96-415. 1-g Stall Speed as the Basis for Compliance With Part 25 of the Federal Aviation Regulations  

  • [Federal Register Volume 61, Number 12 (Thursday, January 18, 1996)]
    [Proposed Rules]
    [Pages 1260-1268]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 96-415]
    
    
    
    
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    Part II
    
    
    
    
    
    Department of Transportation
    
    
    
    
    
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    Federal Aviation Administration
    
    
    
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    14 CFR Part 1, et al.
    
    
    
    1-g Stall Speed as the Basis for Compliance With Part 25 of the Federal 
    Aviation Regulations; Proposed Rule
    
    Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 12 / Thursday, January 18, 1996 / 
    Proposed Rules
    
    [[Page 1260]]
    
    
    DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
    
    Federal Aviation Administration
    
    14 CFR Parts 1, 25, 36, and 97
    
    [Docket No. 28404; Notice No. 95-17]
    RIN 2120-AD40
    
    
    1-g Stall Speed as the Basis for Compliance With Part 25 of the 
    Federal Aviation Regulations
    
    AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.
    
    ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.
    
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    SUMMARY: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes to redefine 
    the reference stall speed for transport category airplanes as the 1-g 
    stall speed instead of the minimum speed obtained in a stalling 
    maneuver. The proposed changes would: provide for a consistent, 
    repeatable reference stall speed; ensure consistent and dependable 
    maneuvering margins; provide for adjusted multiplying factors to 
    maintain approximately the current requirements in areas where use of 
    the minimum speed in the stalling maneuver has proven adequate; and 
    harmonize the applicable regulations with those proposed for the 
    European Joint Aviation Requirements-25 (JAR-25). These changes would 
    result in a higher level of safety for those cases in which current 
    methods would result in artificially low operating speeds.
    
    DATES: Comments must be received on or before May 17, 1996.
    
    ADDRESSES: Comments on this notice may be mailed in triplicate to: 
    Federal Aviation Administration, Office of the Chief Counsel, 
    Attention: Rules Docket (AGC-10), Docket No. 28404, 800 Independence 
    Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; or delivered in triplicate to: Room 
    915G, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591. Comments 
    delivered must be marked Docket No. 28404. Comments may be examined in 
    Room 915G weekdays, except Federal holidays, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 
    p.m. In addition, the FAA is maintaining an information docket of 
    comments in the Transport Airplane Directorate (ANM-100), Federal 
    Aviation Administration, Northwest Mountain Region, 1601 Lind Avenue 
    SW., Renton, WA 98055-4056. Comments in the information docket may be 
    examined weekdays, except Federal holidays, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 
    p.m.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Don Stimson, Flight Test and Systems 
    Branch, ANM-111, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
    Service, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98055-4056; telephone 
    (206) 227-1129; facsimile (206) 227-1320.
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 
    
    Comments Invited
    
        Interested persons are invited to participate in this proposed 
    rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they 
    may desire. Comments relating to any environmental, energy, or economic 
    impact that might result from adopting the proposals contained in this 
    notice are invited. Substantive comments should be accompanied by cost 
    estimates. Commenters should identify the regulatory docket or notice 
    number and submit comments in triplicate to the Rules Docket address 
    above. All comments received on or before the closing date for comments 
    will be considered by the Administrator before taking action on this 
    proposed rulemaking. The proposals contained in this notice may be 
    changed in light of comments received. All comments received will be 
    available in the Rules Docket, both before and after the comment period 
    closing date, for examination by interested persons. A report 
    summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel 
    concerning this rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Persons wishing 
    the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments must submit with those 
    comments a self-addressed, stamped postcard on which the following 
    statement is made: ``Comments to Docket No. 28404.'' The postcard will 
    be date stamped and returned to the commenter.
    
    Availability of the NPRM
    
        Any person may obtain a copy of this notice by submitting a request 
    to the Federal Aviation Administration, Office of Public Affairs, 
    Attention: Public Inquiry Center, APA-230, 800 Independence Avenue SW., 
    Washington, DC 20591; or by calling (202) 267-3484. The notice number 
    of this NPRM must be identified in all communications. Persons 
    interested in being placed on a mailing list for future rulemaking 
    documents should also request a copy of Advisory Circular No. 11-2A, 
    Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Distribution System, which describes the 
    application procedure.
    
    Background
    
        The stalling speed (V2) is defined as the minimum speed 
    demonstrated in the performance stall maneuver described in Sec. 25.103 
    of 14 CFR part 25 (part 25) of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR). 
    VS has historically served as a reference speed for determining 
    the minimum operating speeds for transport category airplanes. Examples 
    of minimum operating speeds that are based on VS include the 
    takeoff safety speed (V2), the final takeoff climb speed, and the 
    landing approach speed. The airworthiness standards of part 25 define 
    these speeds as multiples of VS. For example, V2 must be at 
    least 1.2 times VS, the final takeoff climb speed must be at least 
    1.25 times VS, and the landing approach speed must be at least 1.3 
    times VS.
        The speed margin, or difference in speed, between VS and each 
    minimum operating speed provides a safety ``cushion'' to ensure that 
    normal operating speeds are sufficiently higher than the speed at which 
    the airplane stalls. Using multiplying factors applied to VS to 
    provide this speed margin, however, assumes that VS provides a 
    proper reference stall speed. Since VS is the minimum speed 
    obtained in the stalling maneuver, it can be less than the lowest speed 
    at which the airplane's weight is still supported entirely by 
    aerodynamic lift. If VS is significantly less than this speed, 
    applying multiplying factors to VS to determine the minimum 
    operating speeds may not provide as large a speed margin as intended.
        A proper reference stall speed should provide a reasonably 
    consistent approximation of the wing's maximum usable lift. Maximum 
    usable lift occurs at the minimum speed for which the lift provided by 
    the wing is capable of supporting the weight of the airplane. This 
    speed is known as the 1-g stall speed because the load factor (the 
    ratio of airplane lift to weight) at this speed is equal to 1.0 ``g'' 
    (where ``g'' is the acceleration caused by the force of gravity) in the 
    direction perpendicular to the flight path of the airplane. A speed 
    lower than the 1-g stall speed represents a transient flight condition 
    that, if used as a reference for the deriving minimum operating speeds, 
    may not provide the desired speed margin to protect against 
    inadvertently stalling the airplane.
        For jet transport airplanes, the minimum speed obtained in the 
    stall maneuver of Sec. 25.103 usually occurs near the point in the 
    maneuver where the airplane spontaneously pitches nose-down or where 
    the pilot initiates recovery after reaching a deterrent level of 
    buffet, i.e., a vibration of a magnitude and severity that is a strong 
    and effective deterrent to further speed reduction. Early generation 
    transport airplanes, which had fairly straight 
    
