BATTLE CREEK (WKZO-AM) — The changing nature of the mission at the Air National Guard Base in Battle Creek has left them with a problem.
Only bases with “aeronautical missions” can expect a break on their rental for access to the airport, but flying drones a continent away does not qualify.
The airport could lose its FAA grant if it doesn’t comply, and start charging the base what it charges everyone else.
“Possibly losing the Air National Guard presence at the airport is something that we can’t have happen,” U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, said.
He has drafted legislation seeking exemptions for bases with drone pilots.
“We’re concerned that exemption could be eliminated, which would make it difficult for the Battle Creek airport to received FAA grants,” Peters said. “It would put the airport in a very difficult position.”
Peters said they might be forced to move the base if they had to pay the full amount.
– John McNeill
