83 FR 1316 - Proposed Establishment of Restricted Areas R-2201A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and J; Fort Greely, AK
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 8 (January 11, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 8 (January 11, 2018)
| Page Range | 1316-1319 | |
| FR Document | 2018-00371 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 8 (Thursday, January 11, 2018)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 1316-1319] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-00371] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 73 [Docket No. FAA-2016-9495; Airspace Docket No. 15-AAL-6] Proposed Establishment of Restricted Areas R-2201A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and J; Fort Greely, AK AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: This SNPRM amends the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) published in the Federal Register on March 6, 2017, that proposed to establish Restricted Areas R-2201A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and J; Fort Greely, AK. Based on comments to the NPRM, the FAA proposes reducing the lateral and vertical dimensions of the proposed restricted airspace. The modified restricted areas would be designated R-2201A, B, C, and D. This SNPRM seeks comment on the amended proposal. DATES: Comments must be received on or before February 26, 2018. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, Washington, DC 20590-0001; telephone: 1 (800) 647-5527, or (202) 366-9826. You must identify FAA Docket Number FAA-2016-9495 and Airspace Docket Number 15-AAL-6 at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the internet at http://www.regulations.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kenneth Ready, Airspace Policy Group, Office of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267- 8783. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Authority for This Rulemaking The FAA's authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the agency's authority. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of the airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it would establish restricted airspace in the vicinity of Allen Army Airfield, to contain activities deemed hazardous to nonparticipating aircraft. Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers (FAA Docket Number FAA-2016-9495 and Airspace Docket Number 15-AAL-6) and be submitted in triplicate to the Docket Management Facility (see ADDRESSES section for [[Page 1317]] address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the internet at http://www.regulations.gov. Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this action must submit with those comments a self-addressed, stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ``Comments to FAA Docket Number FAA-2016-9495 and Airspace Docket Number 15-AAL- 6.'' The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. All communications received on or before the specified comment closing date will be considered before taking action on the proposed rule. The proposal contained in this action may be changed in light of comments received. All comments submitted will be available for examination in the public docket both before and after the comment closing date. A report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerned with this rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Availability of NPRM's An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the internet at http://www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA's web page at http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/airspace_amendments/. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office (see ADDRESSES section for address and phone number) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. An informal docket may also be examined during normal business hours at the office of the Western Service Center, Operations Support Group, Federal Aviation Administration, 1601 Lind Ave. SW, Renton, WA 98057. History The FAA published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register for Docket No. FAA-2016-9495 (82 FR 12529; March 6, 2017). The NPRM proposed to establish Restricted Areas R-2201A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and J; Fort Greely, AK. The NPRM proposed that the restricted areas would be configured in three layers, extending from the surface to Flight Level (FL) 220. R- 2201A, B, and C would extend from the surface to but not including 6,000 feet MSL. Areas D, E, and F would extend from 6,000 feet MSL to but not including 15,000 feet MSL. Areas G, H, and J would extend from 15,000 feet MSL to FL 220. The proposed time of designation for all of the above areas was ``0700-1900 local time Monday-Friday; other times by NOTAM.'' A total of 39 comments were received in response to the NPRM. All commenters expressed objections to the proposal. Discussion of Comments The comments received focused on three main areas of concern: Adverse impacts to general aviation flying under VFR; negative impacts on IFR aircraft; and general impacts to general aviation. Adverse Impacts to General Aviation Flying Under VFR Many commenters wrote that the proposed restricted areas would seriously impact access to a key VFR route to and from the Isabel Pass. This strategically important mountain pass connects interior and southcentral