AOPA Tells FAA To Keep Portable GPS Systems On The Panel

New NPRM Would Make Add-On Components Cost-Prohibitive

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would make it nearly impossible for general aviation pilots to mount portable GPS systems in their planes, according to the Aircraft Owner and Pilots Association.

AOPA states the FAA's proposal would make it illegal for manufacturers to produce a replacement or modification part -- such as a panel dock, and connective wiring -— needed to mount your portable GPS if they know (or should know) the part would end up installed in a certified aircraft -- that is, unless they obtain production approval from the agency. But that costs tens of thousands of dollars, something many companies can't afford.

Representatives with the 410,000-member strong organization agree such production approval is needed for critical parts, like connecting rods and cylinders... but it isn't needed for non-critical parts like a portable GPS panel dock, or traffic detector that enhance pilot safety.