FAA Reduces GA Airport Restrictions as Air Traffic Controllers Return to Work
Relief is in sight for general aviation operators as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has amended its emergency order. The FAA has reduced the required flight reductions from 10% to 6% at 40 high-impact airports. This follows the improved air traffic controller staffing after the recent government shutdown.
The FAA’s original restrictions had banned general aviation from 12 of the busiest airports. However, “based” aircraft – defined as airworthy, operational aircraft present at a facility for more than six months – remained exempt from these prohibitions.
“NBAA commends Congress for concluding the government shutdown, and we look forward to the full restoration of general aviation access to all airports,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen.
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association had criticized the original measures as disproportionate. They emphasized that any reductions should be safety-based rather than economic.
The FAA expects to continue reviewing system performance and anticipate rolling back more restrictions as conditions improve.
Source: Avweb