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    wings, typically pitched nose-down near the 1-g stall speed. The 
    minimum speed in the maneuver was easy to note and record, and served 
    as an adequate approximation of the speed for maximum lift.
        For the recent generation of high speed transport airplanes with 
    swept wings, however, the minimum speed obtained in the stalling 
    maneuver can be substantially lower than the speed for maximum lift. 
    Furthermore, the point at which the airplane pitches nose down or 
    exhibits a deterrent level of buffet is more difficult to distinguish 
    and can vary with piloting technique. As a result, the minimum speed in 
    the stalling maneuver has become an inappropriate reference for most 
    modern high speed transport airplanes for establishing minimum 
    operating speeds since it may: (1) Be inconsistently determined, and 
    (2) represent a flight condition in which the load factor perpendicular 
    to the flight path is substantially less than 1.0 g.
        In recent years, advanced technology transport category airplanes 
    have been developed that employ novel flight control systems. These 
    flight control systems incorporate unique protection features that are 
    intended to prevent the airplane from stalling. They also prevent the 
    airplane from maintaining speeds that are slower than a small 
    percentage above the 1-g stall speed. Because of their unique design 
    features, the traditional method of establishing VS as the minimum 
    speed obtained in the stalling maneuver was inappropriate for these 
    airplanes. The FAA issued special conditions for these airplanes to 
    define the reference stall speed as the 1-g stall speed for the flight 
    requirements contained in subpart B of part 25 and the noise 
    requirements contained in part 36 of the FAR.
        In these special conditions, the multiplying factors used to 
    determine the minimum operating speeds were reduced in order to 
    maintain equivalency with acceptable operating speeds used by previous 
    jet transports. Since the 1-g stall speed is generally higher than the 
    minimum speed obtained in the stalling maneuver, retaining the current 
    multiplying factors would have resulted in higher minimum operating 
    speeds for airplanes using the 1-g stall speed as the reference stall 
    speed. However, increasing the minimum operating speeds would impose 
    costs on operators because payloads would have to be reduced to comply 
    with the regulations at the higher operating speeds. Based on the 
    service experience of the current fleet of jet transports, the costs 
    imposed would not be offset by a commensurate increase in safety.
        Several airplane types with conventional flight control systems 
    have also been certificated using the 1-g stall speed as the reference 
    stall speed. Because of the potential deficiencies in using the minimum 
    speed demonstrated in the stalling maneuver, the FAA has been 
    encouraging applicants to use the 1-g stall speed in lieu of the 
    minimum speed obtained in the stalling maneuver. Applicants generally 
    desire to use 1-g stall speeds because the 1-g stall speeds are less 
    dependent on pilot technique and other subjective evaluations. Hence, 
    1-g stall speeds are easier to predict and provide a higher level of 
    confidence for developing predictions of overall airplane performance. 
    Again, reduced multiplying factors are applied to the 1-g stall speeds 
    to obtain minimum operational service. Using 1-g stall speeds ensures 
    that the airplane's minimum operating speeds will not be unreasonably 
    low.
    
    Discussion of the Proposals
    
        The FAA proposes to define the reference stall speed in Sec. 25.103 
    as a 1-g stall speed, rather than the minimum speed obtained in the 
    stalling maneuver. This action would provide a consistent basis for use 
    in all type design certification requirements for transport category 
    airplanes. The FAA proposes to introduce the symbol VSR to 
    represent this speed and to indicate that it is different than the 
    minimum speed obtained in the stalling maneuver, VS.
        In addition, the FAA proposes to reduce the multiplying factors 
    that are used in combination with the reference stall speed to 
    determine the minimum operating speeds by approximately 6 percent. This 
    change would result in minimum operating speeds equivalent to those for 
    most current jet transports since the 1-g stall speed for these 
    airplanes is approximately 6 percent higher than the minimum speed 
    obtained in the stalling maneuver. Demonstrating a minimum stalling 
    speed more than 6 percent slower than the 1-g stall speed, which is 
    possible under the current standards, would provide an unacceptable 
    basis for determining the minimum operating speeds. The proposed 
    standards would prevent this situation from occurring. In this respect, 
    the proposed standards would provide a higher level of safety than the 
    existing standards.
        However, the reduced factors would allow lower minimum operating 
    speeds to be established for those airplanes that have a minimum speed 
    in the stalling maneuver approximately equal to the 1-g stall speed. 
    One particular class of airplanes for which this applies are airplanes 
    equipped with devices that abruptly push the nose down (e.g., stick 
    pushers) near the angle of attack for maximum lift. These devices are 
    typically installed on airplanes with unacceptable natural stalling 
    characteristics. The abrupt nose down push provides an artificial stall 
    indication and acceptable stall characteristics, and prevents the 
    airplane from reaching a potentially hazardous natural aerodynamic 
    stall. The minimum speed obtained in this maneuver is approximately 
    equal to the 1-g stall speed.
        Traditionally, the existing multiplying factors have been applied 
    to these airplanes. The proposal to define the reference stall speed as 
    the 1-g stall speed would not affect these airplanes, but reducing the 
    multiplying factors would allow lower minimum operating speeds to be 
    established. Therefore, this proposal would allow these airplanes to be 
    operated at speeds and angles-of-attack closer to the pusher activation 
    point than has been experienced in operational service.
        The FAA considers this reduction in operating speeds for pusher-
    equipped airplanes to be acceptable, provided the pusher reliably 
    performs its intended function and that unwanted operation is 
    minimized. The FAA intends to propose an acceptable method of 
    addressing these concerns in an upcoming revision to Advisory Circular 
    (AC) 25-7. In this material, the FAA will provide criteria for pusher 
    reliability, the effects of design and manufacturing tolerances on the 
    pusher activation point, design features such as phase advance and 
    filtering, and the affects of atmospheric turbulence and windshear.
        In addition to proposing to define the reference stall speed as the 
    1-g stall speed and to reduce the multiplying factors for establishing 
    the minimum operating speeds, the FAA also proposes to require 
    applicants to demonstrate adequate maneuvering capability during the 
    takeoff climb, en route climb, and landing approach phases of flight. 
    During a banked turn, a portion of the lift generated by the wing 
    provides a force to help turn the airplane. To remain at the same 
    altitude, the airplane must produce additional lift. Therefore, banking 
    the airplane (at a constant speed and altitude) reduces the stall 
    margin, which is the difference between the lift required for the 
    maneuver and the maximum lift capability of the wing. As the bank angle 
    increases, the stall margin is reduced proportionately. This bank angle 
    effect on the stall margin can be determined analytically, and the 
    multiplying factors applied to VSR to 
    
