News Archive

AOPA News in Review

See AOPA Online's National Airspace System crisis coverage in the wake of September 11's terrorist attacks.

March 2002

Look for AOPA "annex" at Sun 'n Fun April 6-13

Mar. 29, 2002 — Pilots attending Sun 'n Fun April 6 through 13 in Lakeland, Florida, should plan on stopping by what will amount to an AOPA "annex." The exhibit in Building B, Booths 94 and 95, will be chockablock full of AOPA staff, goods and services.

Sun 'n Fun will be an ideal place to join AOPA, renew a membership, or sign up for Automatic Annual Renewal (AAR). Pilots who do any of the three at the booth will immediately receive a premium gift, choosing either the new AOPA green/khaki cap or an AOPA T-shirt with patriotic logo. Additionally, anyone joining, renewing, or selecting AAR will automatically be eligible (subject to contest rules) to win AOPA's Centennial of Flight Sweepstakes Waco to be awarded in 2004.
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Congressional auditor looking at aviation security

AOPA offers general aviation perspective

Mar. 29, 2002 — AOPA this week told Congress's investigative arm that general aviation is not a security threat. AOPA again offered to provide realistic solutions for aviation security concerns. The U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO) is taking a look at how the newly created Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is working and asked AOPA to participate in a "roundtable discussion."

"General aviation is not the threat. The appropriate focus for aviation security is the commercial airlines," Andy Cebula, AOPA senior vice president of Government and Technical Affairs, told GAO during the discussion. AOPA pointed out that the TSA needs to better understand the aviation community.
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VOR and NDB here through 2010

GPS/WAAS is the cornerstone for modernization

Mar. 28, 2002 — Transportation and Defense department officials said Tuesday that the government would extend the life of VORs and NDBs, delaying plans to rely on GPS as the primary means of navigation. The 2001 Federal Radionavigation Plan would keep land-based radio navaids on the air until 2010, two years later than previously planned. If GPS/WAAS has been approved for primary means navigation and a majority of users are equipped with GPS/WAAS receivers by 2010, the government would then begin to decommission most NDBs not associated with an ILS and some little-used VORs. DOT plans to make a decision on the future of loran sometime this year once studies on its viability as a supplement to GPS are completed. "This announcement provides aircraft owners adequate time for planning their navigation upgrades. It's important for the DOT to step up and provide the navaid systems and, more important, the capabilities on schedule," said Randy Kenagy, AOPA director of advanced technology. AOPA has long advocated that precision GPS approaches at every public airport are the required incentive for general aviation owners to upgrade navigation equipment.
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NTSB tallies ever-improving general aviation safety record

AOPA Air Safety Foundation notes lowest accident count in history

Mar. 28, 2002 — Preliminary statistics announced by the National Transportation Safety Board March 26 reveal that 2001 was the safest year ever for general aviation, says the AOPA Air Safety Foundation. General aviation (which is all non-airline and non-military flying) experienced fewer accidents than any time since recordkeeping began in 1938.

NTSB figures showed the number of general aviation accidents dropped by more than six percent from 2000 to 2001. Total accidents declined from 1,838 to 1,721 (down 6.4 percent), and fatal accidents dropped from 343 to 321 (6.4 percent).
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AOPA takes issue with Markey report on nuclear security

Explains why GA aircraft aren't a threat to reactors

Update: Mar. 28, 2002 — AOPA is taking exception to a report issued Monday by Massachusetts Congressman Edward Markey claiming gaps in nuclear reactor security. Among the claims in the report is a statement that "96% of all U.S. reactors were designed without regard for the potential for impact from even a small aircraft." Markey also wants all nuclear sites ringed with anti-aircraft weapons.

"The report misleads the public by telling only part of the story," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "Reactor containment vessels are so massive that a GA aircraft can't penetrate them. Period."

In a letter sent today to Rep. Markey, Boyer reiterated that small general aviation aircraft do not pose a threat to nuclear power reactors. All nuclear reactor containment buildings are built like bunkers with at least 12 feet of solid steel and reinforced concrete between the reactor and the outside world. Containment vessels weigh more than 500 tons (see graphic). A general aviation aircraft, constructed primarily of lightweight aluminum, would crumple upon hitting such a massive object. "Imagine hitting a granite cliff," said Boyer.
Graphic courtesy of the Nuclear Energy Institute.
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AOPA Insurance Agency finds insurers for homebuilts after Avemco withdraws

Mar. 27, 2002 — Following last week's surprise withdrawal of aircraft insurer Avemco from large portions of the homebuilt and experimental aircraft market, the AOPA Insurance Agency has identified a number of companies willing to write such insurance.

"Members contacted AOPA about the difficulty in obtaining insurance for homebuilt aircraft," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "By working with the many insurance underwriters affiliated with the AOPA Insurance Agency, we've been able to find solutions for many homebuilt owners. Sadly, we can't help everybody. There are some risks the insurance companies are unwilling to cover."

In response to the problem, the AOPA Insurance Agency has established a special "Experimental Desk," staffed by experienced agent Silka Bulleigh. "Ms. Bulleigh has more than 25 years experience in aviation insurance and knows how to best assist our members," Boyer said. (Homebuilt aircraft owners can contact the Experimental Desk at 800-622-2672, extension 127.) Boyer explained that because the AOPA Insurance Agency is an insurance agency, its agents are able to search among multiple insurance underwriters to find the best coverage and rates for an aircraft owner.
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GA relief not forgotten by Congress

AOPA-backed small business relief bill passes Senate

Sen. Kerry

Sen. Bond

Mar. 27, 2002 — A Senate bill that would provide disaster loans and loan guarantees for small businesses affected by September 11th attacks passed the Senate on Friday by a voice vote. Small Business Committee Chairman John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Ranking Republican Christopher Bond (Mo.), negotiated with the White House to clear the way for the President's signature on the AOPA-backed bill, the American Small Business Emergency Relief and Recovery Act of 2001 (S. 1499). The legislation will have to pass the House of Representatives, which is expected to take up the measure after the congressional spring recess, before it becomes law.

"Senators Kerry and Bond have been strong advocates for getting loans to the small businesses affected by the closure of Class B airspace," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "While AOPA is pleased that action is finally being taken on this legislation that will provide loans for small businesses, we recognize that small businesses are also in need of grants, so additional work is being done to get the GA-specific bills sponsored by Representative Mica and Senator Inhofe passed." [See also AOPA's issue brief.]
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FAA extends AOPA alcohol/drug testing exemption

Pilots can continue charity sightseeing flights

Mar. 26, 2002 — The FAA has granted an extension to AOPA's alcohol and drug testing exemption for certain charity flights. The exemption allows AOPA members to conduct local sightseeing flights to help airport groups and local charities raise money without the pilot having to institute a drug and alcohol testing program. (Since pilots collect a nominal fee for these charity fund-raising flights, the FAA has determined that pilots have to comply with the Part 135 charter operations drug testing regulations, unless the pilot has applied for the exemption.) The exemption was originally granted in June 2000 and has been extended until June 2004. "Although we're pleased that the FAA granted our request for an extension, we need a permanent regulatory solution," said Lance Nuckolls, AOPA director of Regulatory and Certification Policy. See AOPA's regulatory brief for more information and instructions on how to use the charity flight drug testing exemption.

Montana airport managers support AOPA security recommendations

Mar. 22, 2002 — The Montana Airport Managers Association has endorsed AOPA's recommendations to improve general aviation security. At the Montana Aviation Conference held earlier this month, the members approved a resolution urging the Department of Transportation and the Transportation Security Administration to consider the recommendations AOPA and other aviation groups made in December for reasonable approaches to general aviation security.
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AOPA commends Missouri Rep. Denny Merideth

AOPA Air Safety Foundation slates Sun 'n Fun seminars

Mar. 22, 2002 — AOPA's Air Safety Foundation will present eight seminars on five topics during Sun 'n Fun in Lakeland, Florida April 6-13. The ASF seminars will be offered Sunday (April 7) through Wednesday (April 10) in the FAA Safety Center.

"Springtime is the ideal time for pilots to refocus on safety," said John Steuernagle, ASF vice president of operations and instructor for all seminars at Sun 'n Fun. "These seminars will be the perfect tune-up for the flying season ahead."

ASF's newest seminar, "Spatial Disorientation," will be Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday at 10 a.m. Using video recreations of actual disorienting situations, the seminar suggests how to cope with the physiological problem of "knowing which way is up."

Click for more information on ASF seminars.
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Senate holds hearing on Chicago airports legislation

AOPA pledges its support for the Senate and House bills that protect Meigs Field

Mar. 21, 2002 — AOPA reiterated its support for federal legislation that would preserve Chicago's Meigs Field airport today during a Senate Commerce Committee hearing. In testimony submitted for the record, AOPA President Phil Boyer said, "The 14 general aviation airports in the area, including Meigs Field, are part of the solution to airspace congestion in the Chicago area and the overall system.... Thanks to support from the aviation community and the leadership of Mayor Daley and Governor Ryan, Meigs Field will remain open for at least another 25 years if the governor and mayor's agreement on Chicago airports is signed into federal law."
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Securing the future of GA

Children highlighted during Moline, Illinois, speech

Mar. 21, 2002 — Children are key to securing the future of general aviation, AOPA President Phil Boyer told more than 250 aviators and family members last night in Moline, Illinois. Speaking to the Quad City Aviators Association, Boyer highlighted four youngsters who attended the meeting with their flying parents, saying that getting children excited about flying will help to keep GA available to everyone. He gave the children some of the educational materials available through AOPA's APPLE program (America's Pilots Participating in Local Education). Boyer told the attendees about AOPA's "behind the scenes" efforts to restore general aviation following the September 11 tragedy. He gave special emphasis to AOPA's pilot ID proposal. In response to public security concerns, AOPA has petitioned FAA to require that pilots carry a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license) along with the pilot and medical certificates. "If the responsible pilots of America don't take a proactive approach now, the government and others will. We may not like what we get."

Children are key to securing the future of GA. Pictured (l-r) are Vanessa DeReu, Roy Fisher, Victoria and Veronica DeReu, Boyer.

AOPA discusses warbird protections with key congressional leader

Mar. 21, 2002 — AOPA Legislative Affairs staff met with Representative Gary Miller (R-Calif.) today to forestall any attempt to add anti-warbird legislation to this year's Department of Defense (DOD) appropriations bill. Last year, AOPA worked with Congress to strike language requiring demilitarization of significant military equipment, including aircraft formerly owned by the Department of Defense. That could have resulted in the destruction of vintage military aircraft, now flying in civilian hands.

Miller told AOPA he would do whatever it takes to make sure a similar provision is not included in this year's bill. He is sending a letter to Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld today in which he will express his "serious concern regarding continued attempts to extend the federal government's demilitarization authority to lawfully possessed surplus military equipment." This follows up on numerous conversations Miller has had with Secretary Rumsfeld on this issue. Rumsfeld has repeatedly told Miller that he is aware of the problem and is working to correct it.
In photo: Rep. Gary Miller.

Supreme Court declines to hear Richards-Gebaur appeal

Mar. 20, 2002 — The U.S. Supreme Court Monday declined to hear an appeal on the closure of Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport in Kansas City, Missouri.

"We're disappointed that the Supreme Court decided not to consider our arguments," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "We still think FAA acted outside the scope of law in allowing this airport to close. But this shows the tenacity of AOPA and local support groups like Friends of Richards-Gebaur in fighting to keep GA airports open. We lose some, but we win more."
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INS commissioner tells Congress agency is being reformed

Reinforces AOPA position that problem must be fixed at federal, not state, level

Mar. 20, 2002 — The head of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) conceded the obvious yesterday and told Congress the agency needs to be reformed. His testimony helped underscore AOPA's arguments that barriers to terrorists have to be raised at the federal level. State-mandated pilot background checks would be pointless and a needless expense with the federal system in disarray.
In photo: INS Commissioner James Ziglar.
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NASA to keep shuttle launch times secret until last moment

AOPA works to ensure pilots receive adequate notice

Mar. 19, 2002 — NASA announced today that, for security reasons, it intends to keep the exact times for future shuttle launches a secret until 24 hours prior to liftoff. This has raised concerns from Florida pilots, who are most impacted by flight restrictions that accompany shuttle launch operations. In previous launches since September 11, AOPA has worked with the FAA to disseminate graphical TFRs and other flight-critical information via the Web. "Knowing the times for launches has been important for pilots flying in Florida," said Andy Cebula, AOPA senior vice president of Government and Technical Affairs. "We will continue to work with NASA and FAA to get pilots the information they need on a timely basis." The availability of launch information is not only important in minimizing the length of these restrictions, it also helps to ensure that civil pilots do not expose themselves to the threat of enforcement or military intercepts by aircraft assigned to patrol the restricted airspace. Several senior NASA managers are AOPA members and understand the impact of shuttle-related temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) on local pilots. They have pledged to AOPA that they will minimize the restrictions as much as possible, consistent with security concerns. NASA's next shuttle mission is scheduled for April 4.

