s actions to address challenges affecting training, including instructor availability, facility capacity and trainee outcomes. It will also examine progress on updating the controller training curriculum. FMI: https://avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-audit-air-traffic-control-training/

8. AOPA president steps down.

Photo credit: AOPA.

Numerous outlets report that recently installed AOPA president Darren Pleasance will step down from his role to serve in an advisory capacity. On Wednesday, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) announced that President and CEO Darren Pleasance is stepping out of the day-to-day CEO role and moving into an advisory capacity to support the organization and its Board of Trustees during the search for a new leader. According to AOPA’s press release, the move comes as the association determined that the CEO role should be based full-time at AOPA headquarters in Frederick, Maryland. Pleasance, who had been commuting from Bend, Oregon, has spent significant time traveling to meet members and manage operations nationwide. “Now is the right time to transition leadership in a way that best supports the organization’s long-term needs,” the release states. 

Effective immediately, Chief Financial Officer Jill Baker and Senior Vice President of Membership Strategy and Growth Katie Pribyl will serve as Acting Co-Presidents, jointly leading the organization’s operations, staff, and strategic execution during the interim period. The association emphasizes that its mission, advocacy, and member services will continue uninterrupted. 

FMI: https://avweb.com/air-shows-events/aopa-air-shows-events/aopa-president-steps-down/ and https://aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2026/february/04/pr-aopa-announces leadership-transition-as-ceo-moves-to-advisory-role and https://www.ainonline.com/aviation news/business-aviation/2026-02-04/aopa-ceo-darren-pleasance-steps-down?utm_campaign=AIN%20Alerts&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz–JdY_loq7vIuP9XArq8L1VSlhGxbCQeASsri-ftVcvqfchQA7CxTIetc5x1oScK129pLq_D_AAahZiKpxrFRlqA9HmQA&_hsmi=402074058&utm_content=402074058&utm_source=hs_email

9. FAA invites public engagement on part 141 overhaul.

AvWeb reports that the Federal Aviation Administration has opened a new phase of public engagement as it moves toward updating Part 141, the section of federal regulations governing certificated flight schools. Much of Part 141 traces its origins to early pilot training standards developed when aviation technology, airspace structure and training demand were significantly different than they are today. FAA materials note that while limited revisions have been made over the years, the last major update occurred in 1997, before the widespread adoption of GPS navigation, electronic flight bags and advanced simulation in training environments. According to the agency, the modernization effort is intended to examine how relevant flight school certification, oversight and examining authority can better align with current industry conditions and future flight training needs. FAA and industry participants have cited challenges related to training efficiency, access to designated pilot examiners and the limited share of flight training conducted under Part 141 compared to Part 61. Only a small percentage of certificated Part 141 schools currently hold examining authority, while the majority of private pilot training continues to occur outside the Part 141 framework. As part of the current phase, the FAA will hold two virtual public meetings on March 10 and March 11, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern time. Written comments will also be accepted through April 10, 2026. FMI: https://avweb.com/flight-safety/flight-training/faa-public-engagement-part-141-overhaul/

10. FAA issues Notice 8900.761 – Role of the FSDO in conducting practical tests for a pilot school seeking examining authority. This has been a frequent topic in many discussions involving POI’s and many Part 141 pilot schools. The principal regulation is 14 CFR 141.63. This notice reissues expired Notice N 8900.723, Role of the Flight Standards District Office in Conducting Practical Tests for a Pilot School Seeking Examining Authority, dated November 22, 2024. The Notice self-cancels on 9 Jan 2027, by which time it should have been incorporated into FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 5, Chapter 12, Section 4, paragraph 5- 1850. Previous guidance required ASI’s to conduct practical tests at an unsupportable level of engagement. The new guidance removes ASI numerical constraints and puts more discretion into the hands of the POI. FMI: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/orders_notices/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1044619 and https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Notice/N_8900.761.pdf

11. FAA urges more spatial disorientation training for Business Aviation. AvWeb and AIN Online report that the FAA is encouraging Part 91, 91K, and 135 operators to expand spatial disorientation (SD) training for pilots, according to recent Information for Operators (InFO) guidance. The document (InFO 26003) cites the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which continues to identify spatial disorientation as a serious safety concern. High-profile accidents—including the 2020 helicopter crash that killed Kobe Bryant and eight others—showed how SD can have fatal consequences. Following the crash, the NTSB directed the FAA to evaluate training methods and convene a panel to assess simulation technologies for effectively preparing pilots to recognize and manage SD. FAA’s guidance suggests operators include a mix of scenario-based and maneuver-based training, combining ground school, simulator sessions and in-flight practice to help pilots recognize, avoid and recover from disorientation. It also notes conditions where SD commonly occur— such as low light, lack of visual references and changing weather—and stresses reliance on instruments over sensory cues. While not mandatory, the FAA says enhanced SD training can address human-factors issues, which contribute to some 80 percent of aviation accidents. FMI: https://avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-recommends-more-spatial-disorientation-training-for-pilots/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=AVweb_ENE_Flash_2026 0205&oly_enc_id=6088E0246256I1A 

