New look for Phoenix Class B airspace

November 2, 2007

New look for Phoenix Class B airspace

It still looks like an upside down wedding cake, but now it's a little smashed and some pieces are moved around. The final Phoenix Class B Airspace redesign that went into effect on Oct. 25 disregards many of the proposals AOPA and the general aviation community presented. [ See a graphic of the new airspace design.] While AOPA supported the new ceiling of the airspace—9,000 feet msl as opposed to the previous 10,000 feet—the association opposed many of the changes. The FAA disregarded AOPA's recommendations that sector boundaries be aligned with ground features or navaids. Now, the boundaries are difficult to follow, traffic is compressed over noise-sensitive areas, and pilots are forced to climb over higher terrain.

November 2, 2007

Washington, DC, T-route plan sets back NextGen goals

NextGen was intended to improve access and efficiency in the nation’s busiest airspace. But two new RNAV terminal routes proposed west of Washington, D.C.’s, Class B airspace do just the opposite.

FAA hears users, will reexamine Class D Airspace at Bryant Army Airfield

The FAA has proposed a reduced Class D airspace area at Alaska’s Bryant Army Airfield after concerns from the public, saying additional information is needed.

Quicksilver forges partnership to put eyes in the sky

Quicksilver Aeronautics and IDENT, LLC announced June 11 a partnership to deploy the next generation of GT 500 light aircraft with surveillance capabilities.