Puget Sound TFRs reduced in size, turned into National Security Areas

The Puget Sound and Hermiston TFRs were rescinded at 11:49 1/9/04 and
replaced with National Security Areas, possibly as a prelude to permanent
publication. Jeppesen Flitestar is still showing the old TFRs, however, and
since the Jepp engine is the one that the FAA and AOPA use on their web
sites I would advise caution when flying in these areas. Also, the new NSA
NOTAMs do not specifically say that the old TFRs are rescinded, although
there is a series of FDC NOTAMS that say this, referencing the new NOTAMS.
The new NOTAMS do not look like they are accurately plotted. In particular,
the Bremerton NSA does not cover the shipyard and the Everett NSA is out in
the middle of the Sound. Seattle FSS has noticed this and is seeking
clarification.

The new NSAs are much smaller, but the Bangor NSA no longer has a cutout for
Apex. The ceilings for the NSAs are mostly 100 feet lower than the old TFRs,
but the Hermiston NSA now only goes to 5000 feet instead of 10,000 feet.

I would give it a day or so before just plunging into the area. It looks
like some changes are already in the works.

--
Christopher J. Campbell
World Famous Flight Instructor
Port Orchard, WA


If you go around beating the Bush, don't complain if you rile the animals.