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    determine the minimum operating speeds are intended to ensure that an 
    adequate stall margin is maintained.
        In addition to the basic effect of bank angle, however, modern wing 
    designs also typically exhibit a significant reduction in maximum lift 
    capability with increasing Mach number. The magnitude of this Mach 
    number effect depends on the design characteristics of the particular 
    wing. For wing designs with a large Mach number effect, the maximum 
    bank angle that can be achieved while retaining an acceptable stall 
    margin can be significantly reduced. Because the effect of Mach number 
    can be significant, and because it can also vary greatly for different 
    wing designs, the multiplying factors applied to VSR are 
    insufficient to ensure that adequate maneuvering capability exists at 
    the minimum operating speeds.
        To address this issue, the FAA proposes to require a minimum bank 
    angle capability in a coordinated turn without encountering stall 
    warning or any other characteristic that might interfere with normal 
    maneuvering. This requirement would be added to Sec. 25.143 as a new 
    paragraph (g). The proposed minimum bank angles were derived by adding 
    a 15 degree allowance for wind gusts and inadvertent overshoot to a 
    maneuvering capability the FAA considers necessary for the specific 
    cases identified in the proposed new paragraph. These proposed maneuver 
    margin requirements are intended to ensure that the level of safety in 
    maneuvering flight is not reduced by the proposed change to the 
    reference stall speed and the reduction in the multiplying factors used 
    to determine the minimum operating speeds.
        Consistent with the proposed maneuver margin requirements, the FAA 
    proposes adding Secs. 25.107(c)(3), 25.107(g)(2), and 25.125(a)(2)(iii) 
    to reference Sec. 25.143(g) in the list of constraints applicants must 
    consider when selecting the minimum takeoff safety speed, final takeoff 
    speed, and reference landing speeds, respectively. The normal all-
    engines-operating takeoff climb speed selected by the applicant must 
    also provide the minimum bank angle capability specified in the 
    proposed Sec. 25.143(g).
        Section 25.145(a) requires that there be adequate longitudinal 
    control available to promptly pitch the airplane's nose down from at or 
    near the stall in order to return to original trim speed. The intent of 
    this requirement is to ensure sufficient pitch control for a prompt 
    recovery if the airplane is inadvertently slowed to the point of stall. 
    The FAA proposes to change the wording of this requirement to replace 
    ``VS'' with ``the stall,'' ``Sec. 25.103(b)(1)'' with 
    ``Sec. 25.103(a)(6),'' and ``at any speed'' with ``at any point.'' 
    These changes would be consistent with the proposed change to the 
    definition of the reference stall speed and the proposed re-formatting 
    of Sec. 25.103.
        Although Sec. 25.145(a) must be met both with power off and with 
    maximum continuous power, there is no intention to require flight test 
    demonstrations of full stalls at engine powers above that specified in 
    Sec. 25.201(a)(2). Instead of performing a full stall at maximum 
    continuous power, compliance may be assessed by demonstrating 
    sufficient static longitudinal stability and nose down control margin 
    when the deceleration is ended at least one second past stall warning 
    during a one knot per second deceleration. The static longitudinal 
    stability during the maneuver and the nose down control power remaining 
    at the end of the maneuver must be sufficient to assure compliance with 
    the requirement.
        Section 25.207 requires that a warning of an impending stall must 
    be provided in order to prevent the pilot from inadvertently stalling 
    the airplane. The warning must occur at a speed sufficiently higher 
    than the stall speed to allow the pilot time to take action to avoid a 
    stall. The speed difference between the stall speed and the speed at 
    which the stall warning occurs is known as the stall warning margin. 
    The FAA proposes amending the size of the stall warning margin required 
    by Sec. 25.207(c) because of the change in definition of the reference 
    stall speed.
        Currently, the stall warning must begin at a speed exceeding 
    VS by seven knots, or a lesser margin if the stall warning has 
    enough clarity, duration, distinctiveness, or other similar properties. 
    Requiring the same seven knot warning margin to be provided relative to 
    VSR would result in an increase to the minimum operating speeds. 
    This increase in the minimum operating speeds would be necessary to 
    meet the maneuvering margin requirements proposed in Sec. 25.143(g), 
    which are defined relative to the stall warning speed. However, as 
    discussed previously, requiring an increase to the minimum operating 
    speeds would impose costs to airplane operators that cannot be 
    justified by service experience.
        On the other hand, if the stall warning margin were reduced to 
    retain approximately the same stall warning speed, the warning would 
    occur only one or two knots prior to reaching the 1-g stall speed. 
    Although reaching the 1-g stall speed is not likely to be a 
    catastrophic occurrence, the FAA considers such a small stall warning 
    margin to be unacceptable. The FAA proposes requiring a stall warning 
    margin of at least 3 knots or 3 percent, whichever is greater, relative 
    to VSR. The FAA considers this margin to represent a reasonable 
    balance between providing the pilot with enough warning to avert an 
    impending stall, and providing adequate maneuvering capability at the 
    minimum operating speeds. This proposal would retain the existing level 
    of safety.
        The FAA proposes to require a larger stall warning margin for 
    airplanes equipped with devices that abruptly push the nose down at a 
    selected angle of attack (e.g., stick pushers). Inadvertent operation 
    of such a device, especially close to the ground, can have more serious 
    consequences than a comparable situation in which the pilot of an 
    airplane without the device inadvertently slows to VSR. Therefore, 
    the FAA proposes adding Sec. 25.207(d) to require the stall warning, 
    for airplanes equipped with one of these devices, to occur at least 5 
    knots or 5 percent, whichever is greater, above the speed at which the 
    device activates. This proposal is intended to retain the existing 
    level of safety for airplanes equipped with such devices.
        The FAA proposes to add a new paragraph, Sec. 25.207(e), to require 
    that, in a slow-down turn with load factors up to 1.5 g and 
    deceleration rates up to 3 knots per second, sufficient stall warning 
    must exist to prevent stalling when recovery is initiated not less than 
    one second after stall warning occurs. The FAA considers the proposed 
    requirement necessary to provide adequate stall warning during a 
    dynamic maneuver, such as a collision avoidance maneuver. In addition, 
    this new paragraph would provide a quantitative requirement with which 
    to assess whether ``sufficient margin to prevent inadvertent stalling * 
    * * in turning flight'' has been provided as required by 
    Sec. 25.207(a). This proposal would increase the level of safety during 
    maneuvering flight.
        The FAA proposes to add a new paragraph, Sec. 25.207(f), to require 
    that stall warning be provided for abnormal airplane configurations 
    likely to be used following system failures. This proposal adds a 
    requirement currently contained in JAR-25 and is consistent with 
    current transport airplane designs. There would be no impact on the 
    existing level of safety.
        On modern jet transports, the natural buffet or vibration caused by 
    the airflow separating and reattaching itself to the wing as the 
    airplane approaches the 
    
