Exemption/Rulemaking - Joint Special Operations Command

February 13, 2004 DOT Docket Management System 400 7th Street, S.W., Room PL 401 Washington, DC 20591-0001 Dear Sirs: Reference: DOT Docket No. FAA-2004-17087 EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) is the world leader in recreational aviation. With an international membership of 171,000 people in more than 100 nations, EAA brings together aviation enthusiasts, pilots and aircraft owners who are dedicated to the continued growth of aviation, the preservation of its history and a commitment to aviation's future. EAA programs, activities and events are known throughout the world for supporting aviation safety and promoting personal enjoyment and responsibility within an aviation lifestyle. These efforts are made possible through massive volunteer involvement in support of the organization, as well as EAA's special interest Divisions, and a global network of nearly 1,000 local Chapters and the affiliated National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI). EAA has no objections to the request by the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) to manage lights-out parachute training through this exemption request. EAA's concern is that JSOC has not defined what an "Airport Traffic Area" is. This definition is critical in understanding the scope of airspace that will be effected by future Notices to Airmen that would close a targeted, specific airport, its traffic pattern and "exclude" non-participating aircraft from the airport traffic area. Does the term "airport traffic area" mean just the airport surface area, the airport traffic pattern, and/or the airports associated airspace as defined in FAA Order 7400.9? EAA would also request that NOTAMs published for operations associated with this exemption, be issued at least 48 hours prior to the operation. This would allow the public, e.g., pilots and owners non-particiapting aircraft, sufficient time to make alternate flight route and service stop (for gas, etc.) plans. Sincerely, /s/ Randy Hansen Randy Hansen EAA Government Programs Director Petition of Experimental Aircraft Association for renewal of its exemption to manage lights-out parachute training through this request.