Issues Special Air Transportation Operating Authority

The Department of Transportation has approved an application submitted by a Mr. Kris Kringle (d/b/a "Santa Claus") for special air transportation operating authority.

That authority, limited to a single night, was announced in a hastily-assembled press conference by U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx.  According to Foxx, Kringle has outfitted his vehicle, an "airborne sleigh," with an 8 RP engine and has on hand a ninth reindeer equipped with supplemental safety and navigation gear.  The Federal Aviation Administration has inspected the unusual vehicle and certified its airworthiness.

In addition to sharing Santa's concern for supplemental nutrition along the marathon route, the Secretary also reminded the red-suited pilot about the Carolina Panthers jersey on his wish list.

Once Santa is airborne, responsibility for tracking his progress falls under the authority of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).

Now in its 60th year, the Official NORAD Santa Tracker will monitor the red-suited pilot throughout the duration of his flight. Consistent with NORAD emphasis on transparency, the Tracker, complete with countdown clock, is publicly accessible at www.noradsanta.org.

Everyone at DOT wishes the "jolly old elf" a safe and successful flight.

FMI: Santa Special Operating Authority