Proposed Establishment of Temporary Restricted Areas R-2920A and R-2920B; Santa Rosa Island, FL., 11415-11417 [2017-03537]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 35 / Thursday, February 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS traffic from hazards associated with live fire training. Based on impacts mitigation coordinated with the Los Angeles Air Route Traffic Control Center, the maximum altitude will be FL 220 generally. However, at certain times for a period of 4 hours on 2 days of the exercise, the maximum altitude will be FL400. R–2509W would have a ceiling of 8,000 feet MSL and R–2509N would have a ceiling of 16,000 feet MSL. Supersonic flight will not be conducted as part of the above aviation training activities. The times of use for R–2509E, R– 2509W, and R–2509N would be by NOTAM, and activations of R–2509E above FL220 would have the NOTAM issued 48 hours in advance. Expected usage would be 12 hours per day for 10 days up to 16,000 feet and 16 hours per day for 6 days up to FL220. The lateral boundaries of the proposed areas would be as follows: Temporary R–2509E—Beginning at lat. 34°40′30″ N., long. 116°29′43″ W., to lat. 34°36′00″ N., long. 116°28′03″ W.; to lat. 34°31′30″ N., long. 116°26′48″ W.; to lat. 34°30′00″ N., long. 116°26′23″ W.; to lat. 34°21′35″ N., long. 116°21′38″ W.; to lat. 34°19′30″ N., long. 116°20′29″ W.; to lat. 34°17′38″ N., long. 116°19′19″ W.; to lat. 34°22′25″ N., long. 116°31′10″ W.; to lat. 34°34′17″ N., long. 116°35′52″ W.; to the point of beginning. Temporary R–2509W—Beginning at lat. 34°35′03″ N., long. 116°36′10″ W.; to lat. 34°22′25″ N., long. 116°31′10″ W.; to lat. 34°27′38″ N., long. 116°40′34″ W.; to lat. 34°27′59″ N., long. 116°42′51″ W.; to lat. 34°29′44″ N., long. 116°42′51″ W.; to the point of beginning. Excluding that airspace within a 3.4mile radius of point in space coordinates at lat. 34°25′32″ N., long. 116°36′52″ W.; surface to 1,500 feet AGL. Temporary R–2509N—Beginning at lat. 34°35′03″ N., long. 116°36′10″ W.; to lat. 34°40′30″ N., long. 116°29′43″ W.; to lat. 34°34′17″ N., long. 116°35′52″ W.; to the point of beginning. These temporary restricted areas would automatically expire on August 26, 2017. 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 13:38 Feb 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 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 subjected 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 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. § 73.25 California [Amended] 2. § 73.25 is amended as follows: * * * * * ■ R–2509E Twentynine Palms, CA [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°40′30″ N., long. 116°29′43″ W.; to lat. 34°36′00″ N., long. 116°28′03″ W.; to lat. 34°31′30″ N., long. 116°26′48″ W.; to lat. 34°30′00″ N., long. 116°26′23″ W.; to lat. 34°21′35″ N., long. 116°21′38″ W.; to lat. 34°19′30″ N., long. 116°20′29″ W.; to lat. 34°17′38″ N., long. 116°19′19″ W.; to lat. 34°22′25″ N., long. 116°31′10″ W.; to lat. 34°34′17″ N., long. 116°35′52″ W.; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. Surface to FL 400. Time of designation. Intermittent by NOTAM during the period from August 7 to August 26, 2017. Controlling agency. FAA, Los Angeles Air Route Traffic Control Center. Using agency. Commanding General, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), Twentynine Palms, CA. R–2509W Twentynine Palms, CA [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°35′03″ N., long. 116°36′10″ W.; to lat. 34°22′25″ N., long. 116°31′10″ W.; to lat. 34°27′38″ N., long. 116°40′34″ W.; to lat. 34°27′59″ N., long. 116°42′51″ W.; to lat. 34°29′44″ N., long. 116°42′51″ W.; to the point of beginning. PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 11415 Excluding that airspace within a 3.4-mile radius of point in space at lat. 34°25′32″ N., long. 116°36′52″ W.; surface to 1,500 feet AGL. Designated altitudes. Surface to 8,000 feet MSL. Time of designation. Intermittent by NOTAM during the period from August 7 to August 26, 2017. Controlling agency. FAA, Los Angeles Air Route Traffic Control Center. Using agency. Commanding General, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), Twentynine Palms, CA. R–2509N Twentynine Palms, CA [New] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 34°35′03″ N., long. 116°36′10″ W.; to lat. 34°40′30″ N., long. 116°29′43″ W.; to lat. 34°34′17″ N., long. 116°35′52″ W.; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. Surface to 16,000 feet MSL. Time of designation. Intermittent by NOTAM during the period from August 7 to August 26, 2017. Controlling agency. FAA, Los Angeles Air Route Traffic Control Center. Using agency. Commanding General, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), Twentynine Palms, CA. Issued in Washington, DC on February 7, 2017. Leslie M. Swann, Acting Manager, Airspace Policy Group. [FR Doc. 2017–03535 Filed 2–22–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 73 [Docket No. FAA–2016–9594; Airspace Docket No. 16–ASO–20] RIN 2120–AA66 Proposed Establishment of Temporary Restricted Areas R–2920A and R– 2920B; Santa Rosa Island, FL. