To those who might have missed it:
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September 1, 2006 Volume 6, Number 42 |
A TREMENDOUSLY IMPORTANT issue regarding Experimental overflight is rearing it's ugly head AGAIN!
SoCal (Probably Riverside FSDO) wants to prohibit ALL experimentals from flying in the LA basin.
As it now stands-- You are issued Operating Limitation with the following statement in
Phase I
(5) Except for takeoffs and landings, this aircraft may not be operated over densely populated areas or in congested airways.
Western Pacfic Region has pressed for total prohibition on experimentals.
FAA has given them recognition of their concern by adding a second statement in Phase 2
PHASE II
(9) This aircraft is prohibited from operating in congested airways or over densely populated areas unless directed by Air Traffic Control, or unless sufficient altitude is maintained to effect a safe emergency landing in the event of a power unit failure, without hazard to persons or property on the surface."
Apparently this is not enough and now "they" want the right to chose the route if not ban access entirely!
"According to FAA orders, once an Experimental/Exhibition aircraft receives its operating limitations that allow flights over densely populated areas for takeoffs and landings, a FSDO inspector can direct pilots to plan arrival and departure routes that avoid those areas whenever possible, but not ban all overflights completely. In addition, Experimental/Exhibition category aircraft operating limitations and airworthiness certificates remain the same regardless of where the airplane is based. Instituting restrictions at individual airports or regions creates a patchwork of regulations and policies across the nation that could be nearly impossible to follow."
(emphis added)
This is the FAA's effort to mediate the efforts of the Western Region to ban all flight into certain airports. They have said "you can control the routes but you cannot ban experimentals entirely.
Do you think it would be helpful if we could identify the "FSDO inspector " who believes these restrictions are appropiate and invite him to a EAA meeting-inspect several projects in progress --and give him a flight in a Lancair????
Earl Lawrence deserves our gratitude for standing up for our interests in this issue.
Charlie K.