What is the FAA TSO?
Let’s start with the basics. The FAA Technical Standard Order (TSO) sets the minimum safety and performance standards for equipment used in aviation. This ensures that the AEDs and their batteries are reliable and effective in emergency situations, especially while flying.
The Initial Mandate
On April 12, 2001, the FAA mandated that all air carriers equip their aircraft with AEDs by April 12, 2004, as part of the regulations under 14 CFR part 121. To ensure safety, AED power sources using lithium batteries were required to meet the specifications of TSO C97 or C142. However, compliance faced hurdles when a major AED supplier applied for TSO approval of its batteries only shortly before the rule's deadline. Consequently, the FAA extended the compliance date to April 30, 2005.
The Petition for Exemption and FAA's Determination
In November 2004, the Air Transportation Association (ATA), representing 12 member airlines, petitioned the FAA for a long-term exemption. The ATA highlighted that Philips Medical Systems had manufactured AED batteries before obtaining TSO approval, which were identical to those made afterward with the TSO marking. The petition revealed that over 6,700 non-TSO-marked batteries were either in use or inventory within the ATA’s member airlines. After a thorough evaluation, the FAA confirmed that the pre-TSO-marked Philips batteries were equivalent in fit, form, and function to those with TSO markings. However, the FAA opted not to grant a limited exemption to specific operators but instead to amend the rule. This decision was influenced by feedback from other carriers, such as Comair, requesting a broader relief application.New Rule Implementation and Ensuring Continued Safety
The FAA revised the regulation in 2005 to allow AED power sources manufactured before July 30, 2004, and lacking TSO markings, to remain in use until their expiration dates, provided the manufacturer has received a finding of TSO equivalency from the FAA. This change ensures that high standards of safety are maintained while allowing operators to utilize their existing power sources, thus saving costs and minimizing waste without compromising safety. The TSO requirements for AED power sources manufactured after July 30, 2004, remain unchanged. These standards are crucial in maintaining the quality and reliability of aircraft equipment. The amendment ensures that only power sources approved by the FAA and meeting stringent criteria will be used in future AED installations on aircraft.
Why Was the Amendment Important?
By amending the rule, the FAA is accommodating current operators and setting a precedent for future cases where equivalency in safety and performance can be demonstrated. This balanced approach supports both operational flexibility and unwavering commitment to safety in aviation. FAA’s amendment to the regulations permits using certain power sources in automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on aircraft, even if they do not bear Technical Standard Order (TSO) markings.What Does This Mean for Travelers?
This amendment means you can trust that the AEDs on board your flight are ready to perform if needed and that an AED with batteries without a TSO marking are equivalent in fit, form, and function to those with a TSO marking. If you’re an airline safety officer or work in aviation, you must also ensure your AEDs and their batteries meet FAA TSO standards. Regular checks and maintenance are key, especially regarding critical equipment like defibrillators.