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to establish two temporary restricted areas, designated R–2920A and R–2920B, south of the Eglin Air Force Base (AFB), FL, Range Complex and within the 14 CFR part 93 ‘‘Valparaiso, Florida, Terminal Area’’ Special Air Traffic Rules Area. The purpose of the proposed areas is to test counterunmanned aircraft systems capabilities. The temporary restricted areas would be in effect from May 11 to May 18, 2017. DATES: Comments must be received on or before March 27, 2017. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\23FEP1.SGM 23FEP1 11416 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 35 / Thursday, February 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules 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; telephone: 1 (800) 647–5527, or (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA– 2016–9594 and Airspace Docket No. 16– ASO–20, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov. Comments on environmental and land use aspects should be directed to: April Lawrence, Civ, USAF, 96 CEG/CEIEA, Eglin AFB, FL 32542; telephone: (850) 882–3016. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Docket Office between 9:00a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Office (telephone 1 (800) 647– 5527), is on the ground floor of the building at the above address. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul Gallant, Airspace Policy Group, Office of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: ADDRESSES: 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 temporary restricted areas near Santa Rosa Island, FL, to enhance aviation safety and accommodate essential testing requirements. rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 13:38 Feb 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA– 2016–9594 and Airspace Docket No. 16– ASO–20) and be submitted in triplicate to the Docket Management Facility (see ADDRESSES section for address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the Internet at 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 No. FAA–2016–9594 and Airspace Docket No. 16–ASO–20.’’ The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. All communications received on or before the specified closing date for comments 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 NPRMs An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the Internet at www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA’s Web page at https:// 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 at the Docket 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 Eastern Service Center, Federal Aviation Administration, Room 210, 1701 Columbia Ave., College Park, GA, 30337. Background The U.S. Air Force submitted a proposal to the FAA to establish two temporary restricted areas south of the Eglin AFB, FL, Range Complex. The areas would contain hazardous activities to be conducted in support of exercise Black Dart 2017, from May 11 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 to May 18, 2017. Specifically, the areas would be used to test counterunmanned aircraft systems capabilities. A temporary flight restriction (TFR) of similar size and shape to the proposed temporary restricted areas was exercised in September 2016 with no issues from non-participating air traffic. The Proposal The FAA is proposing an amendment to 14 CFR part 73 to establish two temporary restricted areas, designated R–2920A and R–2920B, south of the Eglin AFB Range Complex, in the vicinity of Santa Rosa Island, FL. They would extend from the surface to but not including 8,500 feet MSL, underlying a portion of existing restricted area R–2915C. The planned time of designation for the areas is 0900 to 1600 local time. Approximately 20– 30 sorties per day are expected to use the temporary restricted areas. The areas would be in effect only during the period May 11 to May 18, 2017. The proposed temporary restricted areas are required to contain hazardous activities associated with testing counter-unmanned aircraft systems capabilities. These activities would include the use of Directed Energy (laser) devices and Electronic Attack jamming and disruptions. All hazard zones would be contained within the proposed temporary restricted areas, existing restricted airspace, or existing offshore warning areas. Eglin AFB air and surface assets would surveil and clear the mission and hazard areas prior to execution of hazardous activity. Should a stray aircraft or surface vessel approach a hazard zone, all hazardous activity would be halted until the area is again reported clear. The Eglin AFB Range Complex utilizes extensive range safety procedures to manage all hazardous activities. The proposed areas are contained within the west section of the East/West Corridor of the 14 CFR part 93 Special Air Traffic Rule: ‘‘Valparaiso, Florida Terminal Area.’’ In accordance with 14 CFR 93.81: Unless otherwise authorized by ATC (including the Eglin Radar Control Facility), no person may operate an aircraft in flight within the East-West Corridor unless— (1) Before operating within the corridor, that person establishes twoway radio communications with Eglin Radar Control Facility or an appropriate FAA ATC facility and receives an ATC advisory concerning operations being conducted therein; and (2) That person maintains two-way radio communications with the Eglin Radar Control Facility or an appropriate E:\FR\FM\23FEP1.SGM 23FEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 35 / Thursday, February 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS FAA ATC facility while within the corridor. To minimize impacts to nonparticipating aircraft, in addition to the existing part 93 requirement that aircraft operating in the East/West Corridor must establish and maintain two-way radio contact with ATC, the Eglin Radar Control Facility would reroute all nonparticipating aircraft north of the temporary restricted airspace, through the southern portion of restricted area R–2915B. That airspace would be scheduled for use by ATC and nonparticipating air traffic when the temporary restricted areas are active. This alternative routing has been successfully used in the past to mitigate impacts on non-participating aircraft when the west section of the East/West Corridor was unavailable. Emergency air traffic requiring access to the airspace would be given priority access under the control of the Eglin Radar Control Facility, which has direct communications with the Test Director to halt hazardous activity in the area. Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) and Notices to Mariners (NOTMAR) would be published at least 24 hours in advance of the daily activation of R– 2920A and R–2920B. The Eglin AFB Public Affairs office would issue a press release 30 days prior to the exercise to advise the public of the exercise, the activity, and impacted locations. The Eglin AFB Flight Safety Office would advise local airports and airspace users of the proposed restricted airspace, its impacts and planned mitigations. Since R–2920A and R–2920B are temporary areas, they would not be depicted on the New Orleans Sectional Aeronautical Chart or the IFR Enroute Low Altitude Chart, L–22. However, a notice and graphic depiction would be published in the Notices to Airmen Publication (NTAP). The NTAP is available on line at https://www.faa.gov/ air_traffic/publications/notices/. 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 13:38 Feb 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 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 subjected 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 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. § 73.29 Florida (Amended) 2. § 73.29 is amended as follows: * * * * * ■ R–2920A Santa Rosa Island, FL [Temporary] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 30°22′53″ N., long. 86°50′57″ W.; thence along the shoreline to lat. 30°23′35″ N., long. 86°44′24″ W.; to lat. 30°20′34″ N., long. 86°44′07″ W.; thence 3 NM from and parallel to the shoreline to lat. 30°19′53″ N., long. 86°50′39″ W.; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. Surface to but not including 8,500 feet MSL. Time of designation. 0900 to 1600 local time, during the period May 11 to May 18, 2017. Controlling agency. FAA, Jacksonville ARTCC. Using agency. U.S. Air Force, Commander, 96th Test Wing, Eglin AFB, FL. R–2920B Santa Rosa Island, FL [Temporary] Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 30°23′35″ N., long. 86°44′24″ W.; thence along the shoreline to lat. 30°23′40″ N., long. 86°42′52″ W.; to lat. 30°20′40″ N., long. 86°42′35″ W.; thence 3 NM from and parallel to the shoreline to lat. 30°20′34″ N., long. 86°44′07″ W.; to the point of beginning. Designated altitudes. Surface to but not including 8,500 feet MSL. Time of designation. 0900 to 1600 local time, during the period May 11 to May 18, 2017. Controlling agency. FAA, Jacksonville ARTCC. Using agency. U.S. Air Force, Commander, 96th Test Wing, Eglin AFB, FL. * PO 00000 * * Frm 00005 * Fmt 4702 * Sfmt 4702 11417 Issued in Washington, DC on February 8, 2017. Leslie M. Swann, Acting Manager, Airspace Policy Group. [FR Doc. 2017–03537 Filed 2–22–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 73 [Docket No. FAA–2016–9591; Airspace Docket No. 16–ASW–21] RIN 2120–AA66 Proposed Establishment of Temporary Restricted Area R–5602; Fort Sill, OK Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to establish temporary restricted area R– 5602, over the Fort Sill, OK, R–5601 restricted area complex, to support the U.S. Army Maneuver & Fires Integration Experiment (MFIX) 2018 scheduled for December 2017. MFIX 2018 is planned to exercise hazardous laser operations conducting counter unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) activities. The temporary restricted area would be in effect from December 4 through December 15, 2017. DATES: Comments must be received on or before April 10, 2017. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590–0001; telephone: 1 (800) 647–5527, or telephone: (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2016–9591 and Airspace Docket No. 16–ASW–21, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at www.regulations.gov. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office between 9:00a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Office (telephone 1–800–647– 5527), is on the ground floor of the building at the above address. Comments on environmental and land use aspects to should be directed to: U.S. Army Garrison, Directorate of Public Works, Attn: IMSI–PWE (Sarah Sminkey), Environmental Quality Division, Fort Sill, OK 73503–5100; SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\23FEP1.SGM 23FEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 35 (Thursday, February 23, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 11415-11417]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-03537]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 73