WAAS GPS signal to be turned off and restarted Friday

Part of continuing progress towards certifying super-accurate IFR system

Mar. 19, 2002 — The WAAS (wide area augmentation system) enhancement to the GPS system will be shut down for two hours and then restarted this Friday, sometime between 1600 and 2200Z. WAAS improves the accuracy and integrity of the GPS signal and will provide ILS-like instrument approaches into almost every airport. Friday's shut-down is part of the continuing progress towards certifying WAAS for actual IFR operations. Some newer handheld VFR GPS receivers are already using the WAAS signal to improve accuracy, but the temporary loss of the WAAS signal will not significantly affect those users.
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AOPA-advocated gust-lock bulletin from FAA saves Baron and Travel Air owners $1,200

Mar. 15, 2002 — AOPA advocacy has helped save Beechcraft Baron and Travel Air owners more than $1,200. FAA agreed with AOPA's arguments and recently sent a special airworthiness information bulletin (SAIB) on gust locks to all Raytheon (Beech) propeller aircraft owners, rather than issuing an expensive and unneeded airworthiness directive (AD).

Raytheon had asked FAA to issue an AD in 1998 after a takeoff accident in a Beech twin in which the pilot failed to remove the gust lock. Raytheon's fix would have required drilling a hole through the top of the center-mounted control column for a new design gust lock. The AD would have affected 4,500 airplanes, but AOPA said this wasn't a question of airworthiness. [See also AOPA's issue brief.]
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DOT inspector general calls for FSS consolidation

AOPA says providing safety-critical information to pilots the most important consideration

Mar. 14, 2002 — At a congressional hearing on funding for the FAA yesterday, Department of Transportation Inspector General (IG) Ken Mead called for reducing the number of automated flight service stations (AFSSs). Mead told Congress that consolidating the current 61 AFSS down to 25 would significantly reduce costs without degrading safety or service. According to Mead, an IG investigation has concluded that benefits could be realized by consolidating AFSS sites in conjunction with deployment of the much-needed OASIS computer system. (OASIS will replace ancient, 1970-era computers now used in all 61 automated flight service stations with a modern, Windows-based system.) The IG told the House transportation appropriations subcommittee that the FAA could realize cost savings of nearly $500 million over seven years by making a consolidation decision now while OASIS is in the early stages of deployment. The savings, according to the IG, would come primarily through reductions in personnel compensation and benefits, overhead, and acquisition costs, and that staff reductions could be accomplished without layoffs through retirements. The IG argued that safety would be maintained and services would improve as a result of automation and technology that will give briefers on-line access, better weather displays, and automatic flight plan processing.

"FSS services are safety critical to pilots and are an essential government function," said AOPA Vice President of Air Traffic Services Melissa Bailey. "There is no question that the program needs to be overhauled and modernized. But the government's focus cannot be on cost cutting. The focus must be on finding the most efficient and effective ways to deliver timely safety information to pilots."

AOPA continues battle against state pilot background checks

Says INS visa fiasco shows fallacy of proposed laws

Mar. 14, 2002 — AOPA continues to battle student pilot background checks now being proposed in several state legislatures. And AOPA is using the recent INS fiasco to illustrate to lawmakers that their proposed checks won't stop terrorists, but will create unnecessary barriers and expense for law-abiding people who want to learn how to fly.

"This unbelievable government failure illustrates the absurdity of the student pilot background checks now being written into law in some states," said Andy Cebula, AOPA senior vice president of Government and Technical Affairs. "If the federal government's own background checks leads to the issuing of visas to dead terrorists, then how in the world can individual flight schools be expected to ferret out the bad guys?

"The INS fiasco graphically shows that identifying terrorists is a federal government responsibility. And the feds need to fix their system now."
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Influential U.S. senator urges FAA to approve AOPA photo ID petition

Common-sense approach to addressing the security needs

Mar. 13, 2002 — Today in a letter to FAA Administrator Jane Garvey, Senator Max Cleland (D-Ga.) wrote in support of AOPA's petition to require pilots to carry government-issued photo identification as a supplement to the required pilot certificate. His endorsement of the AOPA petition is important considering he sponsored an amendment in the Aviation Security Act (PL107-71) expanding the scope of the airman registry to address terrorism. AOPA President Phil Boyer praised the senator, saying, "Senator Cleland clearly recognizes the value of this common-sense, low-cost, and easy to implement measure. We appreciate his leadership on this issue."

In the petition submitted to the FAA last month, AOPA asked FAA to issue a "direct final rule" that would require pilots to carry a valid, government-issued photo ID when in command of an aircraft. Under AOPA's proposal, a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or government agency photo ID would be acceptable. The proposal could go into effect within 30 days after FAA publishes the rule.

In December, AOPA and other industry groups recommended pilot photo IDs to FAA and the Transportation Security Administration. The request is currently pending at the FAA.

AOPA member Sen. Inhofe introduces GA relief legislation

Update: Mar. 13, 2002 — AOPA member Senator James Inhofe (R-Okla.) yesterday introduced legislation, S. 2007, to provide economic relief to those general aviation businesses that received substantial economic injury as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11.

"The introduction of Senator Inhofe's bill proves that GA relief is not a dead issue for Congress," says AOPA President Phil Boyer. "We've pledged our support to both Senator Inhofe and to Representative Mica, who authored the House version of this bill, and will help in any way to get this long-overdue legislation passed."

In his statement on the Senate floor yesterday, Sen. Inhofe said, "General Aviation, a very important segment of the aviation industry, has yet to be made whole for actions taken by the federal government following the terrorist attacks of September 11th." He further stated that, "Working closely with General Aviation groups such as the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, AOPA, which has worked hard to explain the scope of general aviation to members of Congress and how critical it is to the nation, I think we have a very balanced package."
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White House unveils color-coded terror alert system

Yellow alert won't affect airspace, AOPA learns

Mar. 12, 2002 — The White House today unveiled a new, color-coded terror-alert warning system. The five-level system, ranked from green ("low risk of terrorist attacks") to red ("severe risk of terrorist attacks") is supposed to provide more specific information to the public and government officials than the vague terrorist alerts that have been issued before.

Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge said the nation is currently under a yellow alert — meaning there is a significant risk of attack that requires increased surveillance of critical locations and implementing some emergency response plans.

The yellow alert will probably not lead to new airspace restrictions, security sources told AOPA today.

AOPA has also learned that there are threats against several nuclear facilities, but security officials have concluded that they do not need temporary flight restrictions over these facilities to help protect them.

AOPA again reminds pilots to avoid flight near nuclear power plants and other sensitive installations.

Almost 1 in 4 FSSs remain closed to walk-up briefings

AOPA continues to press to open all facilities to pilot visits

Mar. 12, 2002 — Despite the FAA headquarters "general notice" issued Friday reopening flight service stations to walk-in pilot briefings, 14 of the 61 facilities still remain closed to pilots. AOPA has lobbied to reopen all FSS facilities, which had been closed to the public since the September 11 attacks. Two FSS facilities (Gainesville and St. Petersburg, Florida) are still closed to the public because of ongoing construction. Other facilities are citing security concerns or local management decision to remain off limits to "over the counter" briefings. AOPA is continuing to press FAA to reopen all facilities to walk-in pilot briefings. (See the current status of specific flight service stations.)

Maryland legislator withdraws bill to require student pilot background checks

Mar. 12, 2002 — After fierce opposition by AOPA and the entire aviation community, Maryland House Bills 1005 and 1208 have been withdrawn from consideration. These bills would have required background checks to be conducted on flight students in the state. A hearing on the bills that was scheduled for today in the Commerce and Government Matters Committee has been canceled.

"This is great news for Maryland pilots," AOPA Vice President of Regional Affairs Bill Dunn said. "We posted a pilot alert on the AOPA Web site and sent e-mails to all of our Maryland Airport Support Network volunteers asking members to write to legislators. It obviously worked."

AOPA continues to oppose several security-related bills in other states. To help members identify those bills and their current status, AOPA has compiled a list of those bills and their current status. "This will provide members with an invaluable tool in assessing what bills are pending in their state," said Dunn.

AOPA tells FAA increasing vertical limits of CVG Class B not justified

Applauds other Cincinnati changes

Mar. 12, 2002 — In comments on FAA's proposed changes to the Cincinnati (CVG) Class B airspace, AOPA opposed an increase of the vertical boundary that would create a barrier to fly-over VFR traffic. "While we strongly support the airspace return over Clermont County Airport, the proposal to raise the ceiling of the Class B airspace from 8,000 to 10,000 feet msl is unjustified," said AOPA. AOPA told FAA that its survey of VFR flight tracks did not support a need to raise the upper limit of the CVG Class B airspace. AOPA supported proposed lateral airspace boundary changes.

AOPA asks NJ pilots to oppose bill requiring student pilot background checks

Mar. 12, 2002 — AOPA is urging New Jersey pilots to contact their state legislators to oppose a bill that would require a criminal history record background check for individuals seeking aviation flight training. The bill has already passed the New Jersey Senate, while a similar bill is still pending in the Assembly. For more information, see the AOPA Pilot Alert.

Star Trek's Lt. Worf engages Project Pilot

Mar. 12, 2002 — Television and movie star Michael Dorn, an enthusiastic GA pilot, spent last Saturday in front of AOPA cameras explaining the process of earning a pilot certificate. The longtime AOPA member, who plays Lt. Worf on the popular Star Trek series, agreed to help update the 37-minute Joy of Flying video. The new video is scheduled for release in mid-April. It's part of the AOPA Flight Training Membership Welcome Kit sent to student pilots nominated by AOPA Project Pilot mentors.

Project Pilot asks AOPA members to identify and mentor friends, family members, and co-workers who could benefit from learning to fly. Since program inception in 1994, some 25,000 AOPA members have nominated more than 34,000 potential new pilots, helping stem the decline in the pilot population.

America and AOPA remember

Mar. 11, 2002 — The flag at AOPA headquarters flies at half-staff today, as AOPA members and all of America reflect upon the tragedy that struck the nation on September 11.

"Our thoughts today are with those who have lost loved ones," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "And our efforts are dedicated to protecting our nation from future terrorist attack while still preserving the freedom of mobility that is much a part of what it means to be an American."

In the six months since the attack, AOPA has worked closely with federal transportation and security officials to responsibly restore the nation's aviation system while maintaining reasonable security. AOPA continues to offer constructive help to ensure that our general aviation airports are secure and that only authorized pilots have access to aircraft.

Notam issued for shuttle's return

Mar. 11, 2002 — After successfully completing its mission to service the Hubble space telescope, the space shuttle Columbia is scheduled to return to earth early Tuesday morning. As a result, a notam has been issued activating the restricted areas along the eastern side of the launch complex. Unlike the 30- and 40-nm TFR "rings" established for the shuttle's launch, no further restrictions are expected for the landing operations. Pilots are advised to contact the St. Petersburg Flight Service Station for the latest updates.

FAA reopens FSS to walk-up briefings

Mar. 8, 2002 — FAA has reopened flight service stations (FSSs) to permit "over-the-counter" briefings for pilots. Shortly after the September 11 attacks, FAA put all facilities off limits to visitors, including flight service stations, control towers and air traffic control centers.

AOPA argued for pilot access to these facilities, particularly FSS. Now FAA has received approval from security officials to allow walk-in briefings at flight service stations. The general notice reopening FSS to pilots was signed Friday afternoon, and goes into effect at midnight.

"We know that briefers were as frustrated as we were by not being permitted to talk to pilots face to face," said Melissa Bailey, AOPA vice president of Air Traffic Services. "We're pleased FAA found a way to safely reestablish this communication."

ASF "disorients" FAA's system-safety administrator

Mar. 8, 2002 — The FAA today got a left-seat look at AOPA Air Safety Foundation spatial disorientation research now nearing completion. Christopher A. Hart, FAA assistant administrator for system safety, flew a specially equipped Bonanza from AOPA headquarters in Frederick, Maryland.

"This makes you think," Hart said upon returning from the flight that featured a pressure system failure in simulated instrument conditions. (Bonanzas use a pressure system, rather than vacuum, to power gyro instruments.)

"The hardware generally works so well that it's difficult to stay prepared for a gyro failure. I applaud the study and efforts of the foundation to educate pilots."

In photo: ASF Executive Director Bruce Landsberg (right) prepares Christopher A. Hart, FAA assistant administrator for system safety, for the spatial disorientation experiment he is about to fly.
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ASF is tracking SkySpotter^TM pilot weather reports to improve service

Mar. 8, 2002 — The AOPA Air Safety Foundation is asking registered SkySpotters^TM to log their pilot reports (pireps) and then post that information to a dedicated ASF feedback Web page. Respondents will be eligible for free SkySpotter^TM T-shirts to be awarded at random.

ASF Executive Director Bruce Landsberg said the tracking information is crucial to improving the growing weather-reporting program launched at AOPA Expo 2001 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The safety initiative is co-sponsored by the National Weather Service and Federal Aviation Administration.