Alaska, offering one of the lowest terrain routes through the Alaska Range. Pilots regularly navigate using the Richardson Highway and Trans Alaska Pipeline to traverse the mountain valley with precipitous terrain on either side. Commenters contended that this major VFR corridor is already constrained by the R-2202 complex to the west. The proposed R-2201 complex would further narrow the airspace available to fly within the corridor. They believe that the prevalence of rapidly rising terrain, high winds, and rapidly changing weather conditions, combined with the narrow corridor, would pose a significant hazard to pilots by leaving them with little or no options for coping with adverse flight conditions. The FAA is proposing to modify the boundaries of the original proposal to provide a significantly larger VFR corridor along the Richardson Highway, and reduce the proposed altitude structure of the restricted area complex. This proposal also eliminates a section of the proposed restricted airspace that extended part way into the Buffalo MOA exclusion airspace. These measures should lessen the impact to VFR aircraft operations. Negative Impacts to IFR Aircraft Commenters pointed out that the proposed R-2201 complex would be located near two important IFR navigation aids (NAVAIDs): The Big Delta VORTAC (BIG), and the Delta Junction NDB (DJN). These NAVAIDs serve the following airways: A-2, B-25, V-444, V-481, V-515, T-226, and T-232. For IFR aircraft flying below FL 180 to have access to Fairbanks from the east or south, they must use these airways. However, if the full proposed R-2201 complex was active, all routes to and from BIG and DJN would be unavailable. The commenters said that lack of access to these routes would negatively affect air traffic safety and efficiency and increase the cost for aircraft operators to fly in this area. The FAA is also proposing to reduce the proposed ceiling of the restricted area complex from FL 220 to 11,000 feet MSL, and limit the activation of the proposed restricted airspace between 6,000 feet MSL and 11,000 feet MSL to ``by NOTAM 4 hours in advance.'' This should provide greater availability of the airways noted above. Additionally, procedures would be incorporated into the Letters of Agreement/ Procedure (LOA/LOP) between the controlling agency and the using agency to mitigate access issues. This would include activating only the minimum amount of airspace needed for the specific training mission, allowing the remaining airspace to be utilized by other users of the National Airspace System. General Impacts to General Aviation A number of commenters were concerned that the proposed times of activation for each restricted area would amount to 12 hours per weekday, as well as other times by NOTAM. The airspace below 6,000 feet MSL would be most affected since it could be active 60 percent of the time. The remaining altitude layers could be active 40 percent of the time. Due to the frequent occurrence of in-flight icing conditions in the area, the commenters pointed out that the availability of the low altitude portion of the R-2201 complex is extremely important. The potential high activation rate of the restricted areas could impact VFR and IFR aircraft. As noted above, the modified design, and proposed LOA/LOP procedures between the controlling and using agencies, should lessen impacts on general aviation. Additionally, for situations such as icing, if an aircraft requires an altitude that is within an active restricted area, the LOA/LOP would contain updated procedures that provide for coordination with the using agency to cease operations as necessary to provide for non-participating aircraft access through the SUA area. This provision would be similar to those already contained in LOAs/LOPs for other special use airspace areas in Alaska. Commenters also expressed concern about the proposed times of use for the complex; specifically, the provision allowing activation by NOTAM. One commenter stated that the lack of an advance notice requirement for [[Page 1318]] activation of the area by NOTAM could leave pilots with insufficient time for adequate flight planning, resulting in the need for an unforeseen circumnavigation of the area and/or having to divert to refuel. One commenter recommended that the times of use be changed to ``as published by NOTAM issued 4 hours in advance of area activation.'' The proposal has been modified so that NOTAMs for activating the restricted areas must be issued four hours in advance. In addition to the above measures, the Special Use Airspace Information Service (SUAIS) would be updated continually to provide transitioning pilots with the current status of the various special use airspace areas that could affect their flight. Differences From the NPRM In response to the public comments, the FAA has significantly revised the airspace proposal. The United States Army Alaska (USARAK) re-evaluated its training mission requirements and the amount of restricted airspace needed to contain the various hazardous training events. The original proposal consisted of nine restricted area subareas (R-2201A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H and J) extending in three layers from the surface up to FL 220. USARAK determined that it could meet its mission training goals with a scaled back restricted area complex consisting of four subareas (R-2201A, B, C, and D) instead of