Over the next few months, the FAA will develop the capability for automated real-time broadcasts in the cockpit of the status of military operations areas (MOAs) and other special-use airspace (SUA), similar to what is now available for temporary flight restriction dissemination. The plan is included in the recently passed National Defense Authorization Act.

Under the requirements of the act, the FAA has 180 days to “initiate a program enabling automated public dissemination of information on the real-time status of the activation or deactivation of MOAs...and restricted areas in a manner that is similar to the manner that temporary flight restrictions are published and disseminated.”

“This really sets the course for FAA and DOD to use existing technology to ensure pilots have the tools readily available to transit this type of airspace safely and efficiently,” said Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) president Mark Baker. “It is a game-changer for many pilots and ensures our warfighters continue to receive the training they need and deserve.”

Further, the goal to improve operational safety and efficiency by transmitting directly into the cockpit the real-time status of military training and other SUAs “will result in enormous savings and environmental benefits for operators of private, commercial, and military aircraft,” AOPA said.