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."