NATA News

In a message sent to all TFSSP operators, the agency explains that the re-validation process for access to the secure Webboards is on-going and that once complete all watchlists will be placed in a new separate Webboard. Essentially, operators will have access to the general TFSSP Webboard as it currently exists and they will access a separate Webboard to obtain the latest watchlist information.

The TSA expects this new system to launch on June 21, 2010. Any operator with the TFSSP program who has questions should review the information found on the current Webboard and contact their PSI if necessary.

While the Senate provision is much like the House bill, which requires at least two annual inspections of FAA certified foreign repair stations and drug and alcohol testing of foreign repair station workers, the Senate bill includes language to preserve the United States – European Union Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement, a critical element for both aviation safety and jobs in the U.S.

Timing is critical as Chairman Oberstar recently stated that he expects a multi-year bill on FAA reauthorization to be signed into law by July 4, 2010.

SAFO 10008, Ground Operations During the Hours of Darkness at Uncontrolled Airports, explains that there has been an increase in the number of incidents involving aircraft operating (taxi, take-off and landing) at night where flight crews have failed to activate the airport pilot controlled lighting system (PCL).

The FAA asks that operators ensure that the content of this SAFO is provided to pilots during ground training and reinforced in flight training and during supervised operating experience, line checks and proficiency checks.

The NTSB is asking the FAA to require more detailed briefings and demonstrations for installed flotation devices. Additionally, the NTSB believes that all aircraft operated under Part 121, 135 or 91K should be equipped with flotation seat cushions and life vests for each occupant, regardless of the planned flight route. The recommendation for flotation seat cushions is particularly concerning to NATA because the association is unaware of any aircraft currently in use under Part 135 or 91K that are so equipped. To comply with that recommendation would require a complete retrofit of the interiors of the entire fleet.

The NTSB has also recommended new checklists, as well as training and guidance, for low-altitude dual-engine failure and training on water landing techniques.

The complete recommendation letter to the FAA is available for review. The FAA has not provided any indication as to how it might respond to the recommendations.

For more information on hosting a congressional tour, please click here to view NATA’s Congressional Tour Webpage.

Upcoming Webinars:

• “Strategies for Negotiating with Airport Authorities: Utilizing the Sponsor Assurance to Ensure Fair Treatment Among FBOs” – June 17, $49.95
• “Success with Social Media” – July 13, $49.95
• “New or Amended Minimum Standards: How to Ensure that Minimum Standards Help Not Hinder Your Business” – July 21, $49.95
• “Hiring & Screening In Today’s Market” – August 10, $49.95
• “Social Media Strategies: Tools & Tactics for Success” – August 17, $49.95

Plus, Free June Webinar:
“Health Care Reform Compliance” – June 23, FREE

Click here to see the webinar details and to register. Please send suggestions for future webinar topics to lpylant@nata.aero and forward this article to anyone in your office who will benefit from any of these educational opportunities. NATA also offers Professional Line Service Training Online, Flight Crew Briefings and SMS webcasts as a part of E-learn – NATA’s online learning programs.

New this year, the Summit speakers will delve deeply into the complex area of taxes, both at the federal and state level. Sessions will also include the popular FAA Regulatory Review where attendees will learn the latest developments confronting the charter community from the FAA’s John Hickey, James J. Ballough and Joe Conte. (For those who did not attend our first two Summit events, Conte has provided some interesting commentary on wet leases and empty legs, among other topics!) NATA is also pleased to announce that TSA Assistant Administrator for Transportation Sector Network Management John Sammon will be joining us along with TSA General Manager for General Aviation Brian Delauter during the Summit’s TSA Update session. And, of course, our entertainment for this event will be Olympian and pilot Bruce Jenner.

NATA’s room block for reservations has now been filled. If you have not already booked your room, please contact NATA Director of Meetings & Conventions Diane Gleason today for assistance.

Register today to attend the Part 135 industry’s most important event!

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RA Check combines a highly comprehensive FAA-endorsed risk assessment tool with the automation necessary to make its use quick, easy, and accurate. RA Check is based on the work of FAA officials, respected aircraft operators, and other industry representatives. The Flight Risk Assessment Tool (FRAT), published in FAA InFO: Flight Risk Assessment Tool is the most comprehensive risk assessment available.

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NATA and Conklin & de Decker are once again teaming up to present a two-day comprehensive seminar covering the entire range of key tax issues for air charter operators. From federal excise taxes to state taxes and international fees and from FARs to IRS regulations, you will find the information and answers you need.

Why Attend?

• Learn the tax implications of charter brokering
• Understand how changes to the federal excise taxes will impact you
• Discover common tax errors and how to avoid them
• Anticipate state tax problems before they become your problems
• Expand your understanding of international user fees
• Save time and money by knowing your rights

The Commercial Operators Tax Seminar occurs on August 17-18, 2010, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Your registration includes all seminar materials, continental breakfasts, breaks and lunches as well as a special networking reception.

This seminar is offered only once this year, so reserve your space today.

For more information or to register, visit NATA's Commercial Operators Tax Seminar Web page.

• Provide NATA members with a dependable long-term market for Workers’ Comp insurance;
• Structure the plan in such a way that if the overall loss experience of the participating members is favorable, participants would share in the return of a portion of the premium at the end of the policy year (Good Experience Return); and
• Make joining the plan as easy as possible.

The NATA plan is underwritten by USAIG (United States Aircraft Insurance Group), the nation’s largest aviation insurance organization and a division of Berkshire-Hathaway. They have provided the coverage since the plan’s inception.

NATA’s Workers’ Compensation Plan is available to any member who meets USAIG's underwriting requirements for participating in the plan. NATA membership notwithstanding, USAIG can underwrite Workers' Comp Insurance only for individuals or firms directly involved in the operation, servicing, maintenance, storage, repair or sale of aircraft. While the NATA plan is available in most states, it cannot be written in Ohio, North Dakota, Washington and Wyoming. Its availability in other states may vary due to rating and tax considerations.

For complete details, have your agent/broker check with USAIG at (212) 859-3988 or visit www.nata.aero.

To read Byer’s blog, please click here.