FAA Locks Skies Over NC for Lasers and Military Mayhem Training
Published Date: 4/21/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is creating six new restricted airspace zones near Camp Lejeune and Cherry Point, North Carolina, to keep military training safe and realistic. These zones will help contain activities like weapons use and laser operations, protecting pilots and the public. The new rules kick in on July 9, 2026, with no extra costs for the public but big benefits for military readiness.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Advance NOTAM Notice Requirements
The rule sets advance notice (NOTAM) timing pilots must receive before activation of these restricted areas: R-5305A other times by NOTAM at least 24 hours in advance; R-5305B and R-5305C require NOTAM at least 4 hours in advance; R-5307A requires NOTAM at least 12 hours in advance; R-5307B requires NOTAM at least 4 hours in advance. R-5307C is designated Monday–Friday 0800–2359 local time and other times are by NOTAM.
Six Restricted Airspaces Near Camp Lejeune
The FAA established six new restricted airspace zones near Camp Lejeune and Cherry Point, North Carolina (R-5305A/B/C and R-5307A/B/C), effective 0901 UTC on July 9, 2026. The rule is intended to contain hazardous military training like weapons and lasers and the FAA says there are no extra costs for the public from creating these zones.
Local Airport Operations and Activation Schedule
When active, the R-5305 and R-5307 complexes can constrain arrivals and departures to Michael J. Smith Field (KMRH) and other local flights. The rule lists expected activation levels (for example: R-5305A expected 8 hours/day for 150 days/year; R-5305B and R-5305C expected 4 hours/day for 30 days/year each; R-5307A 2 hours/day for 25 days/year; R-5307B 4 hours/day for 25 days/year; R-5307C 4 hours/day for 100 days/year).
FAA Finds Minimal Economic Impact on Small Entities
The FAA determined this rule just updates technical airspace and expects at most de minimis costs from minor flight rerouting; it certified the rule does not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The FAA also states the action is not a "significant regulatory action" under EO 12866.
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