The FAA has prepared a draft environmental assessment for proposed changes to the Cleveland and Detroit airspace. It is available for public comment through December 11. The agency has also scheduled several Detroit- and Cleveland-area informational workshops that will be open to interested entities to discuss the proposed revisions. The study area includes 12 airports around Cleveland and Detroit, including Cleveland Hopkins International and Detroit Metro Airports.
Using satellite-based technology to create changes to flight routes and altitudes, the project would “improve the efficiency of air traffic in and around the Cleveland and Detroit metropolitan areas,” the FAA said. The agency emphasized that the changes themselves will not increase the number of aircraft taking off and landing. “Instead, the project develops more climbs and descents on departure and arrival routes, which can result in fewer delays,” it said. “It enhances safety, and modernizes air traffic procedures to today’s standards.”
At the workshops, representatives from the FAA will be available to answer questions and will accept written comments. Detroit-area workshops are scheduled for November 28 at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center; November 29 at the Dozier Recreation Complex; and November 30 at the Sumpter Township Community Center. In the Cleveland area, they are scheduled on December 5 at the Don Umerley Civic Center; December 6 at the Gunning Park Recreation Center; and December 7 at the Baldwin Wallace University Student Union. All will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.