Aviation NewsletterEmpire State

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Director's Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Air '99 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3GA Airport Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Air Service Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4GA Airport Financial Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4FAA Regional Air Service Demand Study . . . . 5Republic Airport News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62005 Aviation Art Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7New York Aviation History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9NYAMA Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125010 Sights of Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135010 Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Evaluating Pavement Surface Condition. . . . 14Airport Recreational/Wildlife Areas . . . . . . . . 14

Spring 2005

BUREAU STAFF (from left): Front Row: Seth Edelman, Director, Denise Geraldi, Gerardo Mendoza,Back Row: Ed Buckley, The Air Bear, Lorrin Bird, Edwin Kaliku, Joe Testo, Reyhan Doganaksoy, Steve Campbell

AVIATION SERVICES BUREAU

George E. Pataki, Governor Thomas Madison Jr., Acting Commissioner

New York State Department of Transportation

Passenger Transportation Division

Aviation Services Bureau

Phone: (518) 457-8343 Fax: (518) 457-9779

www.dot.state.ny.us/pubtrans/airhome.html

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New York State Department of Transportation

Aviation Services Bureau50 Wolf Road

Albany, NY 12232

NOTES FROM THE DIRECTORSeth Edelman

It is an exciting time in the Aviation ServicesBureau, the State, and in the industry. We haveovercome many of the challenges of the post 9-11aviation environment. There is a new spirit ofenthusiasm and cooperation among aviation folks.Passenger volumes continue to rise at largerairports, cooperative security operations areongoing, and general aviation (GA) has newpromise.

Passenger levels have continued to increase at ourHub airports and are expected to exceed the 2000peak total activity of nearly 37 million in a fewyears. Low-fare airlines, such as South West and JetBlue, are responsible for much of the increase intraffic. This increase in passengers has benefited airservice and continues to help our economy grow.

General aviation has become increasinglyimportant as air charter, fractional ownership andlight business jet activity all continue to increasethe number of flights at smaller airports. Thesetypes of flights are a preferred choice for manybusinesses to move executives, clients, vendors,and individuals point-to-point in an unconstrainedand timely fashion. In addition, very light jets willincrease the number of accessible airports in thefuture. While there is exceptional access right now,the State and local communities continue to planfor the facilitation of business at these strategicairports. Assisting GA businesses, the State'sAviation Management Association (NYAMA) hassuccessfully moved legislation this year to helpFBOs and related businesses through a reductionof service taxes.

The aviation industry is of immense importance tothe State's economy and to the communities servedby the airports. The NYSDOT study "The Benefitsof Aviation in NYS", documented that in 2002 theState's Airports directly and indirectly generatedover $35 billion in economic activity, includingnearly $3 billion in State and local taxes, and350,000 jobs.

We are proud of the well developed and extensivesystem of airports in New York State. Theseairports continue to serve business and theoccasional traveler alike in the highest quality andsafest environment possible. After all, New Yorkstarted early in the aviation world. As you will readabout in this newsletter, there is a wealth ofaviation history here, from Charles Lindbergh'stransatlantic flight in 1927 to the innovation andmanufacturing which led to New York beingdescribed as the "Cradle of Aviation."

As the articles contained in this newsletterindicate, the Bureau has been very busy. Activitiesrange from the studies such as Airport EconomicBenefits, Business Plans, Obstruction Analysis, AirService Analyses, to legislative and regulatoryreviews, to supporting operations at RepublicAirport, to programs such as the AIP matchinggrants, Air 99 grants, 5010 safety inspections, thenew GA security initiative, and administering theNew York Aviation Student Art Contest (in factyou can see the work of talented young artists inthis issue of the newsletter!).

We will endeavor to continue these activities anddo more with our small but very capable staff. It isalways important to remember that in order toachieve our common goals we will all have tocontinue to work cooperatively together to addressthe challenges of a changing industry.

The positive experience I have enjoyed during myfirst two years as the State's Acting Director ofAviation has been the result of the wonderfulpeople in the industry who have been sosupportive. Folks in the FAA, NYAMA, AOPA,NBAA and other organizations that make ourindustry what it is all have my gratitude. I willcontinue to be receptive to your advice andgrateful for your assistance. The help you haveprovided has been invaluable in allowing theAviation Services Bureau to provide leadership thatis responsive to the industry's needs.

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(that includes the FAA) and states that theSecretary of Transportation may not approve atransportation project that requires the use of anyof the above described publicly owned lands unlessa determination is made that, (1) there is noprudent and feasible alternative to using thoselands and (2) the project includes all possibleplanning to minimize harm resulting from usingsuch lands.

The first step in a 4f determination is to identifyprotected properties, as defined by 4f, that may beimpacted by a proposed transportation project. Inorder for a property to qualify for 4f protectionthey must meet all of the four criteria as definedwithin section 4f;

1. Be publicly owned2. Open to the public3. Officially designated as park, rec area, etc.

(major purpose)4. Considered significant

If there are no properties being utilized orimpacted by your project which meet all of theabove criteria no 4f determination is required.However, if it is determined that the propertiesimpacted by your project meet these criteria acomplete 4f determination will be required, whichover the history of this legislation, will most likelyinvolve finding an alternate to utilizing orimpacting such properties.

The proposed development of a new access road toStewart Airport referred to as the Stewart AccessImprovement Project, or Drury Lane project, hasbeen part of numerous planning initiativesundertaken for the airport since the early 1970'swhen New York State (NYS) assumed ownership ofthe airport. Soon after NYS assumed ownership ofthe airport, legislation was passed to acquire anadditional adjacent 8,000 acres usingtransportation bond monies for the expresspurpose of accommodating future expandedairport operations, airport compatible developmentand aircraft noise abatement including air safetyand runway clear areas. The State then spentdecades working with the community indeveloping a master plan for the development ofthe airport and these adjoining 8,000 acres.

While the airport was being developed, NYSpermitted these 8,000 acres to be used by the

public on an interim basis for recreational useutilizing revocable lease agreements subject totermination within 60 days. In the mid 90's aftercompleting a Generic Environmental ImpactStatement (GEIS) for the utilization of the 8,000acres, which review included the proposeddevelopment of the Drury lane Access road project,efforts began on developing a project specific EISfor the Drury Lane Project. During this time adecision was made by the Federal HighwayAdministration that no 4f determination would berequired for this project because the area where theaccess road was proposed to be built, which ispartially within the 8,000 acres, would not beconsidered recreational properties as defined bySection 4f. As such, no 4f determination was madefor this project.

After completion of the FEIS for the Drury Laneproject in 2000, the decision not to conduct a 4fdetermination for this project was challenged andin December of 2003 a decision was rendered bythe Second Circuit Court of Appeals that a 4fdetermination would be required for this project.This decision has now created a situation whichrequires the State to justify using its land for thevery purpose for which those lands were acquiredand managed. The State is now required to eitheravoid all impacts or use of this property it hasspecifically taken and set aside for transportationpurposes, or to analyze all possible alternatives tothe use of this property, on the grounds that thepermissive interim recreational use by the public ofthat property has changed the character of theproperty from its originally intended transportationuse to recreation.

This decision could have the impact of requiringstate agencies, as well as other publictransportation agencies that receive federaltransportation funds, to reconsider allowinginterim use of their properties for recreationalpurposes in order to assure that the land caneventually be put to the use for which it wasacquired. This would be unfortunate, as airportdevelopment is a lengthy process and allowing thepublic temporary access to available lands forrecreational use while development strategies areunderway provides a great benefit to the public,which may now be lost. For more informationcontact Steve Campbell atscampbell@dot.state.ny.us or (518)457-8439.

ADDITIONAL AIR '99 PROJECTS AWARDED by Lorrin Bird

NY's AIR '99 program provided $2.44 Million instate grant monies for projects which were eithernot eligible for, or not likely to obtain FAA grants.The funds for this program were derived from theprivatization of Stewart Intl Airport.

The grants supported 38 individual airportprojects, one multi-airport effort to improvecommercial air service and, a statewide traininginitiative. Three privately owned non-relieverairports that could not compete for Federal AIPmonies received AIR '99 grants.

As the AIR '99 grants reached their four year term,several airports returned grant funds. Thesereturned funds were used to fund a second roundof AIR '99 projects. Seventeen privately ownednon-reliever airports in the state system plan wereinvited to submit project applications and competefor approximately $245,000 in available funds.

Applications were received from nine airports for atotal of twenty seven projects. Five members of theAviation Bureau rated each application based onsix factors which included: project type,justification, value, business service, past grantmanagement, and state share.

Review of the final project scores resulted in theselection of three projects which fit within theavailable funding. Grant preparation for the threeprojects was initiated during February 2005, andthe airports that submitted applications werenotified of the selection process results andthanked for their participation.

The selected projects included:

• Partial parallel taxiway and related apron work atthe South Albany Airport to eliminate back-taxiingon the runway by landing aircraft, a serious safetyproblem.

• Replacement of the non-standard runwaylighting system and installation of PAPI visualglide slopes at Cooperstown-Westville Airport(Otsego County).

• Removal of a utility pole in the primary landingapproach at Pine Hill Airport (Orleans County),which will improve airport safety.

For more information on Air'99 contact LorrinBird at (518)3234 or e-mail at lbird@dot.state.ny.us

GA AIRPORT SECURITY by Gerardo Mendoza

With the enactment of New York's ground-breaking Anti-Terrorism Preparedness Act on July23, 2004, the Aviation Services Bureau acquired anew mandate. In part, the purpose of the law is toenhance security at General Aviation (GA)airports. Since GA airports vary widely in size andresources, application of security enhancementswill vary by airport taking into account its size,level of activity, and proximity to areas of concern,among other factors. In summary, GA airports arerequired to:

• Submit a security plan which is responsive to theguidelines published by the TransportationSecurity Administration

• Register with the New York State Department ofTransportation by July 23, 2005 and every threeyears thereafter

• Implement other security measures aimed atsafeguarding aircraft and airport property

An informational letter was mailed to all GAairports on October 5, 2004. Registration packetsand instructions were mailed at the beginning ofJanuary.

