Somerset Airport closure raises questions about unfulfilled Congressional mandate

Congress appeared to agree with this proposal, mandating under Section 529 of the October 2018 FAA reauthorization legislation that a study be conducted on mitigating negative economic effects on airports frequently covered by TFRs. The legislation required the Administrator to submit reports containing study results and recommendations within specific deadlines.

However, nearly six years later, according to Parker and information posted on the MAAC website, none of the involved airport operators have been contacted, and no action has been taken on this mandate. AVweb reached out to Representative Thomas Kean's office for updates on whether Section 529 had been included in this year's reauthorization or if there were any updates on the proposal. At press time, there has been no response from Congressman Kean's office.

From the 2018 FAA Reauthorization bill:

SEC. 529. TFR REPORT.

(a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year after enactment of this Act (except as described in subsection (d)), the Administrator shall submit to Congress a report containing study results described in subsection (b).

(b) RECOMMENDATIONS.—The Administrator shall make recommendations based on:

(1) An analysis of:

(A) Economic effects of temporary flight restrictions pursuant to section 91.141 of title 14 Code of Federal Regulations on airports or aviation-related businesses located in areas covered by TFRs; and

(B) Potential options for mitigating negative economic effects on such airports or businesses;

(2) An analysis of using security procedures similar to those in Maryland Three Program during TFRs at:

(A) Solberg Airport,

(B) Somerset Airport,

(C) Palm Beach County Park Airport.

(c) COLLABORATION.—In making these recommendations, consultation with industry stakeholders and relevant agencies is required.

(d) SPECIAL DEADLINE.—Within 90 days post-enactment of this Act, a report containing results described in subsection (b)(1)(A).