12. FAA cautions pilots on runway length sources. AIN reports that the FAA has recently published InFO 26004, a recently issued Information for Operators (InFO), in which the FAA warned that “many operators or pilots are referencing or using the wrong runway length source data when performing takeoff and landing data calculations,” adding that this type of error could lead to inaccurate aircraft performance calculations and possible runway overrun. Guidance in the InFO emphasizes that runway information varies depending on the source and that not all published runway lengths are suitable for regulatory performance calculations. While the FAA publishes runway length and width data in the Chart Supplement, the InFO notes that operators must pay particular attention to declared distances—takeoff distance available, takeoff run available, accelerate-stop distance available, and landing distance available—when determining whether a runway can be accepted. FMI: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aerospace/2026-02-03/faa-cautions-pilots-runway-length-sources and the full InFO is here: 

https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/info/all_infos/InFO26004.pdf

13. FAA issues revised application for US airworthiness certificate. In recent days the FAA has been busy revising a number of its forms. While many are not available to the general public, but one exception is the new FAA Form 8130-6, Application for U.S Airworthiness Certificate. The FAA is making this revision to reflect conforming changes to align with MOSAIC. The significant changes to this form include an update to meet with the newest revision of Order 8130.2. FMI: https://www.faa.gov/forms/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1019145

14. Garmin receives STC for radar altimeter intended for GA use. AvWeb reports that Garmin has received an STC for its GHA-15 “height advisor”. The radar-based device is able to be installed on 500 models of GA aircraft. The device is capable of readings from 500’ AGL to 1 foot, and is designed to work with other Garmin avionics. The device retails in the $2500 range. FMI: https://avweb.com/aviation-news/garmin-gha-15-approved-certified aircraft/ and https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/1339678/ 

15. Aviation program is part of school funding package. As reported by WFTV Channel 9, Congressman Mike Haridopolos visited Space Coast Junior/Senior High School in Port St. John, Florida (Brevard County), the week of 1 Feb to highlight federal funding to expand career and technical education opportunities for local students. As part of a recently passed federal appropriations package, more than $2 million has been earmarked to establish a new Aviation Assembly and Fabrication Program at Space Coast Jr./Sr High. The program would mirror a successful model already operating at Brevard County’s Eau Gallie High School and provide students with hands-on training in aircraft maintenance, welding, painting, and fabrication. Haridopolos, who chairs the House Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics, says the funding is designed to prepare students for high-demand aerospace careers right after graduation — without requiring a traditional college path. FMI: https://www.wftv.com/news/local/congressman-haridopolos-securing-federal-funding-space-coast-projects/A7MC737MQFCCVGUFXCAVMRJTUM/

16. Unleaded fuel update: FAA publishes draft plan for transition to unleaded avgas by 2030; seeks comment. The FAA released its draft Transition Plan to Unleaded Aviation Gasoline for public comment Monday, outlining its proposed approach to eliminating leaded avgas from the general aviation fleet. The plan was developed in response to Section 827 of the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act, which directs the agency to facilitate a safe, timely and orderly transition to unleaded alternatives while maintaining operational efficiency. The comment period is open through 13 Mar. FMI: https://avweb.com/ownership/fuel-news/faa publishes-unleaded-avgas-plan-draft/ and https://avweb.com/insider/first-look-faa-unleaded avgas-plan/ 

17. AAM update 1: Florida AAM infrastructure progress. We have been following the development of AAM infrastructure within the Sunshine State. Now, as reported in the Palm Beach Post on 9 January, Florida is on its way to becoming the nation’s first state to offer commercial Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Essentially, that means state officials are paving the (air)way for passengers to take flight taxis, including electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL), from one city to another in record time. The country’s first aerial test site should be operational within the first part of 2026. It’s at Florida Department of Transportation’s SunTrax testing facility in Polk Couty between Tampa and Orlando along the almost-always congested Interstate-4. “Florida is at the forefront of emerging flight technology, leading the nation in bringing highways to the skies with Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), an entirely new mode of transportation,” according to a press release from the Florida Department of Transportation. “FDOT’s strategic investments in infrastructure to support AAM will help us become the first state with commercial AAM services.” FMI: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/flying-taxis-could-coming-florida-100441061.html

