Cranes and the FAA: Sky is the Limit!
by Justin Hetland Justin Hetland is a Project Manager at Capitol Airspace Group and is a certified flight instructor. Prior to joining CAG, Justin served as an Aeronautical Information Specialist at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), evaluating the impacts of tall structures on the national airspace system. The FAA has long worked with crane operators to preserve the safety and efficiency of the nation’s airspace. Leading this effort is the FAA’s Obstruction Evaluation Group (OEG). The OEG studies proposed cranes and other off-airport structures that may impact airspace, air navigation, or airport capacity. Ultimately, the OEG will issue favorable determinations of no hazard (DNH) for acceptable structures. With a bit of planning and prior notice, crane operators can raise their booms confident in the safety of nearby aviation activities. When do crane operators have to notify the FAA? Crane operators and/or developers must notify the FAA of any proposed equipment greater than 200 feet above ground level (AGL). Federal regulations also require notice for shorter structures near airports or navigation facilities. The FAA’s Pre-Screening Tool is a quick, easy way to check if notice is required. Filing is required at least 45 days before the start date of construction; however, crane sponsors should file as soon as the requirement becomes apparent. If airspace mitigation is required, the aeronautical study could take many months. How do crane operators file notice of temporary equipment with the FAA? Crane sponsors may use the FAA’s Obstruction Evaluation/Airport Airspace Analysis (OE/AAA) web portal to electronically file Form 7460-1, Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration. This notice outlines the crane’s location, site elevation, structure height, and brief description of the proposal. Once the FAA receives the 7460-1, an OEG technician will verify the filing and assign an aeronautical study number (ASN). At this point, the OEG begins the aeronautical study process. What is involved in the FAA aeronautical study for cranes? The OEG coordinates with ten federal offices across the FAA, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and military to assess proposed cranes. Each line of business studies the proposal for impacts within their areas of responsibility. Cranes that exceed obstruction standards established under 14 CFR Part 77 are deemed to be “obstructions” and may warrant further scrutiny and coordination. The outcome of an aeronautical study is either a favorable determination or, in some cases of adverse effect, a Notice of Preliminary Findings (NPF). Adverse effects can be mitigated through further aeronautical study, adjusting the crane height, or marking and lighting. Following further study, a DNH will be issued provided there is no substantial aeronautical impact. When does the FAA require marking and/or lighting for cranes? In general, all cranes that exceed either 200 feet AGL or 14 CFR Part 77 obstruction standards will require marking and lighting. The FAA specifies marking and lighting requirements in the determination letter. Further information about marking and lighting is available in FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 70/7460-1, Obstruction Marking and Lighting. Who needs to be notified before the crane goes up? Crane sponsors may be required to take several steps to ensure relevant parties are aware of crane activity. Generally, the nearest airport and/or air traffic control tower must be notified at the start and end of the project. If flight procedures will be impacted, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) may be required to alert pilots of the crane’s location. These provisions are specific to each project and are outlined in the determination letter. For assistance with the FAA’s obstruction evaluation process, please contact us.
