TFRs Established Along The Gulf Coast In Wake Of Hurricane Katrina

To help with the search and rescue effort for survivors of Hurricane Katrina, the FAA has issued temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) along the Gulf Coast. TFRs have been established over New Orleans and the Alabama and Mississippi coastlines.

"Our hearts go out to all of the families affected by Hurricane Katrina," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "The first thing many pilots want to do is fly to the Gulf Coast area to help provide disaster relief. However, for the time being we need to resist that urge, no matter how well intended. The airspace has been restricted to facilitate the vitally important search and rescue efforts, and we do not want to hamper those life-saving missions."

The best way pilots can help with the relief effort right now is to donate to one of the nonprofit relief agencies, such as the American Red Cross."

The TFRs extend from the surface to 5,000 feet AGL. Additional TFRs may be established when President Bush travels to the area to survey the damage. He is expected to tour the area later this week.

Presidential travel-related TFRs typically are 60 nautical miles in diameter (30-nm radius), contain one or more smaller general aviation no-fly zones, and extend to Flight Level 180.

FMI: www.faa.gov, www.aopa.org