Gregory Beach Palmer

The proposed area F extension of the O'Hare class B airspace would have a floor of only 4,000 feet. This restriction of altitude would increase risk and negatively impact the safe operations of aircraft. In doing so, it would increase the congestion of north-south transient traffic avoiding the proposed area F airspace west of the Class B airspace. It would increase risk and negatively impact the safe operation of non-powered aircraft engaged in regular flight and training operations within the vicinity 55LL gliderport. By having a floor of only 4000 MSL, (3100 AGL locally) it would restrict and lower the glide slope of non-powered aircraft in the vicinity and negatively impact routine training operations. Normal training tow heights are to 3000 AGL, leaving only 100 ft between the normal tow height and the floor of the proposed area F. Training aircraft with their limited glide slope would be unable to climb above normal tow heights and thus be restricted to the immediate airport vicinity adding to congestion and increased risk. Much like having fuel reserves for powered aircraft, maintaining sufficient altitude for the required glide slope for departing and returning gliders is vital for continued safe operations. I would recommend raising the floor of the proposed west area F to 5000 MSL.