Coast Guard Proposes Water Safety Zone Near St. Thomas Airport
Published Date: 1/7/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to create a permanent safety zone in the waters west of Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas, USVI, to keep boats and people safe from low-flying planes. This means no one can enter the zone without special permission. If you’re affected, you have until February 6, 2026, to share your thoughts—no fees or costs involved, just safety first!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Permanent 400‑yard safety zone west of airport
The Coast Guard proposes a permanent safety zone covering all navigable waters within 400 yards from shore directly west of the Cyril E. King Airport runway between two private port authority yellow buoys at 18°20.288' N, 64°59.343' W and 18°20.116' N, 64°59.343' W. No person or vessel may enter that zone without authorization from the Captain of the Port (COTP) or the COTP's designated representative, and the zone will be enforced at all times. To request permission, contact the COTP at (787) 289-2041 or a designated representative on VHF-FM channel 16.
Coast Guard says small businesses not significantly harmed
The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this proposed safety zone would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency says vessels can transit around the regulated area, it will issue Broadcast Notices to Mariners on VHF-FM channel 16 to allow adjustment of transit plans, and vessels may request permission to enter the zone from the COTP.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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