Establishment of and Modification to Restricted Areas; Fort Sill, OK, 79998-80002 [2016-27441]

Download as PDF 79998 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 220 / Tuesday, November 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations M. Review Under the Information Quality Bulletin for Peer Review Subpart T—Compressors On December 16, 2004, OMB, in consultation with the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), issued its Final Information Quality Bulletin for Peer Review (the Bulletin). 70 FR 2664 (Jan. 14, 2005). The Bulletin establishes that certain scientific information shall be peer reviewed by qualified specialists before it is disseminated by the Federal government, including influential scientific information related to agency regulatory actions. The purpose of the Bulletin is to enhance the quality and credibility of the Government’s scientific information. DOE has determined that the analyses conducted for the regulatory action discussed in this document do not constitute ‘‘influential scientific information,’’ which the Bulletin defines as ‘‘scientific information the agency reasonably can determine will have or does have a clear and substantial impact on important public policies or private sector decisions.’’ 70 FR 2667 (Jan. 14, 2005). The analyses were subject to predissemination review prior to issuance of this rulemaking. DOE will determine the appropriate level of review that would apply to any future rulemaking to establish energy conservation standards for compressors. This subpart contains and energy conservation requirements for compressors, pursuant to Part A–1 of Title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 6311–6317. VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary Issued in Washington, DC, on October 28, 2016. David J. Friedman, Acting Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. For the reasons stated in the preamble, DOE amends part 431 of chapter II of Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations as set forth below: PART 431—ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM FOR CERTAIN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT 1. The authority citation for part 431 continues to read as follows: ■ mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291–6317; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note. 2. Add subpart T to part 431 to read as follows: Subpart T—Compressors Sec. 431.341 Purpose and scope. 431.342 Definitions concerning compressors. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Nov 11, 2016 Jkt 241001 Purpose and scope. § 431.342 Definitions concerning compressors. Compressor means a machine or apparatus that converts different types of energy into the potential energy of gas pressure for displacement and compression of gaseous media to any higher pressure values above atmospheric pressure and has a pressure ratio at full-load operating pressure greater than 1.3. [FR Doc. 2016–26693 Filed 11–14–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 73 [Docket No. FAA–2015–3680; Airspace Docket No. 13–ASW–15] RIN 2120–AA66 Establishment of and Modification to Restricted Areas; Fort Sill, OK Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this final rule. ■ § 431.341 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 restructures the restricted airspace at Fort Sill, OK, enhancing safety and accommodating essential military training. History This action establishes 2 new restricted areas (R–5601G and R–5601H) to the special use airspace (SUA) complex located at Fort Sill, OK, to provide additional maneuvering airspace for current and planned hazardous training activities. Specifically, the restricted areas provide participating fighter and bomber aircraft with non-eye safe laser firing and maneuvering airspace when training at the Falcon Bombing Range contained in R–5601C, the West Range Target Area contained in R–5601B, or the East Range Target Area contained in R–5601A. Additionally, the using agency information for all Fort Sill restricted areas is updated for standardization and to reflect the current organization. This action also updates a number of geographic coordinates for R–5601A–E, G, and H as a result of more accurate digital charting capabilities, updates the arc radius distance in R–5601B and R– 5601H from statute miles to nautical miles (NM), and corrects the controlling agency information for R–5601H. This SUMMARY: action ensures realistic U.S. Army training on current tactics for employing hazardous targeting laser systems and weapons capabilities at longer ranges from the target area. DATES: Effective date 0901 UTC, March 2, 2017. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Colby Abbott, Airspace Policy Group, Office of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On October 19, 2015, the FAA published in the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) (80 FR 63153), Docket No. FAA–2015– 3680, to establish two restricted areas and amend using agency information for six other restricted areas designated to support hazardous training activities conducted within the Fort Sill, OK, special use airspace (SUA) complex. Interested parties were invited to participate in this rulemaking effort by submitting written comments on the proposal. One comment from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) was received. Discussion of Comments In their response to the NPRM, AOPA raised several substantive issues. AOPA contended the proposed airspace design would have a negative impact on general aviation aircraft and offered the following recommendations to mitigate the negative effects: consider other types of SUA before establishing additional restricted areas; change the ceiling of R– 5601G so it aligns with the Minimum Enroute Altitude (MEA) of V–436; if E:\FR\FM\15NOR1.SGM 15NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 220 / Tuesday, November 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations unable to change the ceiling altitude, update the enroute charts to show V– 436 penetrates R–5601G; reduce the northern boundary of V–436 to provide additional lateral spacing from V–436; and synchronize the effective date of any new restricted areas to coincide with sectional chart dates. Having considered the issues and recommendations provided by AOPA, the FAA offers the following responses. mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES Consider Other Types of Special Use Airspace (SUA) Before Enacting a Restricted Area The purpose of a restricted area is to confine or segregate activities considered hazardous to nonparticipating aircraft. The FAA recognizes that R–5601G and H, when activated, would restrict access by nonparticipating aircraft. As noted in the NPRM, the U.S. Army requested this action to allow realistic training on current tactics developed and refined during recent combat operation for employing hazardous (non-eye safe) combat targeting laser systems and weapons capabilities at longer ranges from the target area. It was also noted that there was no alternative SUA complex within 200 NM where combat lasers could be employed that would support this aircrew training requirement. Therefore, the FAA has determined restricted area airspace is the appropriate SUA solution for conducting the hazardous activities associated with the U.S. Army’s training requirement. Reduce the Maximum Altitude of R– 5601 To Align With the Minimum Enroute Altitude of VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR) Federal Airway V–436 This recommendation would drop the ceiling of R–5601G from ‘‘to but not including 8,000 feet MSL’’ to 5,400 feet MSL. Such a lowered ceiling would prevent laser employment at ranges beyond 10 miles due to graze angle restrictions and result in loss of the increased standoff ranges proposed for realistic aircrew combat training. Additionally, the western portion of R– 5601G overlies the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge. As mitigation to adverse effects when R–5601F was established in 2007, the Army agreed to restrict flights below 5,500 feet MSL over the Wildlife Refuge. Observing this local flight restriction to not overfly the Wildlife Refuge below 5,500 feet MSL and AOPA’s recommended restricted area ceiling of 5,400 feet MSL would actually result in no available