nine. Further, USARAK concluded that it could accomplish required training within a lower altitude structure that extends from the surface to 11,000 feet MSL, instead of FL 220. R-2201A and B would extend from the surface to but not including 6,000 feet MSL; while R- 2201C and D (which would overlie A and B, respectively) would extend from 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL. Most training would be accomplished in R-2201A and B from the surface to 6,000 feet MSL. The originally proposed altitudes above 11,000 feet MSL up to FL 220 are, therefore, removed from the proposal. These changes reduce the amount of proposed restricted airspace by approximately 50 percent. To address the concerns about the narrow width of the VFR route to and from the Isabel Pass, the proposed western boundaries of the restricted areas were moved eastward, and the southern boundary moved northward, to provide a larger VFR corridor along the Richardson Highway as well additional clearance from the Donnelly Dome area. The proposed time of designation for the restricted areas has also been revised. In the NPRM, the time of designation for all nine proposed subareas was ``0700-1900 local time Monday-Friday; other times by NOTAM.'' In the revised proposal, only R-2201A and B (which would extend from the surface to but not including 6,000 feet MSL) would have the specific published times of ``0700-1900 local time Monday-Friday''; as well as a provision to activate R-2201A and B at other times by a NOTAM issued 4 hours in advance. The time of designation for R-2201C and D (which would extend from 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL) would be limited to ``By NOTAM 4 hours in advance'' of the effective time. The proposed requirement that NOTAMs be issued 4 hours in advance was added in response to public comments that at least four hours advanced notice is needed to assist pilots with flight planning to help them avoid the need for reroutes or fuel diversions. These proposed modifications provide a larger VFR corridor along the Richardson Highway; reduce the overall proposed restricted airspace by approximately 50 percent; and lessen the potential for impact on both VFR and IFR operations. The Revised Proposal The FAA is proposing an amendment to Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 73 to establish restricted areas R-2201A, B, C, and D; Fort Greely, AK. Restricted areas R-2201A and R-2201C would overlie the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility (CACTF), and R- 2201B and R-2201D would overlie the Battle Area Complex (BAX). R-2201A would be located approximately one nautical mile southeast of Allen Army Airfield. The designated altitudes would extend from the surface to but not including 6,000 feet MSL. The time of designation would be ``0700-1900 local time Monday-Friday; other times by NOTAM 4 hours in advance.'' R-2201B would be established immediately south of R-2201A. The northern boundary of R-2201B would be the same as the southern boundary of R-2201A. R-2201B would extend southward to latitude 63[deg]49'33'' N. The designated altitudes would be from the surface to but not including 6,000 feet MSL. The time of designation would be ``0700-1900 local time Monday-Friday; other times by NOTAM 4 hours in advance.'' R-2201C would overlie R-2201A using the same lateral boundaries. The designated altitudes would be from 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL. The time of designation would be ``By NOTAM 4 hours in advance.'' R-2201D would overlie R-2201B using the same lateral boundaries. The designated altitudes would be from 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL. The time of designation would be ``By NOTAM 4 hours in advance.'' A chart of the revised R-2201 proposal will be posted on the www.regulations.gov website (search: FAA-2016-9495). Regulatory Notices and Analyses The FAA has determined that this proposed regulation only involves an established body of technical regulations for which frequent and routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current. It, therefore: (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979); and (3) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the anticipated impact is so minimal. Since this is a routine matter that will only affect air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is certified that this proposed rule, when promulgated, will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Environmental Review This proposal will be subject to an environmental analysis in accordance with FAA Order 1050.1F, ``Environmental Impacts: Policies and Procedures'' prior to any FAA final regulatory action. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 73 Airspace, Prohibited areas, Restricted areas. The Proposed Amendment In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend 14 CFR part 73 as follows: PART 73--SPECIAL USE AIRSPACE 0 1. The authority citation for part 73 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 106(g); 40103, 40113, 40120; E.O. 10854, 24 FR 9565, 3 CFR, 1959-1963 Comp., p. 389. Sec. 73.22 Alaska [Amended] 0 2. Sec. 73.22 is amended as follows: * * * * * [[Page 1319]] R-2201A Fort Greely, AK [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 63[deg]58'45'' N, long. 145[deg]35'06'' W; to lat. 63[deg]58'08'' N, long. 145[deg]35'05'' W; to lat. 63[deg]57'06'' N, long. 145[deg]30'15'' W; to lat. 63[deg]57'11'' N, long. 145[deg]39'25'' W; to lat. 63[deg]58'48'' N, long. 145[deg]39'25'' W; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. Surface to but not including 6,000 feet MSL. Time of designation. 