"We want to improve the program from the outset because these en route reports are so important for pilots to make better-educated go/no-go decisions. This feedback will make that possible," Landsberg said.

"Pilots must make it clear during a pirep that it's a SkySpotter^TM report. Then the pilot and ASF can check the Aviation Weather Center's Web site to make sure the report got through." An AWC Web page shows a daily total of SkySpotter^TM reports.
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AOPA tells FAA cockpit security doors bad idea for small aircraft

Mar. 7, 2002 — AOPA told FAA that cockpit dividers and other security measures to restrict access to flight controls are not good ideas for general aviation. The association replied to an FAA request for information required by the Aviation and Transportation Security Act for a small aircraft cockpit in-flight security feasibility study. AOPA recommended against mandatory modifications to restrict cockpit and flight-control access in small airplanes.

"These retrofits are unnecessary and would severely curtail the multi-mission capability of small airplanes that is the lifeblood of most small general aviation businesses," said Lance Nuckolls, AOPA director of Regulation and Certification Policy. "In addition, such modifications will negatively impact safety by impeding cockpit or aircraft egress in the event of an accident or emergency."

AOPA testifies in support of Meigs Field

Mar. 6, 2002 — AOPA today offered its support for legislation that will keep Chicago's Meigs Field open until 2026. In testimony before the House aviation subcommittee, AOPA strongly endorsed H.R. 3479, a bill that would expand aviation capacity in the Chicago area and writes into law the agreement between Chicago Mayor Richard Daley and Illinois Governor George Ryan to keep Meigs Field open.

In testimony presented to the subcommittee, AOPA President Phil Boyer said that the bill reflected the importance of the Chicago airports to the entire national aviation system.

"This is not just an Illinois issue. There is a national benefit to meeting capacity needs by keeping Meigs Field open, expanding O'Hare, and building a new airport at Peotone."

Noting that air traffic counts are quickly returning to pre-September 11 levels, and that more people today are turning to general aviation, Boyer told Congress, "Shutting down a perfectly good airport makes little sense when we are desperately trying to expand capacity.... The 14 general aviation airports in the area, including Meigs Field, are part of the solution to airspace congestion in the Chicago area and the overall system."

During the March 6 afternoon hearing, Rep. Jim Oberstar (D-Minn.) called the agreement "the most important dialogue in aviation today."

Governor George Ryan noted the important role Meigs Field plays in the area economy and praised the concession made by Mayor Daley to keep it open. Mayor Daley stated that the agreement would vastly improve the national aviation system and explicitly mentioned the "key support of such nationally recognized aviation groups...as the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association" in keeping Meigs open.
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AOPA works to save Houston Gulf Airport

Mar. 6, 2002 — AOPA and local pilots are working together to help save Houston (Texas) Gulf Airport. Faced with closure of the airport on April 1, 2002, local pilots, lead by AOPA Airport Support Network volunteer Chris DuPont, have mounted a campaign to convince League City, Texas, to acquire the airport from its private owner. The airport, which is privately owned and open for public use, has been on the sale block since the late 1980s when the private owner died. Recently, a real estate developer made an offer that was accepted. The airport is home to 78 aircraft and the Bay Area Aero Club.
In photo: AOPA Vice President of Regional Affairs Bill Dunn, ASN volunteer Chris DuPont, and AOPA Southwest Regional Representative Jerry Hooper.
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AOPA convinces South Dakota to delay implementing state pilot ID cards

Mar. 5, 2002 — After meeting with AOPA representatives yesterday, South Dakota transportation officials have agreed to delay implementing a new law that could have permitted the state to require and to issue pilot photo IDs. The governor recently signed that law into effect.

In the meeting with members of the South Dakota Aeronautics Commission and officials from the South Dakota Department of Transportation, AOPA outlined its recent petition to the FAA for a rule that would require pilots to carry photo identification, such as a valid driver's license or passport, along with their FAA-issued certificate. AOPA Central Region Representative Bill Hamilton stressed that such a program could be implemented immediately at far less cost than photo identification issued by the state.
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House committee to hold hearing on bill to save Meigs Field

Mar. 5, 2002 — The House aviation subcommittee will hold a hearing tomorrow on AOPA-backed legislation (H.R. 3479) designed to expand aviation capacity in the Chicago area. That bill includes a provision that would keep Meigs Field open until at least 2026. AOPA will submit testimony to Congress.

"AOPA strongly supports this legislation," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "It ensures another quarter century of continued operations at Meigs Field, Chicago's flagship general aviation airport."

In testimony to be presented to the subcommittee, Boyer said that the bill reflected the importance of the Chicago airports to the entire national aviation system.

"This is not just an Illinois issue. There is a national benefit to meeting capacity needs by keeping Meigs Field open, expanding O'Hare, and building a new airport at Peotone."

State aviation funding crucial to aviation safety, AOPA tells Iowa legislature

Benefits economy

Mar. 4, 2002 — AOPA is encouraging the Iowa legislature to reconsider the proposed budget for next fiscal year and provide proper funding for aviation. The Iowa Transportation Appropriations Bill for FY2003 provides no funds for aviation. This year, the state will spend around $2.1 million from the general fund on aviation. In letters to state legislative leaders, AOPA asked for continued funding for aviation projects in Iowa.
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AOPA declares Austin-Bergstrom, Texas, hangar-tenant insurance requirements "draconian"

Mar. 4, 2002 — Insurance requirements for tenants of new general aviation hangars at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas are "draconian" and might threaten federal funding, says AOPA. "We've seen nothing that supports these requirements," said AOPA Vice President of Regional Affairs Bill Dunn. "In our experience, we have never seen insurance requirements anywhere close to what Austin wants." One pilot told AOPA that only two of the coverage requirements for a T-hangar would cost "around $1,250 to $1,500 per year" in addition to other coverage.
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AOPA meets with new transportation security chief

Mar. 1, 2002 — Today, AOPA President Phil Boyer and Senior Vice President of Government and Technical Affairs Andy Cebula met with John Magaw, undersecretary of Transportation Security and head of the new Transportation Security Administration, along with several of Magaw's top staff. Boyer used the meeting to explain the scope of general aviation, "as all flying except the military and scheduled air carriers ranging from a light aircraft at a grass strip to large jets operated by corporations." Magaw also appeared impressed with the breadth and scope of AOPA's actions following the September 11 tragedy in both educating pilots through the association's Web site, ePilot newsletter, AOPA Pilot magazine and advocating for general aviation access. "Give us the threat you want addressed and let us develop realistic, real-time, practical solutions," Cebula suggested to Magaw. The meeting concluded with a presentation explaining AOPA's recent petition for a direct final rule that requires pilots to carry a photo ID. Boyer urged support for this inexpensive, simple security enhancement that can be implemented immediately. "Comparing the unproductive time we have spent trying to reach the decision makers at the National Security Council and Homeland Security, it was a refreshing change to have this opportunity to establish a relationship with this new organization that will make important decisions about aviation policy," said Boyer.
[See also Phil Boyer's PowerPoint presentation to John Magaw.]
In photo: John Magaw.

AOPA wants fair fees for Georgetown, Texas, airport users

Mar. 1, 2002 — AOPA says proposed increases levied only against general aviation hangar rentals at Georgetown Municipal Airport (GTU) in Texas should not be the only means to finance a new air traffic control tower. "AOPA opposes any increase in fees that unjustly discriminates and singles out one particular category of general aviation users and is not evenly applied to all airport tenants and users," said Bill Dunn, AOPA vice president for Regional Affairs.
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AOPA 2001 Sweepstakes Bonanza, most technically advanced V-tail flying, awarded to Los Alamos chemist

Mar. 1, 2002 — A smiling Norman Elliott and his wife Joyce today received the keys to the gleaming red and white 2001 Sweepstakes Bonanza from AOPA President Phil Boyer, in Mineral Wells, Texas.

"Wow, I'm stunned," said the 50-year-old chemist from Los Alamos, New Mexico, as he and his wife rounded a corner and were greeted by a throng of cheering Meggitt Avionics employees surrounding their completely renovated and updated 1966 V35 Beechcraft Bonanza, renamed N2001B.

The ceremony awarding AOPA's upgraded AOPA membership Sweepstakes Bonanza was held at the Meggitt Avionics/S-TEC hangar in Mineral Wells, where the aircraft is undergoing tests for final FAA approval of the advanced Meggitt Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) on the Bonanza.
In photo: AOPA President Phil Boyer (right) introduces Norman Elliott to his new aircraft, the AOPA 2001 Sweepstakes Bonanza.
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February 2002

Chicago TFR meeting outcome positive

FAA and industry partner to develop a pilot awareness program

Feb. 28, 2002 — Since September 11, flight restrictions in the airspace over downtown Chicago have remained in place based on requests from Chicago city officials — despite the lack of any credible threat. These are set to expire on April 2. The FAA has partnered with AOPA and other industry representatives to launch a campaign aimed at increasing pilot awareness through an educational initiative, to be launched in the coming weeks, urging pilots to "do the right thing" by:
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RVSM comes one step closer to U.S.

Will be implemented in Northern Canada in April

Feb. 28, 2002 — Reduced vertical separation minima (RVSM) will debut in northern Canada April 18, 2002, at FL290 to FL410. Because of current navigation equipment limitations, aircraft at these altitudes currently must have 2,000 feet of vertical separation for safety. However, RVSM avionics mandates, for more precise navigation equipment in the cockpit, allow air traffic to reduce vertical separation to 1,000 feet, essentially doubling airspace capacity. While this is great for capacity, non-RVSM-compliant aircraft operating in Canada (north of the 57 degree parallel) at RVSM altitudes, including overflights bound for Alaska, will need to equip soon or face operating restrictions. [See also AOPA's issue brief.]
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House committee approves general aviation relief bill

Feb. 28, 2002 — The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure approved by voice vote yesterday the General Aviation Reparations Act of 2001 (H.R. 3347) to provide $2.5 billion in direct grants and $3 billion in loan guarantees to general aviation businesses that suffered substantial economic injury as a result of the nationwide grounding of general aviation aircraft in the wake of the terrorist attacks of September 11, an act whose length AOPA member Rep. Vern Ehlers of Michigan characterized as a "borderline unconstitutional seizure of assets." As expected, an amendment was adopted to extend direct compensation to general aviation workers who lost their jobs as a result of the Sept. 11 attacks.
In photo: Rep. Vernon J. Ehlers.
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Larger TFR reinstated for Friday's planned shuttle launch

Feb. 28, 2002 — The FAA has issued another new notice to airmen prohibiting flight operations in the vicinity of Cape Canaveral for Friday's rescheduled shuttle launch (see IFR and VFR graphics). The new notam again expands the size of the no-fly area. Effective from 2118 local today through 0954 Friday morning, notam 2/1761 establishes a 30-nm-radius TFR "no fly" zone around the launch pad from the surface to FL180, with a less restrictive area between 30 and 40 nm.
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AOPA meets with Hoekstra's staff on prevention of further shootdowns

Feb. 27, 2002 — AOPA's staff, led by Senior Vice President Andy Cebula and General Counsel John Yodice, today met with Representative Peter Hoekstra (R-MI) and chief of staff John Van Fossen in an early morning meeting. Rep. Hoekstra has taken a lead on ensuring that the Bush Administration establishes safeguards to protect civilian aircraft from future shootdowns. The congressman authored a provision in the most recent foreign appropriations act (P.L. 107-115) withholding funds supporting the U.S./Peruvian air interdiction program until new procedures are put into place. On April 20, 2001, the Peruvian Air Force fired on a plane mistakenly identified as a drug carrier piloted by Kevin Donaldson and carrying the Bowers family, a tragedy anticipated by AOPA President Phil Boyer in his 1994 letter to Assistant Secretary of State Robert Gelbard." AOPA fully supports Representative Hoekstra's leadership on this sensitive issue and his efforts to hold the U.S. agencies involved in the tragic incident accountable for their actions," remarked Phil Boyer. "It's vital that innocent civilian pilots not be subjected to the use of deadly force and that all means to prevent another such occurrence are employed," Boyer said.
In photo: Rep. Peter Hoekstra.
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Jeppesen partners with FAA to build graphical TFR system

Feb. 27, 2002 — AOPA Online established the precedent by publishing graphical TFRs on its Web site following the September attacks, and now the FAA is following suit. As reported by AOPA last week, the FAA is developing a graphical TFR product for Flight Service to fix a longstanding problem of disseminating clear and accurate TFR notams. To that end, Jeppesen has announced that it is FAA's partner in development of a prototype system that will create, maintain, and distribute graphical TFRs to flight service specialists . As currently planned, this graphical TFR product will not be available to pilots. AOPA thinks that is wrong.