restricted area airspace over the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge and VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Nov 11, 2016 Jkt 241001 compression of the remaining portions of R–5601G to the point that the restricted area would not meet the military’s training requirements any longer. The FAA does not support lowering the R–5601G ceiling as recommended. The R–5601G boundaries description information in the regulatory text is being amended to reflect the U.S. Army’s local flight restriction to not overfly the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge below 5,500 feet MSL and match the corresponding flight restriction documented in the R–5601F legal description and on the applicable aeronautical charts. If Unable To Reduce the Ceiling of R– 5601G, Update the Enroute Charts To Show V–436 Penetrates an Established Restricted Area It is common practice for the FAA to depict Air Traffic Service (ATS) Routes and SUA areas on IFR and VFR aeronautical charts in accordance with established charting standards. Additionally, SUA times are published in a tab on the associated IFR and VFR charts to identify the SUA times of use. As such, V–436 will be charted on the IFR enroute charts, depicting it running through R–5601G and the R–5601 times of use will be published on the associated charts. Truncate the Northern Boundary of R– 5601G To Preserve V–436 Through Lateral Separation The FAA acknowledges that amending the proposed R–5601G northern boundary to provide a 4 NM buffer from the V–436 centerline would allow unimpeded use of the airway when the restricted area is active. However, this recommendation reduces the north-south lateral dimension of R– 5601G by approximately 7 NM at its northeast corner. One of the stated purposes of this action, as noted in the NPRM, was to allow realistic training on current tactics developed during recent combat operation for employing hazardous targeting laser systems and weapons capabilities at longer ranges from the target area. Modern rangefinder and laser designators can be employed at ranges out to 25 NM. As proposed, the distance from the target arrays in R– 5601C (Falcon Range) to the northeast corner of R–5601G is approximately 22 NM and the distance from the targets in R–5601B to the proposed northeast corner is approximately 17 NM. Amending the R–5601G northern boundary as recommended by AOPA would reduce these distances to 17 NM and 12 NM, respectively. As such, the FAA does not support this PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 79999 recommendation since the reduced distances to the target areas would be inadequate for the military to conduct realistic training on current tactics employing targeting laser systems and weapons systems at longer ranges. Synchronize the Effective Date of Any New Restricted Areas To Coincide With Sectional Chart Dates The FAA normally makes regulatory airspace actions, including restricted areas, effective on a 56-day enroute chart date; however, consideration is given to selecting a sectional aeronautical chart date when deemed appropriate based on the potential aeronautical impacts associated with the airspace action being taken. This action is being made effective on a sectional chart date that matches the 56-day enroute chart dates. Differences From the NPRM Subsequent to publication of the NPRM, the FAA identified a number of geographic lat./long. coordinate updates to the R–5601A–E, G, and H boundaries information to more accurately reflect the existing boundaries using digital charting capabilities. Additionally, the arc radius distance listed in the R– 5601B and R–5601H descriptions was determined to be described using statute miles and is being updated to reflect the corresponding nautical mile distance. Finally, the R–5601H controlling agency title proposed in the NPRM did not match the controlling agency title for the other R–5601 complex restricted areas and is being updated to match. The using agency, controlling agency, and boundaries updates are administrative in nature and do not affect the overall restricted area boundaries; designated altitudes; times of designation; or activities conducted within those restricted areas. The following restricted area updates are incorporated in this action. The geographical lat./long. coordinates for the points located on Interstate Highway 44 (I–44) listed in the R–5601A and R–5601B descriptions, and a corresponding point listed in the R–5601H description, are actually located west of I–44. The geographical coordinates are updated to accurately reflect the points on I–44. The 3-mile arc radius distance listed in the existing R–5601B and proposed R–5601H descriptions is not clear that it is defined in reference to statute miles. The 3-mile [statute miles] arc radius is updated to reflect it as 2.6 NM to retain the boundary, unchanged, and comply with FAA Order JO 7400.2, Procedures for Handling Airspace Matters, guidance. E:\FR\FM\15NOR1.SGM 15NOR1 80000 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 220 / Tuesday, November 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES The geographical lat./long. coordinates listed for the eastern-most point located on the 2.6 NM arc radius (formerly 3-mile arc radius as noted above) in the existing R–5601B and proposed R–5601H descriptions is actually located north of the arc. The geographical coordinates are updated to accurately reflect the point on the 2.6 NM arc. The geographical lat./long. coordinates listed for the northern boundary point located on Oklahoma State Highway No. 115 in the R–5601B and R–5601C descriptions, and the corresponding point listed in the R– 5601D description, is actually located east of the highway. The geographical coordinates are updated to accurately reflect the point on Oklahoma State Highway No. 115. The geographical lat./long. coordinates for one point listed in the R–5601E description does not match the geographical coordinates for the corresponding point listed in the R– 5601B and R–5601C descriptions. The geographical coordinates for the point are updated to match the information published in the R–5601B and R–5601C descriptions. The geographical lat./long. coordinates for the first point listed in the R–5601G description does not create a shared boundary with R–5601F and results in a gap between the two restricted areas. The geographical lat./ long. coordinates for the point are updated to ensure a shared R–5601F and R–5601G boundary. The controlling agency information listed in the R–5601H description does not match the controlling agency information verbatim in all the other R– 5601 restricted areas. The controlling agency information is updated to standardize the information in all R– 5601 restricted areas. The Rule The FAA is amending 14 CFR part 73 to establish 2 new restricted areas (R– 5601G and R–5601H) at Fort Sill, OK, and update the using agency information listed for the existing restricted areas (R–5601A–F) as noted in the NPRM. The FAA is also incorporating the restricted area updates noted in the Differences from the NPRM section. The FAA is taking this action to ensure containment of the hazardous activities associated with aircrew training missions that are incorporating non-eye safe targeting laser employment and weapons delivery tactics used by the military today, at increased distances from the target range, within restricted area airspace. The amendments are as follows: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Nov 11, 2016 Jkt 241001 R–5601A: The geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′09″ W.,’’ in the boundaries description are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′07″ W.,’’ and the geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°24′01″ W.,’’ are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°23′59″ W.,’’ to coincide with I–44. R–5601B: The geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′09″ W.,’’ in the boundaries description are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′07″ W.,’’ and the geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°24′01″ W.,’’ are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°23′59″ W.,’’ to coincide with I–44. Additionally, the geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′54″ W.,’’ are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′56″ W.,’’ to coincide with Oklahoma State Highway No. 115. Lastly, the arc radius ‘‘3-mile″ is changed to ‘‘2.6 NM’’ to retain the existing boundary defined in terms of NM and the geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°40′12″ N., long. 98°26′18″ W.,’’ are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°40′11″ N., long. 98°26′18″ W.,’’ to coincide with the 2.6 NM arc radius. R–5601C: The geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′54″ W.,’’ in the boundaries description are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′156″ W.,’’ to coincide with Oklahoma State Highway No. 115. R–5601D: The geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′54″ W.,’’ in the boundaries description are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′56″ W.,’’ to coincide with Oklahoma State Highway No. 115. R–5601E: The geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°37′58″ W.,’’ in the boundaries description are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°37′57″ W.,’’ to match the corresponding point in R–5601B and R– 5601C. R–5601G: Establish R–5601G to abut the northern boundary of R–5601F, to the north, underlying the Washita MOA. The new restricted area extends upward from 500 feet above ground level (AGL) to, but not including 8,000 feet MSL; excluding the airspace below 5,500 feet MSL over the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge, as noted in the Discussion of Comments section. R– 5601G extends laterally across approximately three quarters of the restricted area complex, west to east, and northward between 5 NM to 11 NM along the northern boundary of R– 5601F. Additionally, the geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°46′07″ N., long. 98°25′50″ W.,’’ in the proposed boundaries description are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°46′03″ N., long. 98°25′50″ W.,’’ PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 to ensure a shared boundary with R– 5601F. Lastly, the controlling agency ‘‘FAA, Fort Worth Center’’ is changed to ‘‘FAA, Fort Worth ARTCC.’’ R–5601H: Establish R–5601H to fill a small airspace area over Fort Sill Army Post, OK, surrounded by two continuously active restricted areas (R– 5601A and R–5601B). The new restricted area extends upward from the surface to FL400. Additionally, the geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′09″ W.,’’ in the proposed boundaries description are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′07″ W.,’’ to match the corresponding point in R– 5601A. Lastly, the arc radius ‘‘3-mile″ is changed to ‘‘2.6 NM’’ to retain the existing boundary defined in terms of NM and the geographic coordinates ‘‘lat. 34°40′12″ N., long. 98°26′18″ W.,’’ are changed to ‘‘lat. 34°40′11″ N., long. 98°26′18″ W.,’’ to coincide with the 2.6 NM arc radius. The two new restricted areas allow participating aircraft to maneuver within the current Fort Sill Approach Control Airspace and contain the hazardous combat laser energy within restricted airspace. As noted in the NPRM, R–5601G will be used for aircraft maneuvering and combat laser targeting employment and R–5601H will be used for aircraft conducting Close Air Support (CAS) training. There are no changes to the existing pattern of firing, ordnance delivery runs, or weapons impact areas and all weapons release continue to occur in R–5601A, R– 5601B, or R–5601C, as they are now. Further, no supersonic flight will occur. This action also changes the using agency information ‘‘U.S. Army, Commanding General, Fort Sill, OK,’’ listed for R–5601A–E to ‘‘U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK’’ and the using agency ‘‘Commanding General, United States Army Field Artillery Center (USAFACFS), Fort Sill, OK,’’ listed for R–5601F is changed to ‘‘U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.’’ These changes reflect the current organizational responsibilities and match the using agency information published in R– 5601G and R–5601H. The boundaries, designated altitudes, times of designation, and controlling agency information for restricted areas R–5601A–F are not changed by this action. Regulatory Notices and Analyses The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an established body of technical regulations for which E:\FR\FM\15NOR1.SGM 15NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 220 / Tuesday, November 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 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 only affects air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is certified that this rule, when promulgated, does not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Environmental Review In accordance with FAA Order 1050.1F, paragraphs 6–3.c and 8–2, the FAA has conducted an independent evaluation of the U.S. Army’s Final Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Creation of Restricted Areas (RAs) R– 5601G and R–5601H. The FAA determined that no significant impacts would occur as a result of the Federal action and therefore, preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement is not warranted and a Finding of No Significant Impact in accordance with 40 CFR 1501.4(e) is appropriate. Subsequently, and in accordance with 40 CFR 1506.3, the FAA adopted the U.S. Army’s final EA and prepared a Finding of No Significant Impact/ Record of Decision dated November 7, 2016. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 73 Airspace, Prohibited areas, Restricted areas. Adoption of the Amendment In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation Administration amends 14 CFR part 73 as follows: PART 73—SPECIAL USE AIRSPACE 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. § 73.56 [Amended] 2. Section 73.56 is amended as follows: mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES ■ R–5601A Fort Sill, OK [Amended] By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and substituting the following: Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°17′01″ W.; to lat. VerDate Sep<11>2014 19:42 Nov 11, 2016 Jkt 241001 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°20′56″ W.; to lat. 34°38′30″ N., long. 98°21′41″ W.; to lat. 34°38′50″ N., long. 98°22′06″ W.; to lat. 34°39′53″ N., long. 98°22′16″ W.; to lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′07″ W.; thence north along the western edge of Interstate Highway 44 to lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°23′59″ W.; to lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°21′21″ W.; to lat. 34°43′45″ N., long. 98°21′01″ W.; to lat. 34°46′06″ N., long. 98°21′01″ W.; to lat. 34°46′06″ N., long. 98°17′01″ W.; to the point of beginning. Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK. R–5601B Fort Sill, OK [Amended] By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and substituting the following: Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′07″ W.; thence counterclockwise along an arc, 2.6 NM radius centered at lat. 34°38′18″ N., long. 98°24′07″ W.; to lat. 34°40′11″ N., long. 98°26′18″ W.; to lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°26′19″ W.; to lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°37′57″ W.; thence north along Oklahoma State Highway No. 115 to lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′56″ W.; to lat. 34°42′07″ N., long. 98°37′20″ W.; to lat. 34°43′21″ N., long. 98°36′02″ W.; to lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°35′40″ W.; to lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°23′59″ W.; thence south along the western edge of Interstate Highway 44 to the point of beginning. Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK. R–5601C Fort Sill, OK [Amended] By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and substituting the following: Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°37′57″ W.; to lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°45′21″ W.; to lat. 34°41′47″ N., long. 98°45′21″ W.; to lat. 34°41′47″ N., long. 98°44′17″ W.; to lat. 34°41′21″ N., long. 98°44′17″ W.; to lat. 34°41′21″ N., long. 98°40′36″ W.; to lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°40′36″ W.; to lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′56″ W.; thence south along Oklahoma State Highway No. 115 to the point of beginning. Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK. R–5601D Fort Sill, OK [Amended] By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and substituting the following: PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 80001 Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°45′21″ W.; to lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°48′01″ W.; to lat. 34°42′15″ N., long. 98°50′01″ W.; to lat. 34°45′00″ N., long. 98°40′31″ W.; to lat. 34°43′30″ N., long. 98°35′40″ W.; to lat. 34°43′21″ N., long. 98°36′02″ W.; to lat. 34°42′07″ N., long. 98°37′20″ W.; to lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°37′56″ W.; to lat. 34°40′54″ N., long. 98°40′36″ W.; to lat. 34°41′21″ N., long. 98°40′36″ W.; to lat. 34°41′21″ N., long. 98°44′17″ W.; to lat. 34°41′47″ N., long. 98°44′17″ W.; to lat. 34°41′47″ N., long. 98°45′21″ W.; to the point of beginning. Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK. R–5601E Fort Sill, OK [Amended] By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and substituting the following: Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°37′57″ W.; to lat. 34°36′00″ N., long. 98°46′46″ W.; to lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°48′01″ W.; to lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°45′21″ W.; to the point of beginning. Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK. R–5601F Fort Sill, OK [Amended] By removing the current using agency and substituting the following: Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK. R–5601G Fort Sill, OK [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°46′03″ N., long. 98°25′50″ W.; to lat. 34°45′03″ N., long. 98°29′46″ W.; thence counterclockwise via the 46 NM arc of SPS VORTAC to lat. 34°43′46″ N., long. 98°49′55″ W.; to lat. 34°47′00″ N., long. 98°51′00″ W.; to lat. 34°50′30″ N., long. 98°46′02″ W.; to lat. 34°57′51″ N., long. 98°25′47″ W.; to the point of beginning. Excluding that airspace below 5,500 feet MSL over the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge. Designated altitudes. 500 feet AGL to, but not including, 8,000 feet MSL. Time of designation. Sunrise to 2200 local time, Monday-Friday; other times by NOTAM. Controlling agency. FAA, Fort Worth ARTCC. Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK. E:\FR\FM\15NOR1.SGM 15NOR1 80002 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 220 / Tuesday, November 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations R–5601H Fort Sill, OK [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°20′56″ W.; to lat. 34°38′30″ N., long. 98°21′41″ W.; to lat. 34°38′50″ N., long. 98°22′06″ W.; to lat. 34°39′53″ N., long. 98°22′16″ W.; to lat. 34°40′47″ N., long. 98°23′07″ W.; thence counterclockwise along an arc, 2.6 NM radius centered at lat. 34°38′18″ N., long. 98°24′07″ W.; to lat. 34°40′11″ N., long. 98°26′18″ W.; to lat. 34°38′15″ N., long. 98°26′19″ W.; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. Surface to FL 400. Time of designation. By NOTAM. Controlling agency. FAA, Fort Worth ARTCC. Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK. Issued in Washington, DC, on November 8, 2016. Leslie M. Swann, Acting Manager, Airspace Policy Group. [FR Doc. 2016–27441 Filed 11–14–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PENSION BENEFIT GUARANTY CORPORATION 29 CFR Part 4022 Benefits Payable in Terminated SingleEmployer Plans; Interest Assumptions for Paying Benefits Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This final rule amends the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation’s regulation on Benefits Payable in Terminated Single-Employer Plans to prescribe interest assumptions under the regulation for valuation dates in December 2016. The interest assumptions are used for paying benefits under terminating singleemployer plans covered by the pension SUMMARY: For plans with a valuation date Immediate annuity rate (percent) Rate set mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES On or after * 278 Before * 12–1–16 * 1–1–17 0.75 1 Appendix B to PBGC’s regulation on Allocation of Assets in Single-Employer Plans (29 CFR part 4044) prescribes interest assumptions for valuing VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Nov 11, 2016 insurance system administered by PBGC. DATES: Effective December 1, 2016. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Deborah C. Murphy (Murphy.Deborah@ pbgc.gov), Assistant General Counsel for Regulatory Affairs, Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, 1200 K Street NW., Washington, DC 20005, 202–326– 4400 ext. 3451. (TTY/TDD users may call the Federal relay service toll-free at 1–800–877–8339 and ask to be connected to 202–326–4400 ext. 3451.) SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: PBGC’s regulation on Benefits Payable in Terminated Single-Employer Plans (29 CFR part 4022) prescribes actuarial assumptions—including interest assumptions—for paying plan benefits under terminating single-employer plans covered by title IV of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. The interest assumptions in the regulation are also published on PBGC’s Web site (https://www.pbgc.gov). PBGC uses the interest assumptions in Appendix B to Part 4022 to determine whether a benefit is payable as a lump sum and to determine the amount to pay. Appendix C to Part 4022 contains interest assumptions for private-sector pension practitioners to refer to if they wish to use lump-sum interest rates determined using PBGC’s historical methodology. Currently, the rates in Appendices B and C of the benefit payment regulation are the same. The interest assumptions are intended to reflect current conditions in the financial and annuity markets. Assumptions under the benefit payments regulation are updated monthly. This final rule updates the benefit payments interest assumptions for December 2016.1 The December 2016 interest assumptions under the benefit payments regulation will be 0.75 percent for the period during which a benefit is in pay status and 4.00 percent during any years preceding the benefit’s placement in pay status. In comparison with the interest assumptions in effect for November Jkt 241001 Frm 00012 List of Subjects in 29 CFR Part 4022 Employee benefit plans, Pension insurance, Pensions, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. In consideration of the foregoing, 29 CFR part 4022 is amended as follows: PART 4022—BENEFITS PAYABLE IN TERMINATED SINGLE-EMPLOYER PLANS 1. The authority citation for part 4022 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 29 U.S.C. 1302, 1322, 1322b, 1341(c)(3)(D), and 1344. 2. In appendix B to part 4022, Rate Set 278, as set forth below, is added to the table. ■ Appendix B to Part 4022—Lump Sum Interest Rates For PBGC Payments * * * * * Deferred annuities (percent) i1 i2 * 4.00 i3 4.00 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 n1 * benefits under terminating covered single-employer plans for purposes of allocation of assets under PO 00000 2016, these interest assumptions represent an increase of 0.25 percent in the immediate rate and are otherwise unchanged. PBGC has determined that notice and public comment on this amendment are impracticable and contrary to the public interest. This finding is based on the need to determine and issue new interest assumptions promptly so that the assumptions can reflect current market conditions as accurately as possible. Because of the need to provide immediate guidance for the payment of benefits under plans with valuation dates during December 2016, PBGC finds that good cause exists for making the assumptions set forth in this amendment effective less than 30 days after publication. PBGC has determined that this action is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under the criteria set forth in Executive Order 12866. Because no general notice of proposed rulemaking is required for this amendment, the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 does not apply. See 5 U.S.C. 601(2). * 4.00 n2 * 7 8 ERISA section 4044. Those assumptions are updated quarterly. E:\FR\FM\15NOR1.SGM 15NOR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 220 (Tuesday, November 15, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 79998-80002]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-27441]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 73

