Fri, Jul 11, 2003
The FAA has finally issued a final
rule implementing a number of improvements to the VFR transition
route past Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
"The proposed changes will help facilitate safety and efficiency
of air traffic in the Los Angeles basin by providing a much more
clear and concise depiction of the airspace," wrote AOPA in its
comments on the Special Air Traffic Rules, known as SFAR 51-1. The
modifications also allow for the development of improved transition
routes for general aviation aircraft in the vicinity of LAX, while
continuing to allow VFR aircraft full access to the transition
route.
The changes to the route include modifying the northern boundary
of the Special Flight Rules area (SFRA) to align it with Class B
airspace revisions that were adopted in 1997. In addition, the new
rule also revises the description of the SFRA to clearly define
fixed altitudes at which aircraft may operate along the route.
SFAR 51-1 allows pilots to transit the LAX Terminal Control Area
(TAC) through the SFRA without contacting air traffic control,
provided they comply with the following specified procedures:
- The flight must be conducted under visual flight rules and must
be squawking the discreet transponder code 1201 prior to
entry;
- pilot must have a current LAX TAC chart onboard the
aircraft;
- anti-collision lights and position/navigation lights must be
on;
- landing lights are recommended; indicated airspeed cannot
exceed 140 knots;
- pilot shall operate on the Santa Monica (SMO) VOR 132 degree
radial;
- if traveling in a northwesterly direction the aircraft shall be
level at 4,500 msl;
- and if traveling in a southeasterly direction, the aircraft
shall be level at 3,500 msl.
The changes to the SFAR will become effective December 25, 2003.
Merry Christmas!
More News
Hold Procedure A predetermined maneuver which keeps aircraft within a specified airspace while awaiting further clearance from air traffic control. Also used during ground operatio>[...]
Altitude Readout An aircraft’s altitude, transmitted via the Mode C transponder feature, that is visually displayed in 100-foot increments on a radar scope having readout cap>[...]
Aero Linx: European Hang Gliding and Paragliding Union (EHPU) The general aim of the EHPU is to promote and protect hang gliding and paragliding in Europe. In order to achieve this>[...]
Also: Skydio Chief, Uncle Sam Sues, Dash 7 magniX, OR UAS Accelerator US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall was given a turn around the patch in the 'X-62A Variable In-flight>[...]
"The need for innovation at speed and scale is greater than ever. The X-62A VISTA is a crucial platform in our efforts to develop, test and integrate AI, as well as to establish AI>[...]