18. AAM update 2: Florida to introduce air taxi service by year’s end.

have previously reported on Florida’s efforts to develop AAM infrastructure. Now, in a story from WWSB, the Sarasota affiliate of ABC news, the Florida Department of Transportation is developing an air taxi service that could be operational by the end of this year, offering an alternative to congested roadways. The state’s Advanced Mobility Initiative will focus initially on the I-4 corridor, which the Florida Department of Transportation identifies as the most congested roadway in the state. The Advanced Air Mobility Network will eventually expand statewide, but the first phase covers airports from Tampa through Orlando to Sarasota. FMI: https://www.mysuncoast.com/2026/01/12/florida-launch-air-taxi-service-by-end-2026/ 

19. AAM update 3: CAE delivers first eVTOL flight simulators to Joby’s Pilot Academy and Embraer CAE Training Services. 

CAE has delivered the first of two eVTOL flight simulators to Joby Aviation’s pilot academy in Marina, California. The fixed-base platform is expected to receive FAA level 7 flight training device qualification, whereas the second unit to be delivered later this year will be a level C full-flight simulator with a six-axis motion platform, Joby said. Joby and CAE have been collaborating on flight-simulation technology for the single-pilot, four-passenger JAS4-1 eVTOL aircraft since 2022. In addition to developing high-fidelity simulators, CAE operates what it claims is the world’s largest civil aviation training network. According to Joby, its JAS4-1 simulators incorporate many of the same technologies used to train pilots at major airlines worldwide. It features the CAE Prodigy image generator, which leverages gaming technology to create highly realistic and detailed 3D urban visuals. What is interesting to this editor is that these cutting-edge devices will most likely be fundamental to the development of new training programs, courses, and standards which have not yet been FAA-approved for agencies beyond the manufacturer. In fact, the image in the photo above shows the shoreline of Dubai, UAE, a strong market for these aircraft. In a related story, CAE also has delivered an eVTOL full flight simulator to its affiliate Embraer CAE Training Services for certification functions and training new pilots on the Eve Air Mobility eVTOL aircraft. FMI: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2026-01-06/cae delivers-first-evtol-simulator-jobys-pilot-academy?utm_campaign=AIN%20Alerts&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_LLKD8-ZML1a26mKlHfGDvwWGWl4Mzzs_drBDudnnhANlyI_SbKH7cpLvD0xYPLcJmstjEKsdpShHnJkngj_dSCKLDUQ&_hsmi=398113525&utm_content=398113525&utm_source=hs_email and https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2026-02-05/cae-supply-first simulator-evtol-pilot-training?utm_campaign=FutureFlight&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8g5HIYIGptBrmt3QcSbBovyul7eJaqVTlLo1jh6JJbYHqYFojeUHwVXwTdsLJulScTLoRx7-rs-FZNpY0bP8nPaRmxAA&_hsmi=403190950&utm_content=403190950&utm_source=hs_email 

20. UAS update 1: FAA expands portfolio of UAS Network Test Sites.

Unfortunately, none of them are in Florida or anywhere in the southeastern US. The two new FAA developmental test sites are the ones shown in Oklahoma and Indiana. These new sites are the first added since 2016. FMI: https://generalaviationnews.com/2026/01/11/faa expands-uas-test-site-network-for-first-time-since-2016/ 

21. UAS update 2: FAA re-opens comment period on Part 108 BVLOS NPRM. [Editor’s note: Because of the pre-publication comment deadline, this message was sent 30 Jan to everyone on regular distribution.] The Federal Aviation Administration has reopened the comment period for its proposed Part 108 rule governing beyond visual line of sight drone operations, seeking additional feedback on electronic conspicuity and right-of-way provisions. The notice of proposed rulemaking, titled “Normalizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations,” was originally published Aug. 7, 2025, with a 60-day comment window that closed Oct. 6. The FAA said the reopening will allow new comments until Feb. 11, a firm date, and applies only to the limited topics outlined in the notice. Industry comments and FAA-hosted listening sessions with the UAS manufacturing community held Jan. 6 highlighted differing views on how unmanned and manned aircraft should share airspace below 400 feet AGL. Portable electronic conspicuity devices were raised as a potential option for aircraft not equipped with installed ADS-B Out, particularly for low-altitude operations. The FAA stated that comments already submitted will still be considered and that duplicative submissions will not receive additional weight as the agency works toward finalizing the rule. FMI: https://avweb.com/aviation-news/aviation-law/faareopens-part-108-bvlos-comment-period/ and https://avweb.com/aviation-news/aviation law/faa-declines-extension-part-108-comments/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Email-News0-AVW 260211-Daily&oly_enc_id=6088E0246256I1A