[Docket No. FAA-2015-3680; Airspace Docket No. 13-ASW-15]
RIN 2120-AA66


Establishment of and Modification to Restricted Areas; Fort Sill, 
OK

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This action establishes 2 new restricted areas (R-5601G and R-
5601H) to the special use airspace (SUA) complex located at Fort Sill, 
OK, to provide additional maneuvering airspace for current and planned 
hazardous training activities. Specifically, the restricted areas 
provide participating fighter and bomber aircraft with non-eye safe 
laser firing and maneuvering airspace when training at the Falcon 
Bombing Range contained in R-5601C, the West Range Target Area 
contained in R-5601B, or the East Range Target Area contained in R-
5601A. Additionally, the using agency information for all Fort Sill 
restricted areas is updated for standardization and to reflect the 
current organization. This action also updates a number of geographic 
coordinates for R-5601A-E, G, and H as a result of more accurate 
digital charting capabilities, updates the arc radius distance in R-
5601B and R-5601H from statute miles to nautical miles (NM), and 
corrects the controlling agency information for R-5601H. This action 
ensures realistic U.S. Army training on current tactics for employing 
hazardous targeting laser systems and weapons capabilities at longer 
ranges from the target area.

DATES: Effective date 0901 UTC, March 2, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Colby Abbott, 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 restructures the restricted airspace at Fort Sill, OK, 
enhancing safety and accommodating essential military training.

History

    On October 19, 2015, the FAA published in the Federal Register a 
notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) (80 FR 63153), Docket No. FAA-
2015-3680, to establish two restricted areas and amend using agency 
information for six other restricted areas designated to support 
hazardous training activities conducted within the Fort Sill, OK, 
special use airspace (SUA) complex. Interested parties were invited to 
participate in this rulemaking effort by submitting written comments on 
the proposal. One comment from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots 
Association (AOPA) was received.

Discussion of Comments

    In their response to the NPRM, AOPA raised several substantive 
issues. AOPA contended the proposed airspace design would have a 
negative impact on general aviation aircraft and offered the following 
recommendations to mitigate the negative effects: consider other types 
of SUA before establishing additional restricted areas; change the 
ceiling of R-5601G so it aligns with the Minimum Enroute Altitude (MEA) 
of V-436; if

[[Page 79999]]

unable to change the ceiling altitude, update the enroute charts to 
show V-436 penetrates R-5601G; reduce the northern boundary of V-436 to 
provide additional lateral spacing from V-436; and synchronize the 
effective date of any new restricted areas to coincide with sectional 
chart dates.
    Having considered the issues and recommendations provided by AOPA, 
the FAA offers the following responses.

Consider Other Types of Special Use Airspace (SUA) Before Enacting a 
Restricted Area

    The purpose of a restricted area is to confine or segregate 
activities considered hazardous to nonparticipating aircraft. The FAA 
recognizes that R-5601G and H, when activated, would restrict access by 
non-participating aircraft. As noted in the NPRM, the U.S. Army 
requested this action to allow realistic training on current tactics 
developed and refined during recent combat operation for employing 
hazardous (non-eye safe) combat targeting laser systems and weapons 
capabilities at longer ranges from the target area. It was also noted 
that there was no alternative SUA complex within 200 NM where combat 
lasers could be employed that would support this aircrew training 
requirement. Therefore, the FAA has determined restricted area airspace 
is the appropriate SUA solution for conducting the hazardous activities 
associated with the U.S. Army's training requirement.

