In January, Dr. Susan Northrup was appointed as federal air surgeon at the FAA, where she oversees the agency’s medical initiatives and aeromedical education programs. Today, she speaks with NBAA’s Doug Carr about a host of topics, including the agency’s initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic and how the agency is working on several initiatives to address long-term pilot fitness challenges. “We were a critical part of the nation’s response to keeping the national airspace up and running in four major areas,” she notes. “There’s (1) the air traffic organization response, (2) extending air and medical certifications, (3) approving vaccinations for use by airmen and (4) the national and international aviation recovery guidance and proposals.”
This episode of NBAA’s “Flight Plan” features:
Doug Carr, NBAA senior vice president, safety, security, sustainability and international operations
Dr. Susan Northrup, U.S. federal air surgeon, Federal Aviation Administration
Runway excursions are the leading cause of accidents in turbine business aircraft operations. NBAA's Domestic Operations Committee recently updated the association's safety resource, Reducing Runway Excursions in Business Aviation, with additional tips for operators to avoid these events.
Business aircraft pilots often utilize their annual Part 61.58 recurrent checkride to not only demonstrate their proficiency in required flight maneuvers, but also as an opportunity to train on specific operational scenarios.
Consultancies estimate that recent operator requests for guidance on developing safety management systems are up by double digits. What SMS elements are they focusing on?
More than 13,300 laser strikes against aircraft were reported in the U.S. in 2023, and while business aircraft aren't targeted as frequently as airliners, operators must know how to respond safely.