To require the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct a study to assess whether certain aircraft certified under part 23 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, may be used in operations conducted under part 121 of such title, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Mann, Tracey [R-KS-1]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 9, 2026
Bottom line
This bill requires the FAA to conduct a study on the potential expansion of aircraft types permitted for commercial passenger service, aiming to inform future regulatory changes that could impact regional air travel and small community access.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) initiate a study within 180 days of enactment. The study will assess the safety and airworthiness of aircraft with 10 to 19 passenger seats, certified under Part 23 of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, after August 30, 2017, for use in commercial air service operations conducted under Part 121. The study is required to consider economic impacts on small communities, evaluate foreign regulatory frameworks, and solicit technical advice from various stakeholders.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this study is crucial for modernizing aviation regulations, potentially allowing more efficient and cost-effective aircraft to serve small and rural communities. They believe it could help address the decline in scheduled air service by enabling operators to use newer, more suitable aircraft, thereby improving connectivity and economic vitality for underserved regions.
Opponents contend
Opponents might express concerns that expanding the types of aircraft permitted for Part 121 operations could compromise safety standards, as Part 23 certification has historically had less stringent requirements than Part 25, which typically governs larger commercial aircraft. They may argue against any potential dilution of safety protocols for commercial passenger flights.
The bill is very concise and can be read quickly, allowing ample time for stakeholders to understand its implications and provide input.
Section 1(a)
Mandate for FAA Study on Part 23 Aircraft in Part 121 Operations
This section requires the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator to start a study within 180 days of the bill becoming law. The study will evaluate whether aircraft designed for 10 to 19 passengers, which were certified under Part 23 of aviation regulations after August 30, 2017, can be safely used for commercial airline services currently governed by Part 121.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this provision is a necessary step to explore modernizing aviation regulations, potentially allowing newer, more fuel-efficient, and cost-effective aircraft to be utilized for commercial passenger service, particularly benefiting regional carriers and underserved communities. They contend that Part 23 certification standards have evolved, making certain aircraft suitable for Part 121 operations.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that this provision initiates a process that could lead to a relaxation of safety standards for commercial air travel. They may contend that Part 23 aircraft, historically designed for general aviation, may not meet the rigorous safety and operational requirements expected for Part 121 commercial passenger operations, regardless of recent certification updates.
Tradeoffs
The provision navigates the tension between enhancing economic viability and accessibility for regional air service, particularly in small communities, and maintaining the highest safety standards for commercial passenger operations. It seeks to balance the potential benefits of new aircraft technologies and operational efficiencies against the imperative of aviation safety.
Section 1(b)
Requirements for Study Scope and Stakeholder Consultation
This section outlines specific requirements for the FAA study. It mandates that the Administrator consider the economic impacts on operators serving small communities, evaluate how foreign countries regulate similar aircraft for commercial service, and actively seek technical advice. This advice must come from aircraft manufacturers, representatives of small and rural communities (especially those receiving federal subsidies for air service), and aviation safety experts knowledgeable in relevant certification parts.