Jeff Bingaman United States Senator from New Mexico

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jeff Bingaman and Tom Udall today confirmed that the Air Force has agreed to their request to extend by more than a month the Low Altitude Tactical Navigation (LATN) environmental assessment public comment period.

To meet Cannon's 27th Special Operations Wing (SOW) national security responsibilities, the Air Force is considering low altitude training in parts of northern New Mexico.  In a letter to Cannon Commander Colonel Stephan Clark dated September 24, 2010, the Senators and Congressman Ben Ray Luján pressed the base to step up outreach to New Mexico communities, and to give residents more time to weigh in on the proposal.

The original public comment period was set to end October 4; the new deadline is November 15.

"I appreciate that the Air Force has agreed to extend the public comment period," Bingaman said.  "In my view – and in the view of many Northern New Mexicans – the Air Force should not be conducting low altitude training flights near populated areas, or over areas of special cultural significance.  I've already communicated my position to the Air Force.  This extended deadline will give New Mexicans more time to speak their minds and be heard."

"I'm pleased the Air Force has agreed to extend the comment period to give northern New Mexicans the opportunity to gather all relevant facts and express their concerns regarding any new flight training routes under consideration," said Udall. "I have spoken with the Air Force and voiced my belief that the rules in place to protect population centers and noise sensitive areas, like cultural sites, should be fully observed. With ample communication on this matter, I believe a decision can be reached that protects our northern communities and supports the important work being done at Cannon Air Force Base."

Cannon also will have public meetings to speak to residents about the LATN proposal.  The date and time of such meetings are being finalized.

The Senators encouraged New Mexico residents to learn more about the Air Force's LATN proposal and to submit a comment via Cannon's website: http://www.cannon.af.mil/.