Interesting Sidelights – Congestion Pricing, New PAMA Cert Program, New Grob MD

Congestion Pricing Delayed
Industry opposition to plans allowing airports to charge different landing fees based on congestion, resulted in a delay in implementation of the program, after Air Transport Association was granted a 30-day extension in the comment period. Related Story Even so, airports, said Airports Council International – North America Executive Vice President for Policy and External Affairs Deborah McElroy, are ready to implement the new policy.

PAMA/SAE Institute Announce Certification Program
Aircraft maintenance technicians now have the opportunity to certify their skills through the PAMA/SAE Institute Aviation Maintenance and Production Certification Program. Developed in adherence with industry consensus standards, the program initially offers two designations:
Non-certificated individuals can earn the Aviation Maintenance Specialist (AMS) certification and the FAA-certificated Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics can earn the Aviation Maintenance Engineer (AME) certification
“This program is really the first of its kind,” Brian Finnegan, SAE Institute Director of Professional Certification, said. “It establishes a broad system of technical career paths, it quantifies knowledge at many different skill levels, and it enables technicians to verify and document their skills.”
The certification exam launched on Feb. 18, and is available throughout the year in test centers worldwide. Organizations seeking certification for their employees in groups can arrange for the exam to be administered at their own facilities.

New MD for Grob
Effective February 1, Ulrich Gehling has assumed the leadership of Grob Aerospace GmbH, Germany as managing director. Gehling joins the company from Pilatus in Switzerland, where he fulfilled many roles during his tenure including head of the Pilatus PC21 program, which he successfully oversaw through certification. Most recently, Ulrich Gehling headed the Next Generation Pilatus PC12 development. Dr. Andreas Strohmayer remains in position as joint managing director.