Wednesday, September
19, 2001 8:20:58 PM — While conducting a Pilot Town Meeting
in Columbus, Ohio, AOPA President Phil Boyer was called by his
staff, advising him that a notam had just been released by the FAA
authorizing the limited return of Part 91 VFR flights. "This
is an crucial step in restoring the nation's important general
aviation system. Rest assured the effort isn't finished,"
said Boyer.
VFR is now permitted for U.S. registered aircraft outside of
"enhanced" Class B airspace; that is, Class B airspace
within the lateral limits from the surface to infinity. No VFR
flights are permitted over the top of Class B airspace, nor are
VFR operations permitted from airports and airspace "under
the shelf" of Class B airspace. In addition, several Temporary
Flight Restrictions remain in effect.
Under the FAA notam, VFR flight training operations are
prohibited. However, AOPA has been advised by the FAA that this
will be discussed at a meeting with the White House on Thursday
morning. In addition, restrictions continue to apply to banner
towing, traffic watch/reporting, airship/blimps, and news
reporting.
It is imperative that pilots receive a full briefing from FSS
or DUATs and familiarize themselves with the text of the notam
(which AOPA will post shortly).