FAA Redraws Sky Lines Over Wilkes-Barre Airport
Published Date: 1/22/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is updating the airspace rules around Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport to better protect flights using instruments, making sure planes stay safe and sound. They’re also fixing the airport’s location info and clarifying tower operation hours. These changes kick in on May 14, 2026, with no extra costs for pilots or travelers.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Class D Radius Increased to 4.2 Miles
The FAA increases the Class D airspace around Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport from a 4.1-mile radius to a 4.2-mile radius to better contain instrument flight rule (IFR) procedures. This change is effective May 14, 2026.
Class E4 Airspace Reconfigured to Contain IFR Procedures
The FAA reconfigures the Class E4 surface-area extensions at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport to: (1) extend upward from the surface within 2 miles each side of the 033° bearing from the 4.2-mile radius to 9.4 miles northeast, and (2) within 1 mile each side of the 214° bearing from the 4.2-mile radius to 7.3 miles southwest. The change is to properly contain published instrument approach procedures.
Airport Coordinates and Tower Hours Updated
The FAA updates the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport geographic coordinates to Lat. 41°20'19" N, Long. 75°43'24" W and removes language indicating the Class E4 airspace was part-time because the control tower is in operation 24 hours a day.
No Additional Costs for Pilots or Travelers
The rule states these airspace changes impose no extra costs for pilots or travelers and the FAA determined the anticipated economic impact is minimal. The final rule becomes effective May 14, 2026.
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