FAA Shuffles Michigan Skies as Old Beacon Goes Dark
Published Date: 12/10/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA is updating some flight paths near Pullman, Michigan because they're shutting down an old navigation system. This means changing a few jet routes and airways, and getting rid of two others. Pilots and airlines should note these changes and send any feedback by January 26, 2026—no extra costs involved, just smoother skies ahead!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Pullman VOR decommissioning changes routes
The FAA plans to decommission the VOR portion of the Pullman, MI, VOR/DME in September 2026. That change will make portions of jet routes J-70, J-94, J-547, J-548 and VOR Federal airways V-30, V-55, V-84, V-170, and V-274 unusable and will cause amendments and revocations of the listed route segments.
FAA finds minimal small-entity impact
The FAA determined this proposed amendment is routine and will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The agency certified the anticipated impact is minimal and did not prepare a regulatory evaluation.
Pullman DME retained for NextGen use
Although the VOR portion of the Pullman VOR/DME is planned for decommissioning, the Pullman DME portion will be retained to support current and future NextGen performance-based navigation procedures. Retaining the DME preserves some navigation support for aircraft and procedures that rely on DME in the Pullman, MI area.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-15585, Requirements for Interference-Tolerant Radio Altimeter Systems
In July 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Section 40002 of that law re-institutes the Federal Communications Commission's general auction authority and specifically directs the Commission to complete a system of competitive bidding for not less than 100 megahertz in the 3.98-4.2 gigahertz band (Upper C- band). This final rule supports the Federal Communications Commission's July 2026 Report and Order that makes 160 megahertz of the Upper C-band available for terrestrial wireless flexible use via a system of competitive bidding. To ensure safe, efficient, and reliable aviation operations in the presence of wireless signals in the C-band, the Federal Aviation Administration is issuing new regulations that require all radio altimeters to meet specific minimum performance requirements. These new radio altimeters must withstand interference from wireless signals in neighboring spectrum bands and continue to provide accurate altitude readings to both pilots and integrated aircraft safety systems. These regulations require all aircraft equipped with radio altimeters operating under part 121 and those aircraft with radio altimeters operating under part 129 with 30 or more passenger seats or a payload capacity of more than 7,500 pounds to comply with the minimum performance requirements by December 30, 2030, which is prior to the date the Federal Communications Commission authorizes the use of the Upper C-band for new wireless services, as stated in its Report and Order. All other aircraft equipped with radio altimeters that are required to comply with part 91, including aircraft operating under parts 125, 133, 135, 136, 137, 194, and all other aircraft operating under part 129 that are not subject to the initial deadline, must comply with the same minimum performance requirements on or before October 31, 2034.
2026-13440, Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight
The FAA wants to let supersonic planes fly over land again by updating old rules that banned them because of loud sonic booms. Thanks to new tech that keeps booms quiet, this change will open the door for faster, cooler flights across the U.S., helping America lead the world in supersonic travel. People and companies interested in supersonic flight should share their thoughts by August 17, 2026.
2026-13126, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility; Extension of Comment Period
The FAA is giving more time—until August 5, 2026—for people to share their thoughts on new rules that would limit drone flights near important fixed sites like power plants or airports. This affects drone operators and facility owners who want to keep the skies safe and secure. No new costs yet, just extra time to weigh in and help shape the rules.
2026-08943, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility
The FAA is proposing new rules to keep drones away from certain important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep everyone safe and secure. If you own or operate one of these sites, you can request a drone flight restriction zone to protect your property and people nearby. Comments are open until July 6, 2026, and these changes could affect drone pilots and site operators, but no big costs are expected.
2025-04846, Extension of the Prohibition Against Certain Flights in the Territory and Airspace of Libya
The FAA is extending the ban on certain flights over Libya for three more years, until March 20, 2028. This affects U.S. airlines, commercial operators, and pilots with FAA certificates flying in Libyan airspace, due to ongoing safety risks. The rule also reminds everyone how to apply for special approvals or exemptions if needed.
2025-03853, Enforcement Policy Regarding “Drug and Alcohol Testing of Certificated Repair Station Employees Located Outside of the United States; Correction”
The FAA is giving repair stations outside the U.S. a break by delaying enforcement of new drug and alcohol testing rules until March 20, 2025. This means affected repair stations don’t have to worry about penalties if they aren’t fully following the updated rules just yet. The delay helps everyone get ready without rushing or extra costs.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-22373, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
If you own or work with Airbus Helicopters Model SA330J, the FAA wants you to update your maintenance manuals with new safety rules to keep flying safe. These changes make the maintenance checks tougher and more detailed, helping prevent problems before they happen. You’ve got until January 23, 2026, to share your thoughts, and while this might cost some time and money, it’s all about keeping everyone safe up in the air!
Next: 2025-22444, Airworthiness Directives; Piaggio Aviation S.p.A. Airplanes
If you own or fly a Piaggio P-180 airplane, the FAA wants you to check the flap transmission shafts for any wear or damage to keep things safe. They’re asking for inspections and fixes if needed, all to prevent problems while flying. Comments on this plan are open until January 26, 2026, so get ready to act soon and keep your plane in top shape!