In a letter dated February 19, AOPA told the FAA that it has a vested interest in the graphical TFRs and asked for the opportunity to collaborate with the FAA in development of the product, including making it available to users via the Internet.
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Cirrus warns of problem with aircraft parachute system

Feb. 27, 2002 — Cirrus Design Corporation scrambled last Friday and over the weekend to inform Cirrus owners of an emergency parachute system problem. Cirrus issued a service advisory, recommending that owners not fly their Cirrus SR20 and SR22 aircraft until field repairs are made. A one-day VFR flight is permitted to position the aircraft for repair. Ballistic Recovery Systems Inc. (BRS), manufacturer of the parachute system, discovered the problem as it was completing a new design for the Cessna 172 Skyhawk. The condition involves the BRS activation hardware used to deploy the emergency parachute but does not affect the parachute or the deployment rocket. The repair is estimated to take less than an hour at no cost to owners. Although Cirrus has been manufacturing and shipping repair parts to its service centers, Cirrus officials have asked the FAA to follow up with an AD to ensure all owners comply. The situation affects fewer than 200 aircraft, but for safety, the companies want to replace parts in the entire fleet of 320 aircraft. Cirrus SR20 and SR22s are the first FAA-certified airplanes equipped with the BRS aircraft parachute system. The system, designed to be deployed in an emergency, fires a rocket-powered parachute out of the upper rear fuselage of the aircraft, which lowers the aircraft and its occupants to safety.

IAOPA obtains GA/AW security concessions from ICAO

Feb. 27, 2002 — The International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations successfully convinced the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to reexamine provisions of its revised aviation security guidelines that threatened to hamper general aviation/aerial work.

"ICAO reacted to the September 11 terrorist attacks with new standards for security that were enacted in December," said John J. Sheehan, secretary general of IAOPA, which represents GA/AW at ICAO proceedings. "But those standards focused entirely upon air carriers with no mention of general aviation and aerial-work flying."
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During Los Angeles PTM swing, Boyer visits JP Instruments

Feb. 27, 2002 — Aviation has spawned many entrepreneurs, and one such company with a unique and valuable product is J.P. Instruments, better known to pilots and owners as JPI. AOPA President Phil Boyer spent two hours touring the small 20-employee company and visiting with President Joe Polizzotto, a longtime AOPA supporter. Of great interest was the new EDM-800, which builds on the past product display of major engine parameters, but now has rpm, manifold pressure, and a constant digital readout of percent of power. All this is displayed on a 2.5-inch instrument. Flight data can be downloaded to a Palm Pilot or laptop computer and later analyzed to determine a variety of engine and flight conditions.
In photo: AOPA President Phil Boyer with Joe Polizzotto, JPI president, with a display of digital monitoring products.

Cold temps delay shuttle launch

Update: Feb. 27, 2002, 6:02:15 PM ET — Tomorrow morning's scheduled launch of the space shuttle Columbia has been canceled due to cold temperatures. The launch has been rescheduled for 0618 EST Friday morning. As a result, notam 2/1659 has been canceled, while the less restrictive notam 2/1612 remains in effect (see graphic). A new notam will be issued amending the effective times of the canceled restriction. This larger and more burdensome restriction, a result of heightened security concerns post 9-11, will be activated again sometime Thursday evening and run through Friday morning. Should another delay occur, the next launch window shouldn't arrive for several days. AOPA will continue to provide updates as they become available. As always, pilots are encouraged to contact St. Petersburg FSS prior to undertaking any flights near the Cape.

States proposing onerous criminal background checks and pilot IDs

Member action requested in Maryland, Michigan, and South Dakota

Feb. 26, 2002 — AOPA is fighting state legislation requiring pilot IDs and student-pilot background checks in Maryland, Michigan, and South Dakota, with a wary eye on similar bills in other states. AOPA is asking its members in those three states to familiarize themselves with the legislation and then voice their opposition directly to the appropriate lawmakers.

AOPA is stressing to all state policymakers that "a more logical approach to addressing aviation security and airman requirements should be left to the federal government to implement," which is under way at the FAA. The association recently petitioned the agency to amend aviation regulations to require that a pilot carry a government-issued photo ID.
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Larger shuttle launch TFR will impact central Florida pilots

Feb. 26, 2002 — As AOPA reported yesterday, the FAA has issued a new notice to airmen prohibiting flight operations in the vicinity of Cape Canaveral. The new notam expands the size of the no-fly area established in a notam issued yesterday. Effective from 2148 local on Wednesday through 0954 Thursday morning, notam 2/1659 establishes a 30-nm-radius TFR "no fly" zone around the launch pad from the surface to FL180, with a less restrictive area between 30 and 40 nm. No Part 91 general aviation and no VFR operations are permitted within the 30-nm "ring," while flights in the 30-40 nm area require communications with ATC and an assigned transponder code. This restriction will impact operations at 10 public-use airports, including: New Smyrna Beach (EVB), Massey (X50), Sanford (SFB), Orlando Executive (ORL), Daytona Beach International (DAB), Merritt Island (COI), Space Coast Regional (TIX), Dunn (X21), Orlando International (MCO), and Melbourne International (MLB).

"AOPA is troubled by the magnitude of the restriction, however, the FAA has limited the effective times to minimize the impact to pilots," commented Andy Cebula, Senior Vice President of Government and Technical Affairs. Pilots are advised to contact St. Petersburg Flight Service Station prior to operating in the vicinity of this airspace.
Graphics courtesy of Jeppesen Sanderson, Inc.

General aviation leader and innovator J. B. 'Doc' Hartranft dies

First president of AOPA

Feb. 25, 2002 — Joseph B. "Doc" Hartranft, Jr., the first president of AOPA, died February 22 in Annapolis, Maryland. He was 86.

"Doc Hartranft was a true visionary and defender of general aviation," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "When he helped found AOPA in 1939, the military's concerns about impending world war threatened the freedom of civilian aviation. Hartranft's leadership not only preserved general aviation through that dark period, but also enlisted GA in the defense of the nation. Much of what general aviation is today is the result of Hartranft's leadership and innovation."

Hartranft's influence touched everything from the words pilots use to the markings on runways. He founded collegiate and international aviation organizations, and he was an innovator in association management.

Hartranft, AOPA member number 2, helped found the association in 1939 as a young college graduate. He would go on to become the association's first employee, AOPA president from 1952 to 1977, and chairman of the AOPA Board of Trustees from 1977 to 1985. He retired from the board in 1990, and was named emeritus board member in 1998.
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Boyer explains driver's license proposal at NW Aviation Conference

AOPA supports fledgling backcountry airstrip organization

PUYALLUP, Washington, Feb. 23, 2002 — AOPA President Phil Boyer drew applause from a packed house of pilots in Puyallup, Washington, Saturday as he reviewed AOPA's advocacy for general aviation since September 11 and urged the FAA to approve a simple photo ID for pilots.

"We are trying to be proactive," Boyer told an audience of more than 1,200 pilots at the 19th annual Northwest Aviation Conference and Trade Show. "If we don't come up with our own solutions, the government will."

Boyer said AOPA had petitioned the FAA for a quick rule change that would require pilots to carry a valid, government-issued photo ID when in command of an aircraft. Under AOPA's proposal, a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or government agency photo ID would be acceptable.

He said this approach, relying on documents that are already carried by most pilots, would be much less expensive and much easier to implement than the FAA's own plan to mint new photo IDs and issue them to all pilots, mechanics, and other FAA certificate holders.

In photo: Phil Boyer donates $1,500 to Steve Swann, president of the newly formed Backcountry Airstrip Foundation. BAF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of recreational airstrip access throughout the West, composed of a growing network of pilot groups from seven western states.
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AOPA to Texas House Transportation Committee:

GA shouldn't be target of taxes

Feb. 25, 2002 — AOPA Southwest Regional Representative Jerry Hooper last week told the Texas House Transportation Committee that any proposals considered to raise fees on general aviation are premature, especially since the state's aviation system plan is outdated. Additionally, Hooper informed the committee that any state investment in airport development cannot be assured since the state lacks statewide airport land use zoning laws.
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Florida airspace restrictions in effect for Thursday's space shuttle launch

Pilots advised of further restrictions

Feb. 25, 2002 — The FAA has again issued a notam prohibiting aviation operations in the Kennedy Space Center area during shuttle launch operations. Similar to the last launch, a 30-nm arc centered at the launch complex will define the boundary of the restricted airspace to the east. However, given the recent experience and the on-going attention to national security, a more expansive area may be restricted prior to Thursday's launch. At this point, the notam airspace will effectively encompass restricted areas R2932, R2933, R2934, and portions of Warning Areas W497A, W158A and W158C. Flight operations within this airspace are prohibited from the surface to unlimited and will remain in effect throughout the launch, scheduled for this Thursday. Should a delay occur, an updated notice will be provided. Pilots operating proximate to this airspace are advised to contact St. Petersburg Flight Service Station for the latest advisories.

Winter Olympic Games airspace closed during closing ceremonies

Feb. 22, 2002 — Salt Lake City-area pilots are reminded that the airspace within 45 nautical miles of SLC International will be closed to all air traffic during the Winter Olympic Games closing ceremonies this Sunday (February 24) from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. MST.
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AOPA petitions FAA for simple pilot photo ID

Driver's licenses would be acceptable

Feb. 21, 2002 — AOPA today petitioned FAA to change the rules to allow for a simple, inexpensive pilot photo ID that could be put into place almost immediately. AOPA said that FAA should simply require that pilots carry a valid, government-issued photo ID along with their pilot certificates when in command of an aircraft. That photo ID could be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or government agency photo ID card.

"Since September 11, the need for a picture identification for pilots has been an important element in many security discussions," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "With a simple stroke of the pen, and with minimal cost to taxpayers, FAA could satisfy that security concern."

In a letter to FAA Administrator Garvey, Boyer said that with AOPA's proposal, FAA could address the growing public cry for picture identification of pilots with "no lengthy implementation process, no enormous FAA investment, and no financial or time costs to pilots."

AOPA asked FAA to implement the change by "direct final rule," which bypasses the normal rulemaking process and would permit the photo ID requirement to go into effect within 30 days.

"This may be too simple for the government, but it sure makes good sense," Boyer said. "And make no mistake. Sooner rather than later, the government is going to require photo IDs for pilots. We're giving them a solution pilots can live with."
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FAA develops graphical TFRs, but only for briefers

AOPA says pilots should see them too

Feb. 21, 2002 — Ever since September 11, security-related temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) have been popping up all over the country. You're not alone if you've found the FAA's TFR notams confusing. Frequent changes have also made it difficult for the system to keep pace. Following AOPA's lead, the FAA started developing graphical TFR products. While it represents a big step forward as far as interpreting the information, the FAA only plans to make the products available to flight service stations (FSSs). In a letter to the FAA, AOPA has asked that the depictions be accessible to pilots and that AOPA be included in the FAA work group tasked with developing them.

AOPA pointed out that while it's important for briefers to have the graphics, it's critically important for pilots to have the information as well to maintain safety and efficiency of the system.
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Closed Maryland airports reopen tomorrow night

Approved pilots will be briefed at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and cleared for takeoff

Feb. 21, 2002 — FAA security officials report that — as of today — 300 pilots cleared the security background check required for approval to fly out of the three closed Washington, D.C.-area airports (College Park Airport [CGS], Potomac Airfield [VKX], and Washington Executive/Hyde Field [W32]). As outlined in the Special Flight Rules (SFAR-94) published February 14, the final hurdle for approved pilots is a mandatory security briefing. This briefing is slated to take place on Friday night, February 22, in Brandywine, Maryland. FAA reports that Friday's briefing is for approved pilots only but assures AOPA that procedures to expand the approval process, for based pilots who missed the first round of security clearances, are being finalized.
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Boyer named chairman of Be A Pilot program

Feb. 20, 2002 — AOPA President Phil Boyer has been named the new chairman of the general aviation industry's Be A Pilot program.

"AOPA was instrumental in founding the Be A Pilot project in 1996. It's an honor to be named chairman of a successful effort that continues to work to build the pilot population during a period that has seen troubled times for general aviation," Boyer said. "AOPA is an enthusiastic supporter of this program to encourage more people to learn how to fly.

"With the time required for airline travel today, more and more people should be turning to general aviation — and learning to fly — in support of their personal and business travel."
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AOPA urges FAA to eliminate Seattle-area TFRs

Feb. 20, 2002 — AOPA is asking FAA to remove four temporary flight restriction areas (TFRs) in the Puget Sound region of Washington State. These TFRs have created significant impediments to civilian air traffic in the Seattle area.

"The four TFRs affect operations at public and private airports hosting more than 200,000 general aviation operations a year," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "While we recognize that national security has become a major element of airspace management, similar restrictions have been lifted in other parts of the country."

In a letter to FAA air traffic officials, AOPA said that the TFRs hampered VFR arrivals and departures at five area airports and seaplane bases, impacted three Victor airways and an ILS approach, and disrupted VFR transient traffic through the region.

"TFRs have become a convenient and all too common response that subject pilots to longer flight times, reduced access, and increased risk of enforcement action," AOPA said. "FAA should carefully balance true security needs against the needs of all law-abiding pilots."

