FR 2025-02639

Summary of the Document

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Park Service (NPS) are seeking applications to fill two vacancies on the National Parks Overflights Advisory Group (NPOAG). This group, established under the National Parks Air Tour Management Act of 2000, provides guidance and recommendations on managing air tours over national parks and tribal lands. The positions in question are for representatives from Native American tribes and Air Tour Operators. Those interested in applying must submit their applications by March 17, 2025.

Significant Issues and Concerns

The document raises several issues regarding transparency and selection criteria. Firstly, it does not specify the criteria for evaluating candidates. Without clear guidelines, the selection process may appear subjective or inconsistent. Secondly, while diversity in representation is crucial for a balanced advisory group, the document does not address how diversity will be maintained among the stakeholders, such as geographical representation or the size of the constituencies they represent.

Additionally, while members can apply for reappointment, the absence of a term limit could hinder the infusion of fresh perspectives into the group. There is also a requirement for candidates to certify they are not federally registered lobbyists. This restriction might exclude individuals with valuable expertise. However, the document does not clarify the reasoning behind this restriction, which may appear unnecessarily limiting.

The notice omits details regarding compensation or reimbursement for travel and time commitments, potentially discouraging some qualified individuals from applying due to financial or logistical barriers. Lastly, the document references a prior notice concerning the prohibition of lobbyists without providing a summary, requiring interested parties to seek further information independently.

Impact on the Public

The selection of representatives for the NPOAG will impact how air tour activities are managed over national parks and tribal lands, influencing visitor experiences and the protection of these areas. Active participation by well-chosen representatives could improve the balance between aviation activities and environmental preservation, benefiting all visitors to these parks.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For Native American tribes and Air Tour Operators, this notice is particularly significant. A representative from each group will have a direct line in providing input that can influence policy and management practices affecting their respective communities. For Native American tribes, this representation is crucial in addressing concerns about air tours’ impact on cultural sites and tribal lands.

Air Tour Operators are also directly impacted, as their specific business interests and operational concerns will be represented in discussions about air tour regulations and technological innovations. Conversely, the restriction regarding lobbyists could exclude certain individuals from contributing, potentially limiting the pool of candidates with specialized knowledge and experience.

In conclusion, while the notice seeks to fill key advisory roles, the lack of detailed criteria and consideration of representation balance could affect the efficacy of the selection process and, by extension, the advisory group’s decisions. Addressing these areas could lead to a more transparent and effective outcome, ultimately promoting a balanced approach to managing overflight activities in national parks.