[Docket No. FAA-2016-9594; Airspace Docket No. 16-ASO-20]
RIN 2120-AA66


Proposed Establishment of Temporary Restricted Areas R-2920A and 
R-2920B; Santa Rosa Island, FL.

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This action proposes to establish two temporary restricted 
areas, designated R-2920A and R-2920B, south of the Eglin Air Force 
Base (AFB), FL, Range Complex and within the 14 CFR part 93 
``Valparaiso, Florida, Terminal Area'' Special Air Traffic Rules Area. 
The purpose of the proposed areas is to test counter-unmanned aircraft 
systems capabilities. The temporary restricted areas would be in effect 
from May 11 to May 18, 2017.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before March 27, 2017.

[[Page 11416]]


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; telephone: 1 
(800) 647-5527, or (202) 366-9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. 
FAA-2016-9594 and Airspace Docket No. 16-ASO-20, at the beginning of 
your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at 
https://www.regulations.gov. Comments on environmental and land use 
aspects should be directed to: April Lawrence, Civ, USAF, 96 CEG/CEIEA, 
Eglin AFB, FL 32542; telephone: (850) 882-3016. You may review the 
public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any 
final disposition in person in the Docket Office between 9:00a.m. and 
5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket 
Office (telephone 1 (800) 647-5527), is on the ground floor of the 
building at the above address.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul Gallant, 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 temporary restricted areas near Santa 
Rosa Island, FL, to enhance aviation safety and accommodate essential 
testing requirements.

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 No. 
FAA-2016-9594 and Airspace Docket No. 16-ASO-20) and be submitted in 
triplicate to the Docket Management Facility (see ADDRESSES section for 
address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the 
Internet at 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 No. FAA-2016-9594 and Airspace Docket No. 16-ASO-20.'' 
The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter.
    All communications received on or before the specified closing date 
for comments 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 NPRMs

    An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the 
Internet at www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking 
documents can also be accessed through the FAA's Web page at https://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 at the Docket 
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 Eastern Service Center, Federal 
Aviation Administration, Room 210, 1701 Columbia Ave., College Park, 
GA, 30337.

Background

    The U.S. Air Force submitted a proposal to the FAA to establish two 
temporary restricted areas south of the Eglin AFB, FL, Range Complex. 
The areas would contain hazardous activities to be conducted in support 
of exercise Black Dart 2017, from May 11 to May 18, 2017. Specifically, 
the areas would be used to test counter-unmanned aircraft systems 
capabilities. A temporary flight restriction (TFR) of similar size and 
shape to the proposed temporary restricted areas was exercised in 
September 2016 with no issues from non-participating air traffic.

The Proposal

    The FAA is proposing an amendment to 14 CFR part 73 to establish 
two temporary restricted areas, designated R-2920A and R-2920B, south 
of the Eglin AFB Range Complex, in the vicinity of Santa Rosa Island, 
FL. They would extend from the surface to but not including 8,500 feet 
MSL, underlying a portion of existing restricted area R-2915C. The 
planned time of designation for the areas is 0900 to 1600 local time. 
Approximately 20-30 sorties per day are expected to use the temporary 
restricted areas. The areas would be in effect only during the period 
May 11 to May 18, 2017.
    The proposed temporary restricted areas are required to contain 
hazardous activities associated with testing counter-unmanned aircraft 
systems capabilities. These activities would include the use of 
Directed Energy (laser) devices and Electronic Attack jamming and 
disruptions. All hazard zones would be contained within the proposed 
temporary restricted areas, existing restricted airspace, or existing 
offshore warning areas. Eglin AFB air and surface assets would surveil 
and clear the mission and hazard areas prior to execution of hazardous 
activity. Should a stray aircraft or surface vessel approach a hazard 
zone, all hazardous activity would be halted until the area is again 
reported clear. The Eglin AFB Range Complex utilizes extensive range 
safety procedures to manage all hazardous activities.
    The proposed areas are contained within the west section of the 
East/West Corridor of the 14 CFR part 93 Special Air Traffic Rule: 
``Valparaiso, Florida Terminal Area.'' In accordance with 14 CFR 93.81: 
Unless otherwise authorized by ATC (including the Eglin Radar Control 
Facility), no person may operate an aircraft in flight within the East-
West Corridor unless--
    (1) Before operating within the corridor, that person establishes 
two-way radio communications with Eglin Radar Control Facility or an 
appropriate FAA ATC facility and receives an ATC advisory concerning 
operations being conducted therein; and
    (2) That person maintains two-way radio communications with the 
Eglin Radar Control Facility or an appropriate

