New SFB Class C Effective February 16

The FAA has issued a Letter to Airmen, regarding the modification to Orlando International Airport's (MCO) Class Bravo airspace and the establishment of an Class C envelope over Orlando Sanford International (SFB).

As was reported by Aero-News, the FAA initially created the Class B bubble over Sanford in January 2000, in response to additional traffic at the airport as well as anticipated growth following several improvements. That growth did occur, and things are busier than ever at SFB... so why the change?

The Aircraft Owners and Pilot's Association might be asking the same question. AOPA's response to be initial 2003 proposal reverting Sanford to Class C was met with some questions, adding the changes did "not adequately take into account user concerns about safety and GA access to and efficient use of the airspace."

Regardless, the change seems to be final. According to an FAA release, the modification of MCO Class B and establishment of SFB Class C are effective on February 16, 2006. Under the new classifications, VFR aircraft departing SFB must contact Ground Control or Clearance delivery as advised on the ATIS and request Class C clearance.

VFR aircraft arriving SFB must contact the MCO TRACON and request a Class C arrival, utilizing the frequencies shown on the Class C chart (shown below, also available at the FMI link) unless advised on SFB ATIS.

The SFB Class C is effective only when SFB Tower is open. User education meetings to discuss the Class C airspace will be held on 1/18/06 and 2/15/06 in the SFB airport terminal.

FMI: www.faasafety.gov/SPANS/events/2006-Jan/10_SFBCLASSC.pdf