Plan

Regional Aviation System Plan (RASP)

Overview

The Regional Aviation System Plan (RASP) is a long-range planning document for the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. It provides a framework for maintaining and improving aviation facilities, ensuring safety, and supporting economic growth. Aviation is essential to life in Alaska, and the Borough has one of the highest concentrations of airports in the state.

According to the Alaska Aviation System Plan and FAA data, the Borough includes over 200 registered airports, airstrips, and seaplane bases, ranging from public-use airports to private landing strips.

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Purpose of the Plan

The RASP helps guide:

• Safety and Airspace Protection – Ensuring airports remain safe for aircraft operations.

• Land Use Compatibility – Reducing conflicts between airports and surrounding development.

• Infrastructure Planning – Identifying future airport improvements and potential new facilities.

• Economic Development – Supporting aviation as a critical link for commerce, tourism, and emergency services.

• Environmental Stewardship – Considering impacts on wildlife, wetlands, and noise-sensitive areas.

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Key Elements of the RASP

1. Airport Protection Zones

   • Establish safe areas around airports to prevent hazards.

   • Manage building heights and structures near airports in compliance with 14 CFR Part 77 (Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace).

   • Developers proposing construction such as tall structures near airports must notify the FAA. It is recommended that a development within 5000 feet of any size airstrip should get an aviation safety determination. Submit an FAA Aeronautical Study notice online here: FAA OE/AAA Portal

   • Protect approach and departure paths for aircraft.

2. Land Use Compatibility

   • Encourage zoning and subdivision practices that avoid residential encroachment near airports.

   • Integrate airport considerations into Borough comprehensive planning.

3. Airport Inventory and Classification

   • Maintain an updated list of airports, heliports, and seaplane bases.

   • Classify facilities by size, function, and role in the regional network.

4. Future Needs Assessment

   • Forecast aviation demand and identify capacity improvements.

   • Plan for new facilities where population growth or tourism requires additional access.

5. Environmental and Community Considerations

   • Address noise impacts, wildlife hazards, and wetland protection.

   • Balance aviation development with community quality of life.

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Why This Matters

Aviation is a lifeline for the Borough. Safe and efficient airports support:

• Emergency medical transport

• Freight and supply delivery

• Tourism and recreation