0700-1900 local time Monday-Friday; other times by NOTAM 4 hours in advance. Controlling agency. FAA, Anchorage ARTCC. Using agency. U.S. Army, AK (USARAK), Commanding General, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), AK. R-2201B Fort Greely, AK [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 63[deg]57'06'' N, long. 145[deg]30'15'' W; thence clockwise along a 6.3-NM radius of Allen AAF; to lat. 63[deg]56'14'' N, long. 145[deg]31'17'' W; to lat. 63[deg]54'54'' N, long. 145[deg]26'55'' W; thence south along Granite Creek; to lat. 63[deg]49'36'' N, long. 145[deg]34'53'' W; to lat. 63[deg]49'36'' N, long. 145[deg]40'45'' W; thence north along the west bank of Jarvis Creek; to lat. 63[deg]52'14'' N, long. 145[deg]41'49'' W; to lat. 63[deg]52'56'' N, long. 145[deg]42'52'' W; to lat. 63[deg]55'01'' N, long. 145[deg]42'52'' W; to lat. 63[deg]56'20'' N, long. 145[deg]39'26'' W; to lat. 63[deg]57'11'' N, long. 145[deg]39'25'' W; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. Surface to but not including 6,000 feet MSL. Time of designation. 0700-1900 local time Monday-Friday; other times by NOTAM 4 hours in advance. Controlling agency. FAA, Anchorage ARTCC. Using agency. U.S. Army, AK (USARAK), Commanding General, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), AK. R-2201C Fort Greely, AK [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 63[deg]58'45'' N, long. 145[deg]35'06'' W; to lat. 63[deg]58'08'' N, long. 145[deg]35'05'' W; to lat. 63[deg]57'06'' N, long. 145[deg]30'15'' W; to lat. 63[deg]57'11'' N, long. 145[deg]39'25'' W; to lat. 63[deg]58'48'' N, long. 145[deg]39'25'' W; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL. Time of designation. By NOTAM 4 hours in advance. Controlling agency. FAA, Anchorage ARTCC. Using agency. U.S. Army, AK (USARAK), Commanding General, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, AK (JBER), AK. R-2201D Fort Greely, AK [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 63[deg]57'06'' N, long. 145[deg]30'15'' W; thence clockwise along a 6.3-NM radius of Allen AAF; to lat. 63[deg]56'14'' N, long. 145[deg]31'17'' W; to lat. 63[deg]54'54'' N, long. 145[deg]26'55'' W; thence south along Granite Creek; to lat. 63[deg]49'36'' N, long. 145[deg]34'53'' W; to lat. 63[deg]49'36'' N, long. 145[deg]40'45'' W; thence north along the west bank of Jarvis Creek; to lat. 63[deg]52'14'' N, long. 145[deg]41'49'' W; to lat. 63[deg]52'56'' N, long. 145[deg]42'52'' W; to lat. 63[deg]55'01'' N, long. 145[deg]42'52'' W; to lat. 63[deg]56'20'' N, long. 145[deg]39'26'' W; to lat. 63[deg]57'11'' N, long. 145[deg]39'25'' W; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL. Time of designation. By NOTAM 4 hours in advance. Controlling agency. FAA, Anchorage ARTCC. Using agency. U.S. Army, AK (USARAK), Commanding General, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), AK. Issued in Washington, DC, on January 3, 2018. Rodger A. Dean Jr., Manager, Airspace Policy Group. [FR Doc. 2018-00371 Filed 1-10-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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(e) Required Actions (2) For operations conducted under a 14 2201A, B, C, and D. This SNPRM seeks
(1) Within 90 hours time-in-service: CFR part 119 operating certificate or under comment on the amended proposal.
(i) For Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that
DATES: Comments must be received on
AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350BA, you notify your principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of or before February 26, 2018.
AS350C, AS350D, and AS350D1 helicopters,
replace each aft evaporator blower motor the local flight standards district office or ADDRESSES: Send comments on this
connector with an Air Comm connector as certificate holding district office before proposal to the U.S. Department of
depicted in Figures 2, 3, and 4 of Air Comm operating any aircraft complying with this Transportation, Docket Operations, 1200
Service Bulletin (SB) SB AS350–1110014, AD through an AMOC. New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building
Revision B, dated January 10, 2017, by using (h) Additional Information Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
a Deutsch HDT–48–00 or an equivalent MIL– Washington, DC 20590–0001; telephone:
DTL22520 Type 1 crimping tool. Air Comm SB 206–110414, Revision A,
dated June 3, 2016; SB AS350–111014 or SB 1 (800) 647–5527, or (202) 366–9826.
(ii) For Airbus Helicopters Model EC130B4
helicopters, replace each aft evaporator EC130–6204, both Revision A and both dated You must identify FAA Docket Number
blower motor connector with an Air Comm July 6, 2016; SB 407–110414, Revision B, FAA–2016–9495 and Airspace Docket
connector as depicted in Figures 2, 3, and 4 dated July 6, 2016; SB 206–110414, Revision Number 15–AAL–6 at the beginning of
of Air Comm SB EC130–6204, Revision B, B, dated January 10, 2017; and SB 407– your comments. You may also submit
dated January 10, 2017, by using a Deutsch 110414, Revision C, dated January 10, 2017, comments through the internet at http://
HDT–48–00 or an equivalent MIL–DTL22520 which are not incorporated by reference, www.regulations.gov.
