NASA scrubs launch of shuttle 'Endeavour'

Bad weather has forced NASA to scrub tonight's planned launch of Endeavour. Consequently, the FAA has issued notams canceling both the restricted and warning area activations and ring around Kennedy Space Center that included a 30-nm "no-fly" zone and a less restrictive ring 30-40 nm.

NASA has decided not to try again until next week. Effective Monday, June 3, from 1200 (local) to 2100 (local), the FAA will impose temporary flight restrictions for the launch. The notam 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. Operations within the 30-40 nm segment will only be permitted for the purposes of takeoff or landing, and only with a prior ATC clearance and a transponder code. Pilots must also maintain continuous radio communications while operating within TFR airspace. These restrictions 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).

Within the 30-nm "no-fly" ring, as for previous launches, no Part 91 general aviation and no VFR operations are permitted.

Pilots are advised to contact St. Petersburg Flight Service Station prior to conducting flights in proximity to these TFRs.

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