Bureau staff is committed to helping airportmanagers and owners to comply with the law.Besides answering questions via phone and e-mail,all relevant documents have been made availableon the Bureau's website,http://www.dot.state.ny.us/pubtrans/airhome.html.Additionally, if there is enough interest expressed,Bureau staff will conduct training/Q&A sessionsacross the state.

The law requires that GA airports comply by3

There are approximately 137 public use airportswithout scheduled commercial service (non Part139 Certified) in New York. Four of these have orwill go to private use soon. We also expect one togo to Part 139 soon, which would mean theywould be inspected by the FAA rather than usleaving 132 airports to inspect. Of the 132 airports,only 30 are yet to be inspected. Four will beinspected shortly by Ron Coleman of Region 9,seven are local to our Albany area, twelve are inthe NYC or Long Island area and eight more arescattered through out the state.

We hope to get all these airport inspectionswrapped up soon and then we will begin a newinspection program where we will inspect all theairports again, on a three year cycle. This yearNYSDOT will enter into an agreement with theSouthern Illinois University (SUI) at Carbondale,to assemble and record the data. The FAA andG.C.R. and Associates will in turn have anagreement with SUI to collect and manage the datafrom the inspections.

If you have any questions concerning the 5010program, or if want to know if your airport isincluded in the upcoming inspections, contact EdBuckley at (518)457-8343 or e-mail atebuckley@state.dot.ny.us

NEW FAA GUIDANCE ON EVALUATINGPAVEMENT SURFACE CONDITION by Lorrin Bird

On July 19, 2004, FAA released a new advisorycircular which provides a simplified system forunderstanding and rating the surface condition offlexible and rigid airfield pavements. The circularprovides pavement distress identification basicswith a brief discussion of the underlying distresscauses.

The target audience is airport managers andpersonnel conducting 5010 inspections, althoughairport planners and engineers may also benefitfrom the fundamental discussion of pavementproblems which is presented.

Advisory Circular 150/5320-17, AIRFIELDPAVEMENT SURFACE EVALUATION ANDRATING MANUALS, provides two sections whichdeal with asphalt concrete and concrete pavements.The rating system requires minimal measurements

and math, and works by matching the frequencyand/or condition of pavement distresses to one offive descriptions.

The Circular may be obtained from the followingFAA web site:http://www.faa.gov/arp/150acs.cfm?ARPnav=acs

As an example of system use, a flexible pavementsurface with sealed longitudinal thermal cracks 55feet apart and minimal edge cracking or ravelingwould rate "4" (Good). If the thermal crackstended to be less than 50' apart and contained10%-25% unsealed cracks with some edgecracking, the score would decrease to "3" (Fair).

The Circular states that the rating system is notintended to be used to determine the timing orneed for pavement rehabilitation projects. On thepositive side, the simple nature of the ratingsystem would permit regular inspections by airportpersonnel in support of airport pavementmanagement requirements, annual airfield reportpreparation, identifying the need for more detailedpavement evaluations and general facility planning.

The advisory circular is an important addition toavailable guidance on pavement evaluation, andthe nature of the material should increase theaudience that may benefit from the material. Formore information contact Lorrin Bird at (518)457-3234 or e-mail at lbird@dot.state.ny.us

POTENTIAL IMPACTS FROM RECENTCOURT DECISION CONCERNING AIRPORTRECREATIONAL/WILDLIFE AREAS ANDSECTION 4F DETERMINATIONSby Steve Campbell

A recent decision rendered by the Federal SecondCourt of Appeals concerning the application ofSection 303 of the Transportation Act, commonlyreferred to as Section 4f, to a proposed access roadproject at Stewart Airport in Newburgh, New York,could impact the way airports, as well as othertransportation facilities, manage their properties inthe future.

The purpose of Section 4f is to preserve andprotect the natural beauty of the countryside,public parks and recreational areas, wildlife andwaterfowl areas and historical sites. Section 4frequirements apply only to U.S. DOT agencies

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July 22, 2005. Airports are encouraged to submitregistrations and security plans well in advance ofthis date. That way, if there are any discrepancieswith your information we can resolve them by theabove compliance date. In order to further assistyou with this effort and in case you have anyquestions pertaining to the registration applicationor security plan requirements, we have a GARegistration Coordinator that can be reached at(518) 457-8343 or by email ataviation@dot.state.ny.us.

AIR SERVICE ISSUESby Gerardo Mendoza

This past year has been a tumultuous one for airservice. Nationwide airlines are facing higher oilprices, and reduced revenues, even with increasedenplanements. Several have been in bankruptcycourt. At the same time low-fare airlines haveincreased services in some markets, providingcompetition on those routes. Accordingly, NewYork State airports have seen a mix of serviceimprovements and service reductions in the pastyear.

As low-fare airlines made inroads into marketsonce dominated by "legacy" carriers, some NewYork airports have benefited from this expansion.Newcomer Independence Air began serving

Albany, Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo, Stewart,White Plains, and JFK -- providing neededcompetition for service between these cities andWashington, DC and points south. SoutheastAirlines' low fare service helped to significantlyincrease passenger levels at Stewart Airport untilits departure (more on this below). Jet Bluecontinued its expansion at JFK and maintained itsstrong position as the second largest airline at theairport in terms of volume. Southwest Airlines'service at Albany, Islip, and Buffalo continues tomature and gain market share. Last year Southwestexpanded service from Islip to Las Vegas and fromBuffalo to points in Florida. New non-stop servicebetween Albany and Chicago was just announcedas well.

Not all developments were positive for New Yorkairports, however. Southeast Airlines impressiveperformance at Stewart came to an abrupt end asthe airline ceased operations in all its marketswithout warning. Other problems loom asUSAirways continues to struggle to remain inbusiness while in its second bankruptcy. Industryexperts still predict that the airline may have toliquidate its assets. If this happens, New York Statecould lose nearly 23% of its air service shouldother carriers not pick up all trip segments. A fewairports across the state have begun developingcontingency plans to deal with this potentialsituation. Independence Air, which converted froma United Airlines subsidiary to a low-fare carrier,will face great challenges in this highly competitiveindustry.

Questions about this article can be directed toGerardo Mendoza at (518)457-8343 or via e-mailto address air service and airfare problems in theircommunities. at gmendoza@dot.state.ny.us.

GA AIRPORT FINANCIAL PLANSby Joseph Testo

In the current environment of constrainedmunicipal budgets and rising operating costs,general aviation airports are recognizing a need forbetter business models. NYSDOT, understandingthis need, has offered airport financial planning

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Small Community Air ServiceDevelopment Program

On January 19, 2005 the US Department ofTransportation solicited proposals fromcommunities and/or consortia of communitiesinterested in obtaining a federal grant underthe Small Community Air ServiceDevelopment Program were due last April 22.The USDOT is currently reviewing thenumerous applications received, includingthree from New York communities -- Ithaca-Tompkins Regional, Stewart International, andMassena International. For more informationvisit the USDOT Docket Management Systemat http://dms.dot.gov/ and search by DocketNo. 20127.

opportunities for networking with industry peers.Mark your calendar and plan to join us!

Collaboration, Cooperation

It is more important than ever that industry leaderswork together to advance and support aviation.NYAMA values its relationship with the NYSDepartment of Transportation, and looks forwardto ongoing collaboration and cooperation. Inaddition, the Association has worked to forgestrong working relationships with AOPA, NBAA,AAAE, LIBAA and other industry groups toadvance the industry.

5010 Sights of Interestby Ed Buckley

A rare sightindeed. ATwin Ottersighted atHollandsInternationalairport. Anairstriplocated nearBuffalo,

consisting of a turf runway, approximately 3000'long. The aircraft is used primarily by parachutists.It can carry 15-20 sky divers at a time. It is paintedin its original scheme from when it was a part ofthe Norwegian Air force.

A helicopterpreparing toland at theWest ThirtiethHeliportlocated on theHudson river,on the westside ofManhattan.

There are 11 different landing areas at the site.This is one of only three public use heliports inNYC. Liberty tours offer helicopter tour rides fromthis facility, of the NYC area.

An olderversion of theCessna 172preparing todepart fromPratt's EasternDivide, a turfairstrip 2600'feet long,located nearChautauqua Lake. This particular pilot had alreadyvisited every public use airport in Pennsylvaniaand was just starting his quest to do the same inthe State of New York.

5010 Programby Ed Buckley

We have made great progress in our 5010 FAAAirport Safety Data Collection Program this pastseason. These inspections are conducted by NewYork State DOT, under the FAA's Master Record(Form 5010) Program. Under this program, theinspector collects current information concerningthe operations, physical condition, visual landingaids and the obstructions surrounding the airport.The FAA 5010 airport data inspections areintended to collect information to enhance safetyfor the flying public. The data gathered providesthe basis for federally produced flight publicationssuch as the Airport Facility Directory, AeronauticalCharts and Instrument Approach Plates. Numerousprivately-produced flight guides also rely on FAAForm 5010 as a primary source of information.

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For more information on NYAMAPerspective/Accomplishements/Notes,

contact Brian Shaughnessy, Communications Director

New York Aviation Management Association119 Washington Avenue, Suite 100 Albany,New York 12210518. phone: 432.9973 fax:

518.432.1712 info@nyama.com |www.nyama.com

studies and has received many requests for thesestudies. Over the last four years the NYS AviationPlanning Program, primarily funded through FAAgrants, has provided 14 general aviation airportswith business plans1. These business plans areintended to help airport sponsors maximize theirrevenues, enhance their operations, and addressairport specific issues. Each plan provides: a capitaldevelopment plan based on a modified ALP andACIP, a descriptive brochure; and a set ofrecommendations and action steps to addressissues, operations, and economic development.