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    stall speed is usually not strong enough by itself to provide an 
    effective stall warning. Therefore, stall warning on modern transport 
    category airplanes is usually provided through an artificial means, 
    such as a stick shaker that shakes the pilot's control column. 
    Production tolerances associated with these systems can result in 
    variations in the size of the stall warning margin for different 
    airplanes manufactured under the same approved type design.
        The FAA considers the stall warning margins proposed in 
    Secs. 25.207(c) and (d) to be the minimum acceptable warning margins, 
    and that these margins should not be reduced by production tolerances 
    associated with a system added to the airplane to provide an artificial 
    stall warning. The FAA intends for the proposed stall warning margins 
    to be available at the most critical tolerance expected in production. 
    Applicants would be expected to demonstrate compliance with the 
    proposed stall warning margin either by flight testing with the stall 
    warning system set to its critical tolerance setting, or by adjusting 
    flight test data obtained at some other setting.
        The tolerances associated with the stall warning system must also 
    be considered in relation to the proposed minimum maneuvering 
    requirements of Sec. 25.143(g). As proposed, Sec. 25.143(g) would 
    require that the airplane be capable of reaching a minimum bank angle 
    during a coordinated turn without encountering stall warning. Because 
    the proposed requirements already provide the capability to overshoot 
    the intended bank angle by 15 degrees, the small differences in the 
    speed at which the stall warning system operates due to system 
    tolerances are not as critical. Therefore, the FAA intends for the 
    minimum bank angles in the proposed Sec. 25.143(g) to apply at the 
    designed nominal setting of the stall warning system. To ensure that 
    large production tolerances do not adversely impact the airplane's 
    maneuvering capability free of stall warning, the bank angle capability 
    specified in the proposed Sec. 25.143(g) should not be reduced by more 
    than two degrees with the stall warning system operating at its most 
    critical tolerance. Applicants would be expected to demonstrate this 
    capability either by flight test with the system set to its critical 
    tolerance, or by analytically adjusting flight test data obtained at 
    some other setting.
        To be consistent with the proposed revision of the definition of 
    the reference stall speed, the FAA proposes to incorporate reduced 
    multiplying factors throughout part 25, where appropriate, in 
    requirements that use speeds based on a multiple of the reference stall 
    speed. The FAA also proposes numerous minor wording and structural 
    changes to various sections to improve editorial clarity and to 
    harmonize with the wording and structure proposed for JAR-25.
        The FAA proposes to add the nomenclature ``final takeoff speed'' 
    and ``reference landing speed'' and the abbreviations ``VFTO'' and 
    ``VREF'' to denote these speeds, respectively, to part 1 of the 
    FAR. These terms and abbreviations, which are commonly used in the 
    aviation industry, would be referenced throughout the proposed 
    amendments to part 25. The reference landing speed would be defined as 
    the speed of the airplane, in a specified landing configuration, at the 
    point where it descends through the landing screen height in the 
    determination of the landing distance for manual landings. The term 
    ``landing screen height'' refers to the height of the airplane at the 
    beginning of the defined landing distance. This height is normally 50 
    feet above the landing surface (see Sec. 25.125(a)), but approvals have 
    been granted for steep approaches that use a landing screen height of 
    35 feet. The final takeoff speed would be defined as the speed of the 
    airplane that exists at the end of the takeoff path in the en route 
    configuration with one engine inoperative.
        The FAA also proposes to add the abbreviations VSR, VSR0, 
    and VSR1 to part 1, and use them in part 25 to denote the 
    reference stall speed corresponding to different airplane 
    configurations. In addition, the FAA proposes adding the abbreviation 
    VSW to part 1 to refer to the stall warning speed.
        The FAA proposes to amend Sec. C36.9(e)(1) by replacing ``1.3 
    VS + 10 knots'' with ``VREF + 10 knots'' and by removing the 
    words ``or the speed used in establishing the approved landing distance 
    under the airworthiness regulations constituting the type certification 
    basis of the airplane, whichever speed is greatest.'' The words 
    proposed to be deleted would no longer be necessary because VREF 
    would denote the speed used in establishing the approved landing 
    distance under the airworthiness regulations constituting the type 
    certification basis of the airplane. Also, VREF would refer to the 
    speed at the landing screen height, regardless of whether that speed 
    for a particular airplane is 1.3 VS, 1.23 VSR, or some higher 
    speed.
        In the same manner, the FAA proposes to amend Sec. 97.3(b) by 
    replacing ``1.3 VS0'' with ``VREF.'' As noted above, 
    VREF would refer to the speed at the landing screen height used in 
    establishing the approved landing distance under the airworthiness 
    regulations constituting the type certification basis of the airplane, 
    regardless of whether that speed for a particular airplane is 1.3 
    VS, 1.23 VSR, or some higher speed.
        These proposals have been discussed extensively with the European 
    Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) with the intent of harmonizing the 
    certification requirements related to stall speed for transport 
    category airplanes. The JAA intend to introduce an equivalent proposal 
    to amend the Joint Aviation Requirements-25 (JAR-25). JAR-25 prescribes 
    the airworthiness standards for transport category airplanes that are 
    accepted by the aviation regulatory authorities of 23 European nations. 
    When it is published, the JAA proposal will be placed in the docket for 
    this rulemaking.
    
    Regulatory Evaluation Summary
    
    Preliminary Regulatory Evaluation, Initial Regulatory Flexibility 
    Determination, and Trade Impact Assessment
    
        Proposed changes to Federal regulations must undergo several 
    economic analyses. First, Executive Order 12866 directs that each 
    Federal agency shall propose or adopt a regulation only upon a reasoned 
    determination that the benefits of the intended regulation justify its 
    costs. Second, the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 requires agencies 
    to analyze the economic effect of regulatory changes on small entities. 
    Third, the Office of Management and Budget directs agencies to assess 
    the effects of regulatory changes on international trade. In conducting 
    these analyses, the FAA has determined that this proposed rule: (1) 
    Would generate benefits that justify its costs and is not a 
    ``significant regulatory action'' as defined in the Executive Order; 
    (2) is not significant as defined in DOT's Regulatory Policies and 
    Procedures; (3) would not have a significant impact on a substantial 
    number of small entities; and (4) would not constitute a barrier to 
    international trade. These analyses, available in the docket, are 
    summarized below.
    
