Controversy Surrounds Montana Airport’s Night Operations Restriction
A recent decision by the commissioners of Granite County, Montana has sparked a heated debate in the aviation community. The officials have voted to designate Riddick Field (3U5) as a “daytime use only” airport. This controversial ordinance, enacted on January 9, restricts the use of the airport’s newly installed LED rotating beacon to emergency activations only. As a result, nighttime operations at this public-use facility have been effectively limited.
Both the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the Montana Pilots Association (MPA) have voiced strong criticism against this restriction. Brad Schuster, AOPA Northwest Mountain Regional Manager, has even called the move “likely unprecedented in the century of U.S. public airport history“. These organizations warn that the decision not only compromises the safety of pilots who may need to use the airport after dark, but also potentially jeopardizes the facility’s eligibility for state and federal airport improvement funding.
County officials, however, have justified their decision by citing concerns over light spill and community impact. They maintain that the restriction is a reflection of local authority and citizen input. Riddick Field has supported nighttime operations for decades with a beacon and runway lighting. Aviation advocates argue that reverting to daytime-only status at a lighted public-use airport sets a dangerous precedent. However, the ultimate impact on future grant eligibility can only be determined by the FAA and Montana Aeronautics Division.
Source: AvWeb