In an effort to address growing concerns about aircraft electrical wiring systems, the US FAA's Small Airplane Directorate has initiated a voluntary consensus standards effort to develop standards addressing general aviation electrical wiring systems. Due to objections regarding the utilization of generic guidance (such as FAA Advisory Circular 43.13-1B) as the certification basis for design and modification, Committee F39 is designed to develop standards for electrical wiring system design, fabrication, modification, inspection and maintenance procedures and processes.

ASTM Committee F39 was formed in 2004. They meet twice a year, usually in May and September in conjunction with AEA functions, where approximately 20 members attend over two days of technical meetings. With a membership just under 100 industry professionals and experts, F39 will have jurisdiction over a portfolio of international standards, used by industry and the FAA, to ensure safe aircraft designs for both pre-certification and the continued airworthiness of mature products. When completed, these standards will be a stand-alone reference for the inspection, maintenance, repair and alteration of electrical wiring systems in General Aviation aircraft. F39 has 3 technical subcommittees that maintain jurisdiction over these standards, which will be published in the Annual Book of ASTM Standard, Volume 15.07. Information on this subcommittee structure and F39's portfolio of approved standards and Work Items under construction are available from the List of Subcommittees, Standards and Work Items below. These standards will play a preeminent role in all aspects addressing aircraft electrical wiring systems.