KTEB Among Airports Affected by FAA Traffic Curb Order

Five of the busiest business aviation airfields in the U.S., including New Jersey’s Teterboro Airport (KTEB), are among the 40 “high-impact” airports where the FAA is imposing a reduction in air traffic as the government shutdown continues. Late last night, the FAA issued an emergency order mandating air carriers to reduce scheduled domestic flights at these airports by 10% from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily before next Friday, citing controller workforce and subsequent safety issues exacerbated by the shutdown.

But FAR Part 91 operators will not go unscathed. Notably, “general aviation operations may…be reduced by up to 10% at high-impact airports,” with the FAA specifically listing KTEB, Houston William P. Hobby (KHOU), and Dallas Love Field (KDAL). Other affected high-traffic business aviation airports include Washington Dulles (KIAD) and Las Vegas Harry Reid (KLAS).

Additionally, general aviation VFR operations could be restricted in controlled airspace at the 40 high-impact airports when “an FAA owned and operated facility does not have adequate staffing levels.” In this case, ATC may not provide radar traffic information service; radar assistance to VFR aircraft; terminal radar services for VFR aircraft; VFR traffic pattern operations; practice Approaches to VFR aircraft; and flight checks services to restore inoperable equipment and approaches, among others. In fact, ATIS information at Newark International Airport (KEWR) today warned, “No Class ‘B’ Services,” essentially banning VFR operations in its airspace.

NBAA praised the approach given the system constraints. “We want to thank the FAA for striking a thoughtful balance to proactively address safety through this order, which reflects the diverse needs of all stakeholders within America’s aviation system,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “As we navigate this unique moment, our focus remains on ensuring the safety of flight and equitable treatment for business aviation operations. We also commend the FAA for recognizing the nation’s air traffic controllers and understanding their vital role in maintaining the smooth and safe operation of our aviation system.”