AOPA recommends Luke Air Force Base seek
non-rulemaking solution to separate military, GA aircraft
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AOPA recently met with Luke Air
Force Base officials to express concerns about a special
flight rules area (SFRA) that is being considered for training operations
near Phoenix. A SFRA would establish an area in which a clearance would be
required to enter, further complicating communications in Phoenix Class B
airspace.
"AOPA is disappointed that
Luke officials have not fully explored all non-rulemaking options and are
considering a rule that would significantly hamper general aviation," said
Heidi Williams, AOPA director of air traffic policy. "After meeting with
Luke Air Force Base representatives, AOPA has recommended several
non-rulemaking alternatives that would protect GA and Luke pilots while keeping
the airspace open."
One of the most effective ways to
protect military and civilian aircraft in that area is air traffic control
coordination, AOPA said.
"Making sure pilots are aware
of Luke's operations, either by a note on the automatic terminal information
service, or by direct contact, would ensure that all pilots in the area know to
avoid Luke's traffic pattern," Williams said.
AOPA asked the officials to expand
their effort to educate the local GA community on their current procedures and
to work with nearby flight schools to coordinate practice areas.
Providing more information on
sectional charts about Luke's Alert Area A-321 to include times of heaviest
training operations and contact information could greatly reduce the hazard
between Luke aircraft and transient GA aircraft.
AOPA also recommended sending a
letter to airmen that details the base's training operations.
"There's no question the
near-midair number will go down significantly with proper education and
coordinated outreach to local pilots and ATC," Williams said. "AOPA
looks forward to being involved in those non-rulemaking opportunities."
February 13, 2006