Federal Register #FAA-2026-3073

FAA proposes special airworthiness conditions for Pratt & Whitney Canada PW220A engine with idle-cruise regime

This opportunity centers on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposing special airworthiness conditions for a new aircraft engine design. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Aircraft Certification Service - OEMs and Vendors: - Pratt & Whitney Canada (OEM) - Products/Services Requested: - Pratt & Whitney Canada Model PW220A turboshaft engine - Part number: PW220A - Designed for transport category twin-engine helicopters - Features a novel Idle-Cruise Regime (ICR) power rating structure - Unique or Notable Requirements: - The ICR allows one engine to operate at low idle while the other provides full power during cruise, improving fuel efficiency - FAA proposes additional safety standards for certification, including operational definitions, power response, endurance, and rain ingestion tests - No procurement or purchase is involved; the FAA is seeking public comment on regulatory standards for certification - Additional (Non-Procurement) Item: - National Marine Fisheries Service proposes extending the commercial shrimp permit moratorium in the Gulf of America for 10 years (not related to procurement) - No products or services are being procured; this is a regulatory notice for public comment

Description

This notice proposes special conditions for the Pratt and Whitney Canada aircraft engine Model PW220A, which features a novel power rating structure including an idle cruise regime (ICR). The existing airworthiness regulations do not adequately address this design feature, so additional safety standards are proposed to ensure an equivalent level of safety. The ICR allows one engine to operate at low idle while the other provides full power during cruise, aiming to reduce fuel consumption and increase helicopter range. Comments on the proposal are due by October 9, 2026.

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