22. FAA announces new enforcement crackdowns on certain UAS violations.

The FAASTeam Program Manager on 5 Feb notified all Reps and DronePros that the FAA has published a new Compliance and Enforcement Bulletin (CEB) that significantly raises the stakes for UAS violations that endanger the public, violate established airspace restrictions, or are in furtherance of an element of another crime, or which demonstrate a lack of care, judgment, or responsibility. 

Penalties can include fines and certificate sanctions. Compliance Action and Remedial Training are now the exception. This story has since been picked up by multiple watchdog outlets. FMI: 

https://mail.yahoo.com/n/folders/folders=1&listFilter=PRIORITY/messages/21136/AADG8rm5kFiQrkzlb8EIgNuGleP:2?.src=ym&reason=myc&messagePreview=1 and https://generalaviationnews.com/2026/02/10/faa-cracks-down-on-drones-in 2025/?utm_source=TPOA&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20260211 and https://dronelife.com/2026/02/06/faa-tougher-stance-unauthorized-drone-operations/ 

23. Airport landing fees update: Florida House and Senate bills clear respective committees. With AOPA’s help, we have reported on legislation moving through the US Congress, and on two bills currently making their way through the Florida legislature, and the story is constantly evolving. As first reported in December, Florida proposes legislation, HB 387 and SB 422, to prohibit collection of landing fees based on ADS-B data. We issued an appeal for readers to contact their elected representatives, and you have delivered: Florida House Bill 387 (limiting ADS-B data use) successfully made it through the first committee with your help! It now moves to the second committee, the House Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee. The next agenda has not been set yet. Florida Senate Bill 422 (similar to HB 387) successfully made it through the first committee with your help! The next committee stop is the Senate Committee on Commerce and Tourism and the bill was on the agenda for 2/4/2026 at 10:30 am. [No word yet on results of that meeting]. Heaton reports that Senator Tom Wright is receiving pressure to reduce the MGW limit to a figure below 12,500 Lbs., and she urges readers to contact the Senator at wright.tom.web@flsenate.gov to urge him to support the weight limit contained in the original language of SB-422. 

Editor’s note: I can provide text of my communications regarding these Bills on request, to help anyone reaching out in a similar fashion. The proposals would apply to Part 91 operators and to aircraft weighing less than 12,500 Lbs. MGW. Sincere thanks to AOPA’s Stacey Heaton for this one. The full text of HB 387 (and its Senate counterpart) is just two “roomy” pages: 

https://www.flhouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?FileName=_h0387__.docx&DocumentType=Bill&BillNumber=387&Session=2026 . See also https://avweb.com/aviation news/aopa-pushes-ads-b-privacy-bill/?oly_enc_id=6088E0246256I1A

24. House panel OK’s bill for digital pilot certificates. AIN reports that The House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee recently approved by voice vote bills to permit the use of digital pilot certificates and to help facilitate a transition of military air traffic controllers to a career at the FAA. H.R.2247, Pilot Certificate Accessibility Act, permits pilots and other FAA certificate holders to present digital certificates instead of physical ones. Introduced by Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tennessee), the bill was amended to include certain guardrails around the security of the digital certificate. T&I chairman Sam Graves (R-Missouri) strongly backed the measure, noting that the legislation is an incremental step building on requirements included in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 for the FAA to digitize its processes. FMI: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house bill/2247?_hsmi=403017447&utm_campaign=AIN+Alerts&utm_content=403017447&utm_medium=email&utm_source=hs_email 

25. Upcoming TSA monthly FTSP (Flight Training Security Program) webinars for CFIs. The Transportation Security Administration has initiated a series of monthly webinars for the Flight Instructor community, to provide an overview of any policy updates or FTSP Portal changes and to answer audience questions. It is not required to attend these webinars; think of them as a customer service function from the FTSP staff at TSA. These webinars are free, but pre-registration is required. The webinar schedule is as follows: 

Tuesday Mar 10 at 1300 EDT: 

https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/db810788-38ec-4fe7-9158-b47ba38c7201@1eb95f14-6f2a-4544-b2f6-6bd35a1766ab 

Remember, IAW 49 CFR 1552.3, all current CFI’s are required to register with the TSA and create an account with that agency.

