How the Government Shutdown is Affecting FAA and DoD Review Processes
Based on our experience with previous shutdowns and what we’ve learned today, here’s what you can expect:
Specific to the FAA Aeronautical Study Process
- As of October 10th, 2025, the Obstruction Evaluation Group (OEG) has been furloughed. The FAA online portal will not accept new filings (FAA Form 7460-1). No notices or determinations will be until operations resume.
- It appears that extension requests and supplemental notices (e.g., FAA Form 7460-2 Parts 1 and 2) can be submitted.
Specific to the DoD Review Process
- Mitigation discussions affecting only the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) are likely to continue.
- The Military Aviation and Installation Assurance Siting Clearinghouse will pause work on all airspace-related Mitigation Response Team (MRTs) and drafting, or signing, Mitigation Agreements.
- No new Notices of Presumed Risk (NPRs) will be issued.
- Final determinations (positive or negative) are considered inherently governmental functions and will not occur until operations resume.
- Contract staff may provide status updates but are unlikely to take significant action on projects.
Post-Shutdown Expectations
When the government reopens, we expect a surge in project activity that will impact turnaround times for both existing and new filings. Based on experience, delays may extend to two to three times the length of the shutdown as agencies work through the backlog.
