NBAA Endorses NFTA Part 141 Modernization Blueprint, Calling for Performance-Based Pilot Training System

USA – The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has formally endorsed the Part 141 training modernization blueprint proposed by the National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA), in comments submitted to the FAA on 11 May 2026 — the final day of the public comment period.

• NBAA expressed strong support for the report's central premise of shifting from an hours-based, compliance-centric regulatory model toward a performance-based, data-driven system for pilot training under 14 CFR Part 141.
• NBAA highlighted four specific areas of support:
  • Integration of safety and quality management systems (QMS/SMS) into Part 141 operations
  • A "professional pilot track" to prepare pilots for advanced operations
  • Expansion of innovative technologies and simulator credits
  • Establishment of a central management office (CMO) for Part 141 training organizations
• While endorsing the blueprint, NBAA identified areas requiring additional consideration, including allowing for scalability in QMS implementation for specialized, small-scale Part 141 schools and aligning the NFTA's "professional pilot track" with existing ACT ARC recommendations for high-altitude, high-performance operations.
• The NFTA's 471-page report, submitted to the FAA on 31 March 2026, was compiled from a year of public meetings between March 2025 and March 2026, with input from more than 100 industry representatives. The FAA's regulatory framework for Part 141 pilot schools has not undergone a comprehensive update since 1991.
• NBAA's endorsement contrasts with the Flight School Association International (FSAI), which announced it cannot support the NFTA report, raising concerns that the proposals primarily benefit large flight training providers and could marginalize smaller Part 61 and Part 141 operators. FSAI requested a minimum 180-day extension to the comment period.

Statements

• "NBAA stands in strong support of the report's central premise: shifting from an hours-based, compliance-centric regulatory model toward a performance-based, data-driven system. For the business aviation community, this modernization is critical to ensuring that the next generation of pilots is prepared for the high-consequence, technologically advanced environment of Part 91, 91K and 135 operations," said Doug Carr, NBAA Senior Vice President of Safety, Security, Sustainability and International Affairs.

Source: NBAA