FAA Bans Takeoffs with “Polished Frost”

WASHINGTON — The Federal Aviation Administration is increasing the safety of winter flying by prohibiting takeoffs with “polished frost” — frost buffed to make it smooth — on the wings, stabilizers and control surfaces of several classes of aircraft. The new rules are effective on January 30, 2010. There are 57 operators flying 188 aircraft […]

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FAA Proposes Limits on Companies Hiring FAA Inspectors

WASHINGTON — In a move to prevent potential conflicts of interests that could affect aviation safety, the Federal Aviation Administration is proposing to put limits on airlines and other operators hiring FAA safety inspectors and their managers for two years after those employees leave the agency. The proposed rule would prohibit air carriers, flight schools, […]

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FAA Finalizes Changes in Hudson River Airspace to Enhance Safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today finalized a federal rule, effective November 19, 2009, that will enhance safety by separating low-altitude, local aircraft flights over the Hudson River from flights transiting through the river airspace. “Better separation of aircraft means a higher margin of safety,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “These […]

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“Safety is on My Plate”

Remarks prepared for J. Randolph Babbitt to the Regional Airline Association on November 10th. Washington D.C. – Good afternoon, and thank you for inviting me, Roger [Cohen]. You’ve asked me to share what’s on my plate or what’s on my mind, and today, there’s no doubt that the answer to both of those questions is […]

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“Safety is the Common Thread”

Remarks by J. Randolph Babbitt prepared for NATA Roundtable on November 9, 2009.   Washington D.C. – Good afternoon, and thank you, Jim [Coyne], for inviting me. I appreciate the opportunity to come speak to you today. Candidly, I’ve got some real concerns about safety, and we need to discuss these in an open forum. […]

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Hawker Beechcraft Celebrates Baron 50th Anniversary with Special Limited Edition Model

TAMPA, Fla. (Nov. 5, 2009) – Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (HBC) is marking an important milestone – the 50th anniversary of its high performance piston twin, the Beechcraft Baron – by offering a limited edition model that incorporates elegant interior design features and amenities, a choice of four distinctive external paint schemes, and high performance Hartzell […]

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