01/27/00 Gates to KukulskiU. S. Department
of Transportation
Federal Aviation
Administration
January 27, 2000
Mr. Chris A. Kukulski, City Manager
City of Kalispell
P.C. Box 1997
Kalispell, MT 59903 -1997
Bear Mr. Kukulski:
AIRPORTS DISTRICT OFFICE
2725 Skyway Drive, Suite 2
Helena, MT 59602
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has conducted an aeronautical study (Case
No. 99-BLN-0023-NRA) for proposed improvements at Kalispell City Airport (S27),,
with respect to the surrounding environs including Glacier Park Int'1 Airport (FCA) and
the adjacent radio broadcast towers u'nmediately south of the existing city airport. The
results of this study have dete�aed that the existing radio towers in their current
configuration and height are an obstruction to air navigation as defined by Federal.
Aviation Regulation Part 77, for the existing and proposed realignment of runway 13-31.
As such we would obj ect to any improvements made at the Kalispell City airport through
Airport improvement Program funds, without the City removing the radio tower
obstructions. This determination is based on the following conclusions:
l . Realigning the runway heading so as to clear the towers from the Part 77 approach
surfaces will not eliminate the towers as an obstruction to navigable airspace. The
towers will still penetrate FAR Part 77, horizontal surfaces.
2. A reduction in the height of the towers in their current location and configuration
will not significantly lessen their impact as a potential hazard to air navigation.
3. Future instrument operations are feasible provided the radio towers are removed
and instru rent procedures and operations are developed to prohibit conflicts with
existing operations at FCA.
These conclusions were reached after consideration and review from various divisions
within the FAA. Comments from the FAA Flight Standards District Office are attached
which summarize specific concerns regarding the proposal.
This determination does not mean FAA approval or disapproval of the physical
development involved in the proposal. It is a determination with respect to the safe and
efficient use of airspace by aircraft and with respect to the safety of persons and property
on the ground. Additionally this determination has considered matters such as the effect
the proposal would have on existing or planned traffic patterns of neighboring airports.
No evaluation of the environmental aspects of the proposal was made in reaching this
determination.. Therefore, this determination is not to be construed as approval of the
proposal from an environmental standpoint under Public Law 91-190 (National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969).
Federal Aviation Regulations, Part 77, defines certain imaginary surfaces around airports
and heliports which should be maintained clear of obstructions. Of prune importance are
the approaches that should be kept clear of all obstruction..s below a 20:1 surface (out 20
and up 1) to the runway surface. These surfaces should clear roadways and railroads by
15 fI and 23 f1 respectively (17 f1 for interstate highways). The horizontal surface as
defined by Part 77, lies 150' above the airport elevation.
We would recommend that you advise the subject radio station owner(s) and any other
interested parties as a result of this determination. If you have any questions, please
contact this office at (406) 449-5230.
Sincerely,
0/0��
Gary .Gates
Community Planner
1 Enc l o sure
cc: (w/copy of enclosure)
Flight Standards District Office
Montana Aeronautics Division
Morrison Maeirle Inc, Helena, Kalispell