Alaska Flight Paths Get FAA Facelift and Cleanup
Published Date: 12/12/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA is updating Alaska’s flight routes by changing Route Q-10 and removing Routes J-804R and J-889R. These changes help modernize Alaska’s airways, making flying safer and more efficient for pilots and airlines. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by January 26, 2026—no costs or delays expected from this update!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Alaska airways move to GPS RNAV
The FAA is decommissioning underutilized ground-based navigational aids in Alaska and shifting the route structure to satellite-based area navigation (RNAV) using GPS as the primary means of navigation. The change is part of a large airway modernization project intended to improve safety and efficiency for pilots and airlines.
Q-10 extended; Two J-routes revoked
The FAA proposes to revoke Alaska RNAV Routes J-804R and J-889R and to extend U.S. RNAV Route Q-10 beyond Middleton Island VOR/DME to a new EURKA waypoint at the U.S.-Canada border. The extension of Q-10 is proposed specifically to mitigate the loss of J-804R, and J-889R is proposed for revocation because it is seldom used.
No significant small-entity impact
The FAA determined this proposed rule is not a "significant regulatory action" under Executive Order 12866, does not require a regulatory evaluation, and certified it will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The FAA says the anticipated impact is minimal and that the rule only affects air traffic procedures and air navigation.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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