    Regulatory Evaluation Summary
    
    Costs
        The proposed requirements would apply to future type certificated 
    transport category airplanes and generally would not impose significant 
    additional costs on manufacturers. One major manufacturer demonstrated 
    adherence to the 1-g stall speed basis in recent FAA special conditions 
    
    
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    applicable to several models of advanced technology airplanes. Other 
    manufacturers have requested certification to the 1-g stall speed basis 
    through equivalent safety findings for airplanes with conventional 
    flight control systems.
        Cost estimates provided by manufacturers generally did not vary 
    significantly. Data provided by a manufacturer of part 25 small 
    airplanes, however, showed costs several hundred thousand dollars 
    higher than the norm. That manufacturer estimated that short-term costs 
    (mostly non-recurring) to convert to the new stall speed basis would be 
    over $1 million and that increased costs on a program-by-program basis 
    would ``be substantial.'' Because of the gross nature of these 
    estimates and because of the inability to segment them on a per-
    certification basis, they have not been incorporated into this 
    analysis. The FAA invites manufacturers to provide detailed cost 
    estimates during the public comment period.
        Although several sections of part 25 would be revised by the 
    proposal, only five merit analysis: Sections 25.103 (Stall speed), 
    25.107 (Takeoff speeds), 25.125 (Landing), 25.143 (General) (under 
    Controllability and Maneuverability), and 25.207 (Stall warning).
    Section 25.103 (Stall Speed)
        The proposal to redefine the reference stall speed as a 1-g stall 
    speed could result in a net reduction in certification costs for part 
    25 large airplanes. In some recent airplane designs, manufacturers have 
    used the 1-g stall speed as the reference stall speed. Calculation of 
    the reference stall speed (VSR) is within the range of 
    instrumentation currently available and additional instrumentation 
    would not be required. Existing techniques to determine minimum speed 
    in the stalling maneuver require six to eight independent stalls at 
    various flap settings; determination of 1-g stall speed could require 
    approximately half as many. Cost-savings could be in the range of 
    $50,000 to $100,000 per type certification.
        Recent part 25 small transport category airplane certifications, on 
    the other hand, have not been based on the 1-g stall speed. 
    Consequently, additional instrumentation and analysis would be 
    required. Incremental one-time costs for a part 25 small airplane 
    design would be approximately $70,000. However, cost savings 
    attributable to reduced testing could be realized in future 
    certifications (see previous paragraph re part 25 large airplanes).
    Section 25.107 (Takeoff Speeds)
        The proposed changes to this section, by virtue of the new 
    maneuvering requirements of Sec. 25.143(g), could affect airplane 
    operators if the proposed maneuvering requirements necessitate higher 
    takeoff/climb speeds and lower passenger/cargo capacity on length-
    limited runways. Because of the myriad combinations of airplanes, 
    runways, passenger/cargo loads, etc., the FAA is unable to estimate 
    potential capacity limitations. The FAA invites interested parties to 
    provide estimates of such effects during the public comment period.
    Section 25.125 (Landing)
        As in the case of Sec. 25.107 above, the proposed changes to this 
    section could potentially affect operators by virtue of the new 
    maneuvering requirements in Sec. 25.143(g). Again, the FAA invites 
    interested parties to submit cost estimates during the public comment 
    period.
    Section 25.143 (General)
        Incremental costs that would be incurred by manufacturers to 
    determine minimum maneuvering margins are estimated to total 
    approximately $150,000 per part 25 large airplane type certification 
    and approximately $50,000 per part 25 small airplane type 
    certification.
    Section 25.207 (Stall Warning)
        Incremental costs that would be incurred by manufacturers to 
    provide sufficient stall warning at the various proposed slow-down 
    speeds and configurations are estimated to total approximately $120,000 
    per part 25 large airplane type certification and approximately 
    $200,000 per part 25 small airplane type certification.
    Total Costs
        Manufacturers of part 25 large airplanes have already incurred the 
    major portion of the start-up costs to convert to a 1-g stall speed 
    system and would therefore experience lower incremental costs than 
    manufacturers of part 25 small airplanes. The estimated costs to meet 
    the revised standards would total approximately $195,000 per part 25 
    large airplane type certification (costs associated with Secs. 25.143 
    and 25.207 reduced by the midpoint of the cost-savings range of 
    Sec. 25.103). Assuming 500 airplanes produced under one type 
    certification, this would equate to $390 per airplane.
        Manufacturers of part 25 small airplanes would experience one-time 
    costs of $70,000 in conjunction with Sec. 25.103. In addition, costs 
    for each future type certification would total approximately $250,000 
    (attributable to Secs. 25.143 and 25.207), or about $500 per airplane 
    over a 500 airplane production run. A portion of these costs may be 
    offset by reduced testing requirements per revised Sec. 25.103. The 
    potential operating costs of proposed Secs. 25.107 and 25.125 have not 
    been estimated in this evaluation; the FAA invites interested parties 
    to provide cost estimates during the public comment period.
    Benefits
        Redefining the airplane reference stall speed as the 1-g stall 
    speed would result in a higher level of safety in those cases where 
    current methods could result in artificially low operating speeds. New 
    requirements for minimum maneuvering margins would assure that safe 
    margins are obtained at the minimum operating speeds, thus diminishing 
    the possibility of inadvertent stalls at critical flight stages.
        A review of National Transportation Safety Board accident reports 
    for the years 1983-1992 does not indicate that any accidents have been 
    caused by inconsistent/inappropriate reference stall speeds. There were 
    several accidents in which inadvertent stalls were cited as a 
    contributing factor, but pilot error (e.g., airspeed not properly 
    maintained) was the probable cause rather than inherent problems with 
    the reference stall speed. In spite of the absence of directly aligned 
    accidents, the FAA postulates that, without the revisions in stall 
    speed as proposed or effected through special conditions, safety could 
    reach unacceptably low levels. The benefits associated with avoiding a 
    single accident would far exceed the costs of the proposed rule.
    
    Regulatory Flexibility Determination
    
        The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (RFA) was enacted by 
    Congress to insure that small entities are not unnecessarily or 
    disproportionately burdened by Government regulations. The RFA requires 
    agencies to determine whether proposed rules would have ``a significant 
    economic impact on a substantial number of small entities'' and, in 
    cases where they would, to conduct a Regulatory Flexibility Analysis. 
    As prescribed in implementing FAA Order 2100.14A, the size threshold 
    for a small aircraft manufacturer is one having 75 or fewer employees. 
    Since there are no manufacturers of part 25 airplanes with 75 or fewer 
    employees, the proposed rule would not have a significant economic 
    impact on a substantial number of small entities.
    
    [[Page 1265]]
    
    
    International Trade Impact Assessment
    
        The proposed rule would not constitute a barrier to international 
    trade, including the export of U.S. airplanes to foreign markets and 
    the import of foreign airplanes into the U.S. Instead, the proposed 
    changes would harmonize with corresponding proposals of the European 
    Joint Aviation Authorities, thereby lessening restraints on trade.
    
    Federalism Implications
    
        The amended regulations proposed in this rulemaking would not have 
    substantial direct effects on the States, on the relationship between 
    the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power 
    and responsibilities among the various levels of government. Therefore, 
    in accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined that this 
    proposal would not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant 
    preparing a Federalism Assessment.
    