Reduce the Maximum Altitude of R-5601 To Align With the Minimum Enroute 
Altitude of VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR) Federal Airway V-436

    This recommendation would drop the ceiling of R-5601G from ``to but 
not including 8,000 feet MSL'' to 5,400 feet MSL. Such a lowered 
ceiling would prevent laser employment at ranges beyond 10 miles due to 
graze angle restrictions and result in loss of the increased standoff 
ranges proposed for realistic aircrew combat training. Additionally, 
the western portion of R-5601G overlies the Wichita Mountains National 
Wildlife Refuge. As mitigation to adverse effects when R-5601F was 
established in 2007, the Army agreed to restrict flights below 5,500 
feet MSL over the Wildlife Refuge. Observing this local flight 
restriction to not overfly the Wildlife Refuge below 5,500 feet MSL and 
AOPA's recommended restricted area ceiling of 5,400 feet MSL would 
actually result in no available restricted area airspace over the 
Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge and compression of the 
remaining portions of R-5601G to the point that the restricted area 
would not meet the military's training requirements any longer. The FAA 
does not support lowering the R-5601G ceiling as recommended.
    The R-5601G boundaries description information in the regulatory 
text is being amended to reflect the U.S. Army's local flight 
restriction to not overfly the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife 
Refuge below 5,500 feet MSL and match the corresponding flight 
restriction documented in the R-5601F legal description and on the 
applicable aeronautical charts.

If Unable To Reduce the Ceiling of R-5601G, Update the Enroute Charts 
To Show V-436 Penetrates an Established Restricted Area

    It is common practice for the FAA to depict Air Traffic Service 
(ATS) Routes and SUA areas on IFR and VFR aeronautical charts in 
accordance with established charting standards. Additionally, SUA times 
are published in a tab on the associated IFR and VFR charts to identify 
the SUA times of use. As such, V-436 will be charted on the IFR enroute 
charts, depicting it running through R-5601G and the R-5601 times of 
use will be published on the associated charts.

Truncate the Northern Boundary of R-5601G To Preserve V-436 Through 
Lateral Separation

    The FAA acknowledges that amending the proposed R-5601G northern 
boundary to provide a 4 NM buffer from the V-436 centerline would allow 
unimpeded use of the airway when the restricted area is active. 
However, this recommendation reduces the north-south lateral dimension 
of R-5601G by approximately 7 NM at its northeast corner. One of the 
stated purposes of this action, as noted in the NPRM, was to allow 
realistic training on current tactics developed during recent combat 
operation for employing hazardous targeting laser systems and weapons 
capabilities at longer ranges from the target area. Modern rangefinder 
and laser designators can be employed at ranges out to 25 NM. As 
proposed, the distance from the target arrays in R-5601C (Falcon Range) 
to the northeast corner of R-5601G is approximately 22 NM and the 
distance from the targets in R-5601B to the proposed northeast corner 
is approximately 17 NM. Amending the R-5601G northern boundary as 
recommended by AOPA would reduce these distances to 17 NM and 12 NM, 
respectively. As such, the FAA does not support this recommendation 
since the reduced distances to the target areas would be inadequate for 
the military to conduct realistic training on current tactics employing 
targeting laser systems and weapons systems at longer ranges.

Synchronize the Effective Date of Any New Restricted Areas To Coincide 
With Sectional Chart Dates

    The FAA normally makes regulatory airspace actions, including 
restricted areas, effective on a 56-day enroute chart date; however, 
consideration is given to selecting a sectional aeronautical chart date 
when deemed appropriate based on the potential aeronautical impacts 
associated with the airspace action being taken. This action is being 
made effective on a sectional chart date that matches the 56-day 
enroute chart dates.

Differences From the NPRM

    Subsequent to publication of the NPRM, the FAA identified a number 
of geographic lat./long. coordinate updates to the R-5601A-E, G, and H 
boundaries information to more accurately reflect the existing 
boundaries using digital charting capabilities. Additionally, the arc 
radius distance listed in the R-5601B and R-5601H descriptions was 
determined to be described using statute miles and is being updated to 
reflect the corresponding nautical mile distance. Finally, the R-5601H 
controlling agency title proposed in the NPRM did not match the 
controlling agency title for the other R-5601 complex restricted areas 
and is being updated to match. The using agency, controlling agency, 
and boundaries updates are administrative in nature and do not affect 
the overall restricted area boundaries; designated altitudes; times of 
designation; or activities conducted within those restricted areas. The 
following restricted area updates are incorporated in this action.
    The geographical lat./long. coordinates for the points located on 
Interstate Highway 44 (I-44) listed in the R-5601A and R-5601B 
descriptions, and a corresponding point listed in the R-5601H 
description, are actually located west of I-44. The geographical 
coordinates are updated to accurately reflect the points on I-44.
    The 3-mile arc radius distance listed in the existing R-5601B and 
proposed R-5601H descriptions is not clear that it is defined in 
reference to statute miles. The 3-mile [statute miles] arc radius is 
updated to reflect it as 2.6 NM to retain the boundary, unchanged, and 
comply with FAA Order JO 7400.2, Procedures for Handling Airspace 
Matters, guidance.

[[Page 80000]]

    The geographical lat./long. coordinates listed for the eastern-most 
point located on the 2.6 NM arc radius (formerly 3-mile arc radius as 
noted above) in the existing R-5601B and proposed R-5601H descriptions 
is actually located north of the arc. The geographical coordinates are 
updated to accurately reflect the point on the 2.6 NM arc.
    The geographical lat./long. coordinates listed for the northern 
boundary point located on Oklahoma State Highway No. 115 in the R-5601B 
and R-5601C descriptions, and the corresponding point listed in the R-
5601D description, is actually located east of the highway. The 
geographical coordinates are updated to accurately reflect the point on 
Oklahoma State Highway No. 115.
    The geographical lat./long. coordinates for one point listed in the 
R-5601E description does not match the geographical coordinates for the 
corresponding point listed in the R-5601B and R-5601C descriptions. The 
geographical coordinates for the point are updated to match the 
information published in the R-5601B and R-5601C descriptions.
    The geographical lat./long. coordinates for the first point listed 
in the R-5601G description does not create a shared boundary with R-
5601F and results in a gap between the two restricted areas. The 
geographical lat./long. coordinates for the point are updated to ensure 
a shared R-5601F and R-5601G boundary.
    The controlling agency information listed in the R-5601H 
description does not match the controlling agency information verbatim 
in all the other R-5601 restricted areas. The controlling agency 
information is updated to standardize the information in all R-5601 
restricted areas.