26. GAJSC Safety Promotion Outreach Topics of the Month (NPP63; formerly NPP14) for FY-2026. 

The new list of Topics of the Month (TOM’s; NPP63) and Airworthiness Topics of the Quarter (TOQ’s; NPP60) from the General Aviation Joint Safety Committee (GAJSC) for FY-2026 have been released. Reps can download this media off the FAASTeam National Collaborative Center (NFRCC) Sharepoint site at FAASafety.gov. Volunteers who mail me a USB flash drive with at least 1 GB of capacity can obtain the full catalog of media, including NPP60 and NPP63, for the current year. Previous years are available, depending on memory capacity. Here are the topics of the month (TOM’s) for FY-26; I can provide a slightly more detailed description with your download (and available on request!). The GAJSC has a free subscription service to its e-newsletter; check out The TOM / TOQ media for FY-2026 are posted in the FAASTeam Sharepoint site; editor will make these available to other Reps with prior coordination. 

 Oct 2025: Human Performance. 

 Nov 2025: CFIT. 

 Dec 2025: Winter Ops. 

 Jan 2026: Risk Management. 

 Feb 2026: Multi-Engine Transition. 

 Mar 2026: Human Factors and WINGS. 

 Apr: 2026: Angle of Attack Awareness. 

 May 2026: Owner-Operator and Mechanic Relations. 

 Jun 2026: Hindsight Bias. 

 Jul 2026: Tailwheel Endorsement. 

 Aug 2026: Pre-and In-Flight Wx Resources 

 Sep 2026: Advanced Air Mobility.

27. GAJSC GA Maint. Safety Outreach Topics of the Quarter (NPP60; formerly NPP41) for FY-2026. Along with the Topics of the Month shown above, national FAASTeam also publishes a series of Airworthiness Topics of the Quarter. For FY-26, the selected topics are as follows: 

  1. First Quarter (Oct – Dec): Wiring.
  2. Second Quarter (Jan – Mar): Airworthiness.
  3. Third Quarter (Apr – Jun): Field Approvals.
  4. Fourth Quarter (Jul – Sep): Helicopter Mx Accidents. 

The same structure surrounds these topics as for Topics of the Month. In other words, resources are available; just add speaker and venue! Note: all FY-23 thru FY-25 topics available. Contact the Orlando FSDO FPMs for more info!

28. Airmen Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) updates. Make sure you go to your next Practical Test armed with the latest ACS or PTS as appropriate!!! The FAA is gradually replacing all PTS with the new and improved ACS; only a few PTS have not yet been converted. All current ACS’s can be found at this website: http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/ . An ACS Companion Guide for Pilots is available to help explain ACS and integrate ACS into one’s training plans: https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/acs_companion_guide_pilots.pdf . There are two very recent ACS’s to report, but no new ones this month:

Airmen Testing Community Advisory website: https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing . The national ACS Focus Team encourages and invites all users of the ACS to please let them know if you see any possible problems or issues with the ACS, or questions not covered already in the Airman Certification Standards FAQ link on the webpage above. You do not have to go through anyone or any organization to reach the ACS Focus Team – just send an email to: 9-AVS-ACS-Focus-Team@FAA.gov The ACS Focus Team welcomes your feedback. PTS. PTS’s are still around! The link to Practical Test Standards (PTS) is at the end of this report in the FAA resources section. Although many PTS are still in use, they are not being substantially updated, and ACS will eventually replace all PTS pubs.

29. FAA Safety Briefing magazine. The January / February issue of FAA Safety Briefing magazine has been released and mailed, but the website has not been updated at time of this editing. The issue’s theme is “Getting to Know the GAJSC”. GAJSC is the General Aviation Joint Safety Committee. As stated in the editor’s remarks, “As aviation technology and operations evolve, the GAJSC continues to adapt its focus to address emerging safety challenges.” The new issue of Safety Briefing acquaints the reader with the oversight functions of the GAJSC. Look for it at a FAASTeam event near you soon. FMI: You can view the magazines past and present on-line at https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/faa-safety briefing-magazine or via www.faasafety.gov. 

Attention FAASTeam Lead Reps: If you have not been receiving these magazines lately, but expected to, contact your FPM. Also, please let the FPMs know if your needs change. 

