FR 2025-07637

The document in question, issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), proposes amendments to the airspace classifications surrounding Coastal Carolina Regional Airport in New Bern, NC. The main goal of these proposed changes is to enhance the safety and management of instrument flight rule (IFR) operations within the area due to current airspace boundaries not adequately containing these operations. The amendments include modifications to Class D, E2, E4, and E5 airspace designations.

General Summary

This document sets forth a proposed rulemaking action that details modifications in several airspace classifications at the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport. Class D and E2 airspaces would both see expanded radii to ensure IFR operations are properly contained for safety and efficiency. The document also proposes alterations in Class E4 and E5 airspaces to accommodate changes in standard instrument approach procedures. This proposal comes under the legal authority vested in the FAA by Title 49 of the United States Code to regulate airspace to ensure aircraft safety.

Significant Issues or Concerns

There are several notable concerns with the document:

1. Technical Complexity: The document employs specialized terminology, such as the mention of "VOR/DME coordinates," which might be challenging for lay readers to comprehend without a background in aviation. This complexity can make it difficult for the general public to engage meaningfully with the proposal.

2. Financial Implications: One major omission is the lack of discussion regarding potential costs associated with these amendments. Without a detailed financial analysis, stakeholders might worry about unnecessary spending or the broader economic impact.

3. Safety Justification: While the document mentions that the current airspace does not adequately manage IFR operations, it lacks a detailed explanation of the specific safety concerns or operational inefficiencies, making the necessity of these changes less clear.

4. Environmental Considerations: The proposed changes briefly touch upon an upcoming environmental review, but without further details, there might be apprehension from stakeholders concerned about the local environment's effects.

5. Operational Clarity: There might be ambiguity concerning how airspace is activated by Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), potentially leading to confusion over exactly how these changes would be practically implemented.

Public Impact

Broadly, these proposed changes may improve flight safety and operational efficiency at the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport, which could benefit airlines, pilots, and passengers by standardizing procedures and enhancing airspace management. However, due to the document's high level of technical detail, the broader public, without aviation expertise, might struggle to understand the full implications of these changes.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Aviation Industry: Airlines and pilots stand to benefit from clearer, more efficient airspace designations, potentially resulting in smoother operations and reduced delays.

• Local Community: Residents near the airport may have concerns about increased air traffic and noise, especially without a thorough environmental assessment presented upfront.

• Regulatory Authorities: These changes impose additional responsibilities on air traffic controllers and the FAA to implement and manage these modified airspace regulations.

Overall, while the proposals are aimed at improving safety and efficiency in air travel, the document lacks transparency in several key areas that would help stakeholders and the public at large to fully understand and evaluate the necessity and impact of these proposed amendments.