Elizabeth City Airspace Grows for Hospital Helicopter Safety
Published Date: 2/25/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to expand the special flying zone (Class E5 airspace) around Elizabeth City, NC, to include a 6-mile radius around the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center Heliport, starting 700 feet above the ground. This change supports new flight procedures for safer helicopter landings and takeoffs. Pilots and local air traffic will be affected, and the public can share their thoughts by April 13, 2026—no extra costs involved!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
New Controlled Airspace Around Heliport
The FAA proposes adding Class E5 controlled airspace that begins at 700 feet above the ground and extends within a 6-mile radius of the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center Heliport in Elizabeth City, NC. This change is meant to support new instrument approach procedures and will affect pilots and local air traffic operations by placing those helicopter approaches and departures under controlled airspace rules.
No Significant Cost to Small Entities
The FAA states this proposed amendment is a routine technical airspace change with an anticipated minimal impact and certifies it will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The agency determined no regulatory evaluation is warranted because the anticipated impact is minimal.
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Key Dates
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