September 10, 2002

It was announced earlier in the month by the Federal Government that there will be temporary flight restrictions (TFR) to air space in certain areas of the United States starting on September 11 and, running through September 13.

These (TFR) restrictions will affect the non-commercial aircraft owned by many Winston Cup teams as they traverse to the New Hampshire International Speedway for the New Hampshire 300 race to be run on September 15.

It was stated in a press release from the speedway that the radio show “Imus in the morning” that was scheduled to be live from the track on September 13, 2002 would be canceled. Normal air transportation for non-commercial aircraft will be restricted during the week and possibly prohibiting the “Imus in the morning’ team from traveling to New Hampshire.

Statistics from the State of New Hampshire, Department of transportation suggest that 98,000 race fans will flock to the New Hampshire 300 this coming weekend in what is estimated to be 37,700 vehicles. The event will also bring an estimated 180 private planes that will use several facilities in the area during the race weekend.

Winston Cup teams prefer to travel with the use of private aircraft and the noted heightened security measures are aimed at there use. Pilots will be advised to file flight plans six hours in advance. The rules will limit flying within 34.5 miles radius of memorial event sites in New York, Washington DC and, Somerset Pennsylvania. Passengers on commercial airlines will be required to remain seated for 30 minutes after takeoff and 30 minutes before landing in the three mentioned zones. Government support services aircraft, such as medivac or law enforcement aircraft will be exempt from all restrictions.

At the time of this article we are unsure as to what effect these (TFR) restrictions will place on Winston Cup teams as that traverse U.S. airspace this coming week. We view these restrictions as necessary given the planned events for memorial in the United States that link to the events of September 11, 2001.

In New York which serves as a hub for many flights in the U.S. the (TFR) restrictions will be in effect from 7a.m. EDT September 11 until 8 p.m. September 13. Private planes will be banned shortly before, during and after public outdoor events on all three days.

Fans attending the race in New Hampshire are further reminded that all coolers brought to the speedway should not exceed the standard 14 inch measurement. The speedway will also continue the policy of not allowing glass containers in the grandstand area. All coolers on the speedway property will be subject to inspection.

Prepare yourself for expected delay if you are traveling to the race in New Hampshire and understand that these measures are a needed vehicle for safety in the U.S.

You can contact Joe at: Insider Racing News