PPG pilot here. Part 103.17 states that class B, C, D, and the lateral area of E to the ground are prohibited. But PASC shows an Ultralight Activity Warning symbol right in the middle of a Class E to the ground. How is this possible? Maybe the class changed and the symbol was just left on the map? Commercial 737-ish [and larger cargo] planes have been flying in and out of this place every day for nearly 50 years. I can't imagine it wasn't a class E to the ground with that level of traffic any time after the 80s. Any ideas?
From CFR:
§ 103.17 Operations in certain airspace.
No person may operate an ultralight vehicle within Class A, Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport unless that person has prior authorization from the ATC facility having jurisdiction over that airspace.
Hi, EASA pilot here, so take everything I say with a grain of salt, there are differences between our regulations. FAA 103.17 says "unless that person has prior authorisation" therefore technically it is possible to go gliding there if ATC permits. Of course that is unlikely given the current traffic situation that you described. As far as I can see there aren't any clubs or flight schools there either. My theory is that since its subject to authorisation, there's no reason to remove it, and if there's a change in the traffic situation or there's a special occasion, the already established gliding area keeps the activities organised.
Thanks! And I envy your vocation.
There are a few GA pilots up this far, supercubs, cesnas, etc. Since the traffic revolves around a business, there are no flights on the weekend, so I thought that maybe the area reverts to class G or something but I see no indication of that.
You've given some clarity to my confusion and I really appreciate your response. Thanks!