30. And now, Regulatory trivia. 

Question: A Private Pilot owns a very light jet (VLJ) (e.g. the EMB-100), with certification to operate it as a single-pilot. The insurance carrier requires periodic training in order to maintain insurability. The aircraft in question does not require an SIC, and the owner’s preferred CFI, a retired airline Captain with multiple type-ratings in large Transport-category 

aircraft (“Big Iron”) does not have the type-rating for the owner’s VLJ. The Captain was never a check airman. A “best-fit” SIC course, not based on this specific model, is available, and the CFI is offering to take it. What qualifications should the CFI have in order to instruct the owner in his aircraft? 

Answer: To be sure, the CFI should have the applicable specific type-rating. 14 CFR 61.31(a)(2) requires a type-rating for turbojet-powered airplanes, even VLJs. Although there is an SIC course available for similar VLJs, it does not give the SIC the authority to act as PIC in this model; as a CFI, he might reasonably be expected to act as PIC from time to time during instruction. Some relief might be possible through 14 CFR 61.31(b), which authorizes certain limited operations such as training (with FAA permission) for up to 60 days, provided an equivalent level of safety can be maintained. It is also a good idea to check with the insurance carrier to see what their requirements might be. Thanks to DPE Bob Work for this question! 

FMI: Check out the aforementioned reg’s, and if applicable, check with your insurance carrier. This is a good question to raise before acquiring such an aircraft.

31. Runway Safety Action Team (RSAT) Calendar (NPP05). FY-26 RSAT calendar is developing, and will fill up quickly in the next several months. Here’s our latest info on upcoming RSAT’s within the Orlando District.

The public is invited to attend any of these meetings. FAASTeam Lead Reps: Please coordinate with ATC and help get the word out via SPANS message, and incentivize attendance with WINGS Knowledge credit. RSAT meetings combined with a Pilot – Controller Forum are an excellent draw. Airports highlighted in green and bearing a -V suffix are virtual events (Zoom or equivalent), not in-person meetings unless stated. Please note the airports within your area. Please work well ahead of the schedule: Submit the associated SPANS message 3 weeks prior to any RSAT meeting in your area of responsibility. Set up any virtual event as a webinar in SPANS and obtain the meeting link from ATC. Contact the ATM for the respective airport or contact the FPM at the Orlando FSDO for more info relating to the RSAT’s at the airports in your area. RSAT info can and does change!!! Data courtesy of FPM Javier Calderin, Orlando FSDO. 

32. Florida Airshows and Aviation Events calendar. Here is the latest compilation of known shows and events coming up within Florida (besides events you can find in faasafety.gov). Cancellations will be shown in strike-through font. As always, be vigilant for associated TFR’s with any airshow, rocket launch, racing event, wildfires or VIP visits (see Review of Current TFR’s below). Please check the official show websites for more info. Boldface means the event is within the Orlando FSDO. ICAS source: 

https://www.airshows.aero/Page/ASCalendar ;

Also, AIN Online is a worldwide source. Another overall source for Florida: https://floridareview.co.uk/florida-events/florida-air-shows

2026: 

 Daytona 500 Flyover (KDAB), 15 Feb 

 NBAA Opa Locka – Miami Regional Forum (KOPF) – 25 Feb 

 Planes, Tunes, and Barbecue (Tavares SPB), 27 – 28 Feb (?????) 

 Gator Fly-In Armed Services Appreciation Day (KGNV), XX Mar 

 Seniors Soaring Championships (6FL0), 14 – 20 Mar 

 20M Nationals [Glider competition] (6FL0), 25 Mar – 3 Apr 

 Space Coast Warbird Air Show (KTIX), 21 – 22 Mar 

 Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) Safety Symposium (ERAU – KDAB) – 7-9 Apr 