Lancer MOA debuts in western Texas

Feb. 19, 2002 — Pilots operating in western Texas are advised that effective February 21, the new Lancer MOA will be open to operations by the U.S. 7th Bomb Wing. AOPA and local pilot groups worked closely with the FAA and DoD to ensure equitable access to the airspace including additional radar and communications coverage. This new military operations area (see graphic) replaces the existing Roby, Reese 4 and 5 MOAs and will be published on the Dallas-Ft. Worth sectional chart during the normal printing cycle date of April 18, 2002. Lancer MOA envelops airspace from 6,200 ft msl up to (but not including) FL180, and Fort Worth Center will be the controlling agency for this facility. The normal times of use will be 0900-midnight (local) Monday through Friday, with other times by notam.

IAOPA celebrates 40th anniversary

Feb. 19, 2002 — The International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (IAOPA) is celebrating its 40th anniversary in February. IAOPA was founded on February 2, 1962, by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Associations of the United States, Canada (COPA), Australia, South Africa, and the Philippines. By the end of 1962, Germany, Mexico, Italy, and Venezuela had joined. Today IAOPA boasts 56 member countries.
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GA relief bill to receive full committee vote

Lawmakers to debate the measure by month's end

Feb. 17, 2002 — In several recent meetings with AOPA Legislative Affairs, House Aviation subcommittee staff indicated that the General Aviation Reparations Act of 2001 (H.R. 3347), sponsored by Chairman John Mica, is expected to receive a hearing by the full House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee by the end of the month. The bill, which overwhelmingly passed the subcommittee last December, would provide $2.5 billion in direct grants and $5 billion in guaranteed loans to those general aviation businesses adversely affected by the events of September 11.

The House Aviation subcommittee staff also confirmed that Democrats on the committee are seeking to add a provision to the bill to help airline employees who have lost their jobs in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Negotiations are under way to craft language that will not dampen the strong support the bill has received to date by members from both parties. AOPA is working closely with supporters of the legislation to obtain passage.

FAA reminder: Airspace over Salt Lake City is restricted during Olympics

Seven airspace violations since the start of the games cause concern

Feb. 15, 2002 — If you plan to fly anywhere near Salt Lake City, Utah, over the next nine days, know the rules! Late this afternoon, the FAA asked AOPA to remind pilots that a 45-nm-radius airspace restriction remains in effect over Salt Lake City (see SFAR-95, notams, and graphic) through February 24. According to the deputy administrator for FAA Air Traffic, since the start of the games, there have been seven airspace violations and several incidences where pilots were intercepted by fighter aircraft and forced to land. The FAA is asking all pilots who intend to operate in the Salt Lake area to please review current procedures and contact Flight Service for updates.
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AOPA objects to South Dakota's plan for pilot photo identification

Feb. 15, 2002 — In a letter to South Dakota Governor William Janklow, AOPA has again voiced opposition to a bill that facilitates the state's Aeronautics Commission issuance of statewide pilot photo registration cards. Senate Bill 32 appears to be a $5 increase in the state's pilot registration fees; however, based on the governor's statement and discussion with state officials, AOPA is concerned that the state intends to issue pilot photo identification cards. These cards would be used to implement airport security measures at all airports in the state.

Despite AOPA's efforts, the bill passed the House with a vote of 56 to 11. In a letter urging the governor to veto the legislation, AOPA Senior Vice President Andrew Cebula said, "A more uniform approach to address the airman requirements and airport security should be left to the federal government to implement on a national level, something that is occurring now."

Face-to-face briefing ban remains in effect at FSSs

Feb. 15, 2002 — Don't expect to receive a face-to-face preflight weather briefing or file a flight plan in person at a flight service station anytime soon. An FAA security directive issued immediately after September 11, and still in effect more than five months later, prohibits visitors at air-traffic facilities, including all 61 FSSs.

"The visitor prohibition at en route centers, approach facilities, and towers should not apply to FSSs," explained Melissa Bailey, AOPA vice president of air traffic services. "We've asked the FAA to remove the lock-out, and we are hopeful that after the Olympics the agency will open the doors of FSSs again," Bailey said.
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Rumor of nuclear notam reactivation untrue

Feb. 15, 2002 — According to the FAA's Office of Air Traffic, reports aired today by the Cable News Network (CNN) that the government is reactivating the 10-mile no-fly areas around nuclear sites are "untrue." Last November, the "nuclear notam" (which established a 10-nm/18,000-feet "no fly" zone around nuclear power plants) closed more than 700 airports to general aviation aircraft and grounded thousands of aircraft. AOPA's Government and Technical Affairs staff remain in regular contact with the FAA and will report any changes immediately should the government change its position. To help prevent the possibility of restrictions, AOPA President Phil Boyer advises pilots to "stay away from nuclear power plants, dams, and other sensitive sites."

AOPA queries Sen. Kohl's staff on "ticking time bomb" remark

Feb. 14, 2002 — Wisconsin Senator Herbert Kohl, according to his staff, believes that while the general aviation community may be addressing the potential weaknesses in the system, the government is not. AOPA's Senior Vice President of Government and Technical Affairs Andy Cebula and AOPA's Vice President of Legislative Affairs Julia Krauss met with Senator Kohl's chief of staff Paul Bock and his transportation appropriations staffer Molly Harris to discuss Senator Kohl's comments during a hearing last week. Sen. Kohl called general aviation a "ticking time bomb" in a Senate Transportation Appropriations hearing. Despite the senator's provocative comments, his staff believes that the senator's subsequent questions on charter carriers more accurately illustrated his chief concerns.

In the meeting with Kohl's Washington staff, AOPA emphasized the association's efforts on GA security in concert with other members of the GA community. AOPA stressed that what works for commercial aviation will not work for GA. In response, Kohl's staff acknowledged that "one size does not fit all" and that what they hope to see is an "effective" approach to security, one that is both useful and implementable. AOPA Legislative Affairs plans to work with the senator 's office as the security debate progresses and will continue to advocate reasonable measures appropriate to general aviation.

FAA issues SFAR, notams for Washington, D.C. area

Rules will reopen closed airports to based pilots

Feb. 14, 2002 — The FAA has issued two notams and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that will open three closed Washington, D.C.-area airports (College Park Airport [CGS], Potomac Airfield [VKX], and Washington Executive/Hyde Field [W32]) to operations by aircraft that were based on the airports on September 11. Pilots must complete a security background check and comply with special air traffic control procedures.

After a "procedural validation period," FAA will consider allowing non-based transient aircraft to use these airports. AOPA understands that this test period will likely run 60 days.

In the SFAR, the FAA formally recognizes AOPA, the Maryland Department of Aviation, and the airport operators who participated in the development of the rule. AOPA is pleased to note that the direct participation of AOPA and other key organizations resulted in the FAA shelving more restrictive and cost-prohibitive alternatives. For example, the FAA considered requiring arriving aircraft to first land at "gateway airports" outside of the SFAR area for law enforcement inspections prior to proceeding to an affected airport. The FAA also considered requiring law enforcement inspection of aircraft departing from the three airports. After much discussion and negotiations, these alternatives were rejected in favor of more reasonable security procedures.

AOPA, Flight Explorer providing near-real-time display of Daytona 500 air traffic this weekend

Feb. 14, 2002 — A continuous display of air traffic going to and from this weekend's Daytona 500 NASCAR races in Daytona Beach, Florida, is available on AOPA Online through Sunday. As many as 600 aircraft are expected to arrive between Thursday and Sunday for the world-famous races. The near-real-time display of air traffic in the Daytona Beach area is being provided free for this weekend only by AOPA Certified partner Flight Explorer.
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AOPA President Phil Boyer receives prestigious Aviation Week Laurel citation

Feb. 13, 2002 — AOPA President Phil Boyer has been honored with an Aviation Week & Space Technology magazine "Aerospace Laurel" citation for his "relentless defense of general aviation after the September 11 attacks," the magazine said.

The 45th annual Aerospace Laurels honor "individuals and teams who made significant contributions to the global field of aerospace during 2001" and appear in the February 4th edition of the magazine.

"While I am humbled by this recognition, the honor rightfully should go to the extraordinary team backing me at AOPA," Boyer said.

Magazine editors said Boyer's "relentless testimony before congressional committees informed lawmakers of the value of general aviation to the U.S. economy and helped keep them from overreacting to the perceived 'threat' of small aircraft to the U.S. airspace system."
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Expanded "Sport Pilot" section now online

Feb. 13, 2002 — AOPA has created an expanded, dedicated "Sport Pilot" section to its online service to help members understand the FAA's "Sport Pilot" proposed rule. The section includes an easy-to-understand summary of the rule, a quick comparison chart of the Sport Pilot proposal with existing certificates, "frequently asked questions," a message board to discuss the proposal with other pilots, and a comment section to send your thoughts on the proposed Sport Pilot rules to AOPA. "Because there has been so much interest in exactly what the Sport Pilot rulemaking means to pilots, we felt that a dedicated AOPA Online section was important," said Andy Cebula, AOPA senior vice president of Government and Technical Affairs.

Washington-area SFAR scheduled for publication

Notam expected tomorrow

Feb. 13, 2002 — The Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that will reopen three closed Washington, D.C.-area airports to operations by based pilots has now been sent to the Federal Register for publication. (See "President Bush approves special flight rules for Washington.") A notam is expected tomorrow that will define some of the limits of the SFAR. The SFAR will eventually allow the owners and operators of aircraft based at College Park, Hyde, and Potomac airports to operate from these airports. However, pilots still have to receive security and operations briefings, and be assigned special security identification codes, before operations can actually begin.

President Bush approves special flight rules for Washington

Will reopen popular VFR corridor and three closed airports

Feb. 12, 2002 — President Bush today approved FAA's proposed Special Federal Aviation Regulation that will reopen an existing VFR corridor in the Baltimore/Washington Class B airspace and will establish procedures to allow based operators at Hyde Field, Potomac Airpark, and College Park Airport to resume operations. FAA Deputy Administrator Monte Belger called AOPA this afternoon to say, "The President says it's ok to reopen those airports."

With that approval, FAA now has to complete some minor interagency coordination before it can issue the actual SFAR and notams that will reopen the corridor to all pilots and the three airports to based pilots.

"Pilots based at these airports will finally be allowed to fly and demonstrate to the entire country that operations from these locations do not pose a security risk to the nation's capital," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "Restoring based operations is an important milestone, but AOPA will not rest until all general aviation operations are restored at these important general aviation airports."
In photo: A Secret Service technician fingerprints Jack Robson of College Park, Maryland, in preparation to reopen College Park airport to based pilots.
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FAA issues emergency Lycoming AD

Feb. 12, 2002 — The FAA has issued an emergency airworthiness directive calling for crankshaft replacement in Textron Lycoming TIO-540 and LTIO-540 turbocharged engines rated at 300 horsepower or more. This AD affects some 399 engines installed in Cessna T206; Piper Navajo, Mojave, Saratoga, Aerostar, Malibu Mirage; and El Gavilian aircraft.

Owners must comply with the AD within 10 operating hours. The AD includes the serial numbers of the affected engines. The AD covers engines with crankshafts manufactured between March 1, 1999, and December 31, 1999.

At this point, the AD only applies to turbocharged engines. However, FAA tells AOPA that it is continuing to investigate to determine if the AD should be applied to normally aspirated engines as well.
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AOPA tells Puerto Rico to keep San Juan reliever airport open

Sends "Pilot Action Alert" to area pilots

Feb. 11, 2002 — AOPA is urging the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to keep San Juan's Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport (SIG) open. AOPA said a consultant's study encourages continued operation of the field, still commonly called by its old name Isla Grande, but government discussions to close the airport continue.

"AOPA strongly opposes any effort to close the airport," said Bill Dunn, AOPA vice president for regional affairs, in a recent letter to Governor Sila Maria Calderon. "No other airport will be able to accommodate Isla Grande's 300 based aircraft and more than 120,000 annual operations."

AOPA concurrently mailed a "Pilot Action Alert" to all members in Puerto Rico urging them to contact the governor, the director of the airport authority, and key legislators to voice support for the airport.
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Boyer selected to deliver first Odegard Memorial Lecture at UND

Update: Feb. 9, 2002 — AOPA President Phil Boyer was honored to be selected as the first speaker at the 1st Annual John D. Odegard Memorial Distinguished Lecture Series and Spring Safety Seminar at UND Aerospace. More than 600 attendees heard his presentation February 6 at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.

