Quick Takes

Eclipse Will Monitor Performance Database on Jets
Eclipse has received FAA approval of its Flight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA) program. The system is similar to those used by airlines, in which onboard software records the aircraft performance data, and it is then downloaded into a central database for analysis. "FOQA is a perfect addition to our progressive safety management system, which gives us the tools to proactively ensure the highest level of safety across all Eclipse 500 operations," said Vern Raburn, president and CEO of Eclipse Aviation.
Instead of waiting for hazards to be identified through accidents, Eclipse says its system will identify risks so they can be managed in advance. FOQA is central to this process, allowing Eclipse to understand what is actually happening with the Eclipse 500 fleet in the field.

NBAA, Taxes & Security
NBAA called on the Internal Revenue Service and Treasury Department to modify proposed rules regulating some non-business use of aircraft. NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said the proposed regulations, as written, are confusing and create unnecessary administrative burdens on aircraft owners and operators. Bolen reported at a hearing that his members have expressed concerns in five key areas including: “the industry standard for defining the term ‘aircraft operating expenses,’ development of a charter rate method safe harbor, treatment of security costs, the method for aggregation of aircraft and the tax treatment of charitable flights. The testimony followed extensive written comments NBAA submitted on the proposed regulations which are on NBAA’s website.
Also on its website is an NBAA letter sent to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency, requesting an extension to its recent rulemaking on security and general aviation aircraft. The new rules require operators to submit passenger and aircraft owner/operator information prior to a flight departing from or to the U.S. Related Story  "While the general aviation community supports security enhancements, NBAA is troubled with the potential impact of the CBP's proposal, especially on small businesses," Bolen said when the proposed rules were introduced in September.