Regulations

The FAA’s Halloween Guidance and the Crystal Ball

Patrick Egan reacts to FAA Order JO 7200.23E with questions about the timing of new UAS guidance, possible DoW friction, and the DARPA Heavy Lift challenge.

Oct 6, 2026 By Patrick
Photo: Federal Aviation Administration, JO 7200.23E

The FAA had to work the Chrystal Ball this year for some Holloween time guidance.

Is this new guidance a result of some friction with the DOW, or maybe the administration? Word on the street is/was that the DARPA Heavy Lift challenge was in danger of being canceled over COA issues. Did ATO managers receive symbolic images, insights, or guidance in the form of a nasty phone call or email? As Count Floyd would say, that’s scary stuff!

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Full page 1 of FAA Order JO 7200.23E, including the effective date, subject, and Crystal L. Ball signature block

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