While the FAA contemplates scaling back on its pandemic-related exemptions, the agency did recently provide relief from certain crew training mandates until March 31, 2021. The latest exemptions continue to permit Part 121 and Part 135 operators to use alternative methods for emergency and abnormal procedures required during training. These requirements involve the use of breathing equipment or an oxygen mask.

In noting that it had received the extension, the National Air Transportation Association said it is still awaiting word on a similar request surrounding training deadlines.

NBAA cautioned that this is expected to be the last extension for this training exemption. “The FAA made it clear that operators should not expect any further extensions to these exemptions, so operators will need to start planning ahead for travel and quarantine complications,” said NBAA director of flight operations and regulations Brian Koester.

“While the current circumstances warrant an extension of the relief provided by Exemption No. 18509B, the FAA notes that, by the expiration date of this extension, 12 calendar months will have passed since the FAA first granted relief,” the agency said. “The FAA expects that this timeframe is sufficient for certificate holders to have implemented appropriate plans, processes, and procedures to effectively clean and disinfect emergency equipment so that crewmembers may complete training using the normal procedures.”

Meanwhile, the associations are turning to preparations for normalizing operations once Covid-19 vaccines become available, including seeking clear guidance on their use.  In addition, NATA Compliance Services is looking at devising means of proof of vaccination for crewmembers through the Crew ID badging program.