FAA Issues Strict Airspace Rules for Super Bowl LX in California

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued new operational guidance for general aviation pilots. This guidance covers flights in the San Francisco Bay Area during the week of Super Bowl LX.

The measures are designed to manage the expected surge in air traffic.

Tens of thousands of visitors will arrive for the game. The restrictions will be active from Wednesday, February 4, to Tuesday, February 10.

Temporary Flight Restrictions and Airspace

The most restrictive measures will apply on Super Bowl Sunday, February 8. A temporary flight restriction (TFR) will be centered on Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. This TFR will be in effect from 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Pacific time.

The restriction is expected to feature a 30-nautical-mile outer ring. It will also include a more restrictive 10-nautical-mile inner core. The FAA confirmed that this TFR will not affect regularly scheduled commercial flights at the region’s major airports.

Affected Airports and Procedures

Special air traffic procedures are being implemented to reduce delays and maintain safety. These rules will apply at major commercial hubs and numerous general aviation operational rules airports.

Commercial airports affected include San Francisco International, Oakland International, and San Jose International. Over a dozen smaller airports will also see special procedures. This list includes Hayward, Livermore, Napa County, Monterey Regional, and Stockton.

The agency plans to publish a detailed Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) soon. This NOTAM will outline specific arrival and departure routes for game-related flights. Pilots should check the FAA’s Super Bowl webpage frequently for updates.

Parking and Security Requirements

General aviation pilots must secure a parking slot between February 4 and February 9. A reservation program for aircraft parking is mandatory. Pilots must coordinate directly with their airport’s Fixed Base Operator (FBO) to reserve a slot.

The FAA also stressed that the Super Bowl is a “No Drone Zone.” As a designated National Security Special Event, additional unmanned aircraft restrictions will be in place. These restrictions apply before, during, and after the game.

Emergency medical, public safety, and military aircraft may enter the restricted airspace. However, this requires prior air traffic control coordination.

• Pilots must review the upcoming NOTAM for specific routes.
• A parking reservation is mandatory from Feb. 4–9.
• The Levi’s Stadium airspace TFR is active on Feb. 8 from 2:30 to 8:30 p.m. Pacific.

Stakeholders in commercial aviation news should monitor the situation. The success of these FAA temporary flight restrictions is vital for event security and operational efficiency. More information will be released as the event approaches, according to the agency. For more updates, visit flying.flights.