AOPA has developed an online form to collect real-life horror stories of pilots trying to operate within the security-related flight restrictions that have become a fact of life since 9/11. AOPA wants to use the stories as ammunition in its attempt to have the whole system of security-related regulations reviewed. AOPA is particularly interested in pilot experiences in the Baltimore-Washington Air Defense Identification Zone and the presidential-movement TFRs that pop up wherever Air Force One lands. “We will take these very real operational stories to the decision makers. We want them to feel our pain and respond,” said President Phil Boyer. “The ADIZ flight plan system around D.C. is an absolute disaster,” said Larry Kelley, who routinely flies his vintage B-25 for special events in the D.C. area. The Barstow, Md., pilot said that on three consecutive flights air traffic control lost his flight plan and one caused him to be 20 minutes late for a fly-past that was supposed to coincide with the playing of the national anthem at a veterans’ home on July 4. “Other pilots in the area all complain of the same problems,” he said. The AOPA action comes two weeks after a Maryland pilot’s Cessna 172 ran out of fuel after ATC couldn’t find his flight plan and ordered him to circle outside the ADIZ for more than an hour.
ADIZ, TFR Nightmares Sought
Key Takeaways:
- AOPA is actively collecting "horror stories" from pilots regarding operational challenges and negative experiences within post-9/11 security flight restrictions.
- The primary goal is to use these real-life accounts, particularly those from the Baltimore-Washington ADIZ and presidential TFRs, as leverage to push for a comprehensive review and reform of the current security regulation system.
- Pilots frequently report significant issues, such as air traffic control losing flight plans, which has led to delays, missed events, and even dangerous situations like aircraft running out of fuel while waiting for clearance.
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