    Conclusion
    
        Because the proposed changes to redefine the reference stall speed 
    for transport category airplanes as the 1-g stall speed are not 
    expected to result in substantial economic cost, the FAA has determined 
    that this proposed regulation would not be significant under Executive 
    Order 12866. Because this is an issue which has not prompted a great 
    deal of public concern, the FAA has determined that this action is not 
    significant under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, 
    February 25, 1979). In addition since there are no small entities 
    affected by this proposed rulemaking, the FAA certifies, under the 
    criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act, that this rule, if adopted, 
    will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a 
    substantial number of small entities. An initial regulatory evaluation 
    of the proposal, including a Regulatory Flexibility Determination and 
    Trade Impact Analysis, has been placed in the docket. A copy may be 
    obtained by contacting the person identified under FOR FURTHER 
    INFORMATION CONTACT.
    
    List of Subjects
    
    14 CFR Part 1
    
        Air transportation.
    
    14 CFR Part 25
    
        Aircraft, Aviation safety, Reporting and recordkeeping 
    requirements.
    
    14 CFR Part 36
    
        Agriculture, Aircraft, Noise control.
    
    14 CFR Part 97
    
        Air traffic control, Airports, Navigation (air), Weather.
    
    The Proposed Amendments
    
        Accordingly, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes to 
    amend 14 CFR parts 1, 25, 36, and 97 of the Federal Aviation 
    Regulations (FAR) as follows:
    
    PART 1--DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
    
        1. The authority citation for part 1 is revised to read as follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
    
        2. Section 1.1 is amended by adding new definitions in alphabetical 
    order to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 1.1  General definitions.
    
    * * * * *
        Final takeoff speed means the speed of the airplane that exists at 
    the end of the takeoff path in the en route configuration with one 
    engine inoperative.
    * * * * *
        Reference landing speed means the speed of the airplane, in a 
    specified landing configuration, at the point where it descends through 
    the landing screen height in the determination of the land distance for 
    manual landings.
    * * * * *
        3. Section 1.2 is amended by adding new terms in alphabetical order 
    to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 1.2  Abbreviations and symbols.
    
    * * * * *
        VFTO means final takeoff speed.
    * * * * *
        VREF means reference landing speed.
    * * * * *
        VSR means reference stall speed.
        VSR0 means reference stall speed in the landing configuration.
        VSR1 means reference stall speed in a specific configuration.
        VSW means speed at which onset of natural or artificial stall 
    warning occurs.
    * * * * *
    
    PART 25--AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS: TRANSPORT CATEGORY AIRPLANES
    
        4. The authority citation for part 25 is revised to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701, 44702, 22704.
    
        5. Section 25.103 is revised to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.103  Stall speed.
    
        (a) The reference stall speed, VSR, is a calibrated airspeed 
    as defined in paragraph (c) of this section. VSR is determined 
    with--
        (1) Engines idling, or, if that resultant thrust causes an 
    appreciable decrease in stall speed, not more than zero thrust at the 
    stall speed;
        (2) Propeller pitch controls (if applicable) in the takeoff 
    position;
        (3) The airplane in other respects (such as flaps and landing gear) 
    in the condition existing in the test in which VSR is being used;
        (4) The weight used when VSR is being used as a factor to 
    determine compliance with a required performance standard;
        (5) The center of gravity position that results in the highest 
    value of reference stall speed; and
        (6) The airplane trimmed for straight flight at a speed selected by 
    the applicant, but not less than 1.13 VSR and not greater than 1.3 
    VSR.
        (b) Starting from the stabilized trim condition, apply elevator 
    control to decelerate the airplane so that the speed reduction does not 
    exceed one knot per second.
        (c) The reference stall speed, VSR, is a calibrated airspeed 
    determined in the stalling maneuver. VSR may not be less than a 1-
    g stall speed. VSR is expressed as:
    [GRAPHIC][TIFF OMITTED]TP18JA96.000
    
    where--
    
    VCLMAX = Speed occurring when lift coefficient is first a maximum. 
    In addition, if the stalling maneuver is limited by a device that 
    commands an abrupt nose down pitch (e.g., a stick pusher), VCLMAX 
    may not be less than the speed existing at the instant the device 
    operates; and
    nZW = Flight patch normal load factor (not greater than 1.0) at 
    VCLMAX.
    
        6. Section 25.107 is amended by revising paragraphs (b)(1) 
    introductory text, (b)(2) introductory text, (c)(1) and (c)(2), and by 
    adding new paragraphs (c)(3) and (g) to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.107  Takeoff speeds.
    
    * * * * *
        (b) * * *
        (1) 1.13 VSR for--
    * * * * *
        (2) 1.08 VSR for--
    * * * * *
        (c) * * *
        (1) V2MIN;
        (2) VR plus the speed increment attained (in accordance with 
    Sec. 25.111(c)(2)) before reaching a height of 35 feet above the 
    takeoff surface; and
    
    [[Page 1266]]
    
        (3) A speed that provides the maneuvering capability specified in 
    Sec. 25.143(g).
    * * * * *
        (g) VFTO, in terms of calibrated airspeed, must be selected by 
    the applicant to provide at least the gradient of climb required by 
    Sec. 25.121(c), but may not be less than--
        (1) 1.18 VSR; and
        (2) A speed that provides the maneuvering capability specified in 
    Sec. 25.143(g).
        7. Section 25.111 is amended by revising paragraph (a) introductory 
    text to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.111  Takeoff path.
    
        (a) The takeoff path extends from a standing start to a point in 
    the takeoff at which the airplane is 1,500 feet above the takeoff 
    surface, or at which the transition from the takeoff to the en route 
    configuration is completed and VFTO is reached, whichever point is 
    higher. In addition--
    * * * * *
        8. Section 25.119 is amended by revising the section heading and 
    paragraph (b) to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.119  Landing climb: All-engines-operating.
    
    * * * * *
        (b) A climb speed of not more than VREF.
        9. Section 25.121 is amended by revising paragraphs (c) 
    introductory text, (d) introductory text, (d)(2) and (d)(3), and by 
    adding paragraph (d)(4) to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.121  Climb: One-engine-inoperative.
    
    * * * * *
        (c) Final takeoff. In the en route configuration at the end of the 
    takeoff path determined in accordance with Sec. 25.111, the steady 
    gradient of climb may not be less than 1.2 percent for two-engine 
    airplanes, 1.5 percent for three-engine airplanes and 1.7 percent for 
    four-engine airplanes, at VFTO and with--
    * * * * *
        (d) Approach. In a configuration corresponding to the normal all-
    engines-operating procedure in which VSR for this configuration 
    does not exceed 110 percent of the VSR for the related all-
    engines-operating landing configuration, the steady gradient of climb 
    may not be less than 2.1 percent for two-engine airplanes, 2.4 percent 
    for three-engine airplanes, and 2.7 percent for four engine airplanes, 
    with--
        (1) * * *
        (2) The maximum landing weight;
        (3) A climb speed established in connection with normal landing 
    procedures, but not more than 1.4 VSR; and
        (4) Landing gear retracted.
        10. Section 25.125 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(2) to read 
    as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.125  Landing.
    
