FAA Expands Airspace Over New Bedford for Better Flight Paths
Published Date: 5/7/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to update the airspace around New Bedford, MA by extending the Class D airspace a bit to the northwest to better fit current flight paths. They’re also fixing the airport’s name and location info and updating some official terms to keep things clear and current. Pilots and local air traffic controllers will feel the change, and you’ve got until June 22, 2026, to share your thoughts—no extra costs involved!
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Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Class D Airspace Extended Northwest
The FAA proposes to extend Class D airspace at New Bedford Regional Airport upward from the surface to 2,600 feet MSL to include an extension within 1.8 miles each side of the 308° bearing from the airport, extending from the existing 4-mile radius to 4.7 miles northwest of the airport. The FAA says this change is to contain Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) arrivals and departures and that any costs to operators would be de minimis.
Class E (700 ft+) Airspace Redesigned
The FAA proposes to amend the Class E airspace around New Bedford Regional Airport to extend upward from 700 feet, defining a 6.5-mile radius and an additional corridor within 4.5 miles each side of the 218° bearing extending from the 6.5-mile radius to 14.1 miles southwest of the airport. The FAA states these changes are routine and expects at most de minimis costs for operators.
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