The FAA is issuing a notice that will prohibit single-pilot operation of certain Cessna Citations that normally require two pilots. These include Citation 500, S550, and certain 560 models. At the same time, current exemption holders are being notified that their exemptions will be rescinded.
The FAA has been granting exemptions for pilots to fly these certain Part 25-certified Citations with only one pilot since 1984, based on the lack of data showing there was a degradation of safety between one- and two-pilot operation of those jets.
However, in 2024 the FAA reviewed compliance with the exemptions and “found numerous instances of noncompliance with the [conditions and limitations] by holders of these exemptions,” according to the FAA notice. “In addition to the widespread non-compliance described above, a review of CE-500 accidents over the last 18 years indicates that, even with conservative assumptions about crew configuration, Part 25 CE-500 aircraft operated with a single pilot are involved in approximately twice the rate of accidents as Part 23 CE-500, 510 and 525 aircraft flown with a single pilot.”
The FAA also targeted training providers with exemptions, because the provider has no ongoing involvement with pilots operating under the exemption. “Thus, the pilot exercising the relief is likely unaware when the exemption expires or is terminated and may continue to conduct operations for which no relief exists, resulting in regulatory noncompliance.”
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