AOPA has learned from several sources that the FAA is planning to allow some general aviation operations outside of an 18-nautical-mile radius of the DCA and JFK VORs. The plan, which still must be approved at the highest levels, would provide relief for some pilots and aircraft trapped inside the Washington and New York temporary flight restriction (TFR) areas. A notam may be issued as early as tomorrow and will likely become effective October 5. (Pilots must check current notams before flying.)
"We continue to make progress in restoring general aviation flight," said AOPA President Phil Boyer, "but we know there are still thousands of aircraft and pilots still stuck on the ground. That's why it's important that pilots contact Congress to intervene with the National Security Council so that we can get the remaining VFR flight privileges restored."
The effective reduction of the Washington TFR would open five general aviation airports—Montgomery County Airpark (GAI), Tipton (FME), Lee (ANP), Dulles (IAD), and Davis (W50) to general aviation operations currently allowed in enhanced Class B airspace. At least six public-use airports and numerous private airports would still remain in the Washington "no fly" area.
In the New York area, the change would open Linden (LDJ) to approved operations in enhanced Class B. An 18-nm ring would touch Teterboro (TEB) and Farmingdale's Republic (FRG) airports. AOPA continues to insist that these airports be opened as well.
Meanwhile, plans are still proceeding to allow aircraft trapped inside the two TFRs to begin relocating October 5.
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