INFORMATION FOR AIRPORT SPONSORS CONSIDERING COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS OR ACCOMMODATIONS
April 7, 2020
On March 28, 2020, the FAA issued guidance, available here, for airport sponsors that are considering restrictions or accommodations in light of the COVID-19 epidemic. The primary concern is that federally obligated airports remain safe and open to the traveling public and aircraft, particularly during a public health emergency. For this reason, the FAA will evaluate specific requests regarding restrictions or accommodations on a case-by-case basis, in order to retain maximum flexibility when considering the unique circumstances of each airport.
The FAA guidance instructs that airport sponsors should be cognizant of, and assume the responsibility for, the implications of their proposed actions in response to COVID-19. These considerations include, among others: (1) coordination with the FAA, (2) coordination with other Federal, state, or local agencies as needed, including airport law enforcement or local law enforcement entities serving the airport; (3) understanding of applicable Federal obligations, (4) impacts on aeronautical use and airport infrastructure; (5) impact on the safe and efficient functioning of air traffic and the National Airspace System; (6) communications and notice requirements; (7) evolving safety and security requirements; (8) the need to document actions; (9) plans for following up on or amending actions as the situation evolves; and (10) the impact to emergency services that rely on air transportation.
If you have any questions, please contact Evelyn Sahr (esahr@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6622); Drew Derco (dderco@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6665), or Andy Orr (aorr@eckertsemans.com or 202-659-6625).
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