News Archive

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.

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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.

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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.)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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."

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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."

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."
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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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"