Relocation flights for D.C. and New York airports will not take place this weekend

Based on its meeting with the National Security Council, the FAA will not implement its procedures for moving aircraft located on airports included within the 25-nautical-mile temporary flight restricted areas in Washington, D.C., and New York City on Sunday.

The relocation flights are now scheduled to begin Friday, October 5. AOPA will post any schedule changes as soon as they are released, along with any other information pertaining to the TFR and affected airports. AOPA has asked President Bush to reduce the size of the TFR from 25 nm down to 16. If this recommendation were accepted, the number of covered airports would be reduced.

Affected pilots considering relocating a grounded aircraft are encouraged to review the FAA guidance. Departures will be allowed under both IFR and VFR. However, the flights are one way. Aircraft will not be allowed to return to an airport covered by the exclusionary zone until the FAA eases the restrictions.