Compatibility Assessment
Prior to the start of the JLUS, the FAA proposed construction of a communications relay
tower on land near the Rittenhouse Training Site. Telecommunication towers transmit
frequencies to facilitate wireless communications for cellular phones and other wireless
communication devices. These towers, depending on location and frequencies, transmit
signals that can create interference between various communication devices including
the Black Hawk helicopters used on the training site. This interference can create
unnecessary risks to pilots, equipment, and property potentially resulting in damage and
safety hazards including creating loss of aircraft control and command associated with
aircraft mishaps.
Historically, there have been incidents around the United States with Black Hawk
helicopters and EMI. Between 1981 and 1987, numerous UH‐60 Black Hawk helicopters
nose‐dived and crashed. These crashes were attributed to insufficient flight control
immunity to high intensity radiated fields when flying past radio broadcast towers. The
emitted radio waves can enter the wiring and electrical components of a helicopter,
generating false commands that can range from flashing the warning lights to sending
the craft into a fatal dive.
Through interviews with AZARNG personnel, it was identified that the DoD has voiced
their concerns with the FAA over the potential construction of the communications
tower, and that the two parties were able to come to a mutual agreement to relocate the
tower to a spot where it would not interfere with helicopter operations. Any further
progress relating to development of towers near an installation should be coordinated
with the AZARNG.
5.7
Infrastructure Extensions (IE)
Infrastructure refers to public facilities and services such as sewers, water, electric, and
roadways that are required to support development (existing and proposed).
Public facilities and services should be appropriate for the type of urban or rural
development they serve, but also limited to the existing and planned needs and
requirements of the area. For example, the provision of a safe transportation system,
including all modes of transportation (automobile, mass transit, railway, highway, bicycle,
pedestrian, air, etc.), is an important infrastructure component. Adequate transportation
infrastructure contributes to local, regional, and state accessibility.
Infrastructure plays an important role in land use compatibility. It can enhance the
operations of an installation and community by providing needed services. Conversely,
infrastructure can create encroachment issues if expanded without consideration of the
consequences of future development. The extension or expansion of community
Background Report
5-43