The event was organized by the AATP (Association of Air Transport Professionals-in-training), and Boyer devoted part of his presentation to the employment prospects for aviation professionals. Five students representing different campus organizations also got the opportunity to get some "right seat" time in N4GA, the AOPA CitationJet.
In photo: The leaders of five UND Aerospace student organizations were selected to get some "right seat stick time" in AOPA's N4GA. Shown are Matt Baroni, NAFI Flying Team; Lori Jones, Women in Aviation; Gregory Justin McDuffie, Organization for Minority Aviation Professionals; Matthew Marshall, Student Aviation Advisory Council, Matt Rone, AATP; and Phil Boyer.
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FAA backs AOPA challenges to touch-and-go restrictions at two Florida airports

Feb. 8, 2002 — Prompted by December challenges from AOPA, the FAA has informed two Florida airports that they violated FAA mandates regarding aircraft operations.

The St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Vero Beach imposed harsh restrictions on touch-and-go landings, which the FAA now says were implemented without due process.

AOPA quickly wrote letters to the operators and the FAA in the middle of December decrying the limitations at St. Lucie County International and Vero Beach Municipal as violations of federal-funding agreements. The restrictions limited touch-and-goes to the hours of 9-5 weekdays and 10-2 on Saturdays and blocked all touch-and-goes on Sundays and federal holidays.
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AOPA argues against sale of surplus Lawrence (Mass) airport property

Long-term lease would be better for airport

Feb. 8, 2002 — AOPA has told the City of Lawrence, Massachusetts, that its plan to sell surplus airport property for an industrial development is not in the best interests of the airport. AOPA also believes the city's fast-track efforts to sell the land are against the law.

Companion AOPA letters from June 2001 and recently February 6 say "it is our belief that a long-term lease of airport property rather than a sale of the property will yield a greater return to the airport and will provide a greater benefit to the airport over time."
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Boyer speaks in support of Meigs legislation

Offers stirring defense of Chicago's lakeside airport

Update: CHICAGO, Feb. 8, 2002 — AOPA President Phil Boyer joined the Chicagoland Chamber and other local business organizations to voice support for the National Aviation Capacity Expansion Act bill. The house bill, introduced by Sen. Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) and Rep. William Lipinski (D-Ill.), would codify the agreement reached last fall by Chicago Mayor Richard Daley and Illinois Governor Ryan to keep Meigs Field open until 2026, modernize O'Hare International Airport, and designate Peotone as the region's preferred site for a third major airport.

"AOPA strongly supports this legislation," said Boyer. "It ensures another quarter century of continued operations at Meigs Field, Chicago's flagship airport."

Boyer flew into Meigs Field less than an hour before the downtown press conference. The AOPA aircraft, N4GA ("for general aviation"), was parked at the end of the south ramp, clearly visible to all the media members attending the press conference, and graphically illustrating the convenience and efficiency of general aviation and Meigs Field.

"The access Meigs Field affords business travelers to the downtown area is fantastic. It's convenient, fast, and efficient. The airport is a jewel and a real asset for the City of Chicago."
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Wisconsin Senator Kohl calls GA a "ticking time bomb"

Feb. 7, 2002 — U.S. Senator Herb Kohl today called general aviation a "ticking time bomb." During a Senate Transportation Appropriation subcommittee hearing, the Democrat from Wisconsin (ironically, the home of the world's largest general aviation event at Oshkosh) said that security is minimal or nonexistent at some GA airports, and "until we have a handle on general aviation security, we cannot assure the public that aviation security is under control."

The new undersecretary of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), John Magaw, acknowledged that there is a wide variation in the level of GA security. He told the committee that the TSA needs to develop a template for GA users to follow.

"This is extraordinarily frustrating," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "We have tried to be proactive and helpful on issues of GA security.

"AOPA and other industry partners developed and submitted to the government a series of reasonable, practical security recommendations. And while FAA has considered some of these suggestions, we haven't yet had a response from TSA."

AOPA is scheduling meetings with both Senator Kohl and Under Secretary Magaw to discuss GA security issues.
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AOPA joins Richards-Gebaur Airport appeal to U.S. Supreme Court

Feb. 7, 2002 — AOPA joined an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court on the closure of Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport in Kansas City, Missouri.

AOPA's appeal, which complements a petition filed late last year by Friends of Richards-Gebaur Airport, centers on the FAA "releasing" Kansas City from its obligation under the Surplus Property Act to maintain the airport, which was an Air Force base until 1985.

"If a circuit court decision stands, a dangerous precedent will result, creating a slippery slope for federal agencies to abuse their power and discretion by rewriting laws that clearly and unambiguously set forth the intent of Congress," said Kathleen Yodice, AOPA counsel.
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FAA cancels two last-minute Winter Olympic TFRs

Brigham City Airport reopened to VFR operations during the games

Update: Feb. 7, 2002 — The FAA has canceled two notams issued January 25 that would have established expanded temporary flight restriction areas (TFRs) around two Olympic venues. This cancellation reopens the Brigham City Airport (BMC) to VFR operations during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Instrument approaches to BMC will not be authorized. A notam on that is expected later today.

AOPA had argued against the two expanded venue notams. With the imposition of the notams, AOPA had requested special air traffic procedures for Brigham City to facilitate operations in the TFR.
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First step toward reopening Maryland airports

Based pilots to begin background checks tomorrow

Feb. 6, 2002 — The long intense negotiations led by the FAA with security officials has resulted in a plan for getting local pilots back in the air at Hyde Field, Potomac Airpark, and College Park Airport. Those three Maryland airports, which are inside a 15-mile temporary flight restriction area around Washington, D.C., have been closed since the attacks on September 11th. Beginning tomorrow, the Secret Service will begin the background check process by fingerprinting pilots (by appointment only) at the College Park Annex. Only pilots and operators based at the three airports prior to September 11th are eligible for this special security process. In addition to submitting prints, pilots will also be required to show three forms of identification, an official photo ID, pilot license, and current medical certificate.

"This is an important first step towards restoring operations at these airports," according to Andy Cebula, AOPA senior vice president of government affairs. "While far from ideal, it is important to get based pilots flying again to demonstrate that operations out of these airports do not pose a security risk to the nation's capital."
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AOPA Air Safety Foundation programs reached more than 94,000 pilots in 2001

Feb. 6, 2002 — AOPA Air Safety Foundation educational efforts benefited more than 94,000 pilots in 2001. Some 59,000 people successfully completed 750 ASF seminars, clinics, courses, and online classes in 2001. ASF also sent safety videos to 35,000 new pilots and new instrument-rated pilots in 2001. These efforts are ASF's springboard for 2002, says Bruce Landsberg, executive director.
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Mike Ferguson named AOPA Northwest regional representative

Feb. 6, 2002 — Mike Ferguson, former administrator of the Montana Aeronautics Division, has been named Northwest regional representative for AOPA.

AOPA President Phil Boyer said, "Mike's lifelong commitment to aviation, and particularly to aviation safety, make him well suited to represent the interests of the 39,000 pilots in the four-state Northwest region." The region includes Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana.
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Pilot Town Meetings to feature Boyer's "Gadget Corner"

Feb. 5, 2002 — AOPA Pilot Town Meetings will now feature an added attraction, "Gadget Corner," highlighting new, unique or unusual gadgets that pilots may find useful to make flying safer, more enjoyable or more affordable. AOPA Pilot Town Meetings start at 7:30 p.m. and are open to all pilots without charge.

The first "Gadget Corner" feature will present an electronic checklist program usable in Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Called "AVcheck," the shareware program is the first gadget to be featured in the new section of AOPA Pilot Town Meetings. (More information about "Gadget Corner" features is available on the AOPA President's page.)
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Good news, bad news in proposed FAA budget

No user fees, but privatized ATC still on the table

Feb. 5, 2002 — The Administration's proposed budget for FAA is good news for general aviation in the short term, but there are storm clouds on the horizon.

The budget does request the full funding for airport and airway improvements as established by the AIR-21 bill. That means all of the trust fund monies collected will be spent on aviation.

The Administration also said it would not seek user fees.

But buried within the budget proposal is a note that the Administration will evaluate the effectiveness of the yet-to-be formed air traffic control performance based organization (PBO).
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New Mexico scientist wins AOPA 2001 membership sweepstakes Bonanza

Feb. 4, 2002 — A scientist from Los Alamos, New Mexico, has won the 2001 AOPA Membership Sweepstakes Beechcraft Bonanza. The sleek 1966 V35 model had been transformed over the past year into the highest-technology aircraft ever awarded by AOPA.

AOPA President Phil Boyer surprised 50-year-old Norman Elliott (AOPA 796525) and his wife Joyce this afternoon with the news, delivered via a telephone call during what the Elliotts believed was the taping of a television interview on an aspect of his work at Los Alamos National Laboratories. The fake interview was set up with the help of LANL Broadcast Media Specialist John Bass (AOPA 1072531).

Elliott and his wife, both LANL employees in the Polymers and Coatings Group of the Materials Science Technology Division, were caught on videotape whooping with joy and embracing as Boyer delivered the news. "Congratulations," said Boyer. "You are the winners of the 2001 AOPA Bonanza Sweepstakes." [Listen to audio of the telephone call: RealMedia file (2.3 Mb), MP3 file (8.9 Mb), or WAV file (12.3 Mb).]
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Textron Lycoming issues mandatory crankshaft service bulletin

Calls for replacement of TIO- and LTIO-540 engine crankshafts

Feb. 4, 2002 — Textron Lycoming issued a crankshaft-replacement service bulletin on February 1 recalling 399 turbocharged TIO- and LTIO-540 engines. FAA sources tell AOPA's Government and Technical Affairs Division that it will be at least two weeks before the agency issues an airworthiness directive or a special airworthiness information bulletin. FAA is looking at the service record to determine if normally aspirated 540 engines should be included.

Textron Lycoming's Mandatory Service Bulletin Number 550 calls for all engines listed in the dispatch to be "returned to the factory for crankshaft replacement within 10 hours of operation." Lycoming will reimburse affected owners for parts and labor, the bulletin says. "There is no field process currently available to identify crankshafts potentially affected," said Lycoming in the inclusive bulletin. AOPA knows of eight reports of broken crankshafts in the field.

Check Textron Lycoming Service Bulletin 550 [requires Adobe Reader] to determine if your engine is included in this recall.

Washington State bill to fine pilots for flying too close to gov's house

AOPA fires off strong objection

Feb. 4, 2002 — In a strongly worded letter to Lieutenant Governor Bradley Scott Owen, AOPA objected to Washington State Senate Bill 6262 that would penalize pilots for flying too close to the state Capitol building or the governor's mansion. The bill would assess class C felony charges against operators of private aircraft flying closer than one thousand feet to the buildings. "This bill unfairly and unnecessarily singles out private aircraft in an attempt to criminalize private aviation. General aviation pilots should not be singled out as criminals," AOPA Senior Vice President Andrew Cebula said in the letter.
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AOPA appoints Julia Krauss vice president of Legislative Affairs

Feb. 4, 2002 — AOPA has named Julia Krauss as vice president of Legislative Affairs. Krauss was previously AOPA's legislative affairs director. She has been serving as interim manager of AOPA's Washington, D.C., office since November 2001.

"Julia is a vital resource in AOPA's advocacy efforts in Congress," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "Her experience and contacts within the U.S. Senate are particularly valuable to representing the interests of general aviation before our national lawmakers."
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John Pfeifer tapped as new AOPA California regional representative

Feb. 4, 2002 — AOPA has named John L. Pfeifer regional representative for California. Pfeifer is a former FAA manager specializing in airport issues. He was honored last June with AOPA's Crotti Award for distinguished service to general aviation in California.

AOPA President Phil Boyer welcomed Pfeifer to the role, saying, "John's wealth of knowledge about California aviation, and his specific knowledge of federal and state regulations, makes him a perfect advocate for advancing the interests of general aviation in the Golden State."
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Government warns of aviation threat to nuclear plants

AOPA urges pilots to fly clear of sensitive facilities

Feb. 1, 2002 — Security officials have stepped up warnings of a potential new terrorist attack on the United States. Terrorists might try to crash a hijacked commercial airliner into a nuclear power plant, according to intelligence reports. Dams and water and sewage treatment plants are also apparent targets.

"With our nation in this heightened state of alert, once again pilots must take care not to contribute to public fears," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "Stay away from nuclear power plants, dams and other sensitive sites."
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Mark Lowdermilk named AOPA Airport Support Network manager

Feb. 1, 2002 — AOPA has named Mark Lowdermilk manager of its Airport Support Network (ASN). He will be responsible for a full-time staff of two people and the growing number of ASN volunteers working to save airports across the United States. There are currently more than 1,100 ASN volunteers.

