AOPA has long advocated for greater use of RNAV terminal transition routes (T-routes) to allow general aviation aircraft to efficiently navigate congested terminal areas. AOPA supports the use of T-routes as replacements for routes based on decommissioned navaids and where GPS-based routes can offer a lower en route altitude. The extension of the T-route from the Rapid City, S.D., VOR to the Gillette, Wyo., VOR effective April 5 exemplifies actions the FAA can take to improve GA safety and efficiency, AOPA said.
The FAA published the final rule Feb. 21 extending T-288, which should enhance safety by making available altitudes as much as 6,000 feet lower than Victor airways—giving pilots more safety options, especially during times of potential icing. The route extension also provides a more efficient route between the two VORs than the existing Victor airways.
AOPA submitted comments supportive of the T-288 extension when the FAA submitted its notice of proposed rulemaking last year, and considers the FAA’s action as a positive response to comments from the industry.
The new route will become available April 5 in conjunction with the next charting cycle.
