FAA Ditches Cofield Beacon, Rolls Out New GPS Flight Paths East
Published Date: 1/2/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is creating two new high-tech flight paths, Q-190 and T-497, and updating three older airways (V-1, V-70, and V-194) in the eastern U.S. This change happens because the Cofield, NC navigation beacon is retiring, so pilots will use smarter GPS-based routes instead. These updates start on March 19, 2026, making flying safer and more efficient without extra costs for travelers.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
New RNAV Routes Q-190 and T-497
The FAA establishes two new GPS-based (RNAV) routes, Q-190 (Carleton, MI (CRL) to PONCT, NY) and T-497 (Elizabeth City, NC (ECG) to FAGED, VA). These routes take effect on March 19, 2026 and provide RNAV connectivity between the Detroit–Albany area (Q-190) and the Elizabeth City–Warsaw area (T-497).
Amendments to VOR Federal Airways V-1, V-70, V-194
The FAA amends VOR Federal Airways V-1, V-70, and V-194 by removing airway segments tied to the planned decommissioning of the Cofield, NC (CVI) VORTAC; these changes are effective March 19, 2026. Examples in the final rule include removal of V-1 segments between Kinston, NC (ISO) and Norfolk, VA (ORF); removal of V-70 segments between Kinston, NC and Cofield; and removal of V-194 segments between Tar River, NC (TYI) and the SUNNS Fix.
No Added Costs for Air Travelers
The FAA states these route and airway changes, effective March 19, 2026, make flying safer and more efficient "without extra costs for travelers." The rule is presented as operational changes to navigation and airspace, not as a change that imposes new fees on passengers.
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