Airport Also Set To Receive First Round Of AIP Funding

A change is coming for workers at, and pilots who fly out of, the general aviation side of Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in North Carolina. After April 1, anyone wanting ramp access will either have to pass a TSA security check, or walk out with an escort.

ENC Today reports new rules require anyone using the general aviation facility will need to pass a TSA 'threat assessment,' and receive a new photo ID. The rules apply to pilots, aircraft owners, vendors, staff... anyone using the facility, for any reason.

Applicants need to fill out a form -- including their name, general biographical information, whether they've ever been convicted of a felony, and any aliases they've used in the past -- and submit two photo IDs.

"We've been surprised at the number of people who have come in," said airport director Tom Braaten at a meeting Tuesday to explain the new rules to airport authority members.

The security requirements are being paid for by the airport authority.

In related news, Braaten told members of the authority the airport should receive over $739,000 in funds from the FAA's Airport Improvement Program this week, to reimburse the airport for the recent purchase of an area home to prevent future encroachment.

The funds will also be used to improve taxiway markings, and to conduct an environmental assessment ahead of clearing trees on the approach path to Runway 4, which is used by two regional airlines serving EWN.

FMI: www.newbernairport.com/