01.26.09
Senator Murkowski applauds FAA action on Iditarod Air Force
Contact - Michael Brumas at 202.224.9301 or Anne Johnson at 202.224.8069
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, said today that the Federal Aviation Administration has issued an exemption to allow the Iditarod Air Force to fly in support of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
The all-volunteer Iditarod Air Force has been flying in support of the race for more than 20 years but has struggled to win FAA approval to continue. FAA regulations prohibit volunteer pilots from accepting any cost deferments such as fuel, accommodations and food.
Senator Murkowski has strongly supported the Iditarod Air Force and contacted the FAA on behalf of the organization regarding an exemption.
“I am pleased that the FAA has finally recognized the importance of the volunteers in the Iditarod Air Force and found a way for them to operate, while protecting safety and addressing the concerns of commercial carriers,” Murkowski said.
The Iditarod Air Force flies food and fuel to checkpoints for both dogs and mushers, transports volunteers, judges, and veterinarians as well as moves dropped and scratched dogs.
The exemption, Exemption No. 9810, will expire after this year’s race. Murkowski will work to find a long term solution.