Type 1 crimping tool. contain additional information about the
subject of this AD. For service information FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
(iii) For Bell Model 206A, 206B, 206L,
206L–1, 206L–3, and 206L–4 helicopters, identified in this AD, contact Air Comm Kenneth Ready, Airspace Policy Group,
replace each aft evaporator blower motor Corporation, 1575 West 124th Ave., Office of Airspace Services, Federal
connector with an Air Comm connector as Westminster, CO 80234; telephone (303) Aviation Administration, 800
depicted in Figures 4, 5, and 6 of Air Comm 440–4075; email service@aircommcorp.com; Independence Avenue SW, Washington,
SB 206–110414, Revision C, dated January website www.aircommcorp.com. You may DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783.
13, 2017, by using a Deutsch HDT–48–00 or review a copy of this service information at SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
an equivalent MIL–DTL22520 Type 1 the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
crimping tool. Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Authority for This Rulemaking
(iv) For Bell Model 407 helicopters, replace Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
each aft evaporator blower motor connector The FAA’s authority to issue rules
with an Air Comm connector as depicted in (i) Subject regarding aviation safety is found in
Figures 4, 5, and 6 of Air Comm SB 407– Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Title 49 of the United States Code.
110414, Revision D, dated January 13, 2017, Code: 2197, Air Conditioning System Wiring. Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the
by using a Deutsch HDT–48–00 or an authority of the FAA Administrator.
equivalent MIL–DTL22520 Type 1 crimping Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on January 2,
2018. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
tool.
(2) After the effective date of this AD, do Scott A. Horn, describes in more detail the scope of the
not install the following in any aft evaporator Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, agency’s authority. This rulemaking is
assembly P/Ns AS350–6202, EC130–6204–1, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, promulgated under the authority
or EC130–6204–2; aft evaporator blower Aircraft Certification Service. described in Subtitle VII, Part A,
assembly P/Ns S–6078EC–15, S–6102EC–3, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that
[FR Doc. 2018–00177 Filed 1–10–18; 8:45 am]
or S–6102EC–4; or aft condenser blower P/Ns section, the FAA is charged with
S–7060EC–1, S–7060EC–2, S–7062EC–1 or BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
prescribing regulations to assign the use
S–7062EC–2:
(i) Plug P/N 03–09–1022, 03–09–1032, and
of the airspace necessary to ensure the
03–09–1042; DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION safety of aircraft and the efficient use of
(ii) Socket P/N 02–09–1103 and 02–09– airspace. This regulation is within the
1104; Federal Aviation Administration scope of that authority as it would
(iii) Receptacle P/N 03–09–2022, 03–09– establish restricted airspace in the
2032, and 03–09–2042; and 14 CFR Part 73 vicinity of Allen Army Airfield, to
(iv) Pin P/N 02–09–2103. contain activities deemed hazardous to
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9495; Airspace
(f) Credit for Previous Actions nonparticipating aircraft.
Docket No. 15–AAL–6]
Replacing the connectors before the Comments Invited
effective date of this AD in accordance with Proposed Establishment of Restricted
Air Comm SB 206–110414, Revision A, dated Areas R–2201A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and Interested parties are invited to
June 3, 2016; SB AS350–111014 or SB J; Fort Greely, AK participate in this proposed rulemaking
EC130–6204, both Revision A and both dated by submitting such written data, views,
July 6, 2016; SB 407–110414, Revision B, AGENCY: Federal Aviation or arguments as they may desire.
dated July 6, 2016; SB 206–110414, Revision Administration (FAA), DOT. Comments that provide the factual basis
B, dated January 10, 2017; or SB 407–110414, supporting the views and suggestions
Revision C, dated January 10, 2017, is ACTION: Supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking (SNPRM). presented are particularly helpful in
considered acceptable for compliance with
the corresponding required actions specified developing reasoned regulatory
in paragraph (e)(1) of this AD. SUMMARY: This SNPRM amends the decisions on the proposal. Comments
notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) are specifically invited on the overall
(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance published in the Federal Register on regulatory, aeronautical, economic,
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
(AMOC)
March 6, 2017, that proposed to environmental, and energy-related
(1) The Manager, Denver ACO Branch, establish Restricted Areas R–2201A, B, aspects of the proposal.
FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send C, D, E, F, G, H, and J; Fort Greely, AK. Communications should identify both
your proposal to: Matthew Bryant, Aerospace
Engineer, Denver ACO Branch, Compliance
Based on comments to the NPRM, the docket numbers (FAA Docket Number
and Airworthiness Division, FAA, 26805 East FAA proposes reducing the lateral and FAA–2016–9495 and Airspace Docket
68th Ave., Room 214, Denver, CO 80249; vertical dimensions of the proposed Number 15–AAL–6) and be submitted
telephone (303) 342–1092; email restricted airspace. The modified in triplicate to the Docket Management
matthew.bryant@faa.gov. restricted areas would be designated R– Facility (see ADDRESSES section for
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activation of the area by NOTAM could revised. In the NPRM, the time of time of designation would be ‘‘By
leave pilots with insufficient time for designation for all nine proposed NOTAM 4 hours in advance.’’
adequate flight planning, resulting in subareas was ‘‘0700–1900 local time R–2201D would overlie R–2201B
the need for an unforeseen Monday–Friday; other times by using the same lateral boundaries. The
circumnavigation of the area and/or NOTAM.’’ In the revised proposal, only designated altitudes would be from
having to divert to refuel. One R–2201A and B (which would extend 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL. The
commenter recommended that the times from the surface to but not including time of designation would be ‘‘By
of use be changed to ‘‘as published by 6,000 feet MSL) would have the specific NOTAM 4 hours in advance.’’
NOTAM issued 4 hours in advance of published times of ‘‘0700–1900 local
area activation.’’ time Monday–Friday’’; as well as a A chart of the revised R–2201
The proposal has been modified so provision to activate R–2201A and B at proposal will be posted on the
that NOTAMs for activating the other times by a NOTAM issued 4 hours www.regulations.gov website (search:
restricted areas must be issued four in advance. The time of designation for FAA–2016–9495).
hours in advance. R–2201C and D (which would extend Regulatory Notices and Analyses
In addition to the above measures, the from 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL)
Special Use Airspace Information would be limited to ‘‘By NOTAM 4 The FAA has determined that this
Service (SUAIS) would be updated hours in advance’’ of the effective time. proposed regulation only involves an
continually to provide transitioning The proposed requirement that established body of technical
pilots with the current status of the NOTAMs be issued 4 hours in advance regulations for which frequent and
various special use airspace areas that was added in response to public routine amendments are necessary to
could affect their flight. comments that at least four hours keep them operationally current. It,
advanced notice is needed to assist therefore: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant
Differences From the NPRM regulatory action’’ under Executive
pilots with flight planning to help them
In response to the public comments, avoid the need for reroutes or fuel Order 12866; (2) is not a ‘‘significant
the FAA has significantly revised the diversions. rule’’ under Department of
airspace proposal. The United States These proposed modifications Transportation (DOT) Regulatory
Army Alaska (USARAK) re-evaluated its provide a larger VFR corridor along the Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034;
training mission requirements and the Richardson Highway; reduce the overall February 26, 1979); and (3) does not
amount of restricted airspace needed to proposed restricted airspace by warrant preparation of a regulatory
contain the various hazardous training approximately 50 percent; and lessen evaluation as the anticipated impact is
events. the potential for impact on both VFR so minimal. Since this is a routine
The original proposal consisted of and IFR operations. matter that will only affect air traffic
nine restricted area subareas (R–2201A, procedures and air navigation, it is
B, C, D, E, F, G, H and J) extending in The Revised Proposal
certified that this proposed rule, when
three layers from the surface up to FL The FAA is proposing an amendment promulgated, will not have a significant
220. USARAK determined that it could to Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations economic impact on a substantial
meet its mission training goals with a (14 CFR) part 73 to establish restricted number of small entities under the
scaled back restricted area complex areas R–2201A, B, C, and D; Fort Greely, criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
consisting of four subareas (R–2201A, B, AK. Restricted areas R–2201A and R–
C, and D) instead of nine. 2201C would overlie the Combined Environmental Review
Further, USARAK concluded that it Arms Collective Training Facility This proposal will be subject to an
could accomplish required training (CACTF), and R–2201B and R–2201D environmental analysis in accordance
within a lower altitude structure that would overlie the Battle Area Complex with FAA Order 1050.1F,
extends from the surface to 11,000 feet (BAX). ‘‘Environmental Impacts: Policies and
MSL, instead of FL 220. R–2201A and R–2201A would be located Procedures’’ prior to any FAA final
B would extend from the surface to but approximately one nautical mile regulatory action.
not including 6,000 feet MSL; while R– southeast of Allen Army Airfield. The
2201C and D (which would overlie A designated altitudes would extend from List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 73
and B, respectively) would extend from the surface to but not including 6,000
Airspace, Prohibited areas, Restricted
6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL. Most feet MSL. The time of designation
areas.
training would be accomplished in R– would be ‘‘0700–1900 local time
2201A and B from the surface to 6,000 Monday–Friday; other times by NOTAM The Proposed Amendment
feet MSL. The originally proposed 4 hours in advance.’’
