FAA will introduce new satellite-based air traffic procedures starting mid. 2021 in the U.S.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plans to modernize air traffic procedures for 21 airports in the South-Central Florida Metroplex in the US. The agency issued the Final Environmental Assessment (EA) after extensive outreach to the public.

The decision enables the FAA to move forward with new satellite-based procedures that will enhance safety and efficiency. The FAA plans to implement the new procedures in mid-2021.

The project includes new arrival and departure procedures for Miami, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Palm Beach, Orlando, Tampa and St. Pete/Clearwater international airports and 15 smaller airports.

The Project may involve changes in aircraft flight paths and altitudes in certain areas, but would not result in any ground disturbance or increase the number of aircraft operations at any of the above airports.

To evaluate the potential environmental impacts of the South-Central Florida Metroplex project, the FAA is establishing the General Study Area, consisting of areas around the above airports and outlying satellite airports. The General Study Area will be used to evaluate the potential environmental impacts resulting from changes in aircraft routing proposed to occur below 10,000 feet above ground level (AGL).

FAA conducted the EA in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), which requires the FAA to identify and publicly disclose the potential environmental impacts of the proposed procedures.