Department of Transportation June 16, 2010 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the Eurocopter France Model AS 350 B, BA, B1, B2, B3, and D, and Model AS355 E, F, F1, F2, and N helicopters, with certain main rotor servo- controls and tail rotor servo-controls. This proposed AD would require replacing all servo-controls that are identified in the Applicability section of this proposed AD. This proposed AD is prompted by an internal review conducted by the manufacturer which revealed that some main and tail rotor servo-controls do not conform to the approved design. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to prevent the distributor slide valve jamming in its sleeve, leading to reduced controllability of the rotors and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

FMCSA announces receipt of applications from 30 individuals for exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. If granted, the exemptions would enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the Federal vision standard.

The Department of Transportation (DOT), Office of the Secretary of Transportation, announces a meeting of the FAAC Subcommittee on Competitiveness and Viability, which will be held in Washington, DC on June 30, 2010. This notice provides details on the date, time, and location of the meeting, which will be open to the public. The purpose of the FAAC is to provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Transportation to ensure the competitiveness of the U.S. aviation industry and its capability to manage effectively the evolving transportation needs, challenges, and opportunities of the global economy. The Subcommittee on Competitiveness and Viability is charged with examining changes in the operating and competitive structures of the U.S. airline industry; considering innovative strategies to open up new international markets and expand commercial opportunities in existing markets; investigating strategies to encourage the development of cost-effective, cutting-edge technologies and equipment that are critical for a competitive industry coping with increasing economic and environmental challenges; and

Under a notice published in the Federal Register on May 13, 2010 (75 FR 27112), the FRA sought applications from interested and responsible parties for two grants: to conduct a Locomotive Biofuel Study, and to conduct a Study of the Use of Bio-based Technologies (Lubricants) that can be used in locomotives, rolling stock and other rail equipment. The application deadline was June 7, 2010. FRA is extending the deadline until June 21, 2010 to give applicants additional time to complete the application process and submit applications.