Plane en route to Yerevan forced to return to Moscow due to technical issues

FAAST Blast
Notice Number: NOTC2108
FAAST Blast — January 20, 2010

In anticipation of a large number of aircraft operating to and from the South Florida metropolitan area during the 2010 Pro-Bowl and Super Bowl XLIV weeks, special procedures will be used to enhance safety and minimize air traffic delays. Among the security provisions for this event are TFRs, two-way communications, and discrete transponder requirements.

Specific procedures for this event may be revised and access to some airports may be restricted. Pilots should be prepared to provide documentation, including personal identification, certificate number,aircraft ownership information, and a contact number. Pilots are also encouraged to check NOTAMs frequently to verify they have the most current information. TFR information is normally disseminated by FDC NOTAM three to five days prior to the event. Once published, text and graphic depictions of restrictions may be found on the following web site: www.tfr.faa.gov. The Super Bowl TFR is scheduled to be in effect on Feb. 7.

ADS-B Debuts in Gulf of Mexico
On January 12, 2010, FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt announced that an improved satellite-based system – Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) – is now being used to more efficiently and safely separate and manage aircraft flying over the Gulf of Mexico.

“This is a significant, early step toward NextGen,” Administrator Babbitt said. “We’re delivering on time, a system that’s not only more accurate than radar but comes with significant safety and efficiency benefits. This will save time and money for aircraft operators and passengers and reduce our carbon footprint.”
Before the installation of ADS-B in the Gulf, controllers were required to maintain a 120-mile separation between aircraft. The new technology shrinks that to only five nautical miles, while increasing safety. The agency also can now provide more direct routes, which reduces fuel costs and improves efficiency.

This is the nation’s second major installation of ADS-B equipment. Controllers at Louisville International Airport started using the technology last fall. This year, ADS-B is expected to become operational at Philadelphia International Airport, as well as in Juneau, Alaska. It is expected to be available nationwide by 2013.
Finding and Fighting Fatigue
“A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book.” This simple Irish proverb offers some profound advice, especially to those involved in the aviation industry. Each year, fatigue is all too often a factor in aircraft-related accidents and incidents. Although airline operator mishaps garner the lion’s share of media attention, GA pilots and mechanics are subject to the same fatigue-related risks as are air carrier personnel.

According to “Finding and Fighting Fatigue” in the January/February 2010 FAA Aviation News, the solution is amazingly simple, yet often difficult to implement: Get more sleep. In addition to providing tips to help airmen develop better sleep habits, the article also provides a sleep log which helps readers gauge how much sleep they get during a two-week period. The authors offer some sobering facts about fatigue. For instance, did you know that your performance level after being awake for 20 hours is equivalent to that of a legally drunk driver? Be sure to check out the entire article for more tips on how to combat fatigue.