Liftoff Scheduled For November 16th

The FAA has posted the TFR for the launch for Space Shuttle Atlantis on November 16th. The launch window extends from 1423 - 1422 EST, and the Cape Canaveral TFR will be in effect from 0723 until no later than 1519 EST on Monday, November 16, 2009.

General aviation and VFR operations are prohibited within a 30-nautical-mile radius of Launch Pad 39A from the surface to (but not including) 18,000 feet (located on the Melbourne VOR/DME 004-degree radial at 30.6 nautical miles). Pilots should obtain NOTAM information regarding affected airports. Pilots are instructed to use Orlando Class B terminal area and Jacksonville sectional charts.

Within an airspace radius between 30 and 40 nautical miles of Pad 39A, a discrete transponder code must be obtained and clearance granted from air traffic control before entering this airspace. Continuous radio communications must be maintained. All VFR aircraft are restricted to 180 knots or less unless a variance is granted by air traffic control. Pilots should obtain NOTAM information to determine the affected airports within this radius before departure.

St. Petersburg Flight Service Station is the point of contact for NOTAM information. They can be reached by telephone at 1-800-992-7433. Published radio frequencies are 123.6 MHz (Titusville) and 122.6 MHz (Melbourne).

Pilots should contact the FAA Orlando Approach Control in the Titusville/Cocoa area on 134.950 MHz, in the  Melbourne area on 132.650 MHz, in South Volusia County on 125.350 MHz, and the Space Coast Regional Airport control tower on 118.9 MHz.

FMI: www.faa.gov