 Gulf Coast Salute and Air Show (Panama City Beach), 10 – 12 Apr 

 Salute to Spaceflight 250 (Cocoa Beach), 11 – 12 Apr 

 Air-Space Expo (Kennedy Space Center), 11 – 12 Apr 

 Sun-n-Fun Aerospace Expo (KLAL), 14 – 19 Apr 

 Forum 82 – The Future of Vertical Flight (KPBI) – 5 May 

 Air Dot Show Fort Lauderdale (Ft. Lauderdale), 9 – 10 May 

 Vero Beach Air Show (KVRB), 16 – 17 May 

 Hyundai Air and Sea Show (Miami Beach), 24 – 25 May 

 Melbourne Air Show (KMLB), 6 – 7 Jun 

 Tallahassee Balloon Festival (North Florida Fair), 13 Jun 

 Pensacola Beach Air Show (P’cola Beach), 18 – 19 Jul 

 Air Dot Show Orlando (KSFB), 17 – 18 Oct 

 NAS Jacksonville Air Show (KNIP), 17 – 18 Oct 

 Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show (KNPA), 6 – 7 Nov 

 Florida Int’l Air Show (KPGD), 7 – 8 Nov 

 Vintage Weekend Ocean Reef Air Show (Key Largo), 4 – 5 Dec

31. Current GA aeronautical charts & pubs for central Florida. Make sure your chart database is current. Here are the current and future Dates of Latest Editions (DOLE’s) for the 56-day aeronautical pubs. Most pubs are on a 56-day cycle, and digital pubs follow suit: 2026: 22 Jan, 19 Mar, 14 May, 9 Jul, 3 Sep, 29 Oct, 24 Dec. 

These dates cover the following pubs and their digital equivalents on your EFB: 

IFR Low Alt En-route Charts (e.g., L-23); 

IAP’s – US Terminal Procedures Publication (e.g., SE-3); 

Chart Supplement (formerly the A/FD) [Man, I sure miss those back-cover indices!]

Jacksonville and Miami VFR Sectionals; 

Tampa / Orlando and Miami Terminal Area Charts.

FMI: Check out the following website for current chart editions:

https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/productcatalog/doles

Also: Check out the following official website as a navigation training resource: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/digital_products/aero_guide/ for a link to all chart symbology used for all FAA aeronautical charts and pubs. 

34. Review of current TFR’s. The ones shown in the screen shots below were valid just within Florida at the time of final editing, but can and do change or expire, and this newsletter is not to be construed as an official source. Also check “USA” NOTAM FDC 0/0367 to be sure of details; see note “a” below. Note the long-term TFRs over Mar-A-Lago and another one, FDC 5/2858 over Alligator Alcatraz. Always check NOTAM’s each time before you fly! FAA’s official TFR NOTAM website is http://tfr.faa.gov/tfr2/list.jsp . Also, check out their interactive TFR map page at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=map . Other resources are available as well, including via www.1800wxbrief.com , www.AOPA.org/go-fly/tfrs and on many flight planning apps. In flight, contact with ATC including VFR flight following, or contacting Flight Service could be helpful. For planning info regarding other Special Use Airspace, visit www.SUA.FAA.gov.

  1. Nationwide: “USA” NOTAM FDC 0/0367 covers flights near “qualified stadiums” (defined in the NOTAM) during certain sporting events. Going to the Bahamas or across the ADIZ? Check this one out: “USA” NOTAM FDC 2/8783, covers operations across the ADIZ. 
  2. UAS Operators: Check out the following:
    1. FDC 3/9568, covering UAS ops near naval submarine bases (Kitsap, WA and Kings Bay, GA). This NOTAM replaces FDC 1/8373. 
    2. FDC 3/0104, covering UAS ops near DOE energy facilities and DOD mobile assets, including convoys and ships. This NOTAM replaces FDC 1/8374. 
    3. FDC 3/2496, addressing UAS restrictions near “National Defense Airspace”. This NOTAM replaces FDC 1/0488. 
    4. FDC 3/6405, addressing UAS ops over the territorial and navigable waters of the US. 
    5. FDC 3/4452, addressing UAS ops in the vicinity of Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center. 
  3. Don’t forget to always check other FDC NOTAM’s for “USA” on the above web page, in addition to FL or wherever else you may be going. Set the “Center” filter to “USA”, then hit “Go” next to that box, and you’ll see the desired search results. Most of these NOTAM’s are effective nation-wide. 
  4. Finally, if filing IFR, remember to check FDC NOTAM’s for the instrument approaches at your destination. Like TFR’s, these NOTAM’s are regulatory, too, so you have to adhere to their applicable portions. The easiest way to obtain this info is via commercial flight planning software / approved sites when filing and obtaining a standard wx brief.

35. GA awards update. Orlando FSDO selects district winners. See story number 2 above. Now it’s on to the next level for finalist judging. The Orlando district has produced many national honorees, including Obie Young, Walt Schamel, Vicki Sherman, the late Rock Rockcastle, and three national winners between 2017 and 2023: Mark Ducorsky (2017 Rep of the Year), the late Ron Timmermans (2021 CFI of the Year, NAFI Flight Instructors’ Hall of Fame 2022) and Bob Raskey (2023 CFI of the Year). FMI: www.generalaviationawards.com The most recent GA Award calendar from the website is shown below, and it generally remains perennially stable (government shutdowns notwithstanding!):

36. Contacting Bob Jex. Bob Jex, editor of this newsletter, can be e-mailed at bob.jex@yahoo.com. Please update your contact info and use this new address as the primary. The earthlink.net email is secondary; for the time being, both addresses work. 

