FAA changes COA web site: UPDATE

The entry point for what was known as the E-COA application process at the FAA web site has been revised and is now identfied as CAPS. However, the FAA stresses the online COA itself process remains essentially the same.

The FAA responded to our specific questions as follows:

The registration/login for the COA process, now identified as CAPS (COA Online Application System) has been changed but the process remains the same.  Upon our inquiry, the FAA responded to our questions as follows:

Question: Other than the registration and login, is the Public COA (334) process essentially the same as it was under E-COA? If not, what is different now?
Answer: The COA Approval process is the same, the tool has just been replaced

Question: Is the PDF for the old E-COA still valid or is there a replacement?
Answer: Yes it is still valid

Question: Is the CAPS page the correct entry point? It appears to be aimed at “contractors and FAA/DOT employees”, rather than fire/rescue/municipal/law enforcement, (334, 333, 101) etc.
Answer: Yes it is. There is a “Register Here” button for external users. One validated they will login using their email address

Question: Are there resources that you can provide regarding the new CAPS process for online public COA/Waiver processing?
Answer: We are working on job aids, and will share when they are available for release

Question: What are the “new options” that are provided in the new system?
Answer: The ability to draw the Operations on a map with different aeronautical chart layering

Question: Is there an update to the guidance document: COA sample application v 1-1.pdf?
Answer: Not at the current time

Question: What about the “required video” UAS NOTAM Registration? Is it still relevant?
Answer: This was not effected by the CAPS program deployment.

—-As time permits we will be revising our training video as needed.

Some things in the initial loin registration process are different and can create issues if the applicant is not careful::.

1: The earlier system was apparently about 10 years old and was created by a contractor, while the new registration system is totally within the FAA. That’s a good move in view of contractor employees like Harold Martin and Edward Snowden.

2: The new system requests certain personal data for verification. If you share my concern about posting a social security number online, I have been assure that all personal information collected for verification is deleted on completion of the registration process. the new system offers verification by driver’s license, but not all states are integrated into the system, and if you are in Florida, like me, you will find out Florida is one of those states not in the system.

Other points to keep in mind: The page will ask for responses to three personal questions for use as two-factor identification, such as where  were you born. If you fill in “Florida” and when asked at login, it will not accept “florida” as a response. Suggestion: write down your EXACT responses along with the digital password. You can use the randomly assigned digital password or provide your own. I would strongly suggest resisting the temptation to enter “12345678” or a phone number.

Once inside I’m gold much is the same with a few new options provided.

And in case you need the information in the pop up box that won’t stay popped up, here’s what is in it:

DOT employees and contractors call:

Internal: 5-4357 (HELP)
External: (202) 385-4357
Toll-free: (866) 466-5221
Email: Send email to servicedesk@dot.gov

MyIT Service Center

FAA employees and contractors contact (24x7x365):

1 (844) FAA-MYIT or 1 (844) 322-6948
helpdesk@faa.gov
http://MyIT.faa.gov

Government entities or organizations (e.g. law enforcement agencies, public universities, state governments, local municipalities) have 2 options for flying UAS: Fly under the small UAS rule – follow all rules under 14 CFR part 107, including aircraft and pilot requirements OR Obtain a blanket public Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) – permits nationwide flights in Class G airspace at or below 400 feet, self-certification of the UAS pilot, and the option to obtain emergency COAs (e-COAs) under special circumstances Contact 9-AJV-115-UASCOA@faa.gov to learn more about public COAs

The Public COA training course will be updated and restored as soon as we have all the information we can get from the FAA.