MPA LEGISLATION REPORT
October 2002

GREETINGS! First, Here's an update from Washington, D.C. In response to recent reports of increased activity among the Al Qaeda network and other suspected terrorist operatives, the FAA re-issued an Airfield and Aircraft Security Alert to public and private airports on October 10th. The alert, similar to one issued on September 13, asks airfield owners and operators to report suspicious activity immediately to the FBI.

"As we have done on the past, the FAA is seeking your cooperation in helping to safeguard the air transportation system," the alert reads. For more information:
http://www.150.10.20.42/communications/eaanews/021011_security.html

The FAA has announced that it will establish, new instrument approaches allowing aircraft with flight management systems to fly ILS-like approaches. Required Navigation Performance (RNP) approaches are similar to those currently used by general aviation pilots with IFR-approved GPS receivers. AOPA is closely watching this activity to ensure that it doesn't adversely affect GA. IFR access to large airports. AOPA will continue to urge the FAA to implement RNP by taking advantage of existing GPS equipage and voluntary participation rather than setting standards that require costly new equipment upgrades, or additional training.

Secondly, Two important members of Congress have joined the fight over who controls access to the Nation's Airspace. House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Don Young (R-Alaska) and Ranking Member James Oberstar (D-Minn.) sent a letter urging Appropriations Chairman C.W. "Bill" Young (R-Fla.) not to "summarily rescind Notam 2/0199 without a full review by the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee." That Notam governs stadium overflights. Major sports interests have been trying to use the federal budget process as a backdoor way to ban banner towers. Similarly, some other influential members of Congress are concerned about attempts by Rep. Fred Upton (R-Mich.) to legislate airspace restrictions. Ten members of the House Aviation Subcommittee, led by Rep. Robin Hayes (R-N.C.), have written a letter to a key committee chairman saying that decisions about National Airspace Policy should be made by the appropriate committees in Congress, and the proper regulatory agencies.

Thirdly, The NTSB has expanded its Web Site to include Aviation Accident synopses and data covering the years from 1962 to the present. Previously, data issued prior to 1983 were not available online. More than 90,000 additional data records, from air carrier and general aviation accident investigations, have been added. These include five years of investigations conducted by the board's predecessor agency, the Civil Aeronautics Board, before 1967. The AOPA Air Safety Foundation also maintains a searchable database comprised of NTSB data and is specific to smaller aircraft.

Fourthly, Here's an update Concerning Missouri Legislation. The Missouri House of Representatives, 2002 Session has adjourned for this year. While the House and Senate are in adjournment, now is a good time for Missourians to become familiar with your Local House Representatives, and State Senators. Just go to:
http://www.house.state.mo.us

This Web Site will give you all the detailed information you need; just type in your zip code. I strongly urge everyone, to get to know these Local State Representatives and Senators. Also if you haven't done so, get to know your U.S. Congressman, and U.S. Senators.

Now, In Conclusion, Remember, We as USPA, MPA, AOPA, EAA, or any other Pilot Association Groups, has a powerful voice in Missouri, and Washington, D.C. So Let's continue to make a "Difference for General Aviation."

Until Next Time!

SAFE FLYING!

Larry G. Harmon
Legislation Chairman
E-mail address: MPALHARMON@aol.com


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