Final Airspace Modification Ruling Delayed Until February 2011

Citing the need for ongoing mediation to handle the multitude of factors involved, the FAA has delayed action on implementing the Airspace Modification final rule for the east end of Grand Canyon National Park until February 20, 2011.

"This action stays the effective date for the implementation of the Airspace Modification final rule for the east end of the Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) until February 20, 2011," reads the docket obtained by Aero-News Tuesday. "In a case decided in August 2002, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit returned the GCNP rules to the FAA for further consideration of ways to ensure the substantial restoration of natural quiet. After several attempts in resolving the routes issue in the east end, in February 2003, the FAA stayed the east end routes and airspace changes until February 20, 2006. Because of an ongoing mediation action, which involves consideration of the routes in the east end of the GCNP, the FAA finds it necessary to extend the date for the effectiveness of the Airspace Modification rule for the east end until February 20, 2011. DATES: The effective date of sections (a) and (b) of 14 CFR 93.305, stayed until February 20, 2006 (68 FR 9496, February 27, 2003), is further stayed until February 20, 2011. This rule was originally published at 61 FR 69330 on December 31, 1996, and amended April 4, 2000."

As Aero-News reported, a series of public meetings on the proposed restrictions were held last week in Arizona and Nevada. The FAA was reviewing its plans for the Grand Canyon after environmental groups complained noise from private aircraft degraded the natural serenity of the park.

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association noted private aircraft only account for less than three percent of all air traffic over the Grand Canyon -- and furthermore, GA traffic is already limited to flying in certain corridors above the national park that surrounds the canyon.

FMI: Read The Full Docket (PDF)