H.R. 4994: Safe Air on Airplanes Act

This bill, titled the Safe Air on Airplanes Act, seeks to phase out the use of bleed air systems in certain aircraft to enhance air quality on airplanes. The bill includes several key provisions regarding the regulation and use of bleed air systems, which are integral to the pressurization and ventilation of modern aircraft.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• Update Regulations: The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is required to update existing regulations within six months of the bill's enactment.
• Prohibition on New Aircraft Designs: The bill prohibits any new type certified turbine and turbo-prop aircraft designs from using bleed air systems.
• Implementation of Filters: Starting seven years after the enactment of the bill, any bleed air system in new aircraft must be equipped with filters designed to remove gaseous and particulate components of oil fumes.
• Phase-Out Plan for Existing Designs: The bill establishes a clear timeline for phasing out bleed air systems in existing aircraft designs:
  • By 10 years after enactment, 25% of turbine and turbo-prop aircraft must be manufactured without bleed air systems.
  • By 20 years after enactment, 50% must be manufactured without bleed air systems.
  • By 30 years after enactment, 100% must be manufactured without bleed air systems.

Definition of Bleed Air System

The bill defines a bleed air system as:

• A system that utilizes compressed air taken from an aircraft engine or auxiliary power unit, specifically from a point before the combustion chamber or from a turbine engine-driven shaft.
• A system that delivers pressurized air to the aircraft's pneumatic systems, which could be inhaled or come in contact with passengers or crew, primarily for ventilation purposes.

Objectives of the Bill

The primary aim of the Safe Air on Airplanes Act is to improve the safety and quality of air that passengers and crew are exposed to during flights, particularly by addressing concerns related to oil fumes associated with bleed air systems.

Implementation and Compliance

The bill mandates that the FAA take specific regulatory actions to ensure compliance with the new standards regarding bleed air systems in aircraft within the prescribed time frames.

Relevant Companies

• BA - Boeing: As a major aircraft manufacturer, changes in regulations regarding bleed air systems could affect Boeing's aircraft design and production processes.
• RTX - Raytheon Technologies: This company, which includes Pratt & Whitney, a manufacturer of aircraft engines, may need to adapt its engine designs to comply with the new regulations concerning bleed air systems.
• AAL - American Airlines: As a major airline, American Airlines could be impacted by potential changes in the aircraft they purchase and operate, especially concerning air quality in their fleet.