A stronger protectionist stance in the administration of President Barack Obama could give lawmakers leverage to usher through legislation altering oversight of foreign repair stations. This could jeopardise a safety bilateral between the European Aviation Safety Agency and the US Federal Aviation Administration.
Opponents of the proposal also warn of a massive rise in costs for EASA-certificated stations operating in the USA if the bilateral is dissolved - in some cases a 1,400 percent hike for initial EASA certification.
The wording in the FAA Reauthorization bill introduced by the US House of Representatives on Feb. 11 suggests foreign repair stations with Part 145 certification would require twice-yearly inspections by the FAA, and mandates drug and alcohol testing for individuals performing safety-sensitive functions at those facilities.
To read the full story click here.