Recommendations have included such items as:runway extensions, hangar development,commercial and industrial development, lease andfee adjustments, and operational changes.McFarland Johnson Inc. and R. A. WiedemannAssoc., through a Department term agreement,have provided much of this business planningservice to date. This term agreement recentlyexpired.

The Department hopes to have a new termagreement in effect by the Fall of this year tocontinue planning work such as the airportbusiness plans. There currently are six airportsponsors requesting business plans and funding isin place to complete four of these plans. Shouldfurther FAA funding become available, additionalairport business plans may be completed. GAairport sponsors requiring a business plan shouldsend a letter of request to Seth Edelman, ActingDirector Aviation Services Bureau. Airportrepresentatives may also call Joseph Testo of theBureau (518-457-8343) for information on theairport business plans or e-mail him atjtesto@dot.state.ny.us

1 Adirondack Regional, Brookhaven Calabro,Dansville Municipal, Dutchess Co., East Hampton,Finger Lakes Regional, Floyd Bennett/Warren Co.,Francis Gabreski, Genesee County, HamiltonMunicipal, Perry Warsaw Municipal, PotsdamMunicipal, Randall, Sullivan Co., WellsvilleMunicipal

FAA REGIONAL AIR SERVICE DEMAND STUDYby Joseph Testo

At some point in the future, the forecast growth ofpassenger and operation volumes may exceed theability of the three PANYNJ commercial airports,John F. Kennedy International (JFK), NewarkLiberty International (EWR), and LaGuardiaAirport (LGA), to meet the demand for passengerair service. Given the key role played by theseairports in the economic health of the New Yorkand New Jersey metropolitan area, it is essentialthat alternative strategies and policies be developedthat address ways to accommodate the forecasteddemand.

It was this concern that lead to the FAA-initiatedRegional Air Service Demand Study. This studywill be conducted jointly, but under separatecontracts, by: the Port Authority of New York andNew Jersey (PANYNJ), the New York StateDepartment of Transportation, and the DelawareValley Regional Planning Commission. ThePANYNJ will integrate the results of the threestudies in a report to the FAA. The overall studyeffort is expected to be underway by the spring ofthis year and be concluded by the fall of 2006.

The New York State Department of Transportationstudy will examine the larger region's small hubairports, including the Stewart International(SWF), Westchester County (HPN) and LongIsland/MacArthur (ISP) Airports in New York Stateto determine the availability of underutilizedcapacity.

The Delaware Valley Regional PlanningCommission (DVRPC) study will include theTrenton Mercer (TTN) and Atlantic CityInternational (ACY) Airports in New Jersey, andthe Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) inPennsylvania for a similar evaluation as the NewYork State study.

Each study will develop forecasts of aviationactivity out to the year 2025. It is hoped that thisstudy will help ensure that capital developments

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trouble taking off and landing on the 6,827'runway, while the airport was enveloped in thetightest security in its history.

Long Island's aviation manufacturing days are goneand unlikely to return but its rich and diversehistory contributed so much to our nation and itsability to defend itself. Through the work of not-for-profit organizations and the vital aviationfacilities such as Republic, our heritage remainsvibrant and alive.

The historical events above, and more, are beinghighlighted in a series of radio clips sponsored bythe Long Island Business Aviation Association(www.libaa.org). The radio spots can be heard onthe local Island radio stations or by clicking thetab labeled "Radio Ads" located in the upper rightportion of the web page. For more informationcontact Ed Buckley at (518)457-8343 or e-mail atebuckley@state.dot.ny.us

NYAMA Perspective/Accomplishments/Notes

Aviation in New York State is an exciting, thoughchallenging, industry to be in. The State boaststremendous aviation resources and incredibleaviation potential. Unrest in the airline industryand potential reductions in federal AIP fundingmay challenge us as an industry, but optimismprevails in what is arguably the most efficient andpowerful transportation mode available.

General Aviation Sales Tax Relief

Last year, New York State passed an importantpiece of legislation to exempt the maintenance andrepair of general aviation aircraft from sales anduse tax. The legislation provided a tremendousbenefit to the aviation industry, helping to level thecompetitive playing field with neighboring statesthat had already passed similar tax relief measures.

New York State observed an exodus of corporateaircraft and general aviation business whenneighboring states - including New Jersey,Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Delaware -eliminated the sales tax on aircraft sales,maintenance and repairs. Aircraft owners found itwas more economical to purchase, maintain andstore their aircraft out-of-state and fly them to NewYork airports when needed.

It is estimated that each private jet located in NewYork produces three to five skilled jobs. New Yorkbased aircraft also contribute millions of dollars tothe state's tax base through the purchase of fueland catering services. But to realize this kind ofeconomic impact, New York State needed to domore to keep business from crossing state lines.This legislation is a significant help toward thatend.

The legislation specifically exempts aircraftmaintenance and repairs along with all costsassociated with keeping an aircraft in a conditionof fitness, efficiency, readiness and safety. It alsoprovides tax relief for the installation of newmachinery and equipment installed on an aircraft,engine parts, electronics, and aircraft storageexpense during maintenance and repairs.

For more information about the legislation, visitNYAMA's web-site at: www.nyama.com.

Fall Conference

The Association's annual fall conference isscheduled for October 5-7, 2005 in Rochester, NY.The conference will feature training sessions andpresentations addressing hot topics in the aviationindustry, an exhibit show, and valuable

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Air Force One Arrives to Republic Airport for the very fist time.

are properly focused and balanced, within thecontext of community concerns, to meet the needsof the region's airports and provide the highestlevels of service to customers.

Joseph Testo of the Bureau may be contacted(518)-457-8343 for further information on thisstudy or e-mail at jtesto@dot.state.ny.us

REPUBLIC AIRPORT NEWS by Ed Buckley

Republic is a General Aviation airportowned by New York State. It is located inFarmingdale, Long Island.

New Hangar at Atlantic Aviation

Talon Air and Atlantic Aviation are well underwayin constructing a new state of the art facility,including an almost 30,000 square foot hangar andan attached 10,000 plus square foot two storyoffice section. This is the first new hangerconstructed on the airport in 5 years. The hangarstands at just over 45' tall with 28' high doors. It isdesigned to meet two hour fire wall constructionstandards. The inside of the hangar is capable ofhousing two "Gulfstream" type business jets withroom left over for several smaller airplanes orhelicopters.

Arrivals and Departures at Republic Airport

In December of 2004, both Steve Williams, AvportsAirport Manager, and Hugh Jones, NYSDOTAirport Director, announced that they would soonbe leaving Republic Airport.

Hugh Jones retired from Republic in February afterserving for two decades. Mr. Jones was a graduatefrom UCLA with a Masters Degree in economicsand a major in transportation. He worked forTWA, Douglas Aircraft, American Airlines and thePort Authority prior to his appointment as Directorof Republic Airport in 1983 for New York StateDepartment of Transportation.

Mr. Jones has been dedicated to aviation and has apassion for the present and future of Republic

Airport. During Mr. Jones tenure at Republic hewas responsible for spearheading economicdevelopment efforts. In 1998, Republic became aself-sufficient operation with an annual operatingbudget of over $2.5 M per year. Economicdevelopment has been carefully balanced againstairport issues by Mr. Jones, who has also protectedthe interests of the Commission and community bymaintaining Republic's role as a general aviationairport. He plans to be driving his new convertiblein central Florida by the time this article ispublished!

Mike Geiger has been appointed as the newDirector of Republic Airport for NYSDOT. Mike isa Professional Engineer and is a licensed privatepilot. He has over 24 years of experience withNYSDOT in Region 10 (Long Island).

Mike has a Bachelor of Science Degree in CivilEngineering from Bradley University. In his time atDOT, he has developed experience in designincluding highway alignment, drainage,environmental studies and structural design. Laterhe was assigned to the Consultant ManagementSection of the Design group, where he wasresponsible for supervising consulting engineeringfirms in the preparation of design/environmentalreports and final design plans for the Department.

In the last few years, Mike has been providinginvaluable assistance to Republic Airport withregard to proposed economic development projectsand engineering assistance on and around theairport property.

Most recently, Mike served as the Scoping UnitSupervisor and then the acting head of ProgramManagement for R-10, where he was responsiblefor developing and managing project scopes andassisting with the management of the Region'sCapital program.

As an additional duty and as a further effort tocombine and coordinate all modal activities inRegion 10, Mike will serve as the modalcoordinator for R-10, with overall responsibility forthe Region's interactions and dealings with theLong Island Rail Road and Long Island's Airports.We welcome Mike in his new role of AirportDirector.

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vibrant, busy airport that contributes to theregion's economy.

Westhampton Beach Facility Still Serves

Originally designed to house F-102 and F-101Interceptors to guard New York City, today the106th Rescue Wing of the New York Air NationalGuard is based at Francis S. Gabreski Airport inWesthampton Beach. The New York Air NationalGuard is the parent organization of the oldestflying unit in the Air National Guard, the 102ndRescue Squadron. The 102nd traces its roots backto the 1st Aero Company formed in 1915 on LongIsland.

One of their tasks is flying Search and Rescuemissions and Medevac Operations in an areadelineated from the Northeast United States, southto the Bahama Islands and east to the Azores. Theunit flies H-130 Hercules four engine planes andHH-60 Jayhawk helicopters. If you read the bookor saw the movie, The Perfect Storm, you arealready familiar with the types of rescue operationsand sacrifices that they may make everyday.

