On August 1, the NBAA, the New York Department of Transportation, Long Island Business Aviation Association and Long Island’s Republic Airport petitioned the Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals to carefully review a variance to the zoning code that would enable a retailer to build within the runway protection zone (RPZ). The NBAA reports a petition has been made by a retail store chain for a variance to the town’s building code. A letter from the FAA opposing the construction of the building on the RPZ was read. Safety, security and quality of life were used as arguments against the proposal. On approach, there would be approximately 70 feet of clearance from an aircraft on glide slope to the roof of the building. The Board has yet to vote on the issue but AVweb’s Biz Av will stay on top of this developing story.
Zoning Proposal Would Affect Republic Airport Runway Protection
Key Takeaways:
- A coalition of aviation organizations, including NBAA, petitioned the Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals to oppose a variance allowing a retailer to build within the runway protection zone (RPZ) at Long Island's Republic Airport.
- The FAA also opposes the proposed construction due to significant safety, security, and quality of life concerns, specifically noting an inadequate 70 feet of aircraft clearance from the building's roof on approach.
- The Board has yet to vote on the retail store chain's request for a zoning variance to build in the RPZ.
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