FAA Organizes ASTM Wiring Committee, F39
Vintage Aircraft Association Executive Director H.G. Frautschy is representing interests of both EAA and VAA members who own aging aircraft while serving on ASTM International committee F39, which the FAA Small Airplane Directorate organized to address growing concerns about general aviation aircraft electrical wiring systems.
Committee F39 is designed to develop voluntary consensus standards for electrical wiring system design, fabrication, modification, inspection and maintenance procedures, and processes. It was prompted by concerns and objections regarding the generic guidance (such as FAA Advisory Circular 43.13-1B) being used as the basis to certificate electrical wiring systems design and modification.
The committee’s goal is to develop international standards that can be used by industry and the FAA to ensure safe aircraft designs for both pre-certification as well as the continued airworthiness of mature products. When completed, these standards will be a stand-alone reference for the inspection, maintenance, repair and alteration of electrical wiring systems in GA aircraft.
As a member of Committee F39, Frautschy is tasked with reviewing FAR part 43 for its impact on compiling the new standards.
“As we collectively work to create this new standard, it’s important that we continue to give good, accurate data to those who restore and maintain aging aircraft,” he said. “I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the efforts of ASTM Committee F39.”