Santa Ana Class C final rule published

The shape of Santa Ana, California's (SNA) airspace is changing effective July 11, 2002. In the final rule creating the modifications, the FAA addressed concerns raised by AOPA and the Southern California Airspace working group.

In response to AOPA's objections, the FAA rejected an earlier proposed circular design that would have established Class C airspace out to 10 nm. That would have effectively closed a VFR practice area. "We are pleased the FAA incorporated general aviation's recommendations throughout this process, including continuing the access to the VFR practice area near El Toro by raising the outer floor area to 3,500 feet msl," said AOPA Vice President of Air Traffic Melissa Bailey.

The review of the Santa Ana airspace was prompted by the revocation of the El Toro Class C airspace area, reverting the eastern side of John Wayne Airport to Class E airspace.

The FAA published the notice of proposed rulemaking for the modifications in late January 2002. AOPA, working with the Southern California Airspace working group, submitted comments supporting the proposed changes, saying, "The proposed changes will result in more efficient use of the airspace by segments of the general aviation community."

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