AOPA Releases State-By-State Guide for Pilots

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has published a state-by-state resource to help alleviate some of the burdensome research pilots might be forced to do to understand if they can continue flying in their state. Many pilots have been grounded and are unsure of how to navigate the latest requirements on general aviation flying while under mandatory stay-at-home orders in several states and territories.

The FAA is requiring airports that receive federal grants toremain open unless they have obtained specific FAA approval to close. But thefact that some airports remain open doesn’t necessarily mean everyone cancontinue flying.

State governors have issued multiple executive orders toprotect residents during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, all of which followthe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for socialdistancing. However, finding out if you can still fly for various reasons isnot that simple.

The online guide includes links to relevant executive orders issued by each governor, along with any supplemental guidance issued by the state department of transportation or aviation, answers to commonly asked questions, contact information for relevant government offices, and helpful reminders about checking notams and calling airport managers to confirm availability of services.

“AOPA continues to monitor the impact of COVID-19 on GA(general aviation) in all 50 states and U.S. territories, and this database ofinformation should make it easier for pilots to decide whether they can fly ornot,” said Mike Ginter, AOPA vice president of airports and state advocacy. “Wewill continue updating the state-by-state resources as new guidance becomesavailable, and since this is a rapidly changing situation, we also urge pilotsto proactively call their local airport managers and check notams beforeflying.”

If pilots are unable to find what they are looking for inthe state-by-state guide, AOPA recommends that they contact their airport andstate transportation or aviation department for clarification. Pilots can alsocall or message the AOPA Pilot Information Center at 800-USA-AOPA(800-872-2672) for assistance, but pilots are reminded that AOPA staff cannotprovide legal interpretation or opinions of state executive orders. If required,pilots should contact an aviation attorney licensed to practice law in thatstate to get a legal interpretation or opinion about how the stay-at-home orderimpacts their planned flight.

Colorado and Virginia are unusual in that both states havepublished supplemental guidance that allows flight schools to remain open foraircraft rentals to help pilots maintain currency and proficiency but restrictsdual instruction.

Pilots should also be aware that the FAA recently announcedtemporary adjustments to the operating hours of approximately 100 controltowers nationwide at facilities that have seen a significant reduction inflights since the pandemic began.

For ongoing news and advocacy updates around the impacts ofthe coronavirus on GA, visit the AOPA website’s resource page.