Luke Air Force Base proposes special air traffic rules area

Luke Air Force Base proposes special air traffic rules area

Luke Air Force Base officials believe they need special rules to prevent the chance of a midair collision, and they have proposed a special air traffic rules area that would require pilots flying in the area to be in contact with air traffic control or receive ATC clearance. AOPA disagrees. "No one has shown that a problem with near- midairs exists. AOPA opposes this overly restrictive proposal," said Heidi Williams, AOPA director of air traffic services. "The association has recommended alternatives that won't restrict the airspace, but so far Luke Air Force Base officials have been unwilling to even explore them." The association will continue to push for GA-friendly options. More information about the proposal is available on AOPA Online.

August 11, 2006