FAA Adds Routine Class E Airspace Over Texas Airport
Published Date: 6/24/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting October 29, 2026, the FAA is creating new Class E airspace around Rancho Hielo Brazos Airport in Glen Rose, TX. This change helps pilots use new instrument flight rules safely and smoothly. Local pilots and air traffic controllers will benefit, and there’s no cost impact for the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
New Class E Airspace at Glen Rose
Starting October 29, 2026, the FAA establishes Class E airspace around Rancho Hielo Brazos Airport in Glen Rose, TX. The airspace begins at 700 feet above the surface within a 6-mile radius of the airport and includes corridors 2.2 miles each side of the 006° bearing to 8.4 miles north and 186° bearing to 8.5 miles south to support instrument flight rules (IFR). Local pilots and air traffic controllers are expected to benefit from the new controlled airspace.
No Significant Small-Business Impact
The FAA determined this airspace designation will, at most, impose de minimis costs and certified the rule "does not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities." The FAA also found it is not a "significant regulatory action" under Executive Order 12866.
Possible Minor Rerouting Costs for Operators
The FAA states that operators who choose to navigate around the new controlled airspace could face minor flight rerouting or compliance effects, which the agency characterizes as, at most, de minimis. This could affect small operators who change routes to avoid the Class E area.
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Key Dates
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