[[Page 11417]]

FAA ATC facility while within the corridor.
    To minimize impacts to non-participating aircraft, in addition to 
the existing part 93 requirement that aircraft operating in the East/
West Corridor must establish and maintain two-way radio contact with 
ATC, the Eglin Radar Control Facility would reroute all non-
participating aircraft north of the temporary restricted airspace, 
through the southern portion of restricted area R-2915B. That airspace 
would be scheduled for use by ATC and non-participating air traffic 
when the temporary restricted areas are active. This alternative 
routing has been successfully used in the past to mitigate impacts on 
non-participating aircraft when the west section of the East/West 
Corridor was unavailable. Emergency air traffic requiring access to the 
airspace would be given priority access under the control of the Eglin 
Radar Control Facility, which has direct communications with the Test 
Director to halt hazardous activity in the area.
    Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) and Notices to Mariners (NOTMAR) would be 
published at least 24 hours in advance of the daily activation of R-
2920A and R-2920B. The Eglin AFB Public Affairs office would issue a 
press release 30 days prior to the exercise to advise the public of the 
exercise, the activity, and impacted locations. The Eglin AFB Flight 
Safety Office would advise local airports and airspace users of the 
proposed restricted airspace, its impacts and planned mitigations.
    Since R-2920A and R-2920B are temporary areas, they would not be 
depicted on the New Orleans Sectional Aeronautical Chart or the IFR 
Enroute Low Altitude Chart, L-22. However, a notice and graphic 
depiction would be published in the Notices to Airmen Publication 
(NTAP). The NTAP is available on line at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/notices/.

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 subjected 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.  73.29  Florida (Amended)

0
2. Sec.  73.29 is amended as follows:
* * * * *

R-2920A Santa Rosa Island, FL [Temporary]

    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 30[deg]22'53'' N., long. 
86[deg]50'57'' W.; thence along the shoreline to lat. 30[deg]23'35'' 
N., long. 86[deg]44'24'' W.; to lat. 30[deg]20'34'' N., long. 
86[deg]44'07'' W.; thence 3 NM from and parallel to the shoreline to 
lat. 30[deg]19'53'' N., long. 86[deg]50'39'' W.; to the point of 
beginning.
    Designated altitudes. Surface to but not including 8,500 feet 
MSL.
    Time of designation. 0900 to 1600 local time, during the period 
May 11 to May 18, 2017.
    Controlling agency. FAA, Jacksonville ARTCC.
    Using agency. U.S. Air Force, Commander, 96th Test Wing, Eglin 
AFB, FL.

R-2920B Santa Rosa Island, FL [Temporary]

    Boundaries. Beginning at lat. 30[deg]23'35'' N., long. 
86[deg]44'24'' W.; thence along the shoreline to lat. 30[deg]23'40'' 
N., long. 86[deg]42'52'' W.; to lat. 30[deg]20'40'' N., long. 
86[deg]42'35'' W.; thence 3 NM from and parallel to the shoreline to 
lat. 30[deg]20'34'' N., long. 86[deg]44'07'' W.; to the point of 
beginning.
    Designated altitudes. Surface to but not including 8,500 feet 
MSL.
    Time of designation. 0900 to 1600 local time, during the period 
May 11 to May 18, 2017.
    Controlling agency. FAA, Jacksonville ARTCC.
    Using agency. U.S. Air Force, Commander, 96th Test Wing, Eglin 
AFB, FL.
* * * * *

    Issued in Washington, DC on February 8, 2017.
Leslie M. Swann,
Acting Manager, Airspace Policy Group.
[FR Doc. 2017-03537 Filed 2-22-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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