AOPA: Move Further Hinders Access To GA Pilots

Over objections from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the FAA has opted to raise the ceiling on the Class Bravo airspace over Minneapolis-St. Paul from its current height of 8,000 feet MSL, to 10,000 ft. MSL early next year.

According to the FAA, the expansion -- to take effect February 16, 2006 -- is necessary to accomodate arrivals to MSP's recently opened runway 17/35. The agency will also extend the lateral limits of the Class B airspace in several areas to create corridors for aircraft utilizing the new 8000-foot runway, which opened last month.

The AOPA claims the expansion will further clog MSP airspace for general aviation traffic.

"AOPA is disappointed with the decision to raise the ceiling of the Class B area, but the FAA claims it is required to protect arrivals to the new runway," said Heidi Williams, AOPA director of air traffic services.

"The only good news for general aviation pilots is that the agency agreed to our request to establish and chart VFR flyways," Williams added.

Such flyways through the new Class B airspace could minimize impact on GA pilots who wish to fly through the area, according to AOPA.

FMI: www.aopa.org