        (a) * * *
        (2) A stabilized approach, with a calibrated airspeed of VREF, 
    must be maintained down to the 50 foot height. VREF may not be 
    less than--
        (i) 1.23 VSR0,
        (ii) VMCL established under Sec. 25.149(f); and
        (ii) A speed that provides the maneuvering capability specified in 
    Sec. 25.143(g).
    * * * * *
        11. Section 25.143 is amended by adding a new paragraph (g) to read 
    as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.143  General.
    
    * * * * *
        (g) The maneuvering capabilities in a constant speed coordinated 
    turn at forward center of gravity, as specified in the following table, 
    must be free of stall warning or other characteristics that might 
    interfere with normal maneuvering:
    
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           Maneuvering                              
                                                                            bank angle                              
                  Configuration                           Speed                in a         Thrust/power setting    
                                                                           coordinated                              
                                                                               turn                                 
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Takeoff..................................  V2........................    30 deg.    Asymmetric WAT-limited.1    
    Takeoff..................................  V2+XX 2...................    40 deg.    All-engines-operating       
                                                                                         climb.3                    
    En route.................................  VFTO......................    40 deg.    Asymmetric WAT-limited.1    
    Landing..................................  VREF......................    40 deg.    Symmetric for -3 deg. flight
                                                                                         path angle.                
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \1\ A combination of weight, altitude, and temperature (WAT) such that the thrust or power setting produces the 
      minimum climb gradient specified in Sec.  25.121 for the flight condition.                                    
    \2\ Airspeed approved for all-engines-operating initial climb.                                                  
    \3\ That thrust or power setting which, in the event of failure of the critical engine and without any crew     
      action to adjust the thrust or power of the remaining engines, would result in the thrust or power specified  
      for the takeoff condition at V2, or any lesser thrust or power setting that is used for all engines-operating 
      initial climb procedures.                                                                                     
    
        12. Section 25.145 is amended by revising paragraphs (a) 
    introductory text, (a)(1), (b)(1), (b)(4), (b)(6), and (c) introductory 
    text to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.145  Longitudinal control.
    
        (a) It must be possible, at any point between the trim speed 
    prescribed in Sec. 25.103(a)(6) and the stall, to pitch the nose 
    downward so that the acceleration to this selected trim speed is prompt 
    with--
        (1) The airplane trimmed at the trim speed prescribed in 
    Sec. 25.103(a)(6);
     * * * * *
        (b) * * *
        (1) With power off, flaps retracted, and the airplane trimmed at 
    1.3 VSR1, extend the flaps as rapidly as possible while 
    maintaining the airspeed at approximately 30 percent above the 
    reference stall speed existing at each instant throughout the maneuver.
     * * * * *
        (4) With power off, flaps retracted, and the airplane trimmed at 
    1.3 VSR1, rapidly set go-around power or thrust while maintaining 
    the same airspeed.
     * * * * *
        (6) With power off, flaps extended, and the airplane trimmed at 1.3 
    VSR1, obtain and maintain airspeeds between VSW and either 
    1.6 VSR1 or VFE, whichever is lower.
        (c) It must be possible, without exceptional piloting skill, to 
    prevent loss of altitude when complete retraction of the high lift 
    devices from any position is begun during steady, straight, level 
    flight at 1.08 VSR1 for propeller powered airplanes, or 1.13 
    VSR1 for turbojet powered airplanes, with--
     * * * * *
    
    
    Sec. 25.147  [Amended]
    
        13. Section 25.147 is amended in paragraphs (a) introductory text, 
    (a)(2), (c) introductory text, and (d) by revising the expression ``1.4 
    VS1'' to read ``1.3 VSR1''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.149  [Amended]
    
        14. Section 25.149 is amended in paragraph (c) introductory text by 
    revising the expression ``1.2 VS'' to read ``1.13 VSR.''
    
    
    Sec. 25.161  [Amended]
    
        15. Section 25.161 is amended in paragraphs (b), (c)(1), (c)(2), 
    (c)(3) and (d) introductory text by revising the expression ``1.4 
    VS1'' to read ``1.3 VSR1''; and in paragraph (e)(3) by 
    revising the expression ``0.013 VS02'' to read 
    ``0.013VSR02''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.175  [Amended]
    
        16. Section 25.175 is amended in paragraphs (a)(2), (b)(1) 
    introductory text, (b)(2) introductory text, (b)(3) 
    
    [[Page 1267]]
    introductory text and (c)(4) by revising the expression ``1.4 
    VS1'' to read ``1.3 VSR1'', in paragraph (b)(2)(ii) by 
    revising the expression ``VMO+1.4 VS1/2'' to read 
    ``(VMO+1.3 VSR1)/2'', in paragraph (c) introductory text by 
    revising the expressions ``1.1 VS1'' to read ``VSW'' and 
    ``1.8 VS1'' to read ``1.7 VSR1'', in paragraph (d) 
    introductory text by revising the expressions ``1.1 VS0'' to read 
    ``VSW'' and ``1.3 VS0'' to read ``1.7 VSR0'', and in 
    paragraph (d)(5) by revising the expression ``1.4 VSO'' to read 
    ``1.3 VSR0''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.177  [Amended]
    
        17. Section 25.177 is amended in paragraph (c) by revising the 
    expression ``1.2 VS1'' to read ``1.13 VSR1''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.181  [Amended]
    
        18. Section 25.181 is amended in paragraphs (a) introductory text 
    and (b) by revising the reference ``1.2 VS'' to read ``1.13 
    VSR''.
        19. Section 25.201 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(2) and 
    (b)(4) to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.201  Stall demonstration.
    
        (a) * * *
        (2) The power necessary to maintain level flight at 1.5 VSR1 
    (where VSR1 corresponds to the reference stall speed with flaps in 
    the approach position, the landing gear retracted, and the maximum 
    landing weight).
        (b) * * *
        (4) The airplane trimmed for straight flight at the speed 
    prescribed in Sec. 25.103(a)(6).
    * * * * *
        20. Section 25.207 is amended by revising paragraphs (b) and (c), 
    and by adding new paragraphs (d), (e), and (f) to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.207  Stall warning.
    