altitudes above 11,000 feet MSL up to R–2201B would be established In consideration of the foregoing, the
FL 220 are, therefore, removed from the immediately south of R–2201A. The Federal Aviation Administration
proposal. These changes reduce the northern boundary of R–2201B would proposes to amend 14 CFR part 73 as
amount of proposed restricted airspace be the same as the southern boundary of follows:
by approximately 50 percent. R–2201A. R–2201B would extend
To address the concerns about the southward to latitude 63°49′33″ N. The PART 73—SPECIAL USE AIRSPACE
narrow width of the VFR route to and designated altitudes would be from the
from the Isabel Pass, the proposed surface to but not including 6,000 feet ■ 1. The authority citation for part 73
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
western boundaries of the restricted MSL. The time of designation would be continues to read as follows:
areas were moved eastward, and the ‘‘0700–1900 local time Monday–Friday; Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 106(g); 40103,
southern boundary moved northward, to other times by NOTAM 4 hours in 40113, 40120; E.O. 10854, 24 FR 9565, 3 CFR,
provide a larger VFR corridor along the advance.’’ 1959–1963 Comp., p. 389.
Richardson Highway as well additional R–2201C would overlie R–2201A § 73.22 Alaska [Amended]
clearance from the Donnelly Dome area. using the same lateral boundaries. The
The proposed time of designation for designated altitudes would be from ■ 2. § 73.22 is amended as follows:
the restricted areas has also been 6,000 feet MSL to 11,000 feet MSL. The * * * * *
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 8 / Thursday, January 11, 2018 / Proposed Rules 1319
R–2201A Fort Greely, AK [New] Designated altitudes. 6,000 feet MSL to FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul
Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 63°58′45″ N, 11,000 feet MSL. Gallant, Airspace Policy Group, Office
long. 145°35′06″ W; to lat. 63°58′08″ N, long. Time of designation. By NOTAM 4 hours of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation
145°35′05″ W; to lat. 63°57′06″ N, long. in advance. Administration, 800 Independence
145°30′15″ W; to lat. 63°57′11″ N, long. Controlling agency. FAA, Anchorage
ARTCC.
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591;
145°39′25″ W; to lat. 63°58′48″ N, long. telephone: (202) 267–8783.
145°39′25″ W; to the point of beginning. Using agency. U.S. Army, AK (USARAK),
Designated altitudes. Surface to but not Commanding General, Joint Base Elmendorf- SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
including 6,000 feet MSL. Richardson (JBER), AK.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Time of designation. 0700–1900 local time Issued in Washington, DC, on January 3,
Monday–Friday; other times by NOTAM 4 2018.
The FAA’s authority to issue rules
hours in advance. regarding aviation safety is found in
Rodger A. Dean Jr.,
Controlling agency. FAA, Anchorage Title 49 of the United States Code.
ARTCC. Manager, Airspace Policy Group. Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the
Using agency. U.S. Army, AK (USARAK), [FR Doc. 2018–00371 Filed 1–10–18; 8:45 am] authority of the FAA Administrator.
Commanding General, Joint Base Elmendorf- BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
Richardson (JBER), AK. describes in more detail the scope of the
R–2201B Fort Greely, AK [New] agency’s authority. This rulemaking is
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION promulgated under the authority
Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 63°57′06″ N,
long. 145°30′15″ W; thence clockwise along described in Subtitle VII, Part A,
Federal Aviation Administration Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that
a 6.3–NM radius of Allen AAF; to lat.
63°56′14″ N, long. 145°31′17″ W; to lat. section, the FAA is charged with
63°54′54″ N, long. 145°26′55″ W; thence 14 CFR Part 73 prescribing regulations to assign the use
south along Granite Creek; to lat. 63°49′36″ of the airspace necessary to ensure the
N, long. 145°34′53″ W; to lat. 63°49′36″ N, [Docket No. FAA–2017–1109; Airspace safety of aircraft and the efficient use of
long. 145°40′45″ W; thence north along the Docket No. 17–ASO–22] airspace. This regulation is within the
west bank of Jarvis Creek; to lat. 63°52′14″ N,
long. 145°41′49″ W; to lat. 63°52′56″ N, long. scope of that authority as it would
Proposed Amendment for Restricted support a change in the time of
145°42′52″ W; to lat. 63°55′01″ N, long. Area R–4403A; Stennis Space Center,
145°42′52″ W; to lat. 63°56′20″ N, long. designation for restricted area R–4403A,
MS Stennis Space Center, MS, to
145°39′26″ W; to lat. 63°57′11″ N, long.
145°39′25″ W; to the point of beginning. AGENCY: Federal Aviation accommodate NASA rocket engine test
Designated altitudes. Surface to but not Administration (FAA), DOT. activities.
including 6,000 feet MSL.