The Rule

    The FAA is amending 14 CFR part 73 to establish 2 new restricted 
areas (R-5601G and R-5601H) at Fort Sill, OK, and update the using 
agency information listed for the existing restricted areas (R-5601A-F) 
as noted in the NPRM. The FAA is also incorporating the restricted area 
updates noted in the Differences from the NPRM section. The FAA is 
taking this action to ensure containment of the hazardous activities 
associated with aircrew training missions that are incorporating non-
eye safe targeting laser employment and weapons delivery tactics used 
by the military today, at increased distances from the target range, 
within restricted area airspace. The amendments are as follows:
    R-5601A: The geographic coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., long. 
98[deg]23'09'' W.,'' in the boundaries description are changed to 
``lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., long. 98[deg]23'07'' W.,'' and the geographic 
coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]43'30'' N., long. 98[deg]24'01'' W.,'' are 
changed to ``lat. 34[deg]43'30'' N., long. 98[deg]23'59'' W.,'' to 
coincide with I-44.
    R-5601B: The geographic coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., long. 
98[deg]23'09'' W.,'' in the boundaries description are changed to 
``lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., long. 98[deg]23'07'' W.,'' and the geographic 
coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]43'30'' N., long. 98[deg]24'01'' W.,'' are 
changed to ``lat. 34[deg]43'30'' N., long. 98[deg]23'59'' W.,'' to 
coincide with I-44. Additionally, the geographic coordinates ``lat. 
34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]37'54'' W.,'' are changed to ``lat. 
34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]37'56'' W.,'' to coincide with Oklahoma 
State Highway No. 115. Lastly, the arc radius ``3-mile'' is changed to 
``2.6 NM'' to retain the existing boundary defined in terms of NM and 
the geographic coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]40'12'' N., long. 
98[deg]26'18'' W.,'' are changed to ``lat. 34[deg]40'11'' N., long. 
98[deg]26'18'' W.,'' to coincide with the 2.6 NM arc radius.
    R-5601C: The geographic coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 
98[deg]37'54'' W.,'' in the boundaries description are changed to 
``lat. 34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]37'156'' W.,'' to coincide with 
Oklahoma State Highway No. 115.
    R-5601D: The geographic coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 
98[deg]37'54'' W.,'' in the boundaries description are changed to 
``lat. 34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]37'56'' W.,'' to coincide with 
Oklahoma State Highway No. 115.
    R-5601E: The geographic coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 
98[deg]37'58'' W.,'' in the boundaries description are changed to 
``lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 98[deg]37'57'' W.,'' to match the 
corresponding point in R-5601B and R-5601C.
    R-5601G: Establish R-5601G to abut the northern boundary of R-
5601F, to the north, underlying the Washita MOA. The new restricted 
area extends upward from 500 feet above ground level (AGL) to, but not 
including 8,000 feet MSL; excluding the airspace below 5,500 feet MSL 
over the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge, as noted in the 
Discussion of Comments section. R-5601G extends laterally across 
approximately three quarters of the restricted area complex, west to 
east, and northward between 5 NM to 11 NM along the northern boundary 
of R-5601F. Additionally, the geographic coordinates ``lat. 
34[deg]46'07'' N., long. 98[deg]25'50'' W.,'' in the proposed 
boundaries description are changed to ``lat. 34[deg]46'03'' N., long. 
98[deg]25'50'' W.,'' to ensure a shared boundary with R-5601F. Lastly, 
the controlling agency ``FAA, Fort Worth Center'' is changed to ``FAA, 
Fort Worth ARTCC.''
    R-5601H: Establish R-5601H to fill a small airspace area over Fort 
Sill Army Post, OK, surrounded by two continuously active restricted 
areas (R-5601A and R-5601B). The new restricted area extends upward 
from the surface to FL400. Additionally, the geographic coordinates 
``lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., long. 98[deg]23'09'' W.,'' in the proposed 
boundaries description are changed to ``lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., long. 
98[deg]23'07'' W.,'' to match the corresponding point in R-5601A. 
Lastly, the arc radius ``3-mile'' is changed to ``2.6 NM'' to retain 
the existing boundary defined in terms of NM and the geographic 
coordinates ``lat. 34[deg]40'12'' N., long. 98[deg]26'18'' W.,'' are 
changed to ``lat. 34[deg]40'11'' N., long. 98[deg]26'18'' W.,'' to 
coincide with the 2.6 NM arc radius.
    The two new restricted areas allow participating aircraft to 
maneuver within the current Fort Sill Approach Control Airspace and 
contain the hazardous combat laser energy within restricted airspace. 
As noted in the NPRM, R-5601G will be used for aircraft maneuvering and 
combat laser targeting employment and R-5601H will be used for aircraft 
conducting Close Air Support (CAS) training. There are no changes to 
the existing pattern of firing, ordnance delivery runs, or weapons 
impact areas and all weapons release continue to occur in R-5601A, R-
5601B, or R-5601C, as they are now. Further, no supersonic flight will 
occur.
    This action also changes the using agency information ``U.S. Army, 
Commanding General, Fort Sill, OK,'' listed for R-5601A-E to ``U.S. 
Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence 
(USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK'' and the using agency 
``Commanding General, United States Army Field Artillery Center 
(USAFACFS), Fort Sill, OK,'' listed for R-5601F is changed to ``U.S. 
Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence 
(USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.'' These changes reflect the 
current organizational responsibilities and match the using agency 
information published in R-5601G and R-5601H.
    The boundaries, designated altitudes, times of designation, and 
controlling agency information for restricted areas R-5601A-F are not 
changed by this action.

Regulatory Notices and Analyses

    The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an 
established body of technical regulations for which

[[Page 80001]]

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 only affects 
air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is certified that this 
rule, when promulgated, does not have a significant economic impact on 
a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act.

