Impact of fighter jets over Maine to be studied

[unhappycamper]

Impact of fighter jets over Maine to be studied
The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Jan 7, 2009 18:30:33 EST

AUGUSTA, Maine — The National Guard has agreed to conduct a full environmental review as part of its proposal to lower the flight deck for fighter pilot training missions over western Maine, Gov. John Baldacci said Tuesday.

Baldacci said verbal confirmation was given to Col. Donald McCormack of the Maine Air National Guard by the Air National Guard Readiness Center at Andrews Air Force Base, Md.

It’s unclear whether the full environmental impact statement sought by the governor will alter the timetable for the proposed changes. The National Guard plans to file its proposal with the Federal Aviation Administration this spring, and hopes to begin the training flights in October.

Under the proposal, National Guard F-15 pilots from Massachusetts and F-16 pilots from Vermont would be allowed to fly as low as 500 feet over the hills and mountains of western Maine.

Critics have questioned the need for the ground-hugging flights in the 3,600-square-mile Condor Military Operation Area that includes Bethel, Rumford, Rangeley and Farmington. They’ve also raised questions about noise, safety and quality of life.


Rest of article at: http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2009/01/ap_maine_guard_jets_010709/%2e