Time of designation. 0700–1900 local time ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking Comments Invited
Monday–Friday; other times by NOTAM 4 (NPRM). Interested parties are invited to
hours in advance. participate in this proposed rulemaking
Controlling agency. FAA, Anchorage SUMMARY: This action proposes to
amend the time of designation for by submitting such written data, views,
ARTCC.
restricted area R–4403A, Stennis Space or arguments as they may desire.
Using agency. U.S. Army, AK (USARAK),
Commanding General, Joint Base Elmendorf- Center, MS, from ‘‘Intermittent, 1000 to Comments that provide the factual basis
Richardson (JBER), AK. 0300 local time, as activated by NOTAM supporting the views and suggestions
at least 24 hours in advance,’’ to presented are particularly helpful in
R–2201C Fort Greely, AK [New] developing reasoned regulatory
‘‘Intermittent by NOTAM at least 24
Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 63°58′45″ N, decisions on the proposal. Comments
long. 145°35′06″ W; to lat. 63°58′08″ N, long.
hours in advance.’’ The National
Aeronautics and Space Administration are specifically invited on the overall
145°35′05″ W; to lat. 63°57′06″ N, long. regulatory, aeronautical, economic,
145°30′15″ W; to lat. 63°57′11″ N, long. (NASA) requested the change to meet
requirements of the Space Launch environmental, and energy-related
145°39′25″ W; to lat. 63°58′48″ N, long.
145°39′25″ W; to the point of beginning. System (SLS) Core Stage test program. aspects of the proposal.
Designated altitudes. 6,000 feet MSL to Communications should identify both
DATES: Comments must be received on docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA–
11,000 feet MSL. or before February 26, 2018.
Time of designation. By NOTAM 4 hours 2017–1109 and Airspace Docket No. 17–
in advance. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this ASO–22) and be submitted in triplicate
Controlling agency. FAA, Anchorage proposal to the U.S. Department of to the Docket Office at the address listed
ARTCC. Transportation, Docket Operations, 1200 above. You may also submit comments
Using agency. U.S. Army, AK (USARAK), New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building through the internet at
Commanding General, Joint Base Elmendorf- Ground Floor, Room W12–140, www.regulations.gov.
Richardson, AK (JBER), AK. Washington, DC 20590; telephone: 1 Commenters wishing the FAA to
R–2201D Fort Greely, AK [New] (800) 647–5527, or (202) 366–9826. You acknowledge receipt of their comments
Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 63°57′06″ N, must identify FAA Docket No. FAA– on this action must submit with those
long. 145°30′15″ W; thence clockwise along 2017–1109 and Airspace Docket No. 17– comments a self-addressed, stamped
a 6.3–NM radius of Allen AAF; to lat. ASO–22, at the beginning of your postcard on which the following
63°56′14″ N, long. 145°31′17″ W; to lat. comments. You may also submit statement is made: ‘‘Comments to FAA
63°54′54″ N, long. 145°26′55″ W; thence comments through the internet at http:// Docket No. FAA–2017–1109 and
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
south along Granite Creek; to lat. 63°49′36″ www.regulations.gov. Comments on Airspace Docket No. 17–ASO–22.’’ The
N, long. 145°34′53″ W; to lat. 63°49′36″ N, environmental and land use aspects postcard will be date/time stamped and
long. 145°40′45″ W; thence north along the should be directed to: Mr. David
west bank of Jarvis Creek; to lat. 63°52′14″ N,
returned to the commenter.
long. 145°41′49″ W; to lat. 63°52′56″ N, long.
Lorance, P.E., Center Environmental All communications received on or
145°42′52″ W; to lat. 63°55′01″ N, long. Officer, Center Operations Directorate, before the specified closing date for
145°42′52″ W; to lat. 63°56′20″ N, long. NASA Stennis Space Center, Roy S. comments will be considered before
145°39′26″ W; to lat. 63°57′11″ N, long. Estess Building 1100, Mail Code RA02, taking action on the proposed rule. The
145°39′25″ W; to the point of beginning. Stennis Space Center, MS 39529–6000. proposal contained in this action may
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Document Created: 2018-01-11 04:54:20
Document Modified: 2018-01-11 04:54:20
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM). | |
| Dates | Comments must be received on or before February 26, 2018. | |
| Contact | Kenneth Ready, Airspace Policy Group, Office of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267- 8783. | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 1316 | |
| CFR Associated | Airspace; Prohibited Areas and Restricted Areas |
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