As always, fly safe!

Archived Links to select official pubs and sites of interest: 

Each story above contains a reference link when available. Looking for a particular web resource not listed? Ask me and I’ll look for it. Once I find it, I’ll list it here! E-mail requests to bob.jex@yahoo.com. New listings in yellow for first month or so.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); see elsewhere within this newsletter ∙ Orlando

Federal Register (Exit pipe for all federal regulations) 
https://www.federalregister.gov/ 
Another broad-based, multi-agency regulatory updates website: www.regulations.gov 
MOSAIC Rule (not all-encompassing; many sources are available):

“New” CFI Rule (Effective 1 Dec 2024): 

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/10/01/2024-22018/removal-of-expiration date-on-a-flight-instructor-certificate-additional-qualificationrequirements#:~:text=The%20final%20rule%20also%20adds,is%20discussed%20in%20secti on%20III. 

Also, AOPA offers a FAQ adjunct to assist the transition to the new CFI rule: https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/cfis/flight-instructor-resources/faa-ruling-on removal-of-the-expiration-date-on-cfi-certificates 

Aviation Funding Stability Act (HR 5451) 

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5451

Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) 

https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/index.html

GAJSC – General Aviation Joint Safety Committee 

https://www.gajsc.org/docs/

NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) 

NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) 

Space Operations 

General public interest websites: 

www.space.com 

www.nasa.gov 

https://spaceflightnow.com/

Worldwide launch schedule: https://spaceflightnow.com/launch-schedule/ Space Station (ISS) flyover schedule: https://spotthestation.nasa.gov/ 

General Aviation Awards Info, Nomination Procedures, List of National Winners, etc. www.generalaviationawards.com (or .org) 

State of Florida (FDOT and State Gov’t) 

Local Airports (Landing Fee candidates): Public Meeting Info at County / City level Information on upcoming meetings and meeting minutes are posted online at the websites for each political subdivision. In addition to the respective local Airport Advisory Committees at each airport, this is where the public can attend and speak at meetings affecting a given airport. The airports listed below are considering adopting landing fees.

KDED: DeLand City Commission; first and third Mondays 

(https://www.deland.org/512/City-Meetings) 

KORL: Orlando City Council; second Mondays or additional Mondays as published online (https://www.orlando.gov/Events/City-Council-Meeting) . 

KFIN: Flagler County Board of County Commissioners; first and third Mondays (https://www.flaglercounty.gov/departments/administration/upcoming-bocc-agendas)

KISM: Kissimmee City Commission; first and third Tuesdays 

(https://www.kissimmee.gov/My-Government/City-Meetings), 

KOMN: Ormond Beach City Commission; first and third Wednesdays (https://www.ormondbeach.org/122/Agendas-Minutes-Meeting-Recordings) 

Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act (PAPA; S.2175) (To prevent ADS-B data exploitation) Congressional tracker: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2175 

Sun-n-Fun select web links: 

Aviation Community Service 

WINGS Industry Network: https://www.wingsindustry.com/ 

WINGS Sweepstakes info and entry forms: https://www.mywingsinitiative.org/ 

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) 

Seaplane Operations 

Helicopter Safety 

  • US Helicopter Safety Team (USHST): https://ushst.org/ This is an excellent repository of a series of safety video series called 56 Seconds to Live, which is of value to all pilot communities. 

National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI): https://www.nafinet.org

Society of Aviation and Flight Educators (SAFE): http://ww2.safepilots.org

National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA): https://www.nftaus.org/

Flight School Association of North America (FSANA): https://fsana.com/ 

Aeronautical Knowledge Training (ORL FAASTeam Library) 

Open source Aviation Accident Reports: 

UAS Reporting (non-FAA) 

Islands of the Bahamas / Bahamas Ministry of Tourism 

What else do you want to see listed here??? Let me know and I’ll look it up! 

Prepared by: 

Robert Jex, Ops FPM Emeritus 

(M) 772-713-1169 (text, no voice mail) 

Bob.jex@yahoo.com 

Reg Updates/F/Obie P/FAN Web/Monthly Reg Updates – Jex/260214

Recent Posts

Categories