NMFS amends the regulations governing the Atlantic bluefin tuna fisheries to suspend, for 1999 only, the deadline for Atlantic Tunas permit category changes. This regulatory amendment is necessary to provide vessel owners the opportunity to consider category changes after the effective date of a final rule and final quota specifications currently under review by NMFS and a proposed rule on the use of spotter aircraft currently in preparation. NMFS received comments in conjunction with the proposed rule and quota specifications indicating that because the final actions could affect the allowable operations of several fishing categories, it is not possible for vessel owners to make final choices prior to the previously established deadline of May 15.