FAA OK's Higher Weight Limits

Four months after getting approval from the Scottsdale City Council, the FAA agreed on February 4th to allow some of the largest business jets to take on enough fuel at Scottsdale to fly nonstop to Europe or Asia ... but so far none has.

The FAA increased the maximum takeoff weight for airplanes at Scottsdale Airport (KSDL) from 75,000 to 100,000 pounds. Business and other aviation interests said the previous limit stifled international air travel.

According to the Arizona Republic, Acting Aviation Director Gary Mascaro said the only condition placed on the change was that pilots had to ask permission for a 100,000 pound gross weight takeoff as little as five minutes before departure. They are required to tell airport operations the name of the corporation operating the aircraft, its tail number, and the estimated departure time.

Airport engineers were also required to prove to the FAA that the airport's only runway was capable of handling the increased weights for two more years, Mascaro said.

While no aircraft has taken advantage of the 100,000 weight limit, it hasn't gone unnoticed. The managers of some of the airport's FBOs said they have received inquiries about the change from companies that would plan to use it in the future.

Some residents are still opposed to the change. A neighborhood association raised questions about noise, safety, and the possibility of scheduled air service at KSDL. Resident Bob Popow told the paper he believes the city gave business a priority over people living in neighborhoods around the airport.

FMI: www.scottsdaleaz.gov, www.faa.gov