GA groups lobby against temporary flight restrictions
June 29, 2011, 07:23 pm
A number of general aviation groups are working to convince government officials to come up with alternative ways to ensure the safety of the President instead of restricting GA flights.
Six industry groups wrote a joint letter to the head of the Transportation Security Administration saying the flight restrictions have a significant economic impact on GA businesses. For example, officials say when the Commander in Chief travels to Chicago, Midway Airport loses $60,000 in daily revenue. The diverting of flights could also cause safety issues and cause pilots' life insurance claims if planes are sent to unfamiliar landing strips.
They say developments last year, when pilots were able to negotiate a plan to deal with the President's vacation to the island of Martha's Vineyard.
"Given this precedent, we request that the Department of Homeland Security develop procedures, with industry consultation, that would allow aviation businesses and operators to continue operating near normal levels but address the security needs necessary to protect the President during travel," the groups said.
Recent reports have also said the First Family also plans to head to Martha's Vineyard again this summer on vacation. It's unsure whether a similar flight agreement to last year will be in effect.
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