FAA seeks comments on changes to Cleveland-Detroit Metroplex

AOPA participated in the working group that reviewed the removal of Victor airways and the addition of new T-routes. The association also advocated for the existing intersections to be transitioned to RNAV waypoints to allow efficient point-to-point routing.

“We encourage pilots to review this proposal and provide feedback at this critical point in the process,” said Rune Duke, AOPA director of airspace and air traffic. “This is an opportunity to improve the efficiency of the airspace for all users.”

To help pilots understand the proposed changes and answer questions about the project, the FAA has scheduled six public information workshops in November and December (see schedule for times and locations). Pilots are encouraged to attend one of the sessions and to provide comments before the Dec. 11 deadline.

According to the metroplex environmental website, “The CLE-DTW Project would improve the efficiency of airspace in the Cleveland-Detroit Metroplex by optimizing aircraft arrival and departure procedures to and from the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) and Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) as well as outlying satellite 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 within the Cleveland-Detroit area.”

The FAA has been working on improving air traffic at metroplexes around the country, including Southern California. According to the metroplex website, the FAA has initiatives underway or planned at 21 metropolitan areas.