NPRM Would Require Foreign Repair Stations to Implement Testing Program

The FAA wants certificated repair stations outside the USA to be held to the same standards as those inside it when their employees work on air carrier aircraft, according NPRM FAA-2012-1058. The rule would align domestic and international maintenance facilities, ensuring that "employees are held to the same high level of safety standards regardless of where they are physically located," according to the FAA. At the moment, they say "few countries require testing of aviation or maintenance personnel," a discomfiting idea to those familiar with the much more stringent programs in place stateside.

Iowa Travelers Enjoy Refreshed, Expanded Terminals, Hangar

Signature Aviation announced the opening of a newly built private aviation facility at Des Moines International Airport (DSM), improving the flying experience in a large Iowa hub. The greenfield project features a 5,000 sq ft guest terminal sporting the now-ubiquitous interior design of nicely furnished business lounges. The vibes are matched by a "host of premium amenities engineered to streamline travel," like a lounge with expansive views of the surroundings, conference suites, an internet cafe, and a fully stocked coffee bar. Crew even get their own lounge areas, allowing for comfortably separated rest from their charges while they prep for the next leg.

Negotiations to Come, but at Least the Announcement Seems Positive

Hawaiian Airlines pilots in the ALPA Master Executive Committee likewise commented on the impending merge with Alaska Airlines, stating they were looking forward to a "bright and productive future as a single, unified pilot group." Hawaiian Airlines is a bit different from the norm among carriers, being a homegrown interisland operator from the outset. Locals are understandably wary about "big city folk" coming in to start shuffling routes for a vital form of transportation in such an expensive market. It's easy for those accustomed to mainland operations to see the apparent money sink that far-flung aircraft operations are, but Alaska should be the closest thing to a kindred