[JYO] AOPA Update: AOPA work with FAA may bring end to ECB today

AOPA work with FAA may bring end to ECB today
Washington, New York TFRs may shrink as well

12/18/2001 2:35:18 PM ET — AOPA is hopeful that its negotiations with FAA and 
security officials are about to bear fruit. FAA today is diligently working 
to clear the final hurdles on a plan to eliminate enhanced Class B (ECB) 
airspace and reduce the size of the temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) 
areas around Washington, D.C., and New York. If published, FAA's plan would 
also restore general aviation operations at some of the Maryland airports 
currently closed by emergency flight rules.

The FAA's plan is currently awaiting final signoffs from DOT officials. 
"Barring any last-minute snafus, general aviation pilots may get an early 
holiday gift from the agency." said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "As in 
previous instances, there is always the possibility of another frustrating 
delay, but we are closer than we've ever been to almost complete restoration 
of the National Airspace System. AOPA staff will continue to work 'round the 
clock to push this plan over the final hurdle."

AOPA had also worked to get <A 
HREF="http://www.aopa.org/whatsnew/newsitems/2001/01-4-205x.html";>legislation 
passed</A> that effectively created a 
30-day deadline for the elimination of ECB. That deadline hits tomorrow 
unless the Department of Transportation publishes a notice in the Federal 
Register reestablishing the ECB restrictions and offering a public 
explanation for the action. That law created a "fall back" plan for the 
elimination of ECB, should the FAA fail to publish its plan. However, the law 
doesn't apply to the existing Boston, Washington, and New York TFRs.

FAA's plan does. It would also clear the way for VFR operations at a dozen 
general aviation airports in Washington, Boston, and New York — airports that 
are currently limited to IFR operations. Additionally, specialty operations, 
including banner towing and traffic watch, could resume at the 27 other ECB 
locations around the country.

FAA's proposed TFR configuration for the Washington area would likely restore 
operations at Freeway, Suburban, and Maryland airports, but would leave three 
other area airports still closed. AOPA continues to work with the FAA and 
security officials to address safety concerns and restore access for these 
airports as well.

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