"ASN volunteers are crucial to our continuing efforts to preserve and protect general aviation airports," said Andy Cebula, AOPA senior vice president of government and technical affairs. "Mark's aviation experience, coupled with his business credentials, makes him the ideal manager for this vital program."
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FAA issues restrictive Super Bowl TFR

Restrictions to extend 45 nm from New Orleans Int'l Airport

Update: Feb. 1, 2002, 10:08:25 AM ET — After weeks of intense negotiations between the FAA, Secret Service, and other members of the security community, FAA has issued a notam establishing a temporary flight restriction (TFR) around New Orleans during Super Bowl XXXVI activities (February 1-4) [see graphic]. Despite the best efforts of both the FAA and AOPA, the Secret Service and Department of Defense insisted on a 45-nm-radius TFR around Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). The TFR becomes effective February 1, 2002, at 6 a.m. and runs through February 3 11:59 p.m. Thanks to FAA's dogged insistence, general aviation aircraft can operate within the 45-nm TFR (except for within 3 nm of the Superdome) February 1 through noon, February 3, provided they are on a VFR or IFR flight plan, maintain communications with ATC, and have been assigned a discrete transponder code.
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January 2002

FAA expands Olympic venue TFRs, effectively closing another Wasatch Front airport

Update: Jan. 31, 2002, 11:19:57 AM ET — In response to Department of Defense recommendations, the FAA has released two additional notams expanding the temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) around two Olympic venues from the original 2 nm to 30 nm during specified times. The Ogden Ice Sheet venue will extend to 30 nm from February 10 through February 22 daily between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. In addition, the Peaks Ice Arena venue TFR in Provo will be expanded to 30 nm February 9-13 and Feb. 15-19 from noon through 11 p.m., Feb. 14 from 9 a.m. until midnight, and again Feb. 20-21 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Flight through the TFRs during the active times is prohibited unless authorized by ATC. The Ogden TFR will impact operations at Brigham City Airport. AOPA has requested that FAA and Salt Lake air traffic control personnel establish procedures and communications links so that aircraft on the ground at Brigham City can contact ATC to obtain permission to operate through the TFR. FAA has now added a special traffic management program ("slot reservations") for IFR aircraft arriving at Logan-Cache (LGU), Wendover (ENV), and Evanston Unita County (EVW). See the notam for more information.

AOPA questions last-minute State of the Union address flight restrictions

Says pilots needlessly put at risk

Jan. 30, 2002 — AOPA President Phil Boyer has complained to Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge about the "last minute" temporary flight restriction that effectively closed nine Washington-area airports during the President's State of the Union address January 29.

"As a citizen of the United States during these troubled times, I am very concerned about whether I am 'secure in the homeland' with decisions like those made yesterday," Boyer wrote Ridge the day following the speech. "I do not question the imposition of flight restrictions, but the manner in which the government acted."

At 4:45 p.m. on January 29, FAA issued a notice to airman (notam) banning all VFR flight within 25 nautical miles of Washington, D.C. during the President's speech that evening.

"It is troubling that a vital homeland security decision about an event scheduled months in advance was made at not just the proverbial 'eleventh hour,' but operationally beyond any reasonable time pilots would expect such notification," Boyer said.

Boyer also told Ridge that FAA's antiquated notam system is not effective in quickly communicating necessary information to pilots. "FAA relies on a notam system that is descended from 1940s Teletype technology," Boyer said. Because of that, AOPA took action by immediately publishing advance word of the action on the association's Web site, and sending an e-mail to pilots living within 250 miles of Washington.

Even so, there was the very real risk that some pilots would not get the word.
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FAA approves Air Force petition to conduct lights-out operations above FL180

Air Force still looking to expand this activity to MOAs

Jan. 30, 2002 — The FAA this week granted an Air Force petition to conduct night-vision flight training operations (lights-out) at and above 18,000 feet msl in aircraft without lighted position lights. This activity will occur in Class A (positive control) airspace, where ATC can ensure an equivalent level of safety for non-participating aircraft. Many AOPA members are familiar with a related Air Force petition, still under review by the FAA, which requests similar relief for lights-out operations at lower altitudes in some MOA airspace. Currently "lights-out" training is conducted within restricted areas.
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FAA proposes Sport pilot and Light-Sport aircraft rules

Jan. 30, 2002 — The FAA finally made public this afternoon its proposed rules creating a new pilot certificate — Sport pilot, and a new category of certificated aircraft — Light-Sport. The notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) is now available for public comment.

Light-Sport aircraft are simple, low-performance aircraft limited to 1,232 pounds maximum weight, a single non-turbine engine, stall speed of 39 knots, maximum airspeed of 115 knots, and fixed landing gear. Of currently certificated aircraft, J3 Cubs, Aeronca Champs, and early model Taylorcrafts would likely fall into the Light-Sport category. Cessna 150s and Aeronca Chiefs would not. The proposal would regulate aircraft that are too large to be ultralights, but too small to economically meet current FAA certification standards. [See also AOPA's regulatory brief.]
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President's budget to focus on defense and homeland security

Many federal agencies will be squeezed

Jan. 30, 2002 — In his first State of the Union address, President Bush delivered his priorities for the FY 2003 budget: defense, homeland security, and economic security. These proposals will be formally presented in his budget that he submits to Congress on Feb. 4, marking the beginning of the annual budget process. For Homeland Security, which includes protecting our airports and airplanes, Bush is proposing $38 billion. Bush will also seek a $48 billion increase in new defense spending. With much of the discretionary spending in Bush's budget going to defense and homeland security, enormous pressure will be placed on the funding for the FAA and other agencies. "AOPA's top priority in the budget process is to ensure that the FAA continues to receive the funding for airports and airway modernization delivered by the historic AIR-21 legislation agreement of 2000," explained AOPA's Julia Krauss, vice president of Legislative Affairs.

FAA issues another last-minute TFR for New York

Update: Jan. 30, 2002, 9:57:41 PM ET — As AOPA reported earlier this evening, the FAA has issued a notam establishing a temporary flight restriction around New York City. U.S. security officials apparently demanded the expanded security area for the World Economic Forum meeting starting tomorrow. The notam, effective January 31 at 7 a.m. and extending through 10 p.m. February 4, establishes an 18-nautical-mile TFR around the JFK VOR. Pilots flying in the New York area must make sure they have obtained all of the latest notams immediately prior to flight.
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TFRs issued for international financial meetings in New York

Jan. 29, 2002 — The FAA has issued another TFR notam establishing a 2-nm flight restriction from the surface up to but not including FL180 in Manhattan, New York, beginning January 31, 2002 at 7a.m. through February 4, 2002, at 6:59 p.m. Centered on the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, this TFR is located within La Guardia Class B airspace, just to the northeast of the existing ground zero TFR. All flights are prohibited within the TFR area unless authorized by ATC. AOPA has learned that the restrictions have been implemented to provide an extra layer of security surrounding the World Economic Forum's annual meeting to take place later this week. Meeting highlights are centered on global economy and security.

FAA to restrict general aviation near D.C. for State of Union address tonight

No VFR permitted within 25 miles of Washington from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Update: Jan. 29, 2002 — AOPA has learned that security officials made a last-minute decision to prohibit VFR operations within 25 miles of Washington, D.C., during President Bush's State of the Union address tonight. At 4:55 p.m., FAA released a notam establishing a temporary flight restriction (TFR) from the surface to FL180 from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. EST. (IFR operations will still be permitted in the 15- to 25-mile radius of Washington.)

"Such short notice on a restriction of this magnitude gives local pilots little, if any, opportunity to plan," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "AOPA is very concerned that some pilots won't get word in time to prevent an unintentional violation."
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Special air traffic procedures for Daytona 500

Jan. 28, 2002 — The FAA has issued a five-part notam establishing special air traffic procedures February 13-17 in Daytona Beach, Florida, during the Daytona 500 race week. Slot reservations will be required for all domestic, non-scheduled IFR arrivals into Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach, New Smyrna, Flagler County, and Spruce Creek airports daily from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. beginning February 13 through February 16. In addition, slot reservations will be required on Feb. 17 from 6 a.m. to noon. FAA requests that all pilots remain clear of Class C airspace until clearance is received to proceed inbound. Several charted visual checkpoints at New Smyrna Airport, High Bridge, and Lake Disston will be used for VFR holding points as necessary. Pilots are encouraged to check all notams prior to flight and familiarize themselves with the special air traffic procedures.

New requirements for flying into Mexico

Rental and corporate-registered aircraft need prior authorization

Jan. 28, 2002 — Mexico has issued new requirements for some pilots flying from the U.S. Pilots flying rented aircraft, aircraft registered under a corporate name, or any helicopter, must obtain prior authorization before entering the country. There are no fees for obtaining this authorization.

In the last few weeks, there has been some confusion about a supposed new "landing permit" in Mexico. AOPA has confirmed with the Mexican government that no new permit is required, just prior authorization for entry of aircraft that are not registered in the pilot's name (and all helicopters, regardless of registration).
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CFI Renewal Online, by AOPA ASF and Jeppesen, wins technical-writing award

Jan. 28, 2002 — CFI Renewal Online, the Web-based study course for flight instructors to revalidate their certificates, recently won an award for Distinguished Technical Communication from the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Society for Technical Communication.

The educational program is a joint venture of the AOPA Air Safety Foundation and Jeppesen Sanderson, in Denver. CFI Renewal Online was introduced in June 2001, and by the middle of January, more than 1,000 flight instructors had successfully completed the course.
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Senate aviation subcommittee chairman announces hearing on Meigs legislation

Jan. 24, 2002 — Meigs Field's future has become more secure. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, and Senate Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Jay Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) announced at a news conference Thursday afternoon that the Senate Commerce Committee will soon hold a hearing on the bill that will keep Meigs Field open. The legislation (S. 1786) will write into law the historic agreement between Mayor Daley and Illinois Governor George Ryan preserving Meigs, expanding O'Hare International, and creating a new airport at Peotone. AOPA has been a strong supporter of the Chicago airports legislation because it keeps Meigs Field open.

AOPA President Phil Boyer met up yesterday with Mayor Daley (who was in Washington, D.C., for the winter meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors).

"It was great to be able to thank him for including Meigs Field in the plan for Chicago area airports," Boyer said.
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FAA issues revised notam on TFRs around downtown Chicago

Jan. 24, 2002 — Culminating the efforts of AOPA, the City of Chicago, and the FAA Great Lakes Region Air Traffic office, a revised notam has been issued regarding temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) over downtown Chicago. To address the concerns of local pilots, the updated TFR frees up airspace to the southwest of Meigs Class D airspace and allows pilots to navigate around Midway Class C airspace enroute to and from Meigs airport and along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The TFR also follows several commonly used VFR landmarks that local pilots have used for decades when flying near downtown Chicago. The TFR does not cover the Navy Pier, a common reference point for VFR pilots landing at Meigs. "The purpose of the updated TFR area is a temporary means to address public perception while allowing the City adequate time to educate the public regarding commonly used general aviation routes through downtown Chicago," says Melissa Bailey, vice president of Air Traffic Services. "Once educational efforts have been made, AOPA anticipates the temporary flight restrictions will be eliminated."

Runway incursions fall

AOPA notes contribution of pilot education

Jan. 24, 2002 — The FAA announced yesterday that the number of runway incursions fell last year, reversing an upward trend. Significantly, the two most serious types of incursion also decreased, along with the total rate of runway incursions.

AOPA President Phil Boyer, along with the head of FAA's runway safety program, told the press that much of the credit belongs to new education programs for pilots and controllers. Last March, AOPA and the AOPA Air Safety Foundation launched an innovative online runway safety course, the ASF Runway Safety Program. The number of incursions last year was running slightly ahead of 2000 until midyear, when several education programs kicked in.

There were 380 incursions last year compared to 431 in 2000. While the majority of incursions were attributed to general aviation aircraft, GA also accounts for the majority of operations at towered airports. Whether looking at airliners or GA aircraft, the rate of incursions is about the same. A high-time airline captain is just as likely to commit a runway incursion as a GA pilot.
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Detroit News editorializes in favor of general aviation

Other major papers offer reasoned response to Tampa incident

Jan. 24, 2002 — The Detroit News has written a strong editorial in favor of general aviation. Commenting on the Tampa incident and general aviation security, the paper said on Friday, "General aviation is much different than commercial airline operations and should be treated as such. Security precautions are in order. But airtight measures designed for airlines cannot be easily transferred to small airports such as Grosse Ile, Troy and Howell.

"Nor should they be.

"General aviation is at once big business and recreation. There are 637,000 licensed pilots in the country, including 17,700 in Michigan. General aviation accounts for 79 percent of all U.S. takeoffs and 59 percent of all hours flown.

"Thousands fly their own planes on business. Charter services haul passengers for a fee. And for most private pilots, flying is an hour or two of sport on weekends. They operate single-engine piston planes out of 18,000 airports."
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Last three closed GA airports to open soon

AOPA confirms SFAR work completed

Jan. 23, 2002 — FAA Administrator Jane Garvey yesterday told the Washington Aero Club that the last three closed general aviation airports in the Washington, D.C., area should be able to open within the next few days. AOPA has confirmed with FAA sources that the agency has completed work on the Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that will establish the security and airspace rules that will permit based aircraft to begin flying again out of College Park (CGS), Potomac Airfield (VKX), and Washington Executive/Hyde Field (W32). The SFAR will now have to be reviewed by security agencies including the U.S. Secret Service. However, these agencies have already seen drafts of the rule and have agreed to the overall concepts.