An indelible moment in history

Perhaps the most famous aviation event associatedwith Long Island is the point of departure forCharles Lindbergh's solo transatlantic flight onMay 20, 1927. Taking off from a soggy turf striplocated at Roosevelt Field, hundreds of onlookersheld their breath as he barely cleared the telephonewires on Merrick Avenue and then headed eastduring the early hours of a cold and rainy

morning. Some 33 hours later he was greeted byover a 100,000 well wishers surrounding Paris'LeBourget Field. Today the exact site where hiswheels left the grass, after the third historic bounceneeded to get airborne, is marked by a concretemonument located outside the doors to theFortunoff department store in the Roosevelt Fieldshopping center.

Meanwhile at Republic….

In early May of 2002, to commemorate the 75thanniversary of the historic flight of the Spirit of St.Louis, Charles Lindbergh's grandson, ErikLindbergh, completed a re-creation of hisgrandfather's historic flight by flying solo in asingle engine plane across the Atlantic. SinceRoosevelt Field no longer exists, Erik departedfrom the nearest airport, Republic Airport, to beginhis journey. Flying a significantly more modernaircraft, Erik completed the flight in just over 17hours.

History continues to be made at Republic Airport,with Air Force One landing at the general aviationairport for the first time in history on March 11,2004. Secret Service policy is to never speak aboutwhich aircraft are used and why, but aviationexperts say the 767s best fit the runways andtaxiways of Republic. Also, the location of theairport gave the President the access he needed toconduct his Long Island meetings and then departfor Washington. The capable pilots had little

Charles Lindbergh and his monoplane that made the non-stopflight from New York to Paris in 331/2 hours in May 21, 1927.

Erik Lindbergh, Charles Lindbergh's grandson, preparing for hishistoric recreation the original flight, 75 years ago.

11

7

After serving Republic for eleven years, AirportManager Stephen D. Williams accepted a newposition with the Delaware River Bay Authority astheir Manager of Airport Operations. Prior toRepublic, Steve was the Airport manager forseveral airports in New Jersey as well as workingas both Acting Director of Aviation and theAssistant Director of Aviation for the NYC Dept. ofTransportation's Bureau of Ferries and GeneralAviation. Steve holds an MBA from DowlingCollege and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Sciencefrom the City College of New York. He is alicensed pilot and was an adjunct professor withSUNY Farmingdale. In his new position, he willhave oversight of five airports located in Delaware

and New Jersey.Shelley LaRose-Arken has accepted the positionof Acting Airport Manager at Republic. She has aBachelor of Science Degree in AviationManagement, is a licensed commercial instrumentand multi engine rated pilot and has over 15 yearsof airport management experience. Prior to herassignment as Assistant Airport Manager atRepublic in 1999, she worked at Spirit of St. LouisAirport, Cincinnati Northern KentuckyInternational, and Westchester County Airport.

We wish Hugh, Mike, Steve and Shelly the best intheir new endeavors! For more information contactEd Buckley at (518)457-8343 or e-mail atebuckley@state.dot.ny.us

Once again NYSDOT Aviation Services Bureauparticipated in the International Aviation ArtContest. This contest is sponsored by theFédération Aéronautique Intérnationale (FAI),based in Paris, France, in cooperation with theNational Association of State Aviation Officials(NASAO), Federal Aviation Administration, andthe National Aeronautics and SpaceAdministration. The theme for 2005 is "Create anAir show Poster: More than 100 Years of HumanFlight." The purpose of this contest is to stimulatechildren's interest in aeronautics (aviation),engineering and science. Entries were judged inthree age groups.

This year we received 162 entries, of which 38were in Category One: Ages 6-9, 118 were in

Category Two: Ages 10-13, and 6 were in CategoryThree: Ages 14-17. Their artwork was judgedbased on this year's chosen theme, creativity,presentation, and technical ability.

The winning entries were forwarded to NASAO forthe national segment of the contest which tookplace the first week of February. Kate Vanderpool,first place winner in Category One in New YorkState, has done such an impressive work that shealso won first-place on National Level. Kate camein second in the National Competition in the samecategory in 2004. Her art work will be submittedto the FAI headquarters for the internationalcompetition. The winners in all three categories inthe New York competition are as follows:

2005 INTERNATIONAL AVIATION ART CONTEST by Reyhan Doganaksoy

the surface without the Long Island designed andbuilt Lunar Module (LM) delivered by Grumman.Again, the Cradle has a stunning example of a realLM sitting on a mock lunar surface.

American Airpower Museum at RepublicAirport

Now owned by the New York State Department ofTransportation, Republic Airport in Farmingdale,Long Island is another location that producedthousands of great civil and military aircraftthroughout its sixty-year history. Prominentaircraft manufactures including Seversky, Republicand Fairchild all produced aircraft on this siteranging from private planes to seaplanes to famousmilitary propeller and jet aircraft. The P-47Thunderbolt may have been the most famous ofthe planes produced there. Approximately 15,000were produced for WWII and about 9,000 of thosewere made at Republic Airport. These planes wereaffectionately known as "the Jug" for their heavydesign and shape.

Another famous fighter is the Republic A-10Thunderbolt II (originally named the Warthog). Alittle more than 700 of these aircraft wereproduced on this site before the Fairchild-RepublicCompany closed its doors.

Yet another museum on this historic site is keepingthe history of Republic alive, flying one of the last

remaining Thunderbolts, along with a squadron ofoperational World War II aircraft. The AmericanAirpower Museum(www.americanairpowermuseum.com) flies itsfighters, bombers and transport planes from thesame hangars where many of them were basedsome sixty years ago. A C-47 "D-Day" flightexperience program has been cited by the NewYork Times, the Daily News and Newsday as one ofthe most realistic opportunities history buffs mayhave in turning back the clock to World War II.

In addition this facility allows visitors to speak tothe "Living Treasures of our Nation", mainly ourdistinguished WWII veterans and retired defenseindustry employees who may serve as volunteertour guides. Special attractions include visitingaircraft such as B-17 and B-29 bombers along withConstellation and DC-4 airliners.

Long Island MacArthur is growing

Today's airliners are using Long Island MacArthurAirport, located in the Town of Islip whereSouthwest Airlines has just opened the $55 millionPeter J. McGowan Concourse and furtherexpanded the ability of the region to usecommercial aviation to get from here to there.With the addition of Southwest, enplanementshave gone from 438,118 in 1998 to 939,880 in2003, an increase of 114 %. Once an airstrip backin the 1940's for the maintenance of airliners and atesting facility for Sperry Gyroscope, today it is a

Factory production of Republic P-47 Thunderbolts built atRepublic Airport. P-47 Thunderbolts were being built at a rate

of one every hour at Republic during WW II

American Airpower MuseumPictured are a B-17 (Flying Fortress), a C-47/DC-3

(aka Skytrain, Dakota, Gooney Bird ) and a F4U Corsair (made famous by the Baa Baa Black Sheep)

10

NEW YORK AVIATION HISTORY: The Long Island Storyby Ed Buckley & Gery Lewi of the American AirPower Museum

Aviation History is alive on Long Island

History says Dayton, Ohio is the birthplace ofaviation and Kitty Hawk (actually Kill Devil Hills,NC) was first in flight but, in truth, Long Island iswhere America learned to fly. Known as the"Cradle of Aviation", with its open plains andconstant winds, Long Island became home tocompanies and airports that produced thousandsupon thousands of civilian and military aircraftalong with record breaking flights for height,duration and innovation. Today Long Island hasbeen able to preserve and project its aviationheritage from a variety of historic locations. Eachone is worth a visit.

The Cradle of Aviation & GrummanMemorial Park

A museum definitely worth visiting is the Cradle ofAviation (www.cradleofaviation.org) opened in2001 in Garden City. It is on the original site ofMitchel Field Air Force Base (Mitchel Field isnamed after the New York City Mayor John PuroyMitchel who died in a WW I training accident andnot after General Billy Mitchell). Nestled betweenhistoric hangars, a glass walled atrium welcomesvisitors to view over 60 static aircraft and a lunarmodule perched on a simulated moon surface.Towering above them all is an IMAX theatercomparable to the one located at the Smithsonian's

Air and Space Museum.

The Cradle goes to great lengths to capture thehistory of Grumman Aerospace which producedsome of the most famous fighters of WWII. Theseaircraft were produced in Bethpage, Long Island.The Wildcat, Hellcat and Avenger are some of themost recognized aircraft of the time and wereinstrumental in all theaters of the war, especially inthe Pacific carrier battles. Over 22,000 of theseaircraft were built.

Modern fighters and bombers were also producedby Grumman. Most famous is the F-14 Tomcat(the same aircraft seen in the famed Tom Cruisemovie Top Gun). Over 700 of these supersonic jetswere built and flown from Long Island. This Navyfighter, now being phased out, defended the fleetduring the height of the Cold War. One of the lastversions of the Tomcat is on display at the Cradle.Another version of the aircraft sits on a concretepedestal at the Grumman Memorial Park, justoutside the gates of the former Calverton NavalTest Facility in Riverhead, Long Island, wherethese aircraft were assembled and test flown. Thenames of many of the employees are found etchedin bricks along the Park's walkway. The firstlanding of man on the Moon (July 20, 1969) couldnot have been made possible without Grumman'scontributions. While many recognize the famousquote by Neil Armstrong as he left the lunarmodule to step on the Moon - "That's one smallstep for man; one giant leap for mankind"- manydon't realize that he would have never made it to

98

Gov. Pataki at the grand Opening of the new Aviation Museum in Long Island, the Cradle of Aviation.

Grumman Wildcat, one of many built on Long Island for WWII

Congratulations to all participants and good luck intheir future endeavors!

