Overview
Title
Proposed Amendment of Class E Airspace; Durant, OK
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The FAA wants to change some airspace rules around an airport in Oklahoma because they don't need certain old navigation tools anymore, and they also want to update the airport's information in their system. They are asking people to share their thoughts on this until early April 2021.
Summary AI
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed changes to the Class E airspace around Durant Regional Airport-Eaker Field in Durant, Oklahoma. This is due to an update following the removal of certain navigation aids as part of a new program. The proposal also includes updating the airport's name and coordinates in the FAA's database. The public is welcome to submit comments on the proposal until April 9, 2021.
Abstract
This action proposes to amend the Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Durant Regional Airport-Eaker Field, Durant, OK. The FAA is proposing this action as the result of an airspace review caused by the decommissioning of the Texoma VHF omnidirectional range (VOR) navigation aids as part of the VOR Minimum Operational Network (MON) Program. The name and geographical coordinates of the airport would also be updated to coincide with the FAA's aeronautical database.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document from the Federal Register details a proposal by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to amend the Class E airspace around Durant Regional Airport-Eaker Field in Durant, Oklahoma. This amendment is necessitated by the decommissioning of the Texoma VHF omnidirectional range (VOR) navigation aids as part of a broader update within the VOR Minimum Operational Network (MON) Program. In addition to the airspace adjustments, the proposal includes updating the airport's name and geographical coordinates in the FAA's database. Public comments on this proposed rule are invited until April 9, 2021.
Summary of the Proposal
The FAA is focused on ensuring the efficient and safe utilization of national airspace. By extending Class E airspace from 700 feet above the ground and adjusting it to a new 6.6-mile radius around Durant Regional Airport-Eaker Field, the changes aim to facilitate better air navigation and flight procedures amid evolving technological standards in aviation.
Significant Issues and Concerns
A key issue with the document is the presence of complex regulatory language and references to multiple FAA orders, which may be challenging for the general public to understand. This complexity could hinder meaningful public engagement, especially for those not familiar with aviation terminologies and procedures. Furthermore, while the document mentions that an environmental analysis will be conducted, there is scant information about potential environmental impacts, which may raise concerns among stakeholders focused on environmental issues.
The process for incorporating public comments seems vague, with no explicit explanation of how these comments will influence the final decision. This gap might lead to skepticism about whether public input will be genuinely considered. Moreover, the lack of a detailed financial impact assessment may leave stakeholders, particularly small businesses, in the dark regarding potential economic consequences.
Broader Public Impact
For the general public, especially those living near Durant Regional Airport-Eaker Field, understanding the implications of this proposed airspace change may be difficult due to the technical language used. There might be concerns about changes in local air traffic patterns and their impacts on noise levels and safety. However, the proposal also signifies a step towards modernizing the airspace around Durant, which can improve overall air travel safety and efficiency.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For aviation professionals and businesses operating around the Durant area, the proposal might mean adjustments in operational procedures due to the redefined airspace boundaries. This change could potentially streamline procedures and enhance safety standards. However, without clear economic impact data, it is uncertain how these changes might financially affect small entities in the aviation sector.
Environmental groups might be particularly interested in the details of the promised environmental review. Many stakeholders would likely appreciate more transparency regarding any potential changes to the natural environment resulting from this proposed rule.
In summary, while the FAA's proposal is part of an ongoing effort to update and secure national airspace, the lack of clarity and accessibility in the document could limit public participation and understanding. Engaging the public with clearer and more transparent communication could improve the reception and implementation of this proposed rule.
Issues
• The document contains complex regulatory language that may be difficult for the general public to understand without specialized knowledge in aviation law and procedures.
• The NPRM does not provide detailed information about potential environmental impacts, only stating that it will be subject to an environmental analysis later, which might cause concern for stakeholders interested in environmental issues.
• The description of the amendment process and the referencing of multiple FAA orders (such as FAA Order 7400.11E) may be confusing to individuals who are not familiar with these documents, leading to a lack of transparency.
• The document lacks specific language addressing how public comments will affect the final decision, potentially implying that public input may not significantly influence the outcome.
• There is no clear cost analysis or financial impact summary, which could be useful to understand potential economic effects on stakeholders and small entities.