FAA Proposes Chicago Area Airspace Update
Published Date: 6/15/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to update the airspace rules around Chicago/Rockford, IL to keep flights safe and smooth. This affects pilots flying under instrument rules and helps the airport follow the latest safety standards. If you have thoughts, speak up by July 30, 2026—no costs or delays expected from these changes.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Class D Airspace Expanded Near Rockford
If you fly under instrument flight rules (IFR) at Chicago/Rockford International Airport, the FAA proposes to expand the Class D airspace radius from 4.6 miles to 5.7 miles and remove the existing southern extension. These changes are intended to support IFR procedures and operations around the airport.
Class E Airspace Radius and Extension Changed
If you fly IFR near Chicago/Rockford International Airport, the FAA proposes to increase the Class E airspace radius from 7.1 miles to 8.2 miles, widen the extension from 3 miles to 4 miles each side of the 185° bearing from the RWY 01 localizer, and set that extension from the 8.2-mile radius to 11.1 miles south of the RWY 01 localizer. The changes are meant to bring airspace into compliance with FAA orders and support IFR procedures.
FAA Certifies Minimal Small-Business Impact
The FAA certifies that this proposed amendment is routine, is not a significant regulatory action, and is expected to result in, at most, de minimis costs; it also states the proposal "will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities" under the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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