Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D. -- The proposed modifications aim to address current training shortfalls and bolster national security preparedness. These changes include:
- Day-to-Day Training Enhancements: Increasing the ceiling of frequently used Air Traffic Control Assigned Airspaces (ATCAAs) from 26,000 feet to 60,000 feet and adjusting operating hours to 7 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., Monday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, and other times by Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).
- Large Force Exercise (LFE) Improvements: Raising the PRTC ceiling to 60,000 feet, increasing the annual allowable LFE days from 10 to 30, and extending individual LFE durations from three to 12 days.
These adjustments are designed to provide more realistic training scenarios across a wider range of altitudes and timeframes, ensuring aircrews are prepared for any scenario. Data illustrating the proposed changes can be found in the Appendix (Figures A-D) on the project website: www.PRTCairspaceEIS.com .
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the DAF is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to assess the potential environmental consequences of the proposed modifications. Public input is crucial to this process.
Public Scoping Meetings
The DAF invites the public to participate in scoping meetings to share their perspectives on the proposed changes, potential alternatives, and relevant environmental concerns. Meetings will be held in the following cities on the dates and location listed:
- Montana:
- Hardin - July 28, 2025 from 5-7 p.m: Hardin High School Commons Area (721 North Miles Ave., Hardin, MT)
- Ashland - July 29, 2025 from 5-7 p.m: St. Labre Soaring Eagles Gymnasium (112 St. Labre Campus Dr., Ashland, MT)
- Baker - July 30, 2025 from 5-7 p.m.: Fallon County Fairgrounds – Exhibit Hall (3440 Highway 7, Baker, MT)
- North Dakota
- Bowman – July 31, from 5-7 p.m.: Bowman County Fairgrounds – West Wing (12 Highway 12 E, Bowman, ND)
- Elgin – Aug. 1, from 5-7 p.m.: Elgin Community Center (305 North Main St., Elgin, ND)
- South Dakota
- Spearfish – Aug. 11, from 5-7 p.m.: Spearfish High School – CTE Center (1725 North Main St., Spearfish, SD)
- Bison – Aug. 12, from 5-7 p.m.: Bison School Gym, (200 West Carr St., Bison, SD)
- Rapid City – Aug. 14, from 5-7 p.m.: Western Dakota Technical College Event Center (800 Mickelson Dr., Rapid City, SD)
- Wyoming
- Sundance – Aug. 13, from 5-7 p.m.: Crook County School District Gymnasium (122 State Hwy 585, Sundance, WY)
- Virtual Meetings: Aug. 19, 20, and 21 (scheduled from 5-6 p.m. each day)
All in-person meetings are scheduled from 5-7 p.m. Mountain Time. The virtual meetings which will be held from 5-6 p.m. Specific locations and virtual meeting registration details are available on the project website - www.PRTCairspaceEIS.com
How to Submit Comments.
The public scoping period concludes on Sept. 9, 2025. Comments can be submitted online at www.PRTCairspaceEIS.com or postmarked by the deadline.
No final decision has been made regarding the proposed modifications. Public participation is essential for ensuring a comprehensive environmental analysis and informing Air Force leadership on potential impacts. For more information, please visit www.PRTCairspaceEIS.com .
For more information, contact 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs by email at 28bw.public.affairs@us.af.mil.
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