    * * * * *
        (b) The warning must be furnished either through the inherent 
    aerodynamic qualities of the airplane or by a device that will give 
    clearly distinguishable indications under expected conditions of 
    flight. However, a visual stall warning device that requires the 
    attention of the crew within the cockpit is not acceptable by itself. 
    If a warning device is used, it must provide a warning in each of the 
    airplane configurations prescribed in paragraph (a) of this section at 
    the speed prescribed in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section.
        (c) When the speed is reduced at rates not exceeding one knot per 
    second, with engines idling and throttles closed, stall warning must 
    begin, in each normal configuration, at a speed, VSW, exceeding 
    the reference stall speed by not less than three knots or three 
    percent, whichever is greater. For the purposes of this paragraph, the 
    reference stall speed is as defined in Sec. 25.103, except that 
    Sec. 25.103(a)(5) does not apply. Stall warning must continue 
    throughout the demonstration, until the angle of attack is reduced to 
    approximately that at which stall warning is initiated.
        (d) In addition to the requirements of paragraph (c) of this 
    section, when devices that abruptly push the nose down at a selected 
    angle of attack (e.g., stick pushers) are installed, the stall warning 
    must occur at a speed not less than five knots or five percent, 
    whichever is greater, above the speed at which the device activates.
        (e) In slow-down turns up to 1.5g at entry rates up to 3 knots per 
    second, with the flaps and landing gear in any normal position, the 
    stall warning margin must be sufficient to allow the pilot to prevent 
    stalling when recovery is initiated not less than one second after the 
    onset of stall warning.
        (f) Stall warning must also be provided in each abnormal 
    configuration of the high lift devices that is likely to be used in 
    flight following system failures (including all configurations covered 
    by Airplane Flight Manual procedures).
    
    
    Sec. 25.231  [Amended]
    
        21. Section 25.231 is amended in paragraph (a)(2) by revising the 
    word ``altitude'' to read ``attitude'' and by revising the expression 
    ``80 percent of VS1'' to read ``75 percent of VSR1''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.233  [Amended]
    
        22. Section 25.233 is amended in paragraph (a) by revising the 
    reference ``0.2 VS0'' to read ``0.2 VSR0''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.237  [Amended]
    
        23. Section 25.237 is amended in paragraphs (a), (b)(1), and (b)(2) 
    by revising the reference ``0.2 VS0'' to read ``0.2 VSR0''.
        24. Action 25.735 is amended by revising paragraphs (f)(2) and (g) 
    to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 25.735  Brakes.
    
    * * * * *
        (f) * * *
        (2) Instead of a rational analysis, the kinetic energy absorption 
    requirements for each main wheel brake assembly may be derived from the 
    following formula, which must be modified in the case of unequal 
    braking distribution, which assumes an equal distribution of braking 
    between main wheels:
    
        KE=0.0443 (WV2/N)
    where--
    
    KE=Kinetic energy per wheel (ft.-lb.);
    W=Design landing weight (lb.);
    V=VREF/1.3
    VREF=Airplane steady landing approach speed, in knots, at the 
    maximum design landing weight and in the landing configuration at sea 
    level; and
    N=Number of main wheels with brakes.
    
        (g) The minimum speed rating of each main wheel-brake assembly 
    (that is, the initial speed used in the dynamometer tests) may not be 
    more than the V used in the determination of kinetic energy in 
    accordance with paragraph (f) of this section, assuming that the test 
    procedures for wheel-brake assemblies involve a specified rate of 
    deceleration, and, therefore, for the same amount of kinetic energy, 
    the rate of energy absorption (the power absorbing ability of the 
    brake) varies inversely with the initial speed.
    
    
    Sec. 25.773  [Amended]
    
        25. Section 25.773 is amended in paragraph (b)(1)(i) by revising 
    the expression ``1.6 VS1'' to read ``1.5 VSR1''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.1001  [Amended]
    
        26. Section 25.1001 is amended in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(3) by 
    revising the expression ``1.4 VS1'' to read ``1.3 VSR1''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.1323  [Amended]
    
        27. Section 25.1323 is amended in paragraph (c)(1) by revising the 
    expression ``1.3 VS1'' to read ``1.23 VSR1'' and in paragraph 
    (c)(2) by revising the expression ``1.3 VS0'' to read ``1.23 
    VSR0''.
    
    
    Sec. 25.1325  [Amended]
    
        28. Section 25.1325 is amended in paragraph (e) by revising the 
    expressions ``1.3 VS0'' and ``1.8 VS1'' to read ``1.23 
    VSR0'' and ``1.7 VSR1'', respectively.
    
    
    Sec. 25.1587  [Amended]
    
        29. Section 25.1587 is amended in paragraph (b)(2) by revising the 
    expression ``VS'' to read ``VSR''.
    
    PART 36--NOISE STANDARDS: AIRCRAFT TYPE AND AIRWORTHINESS 
    CERTIFICATION
    
        30. The authority citation for part 36 continues to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 
    44701-44702, 44704, 44715; sec. 305, Pub. L. 96-193, 94 Stat. 50, 
    57; E.O. 11514, 35 FR 4247, 3 CFR, 1966-1970 comp., p. 902.
    
        31. Appendix C to part 36, Section C36.9 is amended by revising 
    paragraph (e)(1) to read as follows:
    
    [[Page 1268]]
    
    
    Appendix C to Part 36--Noise Levels for Transport Category and Turbojet 
    Powered Airplanes Under Sec. 36.201
    
    * * * * *
    
    Sec. C36.9 Approach Reference and Test Limitations
    
    * * * * *
        (e) * * *
        (1) For subsonic airplanes a steady approach speed of VREF + 
    10 knots must be established and maintained over the approach measuring 
    point.
    * * * * *
    
    PART 97--STANDARD INSTRUMENT APPROACH PROCEDURES
    
        32. The authority citation for part 97 is revised to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40103, 40106, 40113, 40114, 40120, 
    44502, 44514, 44701, 44719, 44721-44722.
    
        33. Section 97.3 is amended by revising the first two sentences of 
    paragraph (b) introductory text to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 97.3  Symbols and terms used in procedures.
    
    * * * * *
        (b) Aircraft approach category means a grouping of aircraft based 
    on a speed of VREF at the maximum certificated landing weight. 
    VREF and the maximum certificated landing weight are those values 
    as established for the aircraft by the certification authority of the 
    country of registry. * * *
    * * * * *
        Issued in Washington, DC on November 29, 1995.
    Thomas E. McSweeny,
    Director, Aircraft Certification Service.
    [FR Doc. 96-415 Filed 1-17-96; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 4910-13-M
    
    

Document Information

Published:
01/18/1996
Department:
Federal Aviation Administration
Entry Type:
Proposed Rule
Action:
Notice of proposed rulemaking.
Document Number:
96-415
Dates:
Comments must be received on or before May 17, 1996.
Pages:
1260-1268 (9 pages)
Docket Numbers:
Docket No. 28404, Notice No. 95-17
RINs:
2120-AD40: 1-G Stalling Speed as a Basis for Aircraft Parts
RIN Links:
https://www.federalregister.gov/regulations/2120-AD40/1-g-stalling-speed-as-a-basis-for-aircraft-parts
PDF File:
96-415.pdf
CFR: (34)
14 CFR 25.103(a)(6)
14 CFR 25.103(a)(5)
14 CFR 25.111(c)(2))
14 CFR 25.121(c)
14 CFR 25.143(g)
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