Many Airports Anticipating Significant Traffic Increase

If you're planning to fly your aircraft on August 21 during the solar eclipse, you’re not alone. Several airports located in the path of the eclipse have notified the FAA that they are anticipating a significant increase in air traffic before and during the eclipse. Many of these airports are non-towered and have limited capacity to accommodate an increase in traffic.

The FAA advises pilots to check NOTAMs for your departing and arriving airports, including airports along the route of your flight. Remember, some airports may already be at capacity.

Additionally, pilots should call the destination airport, and respect the runway closures and safety information they provide. Congestion is also expected on Unicom frequencies. Pilots should check for additional instructions on ASOS/AWOS voice over.

See and Avoid is a high priority. Watch out for possible drone activity, and utilize Air Traffic Services when available.

Finally, the FAA recommends that pilots use IFR operations when appropriate, file VFR flight plans …. let Air Traffic assist you!

Local FAASTeam Program Managers (FPM) are available to help with local knowledge. Find your local FPM for any given area. www.faasafety.gov/FAASTApp/directory/default.aspx

(Source: FAA)

FMI: www.faa.gov