General aviation groups are calling on FAA to either shelve altogether or at least undertake a formal rulemaking process if it plans to pursue a requirement for obese pilots and controllers to be screened and possibly treated for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The groups say the pending policy is unjustified by safety data and, in a letter sent last week to FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, argue that Congress has mandated formal rulemaking processes for attempts at imposing similar requirements in other forms of transportation.

Landmark Aviation’s recent deal to acquire Panorama marks the fixed-base operation chain’s fourth purchase this year, and the company is poised to remain on the acquisition trail with other announcements anticipated shortly, ratings agency Moody’s believes. Moody’s recently assigned a B2 rating (higher risk) for a proposed $75 million “add-on term loan” that the agency says will help fund Landmark’s acquisition of Panorama, along with “other recent and future anticipated near-term acquisitions.”

Bombardier is taking initial steps to form a joint venture for a new maintenance facility in China. The Canadian airframer signed a letter of agreement with Tianjin Airport Economic Area in Mainland China to increase maintenance services there. Bombardier and Tianjin Airport Economic Area are hoping to finalize definitive agreements in 2014, clearing the way for a facility to open in 2016.

The Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) is working with regional governments to introduce regulations and policies that lay a foundation for business aviation and curb illegal operations.

Perry Inhofe, the son of Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), reported a control problem and that the left engine of his MU-2B-25 had shut down shortly before the aircraft crashed while maneuvering on approach to Tulsa International Airport (TUL) on Nov. 10, the National Transportation Safety Board says. Perry Inhofe, 52, the pilot and sole person aboard the aircraft, died in the crash.

Marenco Swisshelicopter is to unveil the first prototype of its SKYe SH09 single-engine light helicopter during a ceremony in Switzerland this week.

American and US Airways merger nears; consolidation will likely continue.

As defense manufacturers become accustomed to the prospect of lower Pentagon budgets, there is growing concern over the health of the supply chain, particularly the lower tiers and specifically small companies that may be the sole source of critical parts or a unique technology.