Establishment of Restricted Areas R-5306G and R-5306H and Amendment of Restricted Areas R-5306C and R-5306E; Cherry Point, NC

DEEPER READ

This regulatory rule establishes two new restricted airspace zones designated R-5306G and R-5306H in the vicinity of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, North Carolina. Restricted areas are portions of airspace where non-participating aircraft are prohibited or restricted due to hazardous activities, typically military operations, weapons testing, or other activities deemed unsafe for general aviation traffic. In addition to creating the new zones, the rule amends existing restricted areas R-5306C and R-5306D by correcting or updating specific latitude and longitude coordinates. These technical adjustments ensure that the legal boundaries of the airspace match the intended physical boundaries used in actual flight operations and air traffic control. The rule also updates the controlling agency for restricted areas R-5306A, R-5306C, R-5306D, and R-5306E. Authority over these zones is transferred to MCAS Cherry Point Combined Center Radar Approach Control (CERAP), consolidating oversight under a single facility to improve coordination and efficiency in managing military airspace. The primary groups affected by this rule are civilian pilots and commercial aviation operators who fly in or near eastern North Carolina, as they must avoid these restricted zones unless they receive specific authorization. Military aviators and operations at MCAS Cherry Point benefit from the clearer and expanded protected airspace. This action is a routine but important administrative and safety measure. It is carried out under the FAA's statutory authority to regulate airspace and does not require congressional approval. Implementation typically takes effect upon publication in the Federal Register, with a specified effective date provided in the final rule.

AS PUBLISHED

This action establishes restricted areas R-5306G and R-5306H at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS), Cherry Point, NC. This action also amends R-5306C and R-5306D by modifying two latitude/longitude coordinates and amends the controlling agency for R-5306A, R-5306C, R- 5306D, and R-5306E to reflect MCAS Cherry Point Combined Center Radar Approach Control (CERAP).

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