The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) is warning flight crews that an antiquated FAA regulation can still cause problems. As reported by AINmxReports (Sept. 16, 2009), the agency regards updating a navigational database as preventative maintenance. While the 14-year-old rule allows pilots operating under Part 91 to perform database updates, it requires that a technician perform updates for aircraft maintained under Part 135. In recent months several NATA members have petitioned the FAA to request exemption from the rule, citing economic hardship and safety concerns that arise from the current rule. Those requests have been denied. “In denying these exemption requests, the FAA continues to base its position on an outdated understanding of the technology, ignoring operators' explanations of the tremendous technological advances in avionics,” said Dennis Van de Laar, NATA manager of regulatory affairs.
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