Winning entries can be viewed on our website soon at:http://www.dot.state.ny.us/pubtrans/avart.html

For more information on 2005 Aviation ArtContest, contact:

Edwin Kaliku, Aviation Education Coordinatorekaliku@dot.state.ny.us or Reyhan Doganaksoy rdoganaksoy@dot.state.ny.us

Antony Toron

Nick Novicov

Kate Vanderpool

Artwork of the First Place Winners in Each Category

NEW YORK AVIATION HISTORY: The Long Island Storyby Ed Buckley & Gery Lewi of the American AirPower Museum

Aviation History is alive on Long Island

History says Dayton, Ohio is the birthplace ofaviation and Kitty Hawk (actually Kill Devil Hills,NC) was first in flight but, in truth, Long Island iswhere America learned to fly. Known as the"Cradle of Aviation", with its open plains andconstant winds, Long Island became home tocompanies and airports that produced thousandsupon thousands of civilian and military aircraftalong with record breaking flights for height,duration and innovation. Today Long Island hasbeen able to preserve and project its aviationheritage from a variety of historic locations. Eachone is worth a visit.

The Cradle of Aviation & GrummanMemorial Park

A museum definitely worth visiting is the Cradle ofAviation (www.cradleofaviation.org) opened in2001 in Garden City. It is on the original site ofMitchel Field Air Force Base (Mitchel Field isnamed after the New York City Mayor John PuroyMitchel who died in a WW I training accident andnot after General Billy Mitchell). Nestled betweenhistoric hangars, a glass walled atrium welcomesvisitors to view over 60 static aircraft and a lunarmodule perched on a simulated moon surface.Towering above them all is an IMAX theatercomparable to the one located at the Smithsonian's

Air and Space Museum.

The Cradle goes to great lengths to capture thehistory of Grumman Aerospace which producedsome of the most famous fighters of WWII. Theseaircraft were produced in Bethpage, Long Island.The Wildcat, Hellcat and Avenger are some of themost recognized aircraft of the time and wereinstrumental in all theaters of the war, especially inthe Pacific carrier battles. Over 22,000 of theseaircraft were built.

Modern fighters and bombers were also producedby Grumman. Most famous is the F-14 Tomcat(the same aircraft seen in the famed Tom Cruisemovie Top Gun). Over 700 of these supersonic jetswere built and flown from Long Island. This Navyfighter, now being phased out, defended the fleetduring the height of the Cold War. One of the lastversions of the Tomcat is on display at the Cradle.Another version of the aircraft sits on a concretepedestal at the Grumman Memorial Park, justoutside the gates of the former Calverton NavalTest Facility in Riverhead, Long Island, wherethese aircraft were assembled and test flown. Thenames of many of the employees are found etchedin bricks along the Park's walkway. The firstlanding of man on the Moon (July 20, 1969) couldnot have been made possible without Grumman'scontributions. While many recognize the famousquote by Neil Armstrong as he left the lunarmodule to step on the Moon - "That's one smallstep for man; one giant leap for mankind"- manydon't realize that he would have never made it to

98

Gov. Pataki at the grand Opening of the new Aviation Museum in Long Island, the Cradle of Aviation.

Grumman Wildcat, one of many built on Long Island for WWII

Congratulations to all participants and good luck intheir future endeavors!

Winning entries can be viewed on our website soon at:http://www.dot.state.ny.us/pubtrans/avart.html

For more information on 2005 Aviation ArtContest, contact:

Edwin Kaliku, Aviation Education Coordinatorekaliku@dot.state.ny.us or Reyhan Doganaksoy rdoganaksoy@dot.state.ny.us

Antony Toron

Nick Novicov

Kate Vanderpool

Artwork of the First Place Winners in Each Category

7

After serving Republic for eleven years, AirportManager Stephen D. Williams accepted a newposition with the Delaware River Bay Authority astheir Manager of Airport Operations. Prior toRepublic, Steve was the Airport manager forseveral airports in New Jersey as well as workingas both Acting Director of Aviation and theAssistant Director of Aviation for the NYC Dept. ofTransportation's Bureau of Ferries and GeneralAviation. Steve holds an MBA from DowlingCollege and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Sciencefrom the City College of New York. He is alicensed pilot and was an adjunct professor withSUNY Farmingdale. In his new position, he willhave oversight of five airports located in Delaware

and New Jersey.Shelley LaRose-Arken has accepted the positionof Acting Airport Manager at Republic. She has aBachelor of Science Degree in AviationManagement, is a licensed commercial instrumentand multi engine rated pilot and has over 15 yearsof airport management experience. Prior to herassignment as Assistant Airport Manager atRepublic in 1999, she worked at Spirit of St. LouisAirport, Cincinnati Northern KentuckyInternational, and Westchester County Airport.

We wish Hugh, Mike, Steve and Shelly the best intheir new endeavors! For more information contactEd Buckley at (518)457-8343 or e-mail atebuckley@state.dot.ny.us

Once again NYSDOT Aviation Services Bureauparticipated in the International Aviation ArtContest. This contest is sponsored by theFédération Aéronautique Intérnationale (FAI),based in Paris, France, in cooperation with theNational Association of State Aviation Officials(NASAO), Federal Aviation Administration, andthe National Aeronautics and SpaceAdministration. The theme for 2005 is "Create anAir show Poster: More than 100 Years of HumanFlight." The purpose of this contest is to stimulatechildren's interest in aeronautics (aviation),engineering and science. Entries were judged inthree age groups.

This year we received 162 entries, of which 38were in Category One: Ages 6-9, 118 were in

Category Two: Ages 10-13, and 6 were in CategoryThree: Ages 14-17. Their artwork was judgedbased on this year's chosen theme, creativity,presentation, and technical ability.

The winning entries were forwarded to NASAO forthe national segment of the contest which tookplace the first week of February. Kate Vanderpool,first place winner in Category One in New YorkState, has done such an impressive work that shealso won first-place on National Level. Kate camein second in the National Competition in the samecategory in 2004. Her art work will be submittedto the FAI headquarters for the internationalcompetition. The winners in all three categories inthe New York competition are as follows:

2005 INTERNATIONAL AVIATION ART CONTEST by Reyhan Doganaksoy

the surface without the Long Island designed andbuilt Lunar Module (LM) delivered by Grumman.Again, the Cradle has a stunning example of a realLM sitting on a mock lunar surface.

American Airpower Museum at RepublicAirport

Now owned by the New York State Department ofTransportation, Republic Airport in Farmingdale,Long Island is another location that producedthousands of great civil and military aircraftthroughout its sixty-year history. Prominentaircraft manufactures including Seversky, Republicand Fairchild all produced aircraft on this siteranging from private planes to seaplanes to famousmilitary propeller and jet aircraft. The P-47Thunderbolt may have been the most famous ofthe planes produced there. Approximately 15,000were produced for WWII and about 9,000 of thosewere made at Republic Airport. These planes wereaffectionately known as "the Jug" for their heavydesign and shape.

Another famous fighter is the Republic A-10Thunderbolt II (originally named the Warthog). Alittle more than 700 of these aircraft wereproduced on this site before the Fairchild-RepublicCompany closed its doors.

Yet another museum on this historic site is keepingthe history of Republic alive, flying one of the last

remaining Thunderbolts, along with a squadron ofoperational World War II aircraft. The AmericanAirpower Museum(www.americanairpowermuseum.com) flies itsfighters, bombers and transport planes from thesame hangars where many of them were basedsome sixty years ago. A C-47 "D-Day" flightexperience program has been cited by the NewYork Times, the Daily News and Newsday as one ofthe most realistic opportunities history buffs mayhave in turning back the clock to World War II.

In addition this facility allows visitors to speak tothe "Living Treasures of our Nation", mainly ourdistinguished WWII veterans and retired defenseindustry employees who may serve as volunteertour guides. Special attractions include visitingaircraft such as B-17 and B-29 bombers along withConstellation and DC-4 airliners.

Long Island MacArthur is growing

Today's airliners are using Long Island MacArthurAirport, located in the Town of Islip whereSouthwest Airlines has just opened the $55 millionPeter J. McGowan Concourse and furtherexpanded the ability of the region to usecommercial aviation to get from here to there.With the addition of Southwest, enplanementshave gone from 438,118 in 1998 to 939,880 in2003, an increase of 114 %. Once an airstrip backin the 1940's for the maintenance of airliners and atesting facility for Sperry Gyroscope, today it is a

Factory production of Republic P-47 Thunderbolts built atRepublic Airport. P-47 Thunderbolts were being built at a rate

of one every hour at Republic during WW II

American Airpower MuseumPictured are a B-17 (Flying Fortress), a C-47/DC-3

(aka Skytrain, Dakota, Gooney Bird ) and a F4U Corsair (made famous by the Baa Baa Black Sheep)

10

are properly focused and balanced, within thecontext of community concerns, to meet the needsof the region's airports and provide the highestlevels of service to customers.

Joseph Testo of the Bureau may be contacted(518)-457-8343 for further information on thisstudy or e-mail at jtesto@dot.state.ny.us

REPUBLIC AIRPORT NEWS by Ed Buckley

Republic is a General Aviation airportowned by New York State. It is located inFarmingdale, Long Island.

New Hangar at Atlantic Aviation

Talon Air and Atlantic Aviation are well underwayin constructing a new state of the art facility,including an almost 30,000 square foot hangar andan attached 10,000 plus square foot two storyoffice section. This is the first new hangerconstructed on the airport in 5 years. The hangarstands at just over 45' tall with 28' high doors. It isdesigned to meet two hour fire wall constructionstandards. The inside of the hangar is capable ofhousing two "Gulfstream" type business jets withroom left over for several smaller airplanes orhelicopters.

Arrivals and Departures at Republic Airport

In December of 2004, both Steve Williams, AvportsAirport Manager, and Hugh Jones, NYSDOTAirport Director, announced that they would soonbe leaving Republic Airport.

Hugh Jones retired from Republic in February afterserving for two decades. Mr. Jones was a graduatefrom UCLA with a Masters Degree in economicsand a major in transportation. He worked forTWA, Douglas Aircraft, American Airlines and thePort Authority prior to his appointment as Directorof Republic Airport in 1983 for New York StateDepartment of Transportation.