Closed Washington, D.C.-area airports not forgotten

SFAR in progress to allow operations in near future

Update: Jan. 23, 2002 — There is hope for pilots at the three Maryland airports that still remain closed to general aviation operations. In a conference call this afternoon, FAA briefed the airport owners and operators, along with AOPA and other industry representatives, on progress towards a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that would permit operations at College Park (CGS), Potomac Airfield (VKX), and Washington Executive/Hyde Field (W32) airports near Washington, D.C. These airports have remained closed since September 11, and AOPA has continued to urge FAA and homeland security officials to restore operations since then.

"I've heard personally from members how important it is to reopen these airports, located so close to the nation's capital and in AOPA's backyard," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "The plan that FAA and the airport operators are crafting is a good first solution to a very difficult security situation." [More]

Boyer gives Superior speech

Jan. 18, 2002 — Friday morning in Maui, Hawaii, AOPA President Phil Boyer gave the keynote speech to Superior Air Parts 2002 Worldwide Symposium for suppliers and dealers. Boyer covered post September 11 tragedy measures taken by the association to restore VFR flying. Like flight schools, FBOs, and others, this group was hard hit as people were unable to move their airplanes for needed repairs or engine replacements. Boyer commented on the recovery of general aviation, pointing to record AOPA Expo attendance less than 60 days after the terrorist attack. He noted that many AOPA members have said that they will be flying their own airplanes more on business, rather than using the airlines.

At the conclusion of his speech, Superior Air Parts President and CEO Bernie Coleman presented Boyer a special award — "For your outstanding leadership in helping to secure a solid future for general aviation."
In photo: Superior Air Parts Chairman James Wilson, AOPA President Phil Boyer, and Superior Air Parts President and CEO Bernie Coleman.

AOPA aloha

Jan. 18, 2002 — AOPA's 263rd Pilot Town Meeting was held Wednesday in Honolulu, Hawaii. This marks the first time AOPA President Phil Boyer has held such an event in the 50th State. In a letter for Boyer to read at the meeting, Senator Daniel Inouye (D-HI) wrote: "I regret I am not able to join you in person, especially upon this rare visit to Hawaii by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's (AOPA) President Phil Boyer. Phil, I hope you will not wait another eleven years before visiting these beautiful islands that comprise my home state."

Boyer spoke to 150 pilots, accounting for almost 15% of AOPA's 1,085 members in the state. 455 aircraft fly from 14 state-owned and -operated airports, and earlier in the day, the AOPA president met with Morris Tamanaha, general aviation officer for the state Department of Transportation. They discussed improvements needed at many of the airports to accommodate general aviation users. Four of the airports have AOPA Airport Support Network volunteers, and all were in attendance at the meeting: Hank Bruckner, Honolulu (HNL); Owen Miyamoto, Kalaeloa (JRF); Merle Martin, Kona (KOA); and Roger Cable, Lihue (LIH). [More]
In photo: AOPA Airport Support Network Volunteer Hank Bruckner and AOPA President Phil Boyer.

FAA moves to making Internet weather and notams "legal"

Better notam system possible

Jan. 18, 2002 — FAA is now moving toward approving the Internet as an "official" information source. AOPA is pleased that the agency has just published a proposed advisory circular [in PDF format] (AC) outlining recommended practices for "Internet Communication of Aviation Weather and NOTAMS." The association has been pushing for years for FAA to use the power of the Internet to get pilots the information they need quickly and efficiently, and to change agency policy so that a pilot can legally use Web resources to make operational decisions. While today a pilot can get aviation weather and notams on the Web from a variety of government and other sources, they don't count (except for DUAT) as a legal preflight briefing. (AOPA's Online Flight Planning Service uses DUAT and is a legal briefing.)

"In light of the inadequacies of the current notam system experienced by all users since 9/11, this FAA circular is a crucial step toward more effective pilot information dissemination," said AOPA Senior Vice President of Government and Technical Affairs Andy Cebula. "AOPA's Web site and our special ePilot alerts have demonstrated how the Internet can be used to provide pilots information in an easy-to-understand form."

Comments on the proposed AC are due by February 13. [More]

Rep. Hansen asks Ridge to revisit SLC TFR restrictions

Jan. 17, 2002 — After meeting with AOPA legislative affairs staff yesterday, lifelong GA advocate Rep. James Hansen (R-Utah) sent a letter to the director of Homeland Security, Governor Tom Ridge, requesting that GA air transportation access be taken into account in the security plan for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. "While I clearly recognize the need for protecting athletes and spectators during this unique event, it is imperative that those who use aviation as a means of travel within Utah are able to operate during this special time." The SFRA establishes a 45-nm area of restricted airspace around Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) beginning on February 8 and lasting through the duration of the games until February 24, 2002. [More]

FAA releases 45-nm Special Flight Rules Area for 2002 Winter Olympics
AOPA continues efforts for local GA operations

Jan. 16, 2002 — With the opening ceremony only 23 days away, the FAA has published its Olympic Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) establishing a 45-nm area of restricted airspace around Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) beginning on February 8. That SFRA was first published in December, and then inexplicably withdrawn. Only aircraft operations accredited by the Utah Olympic Public Safety Command that have complied with the security programs set forth in the SFRA and are under positive air traffic control may operate in the Olympic ring airspace. Transient aircraft must clear a security check at one of four "gateway" airports that are more than 180 miles distant from SLC.

AOPA pushed hard for procedures to accommodate the needs of local pilots but has been unsuccessful so far.

"While AOPA understands the need for security at the Olympics, we are disappointed that security officials ignored AOPA's recommendations to allow local operations in a manner that did not jeopardize security," said AOPA President Phil Boyer.

AOPA continues its work with congressional representatives in hopes of securing a last-minute change to the gateway airport provision. [See also notams.] [More]

AOPA responds to Tampa editorials

Jan. 11, 2002 — AOPA responded rapidly with letters to the editors of major U.S. newspapers this week to counter negative views, many of which call for stringent security measures regardless of the consequences to general aviation. Letters were sent to papers including USA Today, The Boston Globe, L.A. Times, and others.

"AOPA has made it clear that our members and general aviation are concerned about safety and committed to the secure and safe operation of our aircraft," said Keith Mordoff, AOPA's senior vice president of Communications. "Since Sept. 11 we developed an action plan for enhancing security with safety recommendations that are reasonable and proportional to the risk. It's clear the FAA agreed by adopting many of them Jan. 9 in their security recommendations issued to flight schools." [More]

FAA's 10-year modernization plan revised

Jan. 14, 2002 — The FAA has updated the Operational Evolution Plan (OEP), a short-term plan (less than 10 years) for capacity improvements and enhancements to the aviation system. While the OEP primarily concerns airline operations at major airports, it could generate airspace access issues or establish training and/or equipment requirements for general aviation. (See "AOPA encouraged by FAA's Operational Evolution Plan for improving capacity; remains on guard for negative impacts on GA.") The new version reveals that runway construction at two air carrier airports is not meeting expected schedules and a data link system used for air traffic control is delayed for two years. [More]

AOPA helps secure alternate fuel research funding

FAA and industry working for avgas replacement

Jan. 11, 2002 — AOPA efforts in working with Congress helped secure more than $8.5 million for FAA propulsion and fuels research programs for this year. Although current supplies and production of 100 low lead aviation gasoline (100LL) are secure for the near term, AOPA has been actively involved in advancing and encouraging alternative fuels research by the FAA and the industry by participation in cooperative industry organizations. To provide a possible alternative in the short term, AOPA has promoted interim-use fuel specifications, such as the recently readopted ASTM unleaded 91/98 specification, which could act as a substitute for about 30% of the 100LL consumed each year. "AOPA remains hopeful that these cooperative research and testing efforts will yield a total unleaded replacement for 100LL avgas without expensive engine modifications or restrictive aircraft operational limits," according to AOPA's Director of Regulatory and Certification Policy Lance Nuckolls. For more information, see AOPA's regulatory brief.

FAA issues flight school security recommendations

AOPA and industry suggestions incorporated

Jan. 9, 2002 — The FAA has issued a set of recommendations to enhance security at flight schools and FBOs. The recommendations, which are designed to prevent unauthorized people from gaining access to aircraft, were issued in response to the suicide crash of a 15 year old in Tampa, Florida. Charles Bishop, who had been taking flying lessons at the nearby St. Petersburg-Clearwater airport, stole a Cessna 172 and flew it into a downtown bank building.

"Since the Tampa incident, AOPA has worked very closely with FAA to craft practical suggestions that will enhance general aviation security without unreasonable restrictions," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "These suggestions can be implemented immediately. On Tuesday, I urged FAA Administrator Garvey to make them public as rapidly as possible."

Although the FAA recommendations are voluntary, many flight schools have already implemented the security controls.

FAA's suggestions for security enhancements include:

Positively identify a student or renter pilot before allowing access to an aircraft
Control aircraft ignition keys so that the student can't start the aircraft until the instructor is ready for the flight to begin.
Flight instructors should supervise the student closely, regardless of age.
Place signs at airports warning against tampering with or unauthorized use of aircraft, and providing phone numbers for reporting suspicious activity.

See more details

The security recommendations parallel many of the suggestions that AOPA and other industry groups had made to the Transportation Security Administration last month.

Transportation security head installed

AOPA works for GA consideration

Jan. 9 — President Bush this week used a "recess appointment" to install John W. Magaw as the Under Secretary for the newly formed Transportation Security Administration (TSA) within the Department of Transportation. Magaw is a former director of the Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and has been acting executive director of the Office of National Preparedness within the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The TSA is taking over aviation security from the FAA and is responsible for implementing the recently enacted aviation security law (PL 107-71). That law also required a DOT report to Congress on GA security. The Secretary of Transportation issued the report last month. To help educate Magaw on general aviation and security issues, AOPA, in conjunction with other GA groups, have sent him an industry security proposal. [More]

AOPA tells FAA to withdraw proposed Class B airspace for RDU

Jan. 4 — In formal comments submitted yesterday, AOPA told FAA that air traffic and passenger counts at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) no longer meet the threshold needed to qualify for Class B airspace. "In light of the shutdown of Midway Airlines in September and the general decline in air travel due to the economic recession, traffic counts at RDU have decreased dramatically, and it is unlikely that the airport will continue to meet the criteria necessary to establish Class B airspace," said AOPA. Despite airport management projections of future traffic demands, airspace reclassifications are predicated on current traffic counts and load factors, according to the association. At informal airspace meetings held in early December 2001, and in its formal comments, AOPA has joined local airport users in recommending that the FAA withdraw its Class B airspace proposal and conduct a complete reevaluation of need for an airspace reclassification at RDU.

AOPA challenges touch-and-go restrictions at two Florida airports

Jan. 4, 2002 — AOPA swiftly challenged flight restrictions that sprang up in December at two Florida airports. AOPA told the St. Lucie Board of Commissioners and the City of Vero Beach that local restrictions limiting touch-and-go landings likely violated federal regulations. Both airports are noted for heavy student-pilot traffic because Pan Am International Flight Academy is located at Ft. Pierce-St. Lucie County International Airport, and FlightSafety Academy is located at Vero Beach Municipal Airport. [More]

Sport Pilot proposal to hit streets next week

Jan. 4, 2002 — FAA sources tell AOPA that the long-anticipated Sport Pilot — Light Sport Aircraft proposed rule will "hit the streets" next week (barring any last-minute glitches). FAA will publish a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to allow the public to comment on the rule. The proposal would regulate aircraft that are too large to be ultralights, but too small to economically meet current FAA certification standards. It also proposes a sport pilot certificate that could be obtained with about 20 hours of training and that would allow pilots to operate these aircraft with either a third class medical certificate or a valid driver's license.

"AOPA congratulates the Experimental Aircraft Association on their efforts in working with FAA and the industry to obtain the release of this proposal," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "AOPA applauds any initiative that serves to lower the cost of learning to fly and continues the enjoyment of flight activity. The association will carefully evaluate each provision of the proposed rule once it becomes public and will offer comments to ensure that safety is not compromised while maintaining a reasoned approach to sport aircraft and pilot certification."

AOPA will post the rule on its Web site as soon as it becomes public and will provide a message area so that members can send their comments on the proposal directly to FAA.

AOPA ASF awards seven scholarships in 2001, announces 2002 competition

Jan. 3, 2002 — Seven college students in 2001 received separate scholarships totaling $11,500 from programs administered by the AOPA Air Safety Foundation. Entries are now open for aviation students seeking scholarships in 2002. [More]

AOPA president to meet with Los Angeles-area pilots

Jan. 2, 2002 — AOPA President Phil Boyer will hold three Pilot Town Meetings in the Los Angeles area in late February: San Bernardino on Monday, February 25; Irvine on Tuesday, February 26; and Los Angeles/Manhattan Beach on Wednesday, February 27. In lively, interactive sessions, Boyer will update pilots on current and upcoming developments in national aviation legislation, policy and regulations, and will solicit pilots' views of the general aviation situation in California. [More]

Crisis coverage

Week 18