AOPA has concerns with airspace modification proposals in Florida

Although modifications to these Class C airspace areas are needed due to dramatic increases in both general aviation and commercial air traffic, both proposals in their current state are counter to airspace guidance outlined in FAA Order 7400.2.

Currently, the proposals seek to increase both the lateral and vertical Class C boundaries and aim to change the fundamental shape of the airspace. For example, the proposal for Daytona Beach includes several squared-off areas, instead of the usual concentric circles, as well as a “bridge” between the Orlando-Sanford and Daytona Beach areas. These proposals, along with those at Palm Beach, are unprecedented and warrant increased scrutiny.

AOPA is engaged in both actions, as a member of the ad hoc committees. “We are advocating for reasonable modifications to Class C airspace, while pushing back against changes that could be detrimental to GA,” said Jim McClay, AOPA’s director of airspace, air traffic, and security. AOPA is also engaging with local members to glean valuable input from those that use the airspace most often.

Once the ad hoc process is complete, the committee will submit its report to the FAA. The process then will move through a public meeting stage, environmental study, a safety risk management panel, and finally the notice of proposed rulemaking. There will likely be no changes to the airspace put into effect before 2025 at the earliest.