FAA Clears Out Airspace After Texas Ranch Beacon Shuts Down
Published Date: 10/22/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is officially removing Class E airspace at Diamond “O” Ranch Airport in Santa Elena, TX, because the instrument flight procedures and the local radio beacon are being shut down. This change starts on February 18, 2027, and mainly affects pilots flying under instrument rules near this airport. No extra costs or delays are expected—just a cleaner, simpler airspace setup!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Class E Airspace Removed at Santa Elena
The FAA is removing the Class E airspace that extended upward from 700 feet above the surface at Diamond “O” Ranch Airport in Santa Elena, TX. This change takes effect at 09:01 UTC on February 18, 2027, and mainly affects pilots flying under instrument flight rules near the airport. The FAA expects, at most, de minimis costs and certifies that the rule does not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
Santa Elena Radio Beacon Decommissioned
The Santa Elena radio beacon (RBN) is being decommissioned and the instrument flight procedures for Diamond “O” Ranch Airport are being cancelled. Pilots who fly under instrument flight rules may be affected and operators may choose to navigate around the former controlled airspace, with any compliance or minor rerouting costs described by the FAA as, at most, de minimis. This change is effective 09:01 UTC on February 18, 2027.
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