CNN
September 30, 2001

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Heeding the latest terrorist warning, the Federal Aviation Administration is temporarily restricting flights near the World Series games in New York and around nuclear sites.

The restrictions over New York City prohibit any aircraft operating under visual flight rules from flying within 30 nautical miles of John F. Kennedy International Airport during World Series games. The ban is in effect from 6:45 p.m. until 2 a.m. ET and lasts until midnight, November 6.

Restrictions were even tighter during President Bush’s appearance at Tuesday’s game.

All aircraft flying below 3,000 feet were prohibited from approaching within three nautical miles of JFK airport from 7:05 p.m. until 7:15 p.m. ET, and from 10:30 p.m. until 10:45 p.m. ET.

The nuclear sites ban, which affects 80 facilities such as power plants and Energy Department areas, restricts aircraft flying below 18,000 feet from coming within a radius of 10 nautical miles of each facility.

The restrictions underscore Attorney General John Ashcroft’s announcement Monday of “credible reports” that another major terrorist attack may be possible within the week.

“The FAA realizes these restrictions inconvenience general aviation pilots and airports,” said FAA Administrator Jane Garvey in a press release. “As the FAA and other federal agencies continuously review measures to ensure national security, we look for the understanding and cooperation of the general aviation community.”

“Pilots must make every effort … to avoid these sensitive areas,” said Phil Boyer, president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.