On October 7, 2016, the FAA issued a Draft Advisory Circular (AC) on Community involvement in airport planning. The FAA seeks industry comments, which must be received by November 8, 2016.
Purpose. The draft AC provides guidance for public involvement in airport planning and describes changes in standards and expectations for community involvement on federal actions. The FAA regards the right of the public to be actively involved in the plans which will affect their future as fundamental and requires airport sponsors to seek suitable opportunities for public participation at almost all levels of airport planning. The FAA considers the residential community around an airport to be key aviation stakeholders and established the FAA’s Community Involvement Policy to show the agency's commitment to community involvement. The goal of the Policy is to provide active, early, and continuous public involvement; providing reasonable public access to information; an opportunity to comment prior to key decisions; and soliciting and considering public input on plans, proposals, alternatives, impacts, mitigation, and final decisions.
Application and Use. This AC advises airport sponsors, planners, and the public on early community participation in airport planning and the methods by which participation can be achieved. It is used by FAA field personnel in advising and overseeing airport sponsors and planners on matters pertaining to public involvement, and airport consultants who provide technical services to airport sponsors and the FAA.
Changes. This AC cancels AC 150/5050-4, Citizen Participation in Airport Planning, dated September 26, 1975. Its principle changes include explaining that community involvement should be tailored to the specific action and the unique needs of a community, and should be conducted to the extent required to reach an informed decision that could lead a better outcome for the airport and its community.
For more information, see 150/5050-4A - Draft AC 150/5050-4A, Community Involvement in Airport Planning. If you have any questions or would like to comment on the AC, please contact Shelley Ewalt.
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