Environmental Review

    In accordance with FAA Order 1050.1F, paragraphs 6-3.c and 8-2, the 
FAA has conducted an independent evaluation of the U.S. Army's Final 
Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Creation of Restricted Areas 
(RAs) R-5601G and R-5601H. The FAA determined that no significant 
impacts would occur as a result of the Federal action and therefore, 
preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement is not warranted and a 
Finding of No Significant Impact in accordance with 40 CFR 1501.4(e) is 
appropriate. Subsequently, and in accordance with 40 CFR 1506.3, the 
FAA adopted the U.S. Army's final EA and prepared a Finding of No 
Significant Impact/Record of Decision dated November 7, 2016.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 73

    Airspace, Prohibited areas, Restricted areas.

Adoption of the Amendment

    In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation 
Administration amends 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.  73.56   [Amended]

0
2. Section 73.56 is amended as follows:

R-5601A Fort Sill, OK [Amended]

    By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and 
substituting the following:

    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 
98[deg]17'01'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 98[deg]20'56'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]38'30'' N., long. 98[deg]21'41'' W.; to lat. 
34[deg]38'50'' N., long. 98[deg]22'06'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]39'53'' N., 
long. 98[deg]22'16'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., long. 
98[deg]23'07'' W.; thence north along the western edge of Interstate 
Highway 44 to lat. 34[deg]43'30'' N., long. 98[deg]23'59'' W.; to lat. 
34[deg]43'30'' N., long. 98[deg]21'21'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]43'45'' N., 
long. 98[deg]21'01'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]46'06'' N., long. 
98[deg]21'01'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]46'06'' N., long. 98[deg]17'01'' W.; 
to the point of beginning.
    Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center 
of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.

R-5601B Fort Sill, OK [Amended]

    By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and 
substituting the following:
    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., long. 
98[deg]23'07'' W.; thence counterclockwise along an arc, 2.6 NM radius 
centered at lat. 34[deg]38'18'' N., long. 98[deg]24'07'' W.; to lat. 
34[deg]40'11'' N., long. 98[deg]26'18'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., 
long. 98[deg]26'19'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 
98[deg]37'57'' W.; thence north along Oklahoma State Highway No. 115 to 
lat. 34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]37'56'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]42'07'' 
N., long. 98[deg]37'20'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]43'21'' N., long. 
98[deg]36'02'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]43'30'' N., long. 98[deg]35'40'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]43'30'' N., long. 98[deg]23'59'' W.; thence south along 
the western edge of Interstate Highway 44 to the point of beginning.
    Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center 
of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.

R-5601C Fort Sill, OK [Amended]

    By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and 
substituting the following:
    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 
98[deg]37'57'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 98[deg]45'21'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]41'47'' N., long. 98[deg]45'21'' W.; to lat. 
34[deg]41'47'' N., long. 98[deg]44'17'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]41'21'' N., 
long. 98[deg]44'17'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]41'21'' N., long. 
98[deg]40'36'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]40'36'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]37'56'' W.; thence south along 
Oklahoma State Highway No. 115 to the point of beginning.
    Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center 
of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.

R-5601D Fort Sill, OK [Amended]

    By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and 
substituting the following:
    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 
98[deg]45'21'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 98[deg]48'01'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]42'15'' N., long. 98[deg]50'01'' W.; to lat. 
34[deg]45'00'' N., long. 98[deg]40'31'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]43'30'' N., 
long. 98[deg]35'40'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]43'21'' N., long. 
98[deg]36'02'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]42'07'' N., long. 98[deg]37'20'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]37'56'' W.; to lat. 
34[deg]40'54'' N., long. 98[deg]40'36'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]41'21'' N., 
long. 98[deg]40'36'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]41'21'' N., long. 
98[deg]44'17'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]41'47'' N., long. 98[deg]44'17'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]41'47'' N., long. 98[deg]45'21'' W.; to the point of 
beginning.
    Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center 
of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.

R-5601E Fort Sill, OK [Amended]

    By removing the current boundaries and using agency information and 
substituting the following:
    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 
98[deg]37'57'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]36'00'' N., long. 98[deg]46'46'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 98[deg]48'01'' W.; to lat. 
34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 98[deg]45'21'' W.; to the point of beginning.
    Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center 
of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.

R-5601F Fort Sill, OK [Amended]

    By removing the current using agency and substituting the 
following:
    Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center 
of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.

R-5601G Fort Sill, OK [New]

    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34[deg]46'03'' N., long. 
98[deg]25'50'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]45'03'' N., long. 98[deg]29'46'' W.; 
thence counterclockwise via the 46 NM arc of SPS VORTAC to lat. 
34[deg]43'46'' N., long. 98[deg]49'55'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]47'00'' N., 
long. 98[deg]51'00'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]50'30'' N., long. 
98[deg]46'02'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]57'51'' N., long. 98[deg]25'47'' W.; 
to the point of beginning. Excluding that airspace below 5,500 feet MSL 
over the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge.
    Designated altitudes. 500 feet AGL to, but not including, 8,000 
feet MSL.
    Time of designation. Sunrise to 2200 local time, Monday-Friday; 
other times by NOTAM.
    Controlling agency. FAA, Fort Worth ARTCC.
    Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center 
of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.

[[Page 80002]]

R-5601H Fort Sill, OK [New]

    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34[deg]38'15'' N., long. 
98[deg]20'56'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]38'30'' N., long. 98[deg]21'41'' W.; 
to lat. 34[deg]38'50'' N., long. 98[deg]22'06'' W.; to lat. 
34[deg]39'53'' N., long. 98[deg]22'16'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]40'47'' N., 
long. 98[deg]23'07'' W.; thence counterclockwise along an arc, 2.6 NM 
radius centered at lat. 34[deg]38'18'' N., long. 98[deg]24'07'' W.; to 
lat. 34[deg]40'11'' N., long. 98[deg]26'18'' W.; to lat. 34[deg]38'15'' 
N., long. 98[deg]26'19'' W.; to the point of beginning.
    Designated altitudes. Surface to FL 400.
    Time of designation. By NOTAM.
    Controlling agency. FAA, Fort Worth ARTCC.
    Using agency. U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Fires Center 
of Excellence (USAFCOE) and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, OK.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on November 8, 2016.
Leslie M. Swann,
Acting Manager, Airspace Policy Group.
[FR Doc. 2016-27441 Filed 11-14-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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