scope:

Purpose of This Order.

a. This order specifies procedures for Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificates governed by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 65 and Air Traffic Safety Oversight Credentials (Credentials) authorized by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Order 1100.161, Air Traffic Safety Oversight. In addition, consistent with the regulations, this order eliminates the requirement for an air traffic control tower operator to hold a CTO certificate if the individual holds a Credential with a tower rating. The requirement to hold both the CTO certificate and the Credential is unnecessary since the underlying requirements for the Credential encompass those of the CTO certificate. CTO certificates will only be issued to those individuals who do not hold a Credential and who meet the requirements of 14 CFR part 65, subpart B.

b. Part I of this order specifies procedures for CTO certification in accordance with 14 CFR part 65 for those facilities whose employees do not hold a Credential with a tower rating (excluding Department of Defense (DoD) personnel). CTO certification and ratings for the DoD are contained in FAA Order 7220.1, Certification and Rating Procedures for Department of Defense (DoD) Personnel. CTO certificates are airman certificates issued under Title 49 of the United States Code (49 USC) §44702 and 14 CFR part 65.

c. Part II of this order specifies procedures for Credentials in accordance with FAA Order 1100.161, Air Traffic Safety Oversight, for those FAA personnel who certify or perform direct safetyrelated air traffic control services and/or certification on certifiable systems/subsystems/services in support of the National Airspace System (NAS).