Fleet Week under way in New York Harbor

Although the FAA does not plan to implement any additional flight restrictions related to the Navy's fifteenth annual Fleet Week celebration, pilots operating near New York City are advised to exercise caution. The event begins tomorrow.

"AOPA strongly urges pilots to avail themselves of air traffic control services and contact their local FSS prior to undertaking flights in the New York City area during Fleet Week," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "Flying responsibly will reduce the perceived need for additional flight restrictions for this and other activities throughout the country."

More than two dozen ships from around the world will visit New York Harbor from May 22-28, honoring the men and women who serve in our armed forces. The Navy has flyby activities scheduled for May 22 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (local) and May 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 12 noon. Both flybys will take place along the Hudson River between 800 and 1,100 feet msl and will involve numerous high-performance military aircraft. In addition, the Navy has other activities planned, including the traditional display of international vessels off New York City's shores.

AOPA advises pilots planning to conduct flights along the Hudson River between the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and George Washington Bridge of the following:

Notam 2/1403 remains in effect near the WTC disaster site. The TFR established by this restriction lies north of the Statue of Liberty and prevents flights along approximately two miles of the Hudson River without ATC authorization.

Local advisory notams will also be issued to provide pilots with the latest available updates. As part of these advisories, pilots are asked not to loiter over naval ships in this area.

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