CHATHAM — The Chatham Airport Commission wishes to provide information and guidance for residents on two 2022 Annual Town Meeting Warrant articles regarding airport operations as residents prepare to vote on the items on May 14.
During a special meeting on Thursday, May 5, Commissioners reviewed and discussed Articles 56 and 57, ultimately voting unanimously in opposition of both. The Chatham Select Board and the Chatham Finance Committee also have voted unanimously in opposition of both articles.
Article 56 seeks to shorten the available runway for landings by 25 percent to 2,200 feet. Further, if enacted, Article 56 would not affect the location of the takeoff runway protection zones at either end of the runway.
“Operational safety is our top priority and a key factor in the decision-making process of this Commission,” Chatham Airport Commission Chairman Huntley Harrison said. “A shorter runway would decrease safety considerably for those on the ground as well as pilots and their passengers – simply put, less runway equals less safety.”
Article 57 seeks to limit the aircraft that can operate at Chatham Airport. Article 57, like Article 56, attempts to set rules in areas specifically under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) jurisdiction.
Opinions by both the Town’s legal counsel and the Airport Commission’s aviation counsel agreed that the articles would violate federal preeminence in making such changes and setting such standards.
“If enacted, these articles would jeopardize safety at the airport and likely lead to legal action against the Town by federal and state officials, as well as by private citizens who own aircraft and use the airport,” Chairman Harrison said. “Changes such as what are proposed by these articles at the very least call for a full evaluation of the trade-offs and consequences, as well as coordination with the FAA. Passage of the articles would be ill-advised, putting a strain on the Town’s resources while potentially diminishing safety for those living near the airport and for pilots and passengers.”
The full Town Meeting warrant may be found here.
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