Regulatory Affairs

Aviation businesses are one of the most heavily regulated industries in the nation. NATA interfaces with a number of federal government agencies whose policy-making authority directly impacts the general aviation industry. NATA’s regulatory staff keeps members apprised of proposed policy changes by serving on various FAA, TSA and CBP working groups and advisory committees, and works to ensure our members receive equitable treatment.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The FAA’s mission is to provide the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world. NATA’s regulatory affairs staff liaises with the agency and industry stakeholders on numerous Aviation Rulemaking Committees (ARCs) and working groups to address safety, training, airspace, compliance, and certification issues.

Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative (PAFI)
General Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC)
Consistency of Regulatory Interpretation ARC
Air Carrier Training ARC
Airspace Access Priorities ARC
Spaceport Categorization ARC 

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

TSA’s mission is to “protect the nation’s transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce.” NATA participates on the Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC) along with other government/industry members that provide advice on security matters to the TSA administrator. As a member of the ASAC General Aviation Working Group, NATA provides input on matters such as the Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP), Twelve-Five Standard Security Program (TFSSP), Private Charter Standard Security Program (PCSSP), DCA Access Standard Security Program (DASSP), and security guidelines for general aviation airport operators and users. NATA is also a member of the Insider Threat Subcommittee of the ASAC. As such, NATA is part of the government-industry partnership developing an in-depth list of recommendations to TSA to improve insider threat mitigation programs and strategies. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

CBP protects the nation’s borders and enforces laws, regulations, and requirements pertaining to the movement of trade and travel. NATA participates in the CBP General Aviation Working Group, along with other industry stakeholders, to increase CBP efficiency and to streamline procedures for general aviation operators by utilizing industry best practices, training, and outreach. The Working Group is developing the CBP General Aviation Operators’ Guide that will replace the Private Flyers Guide. The Guide will provide CBP information on general aviation requirements, procedures, and processes for the Part 91/91k and Part 135 communities.