Mr. Jones has been dedicated to aviation and has apassion for the present and future of Republic

Airport. During Mr. Jones tenure at Republic hewas responsible for spearheading economicdevelopment efforts. In 1998, Republic became aself-sufficient operation with an annual operatingbudget of over $2.5 M per year. Economicdevelopment has been carefully balanced againstairport issues by Mr. Jones, who has also protectedthe interests of the Commission and community bymaintaining Republic's role as a general aviationairport. He plans to be driving his new convertiblein central Florida by the time this article ispublished!

Mike Geiger has been appointed as the newDirector of Republic Airport for NYSDOT. Mike isa Professional Engineer and is a licensed privatepilot. He has over 24 years of experience withNYSDOT in Region 10 (Long Island).

Mike has a Bachelor of Science Degree in CivilEngineering from Bradley University. In his time atDOT, he has developed experience in designincluding highway alignment, drainage,environmental studies and structural design. Laterhe was assigned to the Consultant ManagementSection of the Design group, where he wasresponsible for supervising consulting engineeringfirms in the preparation of design/environmentalreports and final design plans for the Department.

In the last few years, Mike has been providinginvaluable assistance to Republic Airport withregard to proposed economic development projectsand engineering assistance on and around theairport property.

Most recently, Mike served as the Scoping UnitSupervisor and then the acting head of ProgramManagement for R-10, where he was responsiblefor developing and managing project scopes andassisting with the management of the Region'sCapital program.

As an additional duty and as a further effort tocombine and coordinate all modal activities inRegion 10, Mike will serve as the modalcoordinator for R-10, with overall responsibility forthe Region's interactions and dealings with theLong Island Rail Road and Long Island's Airports.We welcome Mike in his new role of AirportDirector.

6

vibrant, busy airport that contributes to theregion's economy.

Westhampton Beach Facility Still Serves

Originally designed to house F-102 and F-101Interceptors to guard New York City, today the106th Rescue Wing of the New York Air NationalGuard is based at Francis S. Gabreski Airport inWesthampton Beach. The New York Air NationalGuard is the parent organization of the oldestflying unit in the Air National Guard, the 102ndRescue Squadron. The 102nd traces its roots backto the 1st Aero Company formed in 1915 on LongIsland.

One of their tasks is flying Search and Rescuemissions and Medevac Operations in an areadelineated from the Northeast United States, southto the Bahama Islands and east to the Azores. Theunit flies H-130 Hercules four engine planes andHH-60 Jayhawk helicopters. If you read the bookor saw the movie, The Perfect Storm, you arealready familiar with the types of rescue operationsand sacrifices that they may make everyday.

An indelible moment in history

Perhaps the most famous aviation event associatedwith Long Island is the point of departure forCharles Lindbergh's solo transatlantic flight onMay 20, 1927. Taking off from a soggy turf striplocated at Roosevelt Field, hundreds of onlookersheld their breath as he barely cleared the telephonewires on Merrick Avenue and then headed eastduring the early hours of a cold and rainy

morning. Some 33 hours later he was greeted byover a 100,000 well wishers surrounding Paris'LeBourget Field. Today the exact site where hiswheels left the grass, after the third historic bounceneeded to get airborne, is marked by a concretemonument located outside the doors to theFortunoff department store in the Roosevelt Fieldshopping center.

Meanwhile at Republic….

In early May of 2002, to commemorate the 75thanniversary of the historic flight of the Spirit of St.Louis, Charles Lindbergh's grandson, ErikLindbergh, completed a re-creation of hisgrandfather's historic flight by flying solo in asingle engine plane across the Atlantic. SinceRoosevelt Field no longer exists, Erik departedfrom the nearest airport, Republic Airport, to beginhis journey. Flying a significantly more modernaircraft, Erik completed the flight in just over 17hours.

History continues to be made at Republic Airport,with Air Force One landing at the general aviationairport for the first time in history on March 11,2004. Secret Service policy is to never speak aboutwhich aircraft are used and why, but aviationexperts say the 767s best fit the runways andtaxiways of Republic. Also, the location of theairport gave the President the access he needed toconduct his Long Island meetings and then departfor Washington. The capable pilots had little

Charles Lindbergh and his monoplane that made the non-stopflight from New York to Paris in 331/2 hours in May 21, 1927.

Erik Lindbergh, Charles Lindbergh's grandson, preparing for hishistoric recreation the original flight, 75 years ago.

11

studies and has received many requests for thesestudies. Over the last four years the NYS AviationPlanning Program, primarily funded through FAAgrants, has provided 14 general aviation airportswith business plans1. These business plans areintended to help airport sponsors maximize theirrevenues, enhance their operations, and addressairport specific issues. Each plan provides: a capitaldevelopment plan based on a modified ALP andACIP, a descriptive brochure; and a set ofrecommendations and action steps to addressissues, operations, and economic development.

Recommendations have included such items as:runway extensions, hangar development,commercial and industrial development, lease andfee adjustments, and operational changes.McFarland Johnson Inc. and R. A. WiedemannAssoc., through a Department term agreement,have provided much of this business planningservice to date. This term agreement recentlyexpired.

The Department hopes to have a new termagreement in effect by the Fall of this year tocontinue planning work such as the airportbusiness plans. There currently are six airportsponsors requesting business plans and funding isin place to complete four of these plans. Shouldfurther FAA funding become available, additionalairport business plans may be completed. GAairport sponsors requiring a business plan shouldsend a letter of request to Seth Edelman, ActingDirector Aviation Services Bureau. Airportrepresentatives may also call Joseph Testo of theBureau (518-457-8343) for information on theairport business plans or e-mail him atjtesto@dot.state.ny.us

1 Adirondack Regional, Brookhaven Calabro,Dansville Municipal, Dutchess Co., East Hampton,Finger Lakes Regional, Floyd Bennett/Warren Co.,Francis Gabreski, Genesee County, HamiltonMunicipal, Perry Warsaw Municipal, PotsdamMunicipal, Randall, Sullivan Co., WellsvilleMunicipal

FAA REGIONAL AIR SERVICE DEMAND STUDYby Joseph Testo

At some point in the future, the forecast growth ofpassenger and operation volumes may exceed theability of the three PANYNJ commercial airports,John F. Kennedy International (JFK), NewarkLiberty International (EWR), and LaGuardiaAirport (LGA), to meet the demand for passengerair service. Given the key role played by theseairports in the economic health of the New Yorkand New Jersey metropolitan area, it is essentialthat alternative strategies and policies be developedthat address ways to accommodate the forecasteddemand.

It was this concern that lead to the FAA-initiatedRegional Air Service Demand Study. This studywill be conducted jointly, but under separatecontracts, by: the Port Authority of New York andNew Jersey (PANYNJ), the New York StateDepartment of Transportation, and the DelawareValley Regional Planning Commission. ThePANYNJ will integrate the results of the threestudies in a report to the FAA. The overall studyeffort is expected to be underway by the spring ofthis year and be concluded by the fall of 2006.

The New York State Department of Transportationstudy will examine the larger region's small hubairports, including the Stewart International(SWF), Westchester County (HPN) and LongIsland/MacArthur (ISP) Airports in New York Stateto determine the availability of underutilizedcapacity.

The Delaware Valley Regional PlanningCommission (DVRPC) study will include theTrenton Mercer (TTN) and Atlantic CityInternational (ACY) Airports in New Jersey, andthe Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) inPennsylvania for a similar evaluation as the NewYork State study.

Each study will develop forecasts of aviationactivity out to the year 2025. It is hoped that thisstudy will help ensure that capital developments

5

trouble taking off and landing on the 6,827'runway, while the airport was enveloped in thetightest security in its history.

Long Island's aviation manufacturing days are goneand unlikely to return but its rich and diversehistory contributed so much to our nation and itsability to defend itself. Through the work of not-for-profit organizations and the vital aviationfacilities such as Republic, our heritage remainsvibrant and alive.

The historical events above, and more, are beinghighlighted in a series of radio clips sponsored bythe Long Island Business Aviation Association(www.libaa.org). The radio spots can be heard onthe local Island radio stations or by clicking thetab labeled "Radio Ads" located in the upper rightportion of the web page. For more informationcontact Ed Buckley at (518)457-8343 or e-mail atebuckley@state.dot.ny.us

NYAMA Perspective/Accomplishments/Notes

Aviation in New York State is an exciting, thoughchallenging, industry to be in. The State boaststremendous aviation resources and incredibleaviation potential. Unrest in the airline industryand potential reductions in federal AIP fundingmay challenge us as an industry, but optimismprevails in what is arguably the most efficient andpowerful transportation mode available.

General Aviation Sales Tax Relief

Last year, New York State passed an importantpiece of legislation to exempt the maintenance andrepair of general aviation aircraft from sales anduse tax. The legislation provided a tremendousbenefit to the aviation industry, helping to level thecompetitive playing field with neighboring statesthat had already passed similar tax relief measures.

New York State observed an exodus of corporateaircraft and general aviation business whenneighboring states - including New Jersey,Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Delaware -eliminated the sales tax on aircraft sales,maintenance and repairs. Aircraft owners found itwas more economical to purchase, maintain andstore their aircraft out-of-state and fly them to NewYork airports when needed.

It is estimated that each private jet located in NewYork produces three to five skilled jobs. New Yorkbased aircraft also contribute millions of dollars tothe state's tax base through the purchase of fueland catering services. But to realize this kind ofeconomic impact, New York State needed to domore to keep business from crossing state lines.This legislation is a significant help toward thatend.

The legislation specifically exempts aircraftmaintenance and repairs along with all costsassociated with keeping an aircraft in a conditionof fitness, efficiency, readiness and safety. It alsoprovides tax relief for the installation of newmachinery and equipment installed on an aircraft,engine parts, electronics, and aircraft storageexpense during maintenance and repairs.

