But Does The Event Comply With FAA Rules?

Let's just say the FAA isn't happy with the idea.

The Cumberland Times-News reports the Potomac Highlands Airport Authority is thinking about allowing four "autocross" events at the Greater Cumberland Regional Airport next year, an event that could pad the airport's coffers, but might not sit well with the FAA.

“The FAA is having heartburn over this,” authority member Dave Summerfield said during an October meeting. The automotive event would take place during four weekends in 2004. While no runways would be closed during the event, some pilots and planes would be affected, raising the ire of the FAA.

Summerfield said a local FAA official isn't "very much inclined to give the FAA’s blessing on this. His last comment to me was, 'It’s your airport, you do what you want ... but be careful.'"

Summerfield quoted the administration's Terry Page as saying the government is worried about liability issues, among others. Thursday, the airport authority heard from Dave Williams, president of National Autosport LLC, sponsor of the event. He covered several of the concerns raised by the FAA. "It’s my feeling you’ll be able to allow us to do this and not be in any entanglement with the FAA," he said.

Earlier this year, the club held its first rally at the airport since 1971. But after hearing of the FAA's reservations, the airport authority has yet to decide whether the event will be allowed next year.

“The FAA has made us think twice before doing anything, so we haven’t made any decision on it yet,” said authority president Cindy Pyles.

FMI: www.cumberlandairport.com