PATUXENT RIVER, Maryland – Communities surrounding the naval air station are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place Tuesday, July 5 – Friday, July 8, 2022, from 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Pilots at NAS Pax River will be conducting Field Carrier Landing Practices (FCLPs). FCLPs are simulated carrier landings conducted to prepare pilots to land safely on an aircraft carrier.
The practices consist of a series of touch-and-go maneuvers, called “bounces.” Airspeed, altitude, and power are all precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach the ship within an acceptable window to land safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our military pilots and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is one of the most difficult tasks in military aviation. It is a highly complex and perishable skill and requires intense periods of training before pilots deploy.
Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations.
As with all operations, NAS Patuxent River takes precautions to lessen the impact of testing activities on the community. For more information, call 1-866-819-9028.