(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of the Federal Aviation
Regulations, the Administrator will approve, as provided in this section,
an increase in the maximum certificated weight of an airplane type
certificated under Aeronautics Bulletin No. 7-A of the U.S. Department of
Commerce dated January 1, 1931, as amended, or under the normal category
of part 4a of the former Civil Air Regulations (14 CFR part 4a, 1964 ed.)
if that airplane is operated in the State of Alaska by --
(1) A certificate holder conducting operations under part 121 or part
135 of this chapter; or
(2) The U.S. Department of Interior in conducting its game and fish law
enforcement activities or its management, fire detection, and fire
suppression activities concerning public lands.
(b) The maximum certificated weight approved under this section may not
exceed --
(1) 12,500 pounds;
(2) 115 percent of the maximum weight listed in the FAA aircraft
specifications;
(3) The weight at which the airplane meets the positive maneuvering
load factor requirement for the normal category specified in §23.337 of
this chapter; or
(4) The weight at which the airplane meets the climb performance
requirements under which it was type certificated.
(c) In determining the maximum certificated weight, the Administrator
considers the structural soundness of the airplane and the terrain to be
traversed.
(d) The maximum certificated weight determined under this section is
added to the airplane's operation limitations and is identified as the
maximum weight authorized for operations within the State of Alaska.