Airworthiness Standards: Aircraft Engines New One-Engine- Inoperative (OEI) Ratings, Definitions and Type Certification Standards

This amendment establishes definitions for new one-engine inoperative (OEI) ratings, and type certification standards for those ratings. This amendment is the result of a petition for rulemaking from Aerospace Industries Association of America, Inc. (AIA), and a recognition by both the FAA, along with other civil airworthiness authorities, and the aviation industry for a need for additional OEI power rating standards. The maximum engine power rating for rotorcraft available under current certification standards contained in the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR's) is the 2\1/2\-minute OEI rating. This amendment establishes definitions and type certification standards for the 30-second OEI and 2-minute OEI rating at higher power levels than currently available. These new ratings will enhance rotorcraft safety after an engine failure or precautionary shutdown by providing the availability for higher OEI power. The benefits from this amendment are enhanced safety through improved rotorcraft takeoff and landing performances, and shorter field operations or higher payload with the same degree of safety.