FAA removes requirements for applicants and certificate holders to use the Safety Assurance System

SUMMARY: 
On Feb. 20, 2018, the Federal Aviation Administration published a policy change (Notice N 8900.451) for applicants/certificate holders submitting information using the SAS external portal and data collection tools.

The FAA Flight Standards Service has determined that the collection of certain information through the SAS external portal and DCTs from applicants and certificate holders is covered by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (refer to Title 44 of the United States Code (44 U.S.C.) chapter 35). The PRA is a law that requires federal agencies to take responsibility and accountability for reducing the burden of federal paperwork on the public (e.g., individuals, small businesses, educational and nonprofit institutions, federal contractors, and state and local governments), regardless of whether the collection is mandatory, voluntary, or required to obtain or retain a benefit. The PRA covers almost all information collected, including oral and written communication and automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques.

Flight Standards is in the process of working with the Office of Management and Budget to obtain approval for the collection of information through the external portal and the DCTs. Until the OMB grants approval (or until the expiration date of this notice), this notice provides policy and guidance on the use of the external portal and DCTs.

Until the OMB grants approval, Flight Standards has determined that the use of the external portal to collect information will be voluntary.

AEA COMMENTARY:
Repair stations are encouraged to review the FAA Notice 8900.451 for the complete information.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact Ric Peri, AEA vice president of government and industry affairs, by email at ricp@aea.net or by phone at 202-589-1144.

Regulatory - Canada