For more information about the legislation, visitNYAMA's web-site at: www.nyama.com.

Fall Conference

The Association's annual fall conference isscheduled for October 5-7, 2005 in Rochester, NY.The conference will feature training sessions andpresentations addressing hot topics in the aviationindustry, an exhibit show, and valuable

12

Air Force One Arrives to Republic Airport for the very fist time.

July 22, 2005. Airports are encouraged to submitregistrations and security plans well in advance ofthis date. That way, if there are any discrepancieswith your information we can resolve them by theabove compliance date. In order to further assistyou with this effort and in case you have anyquestions pertaining to the registration applicationor security plan requirements, we have a GARegistration Coordinator that can be reached at(518) 457-8343 or by email ataviation@dot.state.ny.us.

AIR SERVICE ISSUESby Gerardo Mendoza

This past year has been a tumultuous one for airservice. Nationwide airlines are facing higher oilprices, and reduced revenues, even with increasedenplanements. Several have been in bankruptcycourt. At the same time low-fare airlines haveincreased services in some markets, providingcompetition on those routes. Accordingly, NewYork State airports have seen a mix of serviceimprovements and service reductions in the pastyear.

As low-fare airlines made inroads into marketsonce dominated by "legacy" carriers, some NewYork airports have benefited from this expansion.Newcomer Independence Air began serving

Albany, Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo, Stewart,White Plains, and JFK -- providing neededcompetition for service between these cities andWashington, DC and points south. SoutheastAirlines' low fare service helped to significantlyincrease passenger levels at Stewart Airport untilits departure (more on this below). Jet Bluecontinued its expansion at JFK and maintained itsstrong position as the second largest airline at theairport in terms of volume. Southwest Airlines'service at Albany, Islip, and Buffalo continues tomature and gain market share. Last year Southwestexpanded service from Islip to Las Vegas and fromBuffalo to points in Florida. New non-stop servicebetween Albany and Chicago was just announcedas well.

Not all developments were positive for New Yorkairports, however. Southeast Airlines impressiveperformance at Stewart came to an abrupt end asthe airline ceased operations in all its marketswithout warning. Other problems loom asUSAirways continues to struggle to remain inbusiness while in its second bankruptcy. Industryexperts still predict that the airline may have toliquidate its assets. If this happens, New York Statecould lose nearly 23% of its air service shouldother carriers not pick up all trip segments. A fewairports across the state have begun developingcontingency plans to deal with this potentialsituation. Independence Air, which converted froma United Airlines subsidiary to a low-fare carrier,will face great challenges in this highly competitiveindustry.

Questions about this article can be directed toGerardo Mendoza at (518)457-8343 or via e-mailto address air service and airfare problems in theircommunities. at gmendoza@dot.state.ny.us.

GA AIRPORT FINANCIAL PLANSby Joseph Testo

In the current environment of constrainedmunicipal budgets and rising operating costs,general aviation airports are recognizing a need forbetter business models. NYSDOT, understandingthis need, has offered airport financial planning

4

Small Community Air ServiceDevelopment Program

On January 19, 2005 the US Department ofTransportation solicited proposals fromcommunities and/or consortia of communitiesinterested in obtaining a federal grant underthe Small Community Air ServiceDevelopment Program were due last April 22.The USDOT is currently reviewing thenumerous applications received, includingthree from New York communities -- Ithaca-Tompkins Regional, Stewart International, andMassena International. For more informationvisit the USDOT Docket Management Systemat http://dms.dot.gov/ and search by DocketNo. 20127.

opportunities for networking with industry peers.Mark your calendar and plan to join us!

Collaboration, Cooperation

It is more important than ever that industry leaderswork together to advance and support aviation.NYAMA values its relationship with the NYSDepartment of Transportation, and looks forwardto ongoing collaboration and cooperation. Inaddition, the Association has worked to forgestrong working relationships with AOPA, NBAA,AAAE, LIBAA and other industry groups toadvance the industry.

5010 Sights of Interestby Ed Buckley

A rare sightindeed. ATwin Ottersighted atHollandsInternationalairport. Anairstriplocated nearBuffalo,

consisting of a turf runway, approximately 3000'long. The aircraft is used primarily by parachutists.It can carry 15-20 sky divers at a time. It is paintedin its original scheme from when it was a part ofthe Norwegian Air force.

A helicopterpreparing toland at theWest ThirtiethHeliportlocated on theHudson river,on the westside ofManhattan.

There are 11 different landing areas at the site.This is one of only three public use heliports inNYC. Liberty tours offer helicopter tour rides fromthis facility, of the NYC area.

An olderversion of theCessna 172preparing todepart fromPratt's EasternDivide, a turfairstrip 2600'feet long,located nearChautauqua Lake. This particular pilot had alreadyvisited every public use airport in Pennsylvaniaand was just starting his quest to do the same inthe State of New York.

5010 Programby Ed Buckley

We have made great progress in our 5010 FAAAirport Safety Data Collection Program this pastseason. These inspections are conducted by NewYork State DOT, under the FAA's Master Record(Form 5010) Program. Under this program, theinspector collects current information concerningthe operations, physical condition, visual landingaids and the obstructions surrounding the airport.The FAA 5010 airport data inspections areintended to collect information to enhance safetyfor the flying public. The data gathered providesthe basis for federally produced flight publicationssuch as the Airport Facility Directory, AeronauticalCharts and Instrument Approach Plates. Numerousprivately-produced flight guides also rely on FAAForm 5010 as a primary source of information.

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For more information on NYAMAPerspective/Accomplishements/Notes,

contact Brian Shaughnessy, Communications Director

New York Aviation Management Association119 Washington Avenue, Suite 100 Albany,New York 12210518. phone: 432.9973 fax:

518.432.1712 info@nyama.com |www.nyama.com

ADDITIONAL AIR '99 PROJECTS AWARDED by Lorrin Bird

NY's AIR '99 program provided $2.44 Million instate grant monies for projects which were eithernot eligible for, or not likely to obtain FAA grants.The funds for this program were derived from theprivatization of Stewart Intl Airport.

The grants supported 38 individual airportprojects, one multi-airport effort to improvecommercial air service and, a statewide traininginitiative. Three privately owned non-relieverairports that could not compete for Federal AIPmonies received AIR '99 grants.

As the AIR '99 grants reached their four year term,several airports returned grant funds. Thesereturned funds were used to fund a second roundof AIR '99 projects. Seventeen privately ownednon-reliever airports in the state system plan wereinvited to submit project applications and competefor approximately $245,000 in available funds.

Applications were received from nine airports for atotal of twenty seven projects. Five members of theAviation Bureau rated each application based onsix factors which included: project type,justification, value, business service, past grantmanagement, and state share.

Review of the final project scores resulted in theselection of three projects which fit within theavailable funding. Grant preparation for the threeprojects was initiated during February 2005, andthe airports that submitted applications werenotified of the selection process results andthanked for their participation.

The selected projects included:

• Partial parallel taxiway and related apron work atthe South Albany Airport to eliminate back-taxiingon the runway by landing aircraft, a serious safetyproblem.

• Replacement of the non-standard runwaylighting system and installation of PAPI visualglide slopes at Cooperstown-Westville Airport(Otsego County).

• Removal of a utility pole in the primary landingapproach at Pine Hill Airport (Orleans County),which will improve airport safety.

For more information on Air'99 contact LorrinBird at (518)3234 or e-mail at lbird@dot.state.ny.us

GA AIRPORT SECURITY by Gerardo Mendoza

With the enactment of New York's ground-breaking Anti-Terrorism Preparedness Act on July23, 2004, the Aviation Services Bureau acquired anew mandate. In part, the purpose of the law is toenhance security at General Aviation (GA)airports. Since GA airports vary widely in size andresources, application of security enhancementswill vary by airport taking into account its size,level of activity, and proximity to areas of concern,among other factors. In summary, GA airports arerequired to:

• Submit a security plan which is responsive to theguidelines published by the TransportationSecurity Administration

• Register with the New York State Department ofTransportation by July 23, 2005 and every threeyears thereafter

• Implement other security measures aimed atsafeguarding aircraft and airport property

An informational letter was mailed to all GAairports on October 5, 2004. Registration packetsand instructions were mailed at the beginning ofJanuary.

Bureau staff is committed to helping airportmanagers and owners to comply with the law.Besides answering questions via phone and e-mail,all relevant documents have been made availableon the Bureau's website,http://www.dot.state.ny.us/pubtrans/airhome.html.Additionally, if there is enough interest expressed,Bureau staff will conduct training/Q&A sessionsacross the state.

The law requires that GA airports comply by3

There are approximately 137 public use airportswithout scheduled commercial service (non Part139 Certified) in New York. Four of these have orwill go to private use soon. We also expect one togo to Part 139 soon, which would mean theywould be inspected by the FAA rather than usleaving 132 airports to inspect. Of the 132 airports,only 30 are yet to be inspected. Four will beinspected shortly by Ron Coleman of Region 9,seven are local to our Albany area, twelve are inthe NYC or Long Island area and eight more arescattered through out the state.

We hope to get all these airport inspectionswrapped up soon and then we will begin a newinspection program where we will inspect all theairports again, on a three year cycle. This yearNYSDOT will enter into an agreement with theSouthern Illinois University (SUI) at Carbondale,to assemble and record the data. The FAA andG.C.R. and Associates will in turn have anagreement with SUI to collect and manage the datafrom the inspections.

If you have any questions concerning the 5010program, or if want to know if your airport isincluded in the upcoming inspections, contact EdBuckley at (518)457-8343 or e-mail atebuckley@state.dot.ny.us

NEW FAA GUIDANCE ON EVALUATINGPAVEMENT SURFACE CONDITION by Lorrin Bird

On July 19, 2004, FAA released a new advisorycircular which provides a simplified system forunderstanding and rating the surface condition offlexible and rigid airfield pavements. The circularprovides pavement distress identification basicswith a brief discussion of the underlying distresscauses.

