Aviation Advisories

Pilot Certificates

Beginning April 1, 2010, all pilots must hold a plastic pilot certificate in order to operate an aircraft. Paper certificates will no longer be valid after March 31, 2010. Temporary pilot and all student pilot licenses may remain paper certificates.

All other FAA ratings, including flight engineer, dispatcher and mechanic, must be plastic by April 1, 2013.  You may apply for this plastic certificate at any time.

General Aviation Security Hotline

The Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) national toll-free hotline helps ensure the security of general aviation aircraft and airport operations across the country. It is operated by the National Response Center and centralizes reporting to the appropriate local, state and federal agencies. Call (866) GA SECURE or (866) 427-3287 to report any suspicious activity at your airport.

Flight Restrictions for Texas and the U.S.

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) change frequently, often on very short notice. Call Flight Services before flight or get a DUATS briefing or get the text of the NOTAM and graphic depiction. This official Web site is updated by the FAA and is an official source for TFR NOTAMs. There is no pattern to TFR NOTAMS. New areas may be NOTAMED - Check before any flight.

Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airports

The Transportation Security Administration's Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airports provides general aviation airport owners, operators and users with guidelines and recommendations that address aviation security concepts, technology and enhancements.