Special Flight Rules in the Vicinity of the Grand Canyon National Park

This action continues, for an additional 2 years, the effectiveness of SFAR No. 50-2, which contains procedures governing the operation of aircraft in the airspace above Grand Canyon National Park. SFAR No. 50-2, which originally established the flight regulations for a period of 4 years, had previously been extended to allow the National Park Service (NPS) time to complete studies concerning aircraft overflight impacts on the Grand Canyon, and to forward its recommendations to the FAA. The NPS study, completed in September 1994, recommended alternatives, such as use of quiet aircraft, additional flight-free zones, altitude restrictions, operating specifications, noise budgets, and time limits. This rule allows the FAA sufficient time to review thoroughly the NPS recommendations as to their impact on the safety of air traffic over the Grand Canyon National Park, and to initiate and complete any appropriate rulemaking action.