E-I-C Note: The TSA has issued the following statement... further eroding GA's access to the Washington, D.C. area, and intensifying the damage done to the aviation industry.

TSA Statement

The Transportation Security Administration (has) issued a letter to inform Potomac Airfield that its security program has been suspended.

The airport had recently been notified about its failure to comply with current security regulations.

Planes utilizing this airfield, which is a part of the Maryland Three group [known more notably as the "DC-3" -- E-I-C], fly in close proximity to many key assets and critical infrastructure in the DC metropolitan area.

In February 2005, TSA assumed management of a program which allowed Potomac Airfield, College Park Airport, and Washington Executive/Hyde Field to continue operations under a rule which was created specifically for the Maryland Three airports due to their location within the Washington, D.C. Flight Restricted Zone.

The rule also grants access to pilots not based at the Maryland Three airports by allowing them access the airports if they comply with the TSA-mandated security requirements and procedures. As a result, the airports are able to accommodate more travelers and business while maintaining an appropriate level of security.

TSA routinely monitors these airports to ensure compliance through regular inspections and communications with the airport security coordinator. The agency will continue to work with the Potomac Airfield staff on the issues surrounding the suspension.

Pilots in need of more information regarding Potomac Airfield, including aircraft relocation plans, should contact TSA program manager Dirk Ahle at (571) 227-1898.

The toll free hotline for GA pilots is (866) GA-SECUR.

FMI: www.tsa.gov