The target audience is airport managers andpersonnel conducting 5010 inspections, althoughairport planners and engineers may also benefitfrom the fundamental discussion of pavementproblems which is presented.

Advisory Circular 150/5320-17, AIRFIELDPAVEMENT SURFACE EVALUATION ANDRATING MANUALS, provides two sections whichdeal with asphalt concrete and concrete pavements.The rating system requires minimal measurements

and math, and works by matching the frequencyand/or condition of pavement distresses to one offive descriptions.

The Circular may be obtained from the followingFAA web site:http://www.faa.gov/arp/150acs.cfm?ARPnav=acs

As an example of system use, a flexible pavementsurface with sealed longitudinal thermal cracks 55feet apart and minimal edge cracking or ravelingwould rate "4" (Good). If the thermal crackstended to be less than 50' apart and contained10%-25% unsealed cracks with some edgecracking, the score would decrease to "3" (Fair).

The Circular states that the rating system is notintended to be used to determine the timing orneed for pavement rehabilitation projects. On thepositive side, the simple nature of the ratingsystem would permit regular inspections by airportpersonnel in support of airport pavementmanagement requirements, annual airfield reportpreparation, identifying the need for more detailedpavement evaluations and general facility planning.

The advisory circular is an important addition toavailable guidance on pavement evaluation, andthe nature of the material should increase theaudience that may benefit from the material. Formore information contact Lorrin Bird at (518)457-3234 or e-mail at lbird@dot.state.ny.us

POTENTIAL IMPACTS FROM RECENTCOURT DECISION CONCERNING AIRPORTRECREATIONAL/WILDLIFE AREAS ANDSECTION 4F DETERMINATIONSby Steve Campbell

A recent decision rendered by the Federal SecondCourt of Appeals concerning the application ofSection 303 of the Transportation Act, commonlyreferred to as Section 4f, to a proposed access roadproject at Stewart Airport in Newburgh, New York,could impact the way airports, as well as othertransportation facilities, manage their properties inthe future.

The purpose of Section 4f is to preserve andprotect the natural beauty of the countryside,public parks and recreational areas, wildlife andwaterfowl areas and historical sites. Section 4frequirements apply only to U.S. DOT agencies

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NOTES FROM THE DIRECTORSeth Edelman

It is an exciting time in the Aviation ServicesBureau, the State, and in the industry. We haveovercome many of the challenges of the post 9-11aviation environment. There is a new spirit ofenthusiasm and cooperation among aviation folks.Passenger volumes continue to rise at largerairports, cooperative security operations areongoing, and general aviation (GA) has newpromise.

Passenger levels have continued to increase at ourHub airports and are expected to exceed the 2000peak total activity of nearly 37 million in a fewyears. Low-fare airlines, such as South West and JetBlue, are responsible for much of the increase intraffic. This increase in passengers has benefited airservice and continues to help our economy grow.

General aviation has become increasinglyimportant as air charter, fractional ownership andlight business jet activity all continue to increasethe number of flights at smaller airports. Thesetypes of flights are a preferred choice for manybusinesses to move executives, clients, vendors,and individuals point-to-point in an unconstrainedand timely fashion. In addition, very light jets willincrease the number of accessible airports in thefuture. While there is exceptional access right now,the State and local communities continue to planfor the facilitation of business at these strategicairports. Assisting GA businesses, the State'sAviation Management Association (NYAMA) hassuccessfully moved legislation this year to helpFBOs and related businesses through a reductionof service taxes.

The aviation industry is of immense importance tothe State's economy and to the communities servedby the airports. The NYSDOT study "The Benefitsof Aviation in NYS", documented that in 2002 theState's Airports directly and indirectly generatedover $35 billion in economic activity, includingnearly $3 billion in State and local taxes, and350,000 jobs.

We are proud of the well developed and extensivesystem of airports in New York State. Theseairports continue to serve business and theoccasional traveler alike in the highest quality andsafest environment possible. After all, New Yorkstarted early in the aviation world. As you will readabout in this newsletter, there is a wealth ofaviation history here, from Charles Lindbergh'stransatlantic flight in 1927 to the innovation andmanufacturing which led to New York beingdescribed as the "Cradle of Aviation."

As the articles contained in this newsletterindicate, the Bureau has been very busy. Activitiesrange from the studies such as Airport EconomicBenefits, Business Plans, Obstruction Analysis, AirService Analyses, to legislative and regulatoryreviews, to supporting operations at RepublicAirport, to programs such as the AIP matchinggrants, Air 99 grants, 5010 safety inspections, thenew GA security initiative, and administering theNew York Aviation Student Art Contest (in factyou can see the work of talented young artists inthis issue of the newsletter!).

We will endeavor to continue these activities anddo more with our small but very capable staff. It isalways important to remember that in order toachieve our common goals we will all have tocontinue to work cooperatively together to addressthe challenges of a changing industry.

The positive experience I have enjoyed during myfirst two years as the State's Acting Director ofAviation has been the result of the wonderfulpeople in the industry who have been sosupportive. Folks in the FAA, NYAMA, AOPA,NBAA and other organizations that make ourindustry what it is all have my gratitude. I willcontinue to be receptive to your advice andgrateful for your assistance. The help you haveprovided has been invaluable in allowing theAviation Services Bureau to provide leadership thatis responsive to the industry's needs.

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(that includes the FAA) and states that theSecretary of Transportation may not approve atransportation project that requires the use of anyof the above described publicly owned lands unlessa determination is made that, (1) there is noprudent and feasible alternative to using thoselands and (2) the project includes all possibleplanning to minimize harm resulting from usingsuch lands.

The first step in a 4f determination is to identifyprotected properties, as defined by 4f, that may beimpacted by a proposed transportation project. Inorder for a property to qualify for 4f protectionthey must meet all of the four criteria as definedwithin section 4f;

1. Be publicly owned2. Open to the public3. Officially designated as park, rec area, etc.

(major purpose)4. Considered significant

If there are no properties being utilized orimpacted by your project which meet all of theabove criteria no 4f determination is required.However, if it is determined that the propertiesimpacted by your project meet these criteria acomplete 4f determination will be required, whichover the history of this legislation, will most likelyinvolve finding an alternate to utilizing orimpacting such properties.

The proposed development of a new access road toStewart Airport referred to as the Stewart AccessImprovement Project, or Drury Lane project, hasbeen part of numerous planning initiativesundertaken for the airport since the early 1970'swhen New York State (NYS) assumed ownership ofthe airport. Soon after NYS assumed ownership ofthe airport, legislation was passed to acquire anadditional adjacent 8,000 acres usingtransportation bond monies for the expresspurpose of accommodating future expandedairport operations, airport compatible developmentand aircraft noise abatement including air safetyand runway clear areas. The State then spentdecades working with the community indeveloping a master plan for the development ofthe airport and these adjoining 8,000 acres.

While the airport was being developed, NYSpermitted these 8,000 acres to be used by the

public on an interim basis for recreational useutilizing revocable lease agreements subject totermination within 60 days. In the mid 90's aftercompleting a Generic Environmental ImpactStatement (GEIS) for the utilization of the 8,000acres, which review included the proposeddevelopment of the Drury lane Access road project,efforts began on developing a project specific EISfor the Drury Lane Project. During this time adecision was made by the Federal HighwayAdministration that no 4f determination would berequired for this project because the area where theaccess road was proposed to be built, which ispartially within the 8,000 acres, would not beconsidered recreational properties as defined bySection 4f. As such, no 4f determination was madefor this project.

After completion of the FEIS for the Drury Laneproject in 2000, the decision not to conduct a 4fdetermination for this project was challenged andin December of 2003 a decision was rendered bythe Second Circuit Court of Appeals that a 4fdetermination would be required for this project.This decision has now created a situation whichrequires the State to justify using its land for thevery purpose for which those lands were acquiredand managed. The State is now required to eitheravoid all impacts or use of this property it hasspecifically taken and set aside for transportationpurposes, or to analyze all possible alternatives tothe use of this property, on the grounds that thepermissive interim recreational use by the public ofthat property has changed the character of theproperty from its originally intended transportationuse to recreation.

This decision could have the impact of requiringstate agencies, as well as other publictransportation agencies that receive federaltransportation funds, to reconsider allowinginterim use of their properties for recreationalpurposes in order to assure that the land caneventually be put to the use for which it wasacquired. This would be unfortunate, as airportdevelopment is a lengthy process and allowing thepublic temporary access to available lands forrecreational use while development strategies areunderway provides a great benefit to the public,which may now be lost. For more informationcontact Steve Campbell atscampbell@dot.state.ny.us or (518)457-8439.

Aviation NewsletterEmpire State

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Director's Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Air '99 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3GA Airport Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Air Service Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4GA Airport Financial Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4FAA Regional Air Service Demand Study . . . . 5Republic Airport News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62005 Aviation Art Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7New York Aviation History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9NYAMA Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125010 Sights of Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135010 Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Evaluating Pavement Surface Condition. . . . 14Airport Recreational/Wildlife Areas . . . . . . . . 14

Spring 2005

BUREAU STAFF (from left): Front Row: Seth Edelman, Director, Denise Geraldi, Gerardo Mendoza,Back Row: Ed Buckley, The Air Bear, Lorrin Bird, Edwin Kaliku, Joe Testo, Reyhan Doganaksoy, Steve Campbell

AVIATION SERVICES BUREAU

George E. Pataki, Governor Joseph H. Boardman, Commissioner

New York State Department of Transportation

Passenger Transportation Division

Aviation Services Bureau

Phone: (518) 457-8343 Fax: (518) 457-9779

www.dot.state.ny.us/pubtrans/airhome.html

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New York State Department of Transportation

Aviation Services Bureau50 Wolf Road

Albany, NY 12232