NTSB Issues Recommendation A-12-039 to FAA Regarding Civil Aircraft Registry Data

The National Transportation Safety Board has issued recommendation A-12-039, designated as item DCA12SS005, addressed directly to the Federal Aviation Administration. This safety recommendation urges the agency to revise its Civil Aircraft Registry database to incorporate a robust method for identifying aircraft manufacturer, make, model, and series. The NTSB suggests utilizing a classification system similar to that developed by the CAST/ICAO Common Taxonomy Team to achieve this goal. A primary objective of this revision is to ensure that the registry can unambiguously identify both the specific aircraft kit or plans design and the individual builder associated with the aircraft. By implementing these changes, the FAA would improve the clarity and accuracy of records held within the Civil Aircraft Registry, thereby supporting better oversight and safety monitoring of the aviation community.