Commercial single-engine operations under instrument flight rules (SEIFR) have been ruled permissible by the US Federal Aviation Administration, along with a rule which clarifies the aircraft engine requirements.
The National Air Transportation Association (NATA), welcoming the long-expected judgement, says that the clarification enables operators to convert aircraft to conform to the regulations. Broadly, only modern engines can be used, but pistons as well as turbines have been accepted. The primary aim of the rule change is to stop forcing pilots to "scud-run" under low cloud to avoid instrument meteorological conditions.
James Coyne, NATA president, says that the new rules provide a higher level of single-engine safety, "-because the operators can now avail themselves of the benefits of an IFR airspace system."
He adds that the rule "-also provides opportunities for the development of new aircraft designs such as single-engine turbojets that will allow enhancement of transportation services to small communities nationwide".
The European Joint Aviation Authorities is examining the feasibility of permitting commercial SEIFR in Europe for turbine powered aircraft. The industry predicts an advanced notice of proposed amendment (ANPA) in June.
"It is an open question at present. We will first issue an ANPA, seeking people's views on the intended proposal," says the JAA . If a decision is made to proceed with the consultation, the process could take about 18 months before a final rule is published.
Source: Flight International
