Air Force seeks to dramatically expand Alaska MOAs

AOPA is examining the proposal to “optimize the regional training environment” in response to the needs of current-generation military aircraft and tactics. The Air Force is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), a process that gives the public an opportunity to comment on the proposed actions:

• Redesigning existing MOAs and overlying air traffic control assigned airspace, primarily in northern Alaska.
• Creating a new warning area/MOA over the Gulf of Alaska.
• Creating two new large MOAs in western Alaska.

The rationale for expanding the military-use airspace is to provide longer distances and larger airspace volumes within which to run training scenarios. While the proposal consolidates areas of existing airspace, it also represents a significant expansion. The current proposal does not include any new restricted areas or impact areas, where ordnance would be dropped.

The EIS process involves extensive public engagement. A website has been established outlining the details of the proposed changes, including graphics of the three alternatives under consideration shown in comparison to the existing airspace complex. A nine-minute video is also provided that gives an overview of the proposals and the process.

The project’s scoping phase began on January 8. During this phase of the project, public input is accepted that may change the nature of the final proposal. Virtual public meetings allowing Air Force personnel to present the proposal are scheduled January 24, 26, 28, and 29, and comments on the EIS will be accepted through February 9. (Please send copies of your comments to AOPA.)

This is a massive proposal, which AOPA is examining closely. The magnitude of this proposed special activity airspace (SAA) makes it impossible to avoid. The FAA and Air Force must work together to ensure pilots can navigate it safely. Specifically, they must ensure availability of the Special Use Airspace Information Service and must implement a system that allows pilots to obtain real-time information on SAA usage, as has been required by law since 2021. We encourage pilots to study the details on the website, participate in the scoping process, and identify any issues that might arise from this sweeping change.