Alabama Administrative Code Title 60 - ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICS
The Alabama Administrative Code, Title 60, is dedicated to the Alabama Department of Aeronautics. This department, which operates as the Aeronautics Bureau within the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), holds the responsibility for general supervision over all phases of aeronautics within the state.
The primary mission of the ALDOT Aeronautics Bureau, as reflected in these administrative rules, is to:
Ensure the safety and security of airports and the overall air transportation system in Alabama.
Promote the development and improvement of the state's airport system through planning and funding assistance.
Inspect and license airports and heliports to ensure they meet minimum safety and design standards.
Here's a breakdown of the types of rules you would typically find under Alabama Administrative Code, Title 60:
I. General Provisions and Administration:
Definitions: Clarifying terms used throughout the regulations (e.g., "airport," "heliport," "landing area," "aircraft," "airport hazard," "Bureau," "FAA").
Purpose and Scope: Outlining the general objectives of the rules, which is to establish procedures and minimum safety standards for the inspection, licensing, and closure of landing areas.
Departmental Organization: While not always detailed in public rules, these might touch upon the structure of the Aeronautics Bureau within ALDOT.
II. Airport Licensing and Operations:
Landing Area Application Procedures (e.g., Chapter 450-9-1-.06):
Requirements for any person desiring to construct a new landing area, including the need for a "no objection" determination from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) via FAA Form 7480-1.
Procedures for submitting a "State Registration Form" and a drawing depicting the proposed development.
Requirements for existing landing areas to obtain and maintain a license for operation.
Minimum Safety Standards for Landing Areas (e.g., Chapter 450-9-1-.01, and subsequent detailed rules): These are critical and form the bulk of the operational regulations. They would cover:
Runway, Taxiway, and Apron Standards: Specifications for dimensions, surfaces (paved or turf), markings, lighting, and general condition.
Obstruction Standards: Rules related to airport imaginary surfaces and the identification and marking of obstructions to air navigation (e.g., trees, buildings, antennas). This aligns with federal regulations (FAR Part 77).
Approach and Departure Path Standards: Defining safe airspaces for aircraft ingress and egress.
Safety Zones: Requirements for clear zones around runways and taxiways.
Wildlife Hazard Management: Measures to mitigate wildlife risks to aircraft.
Fueling Operations: Safety standards for aviation fuel storage and dispensing.
Fire Protection: Minimum fire suppression capabilities at airports.
Emergency Procedures: Requirements for airport emergency plans.
Heliport Standards: Specific design and operational standards for heliports.
Inspection and Enforcement:
Procedures for Airport Inspectors (merit system employees of the Bureau) to conduct physical inspections of landing areas.
Authority to enforce compliance with rules and regulations.
Procedures for corrective actions and potential penalties for non-compliance.
Closure of Landing Areas: Procedures for the temporary or permanent closure of licensed landing areas.
III. Tall Structures and Air Navigation Hazards:
Hazardous Obstruction Regulation: Rules related to the review and regulation of structures (e.g., towers, buildings, wind turbines) that could pose a hazard to air navigation. ALDOT has the authority to prohibit or restrict construction if a hazard is determined.
IV. Financial Assistance and Programs:
State Aid to Airports: While the specific mechanisms might be detailed more in internal policy or legislative acts, the administrative code might reference procedures for airports to apply for state funding assistance for planning, design, and construction projects. This often involves ensuring compliance with state licensing standards and FAA design standards to qualify for funds.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program: Rules implementing the federal DOT's DBE program for federally-assisted airport projects, ensuring participation by disadvantaged businesses.
The Alabama Department of Aeronautics' administrative rules are fundamental to maintaining a safe, efficient, and well-developed aviation infrastructure within the state, supporting both general aviation and commercial air service, which are vital for Alabama's economic growth and transportation system.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to consult the official Alabama Secretary of State's website for the Alabama Administrative Code, Title 60, or the Alabama Department of Transportation's Aeronautics Bureau's official website.
RELATED Blog
0 comments