Much like arriving into New York, departing is also met with some unusual procedures. In the past couple of years with the Bedminster TFR in place, departures to the west have been restricted. As a result, operators cannot file over the departure fixes: ZIMMZ, NEWEL, LANNA, PARKE or BIGGY. This forces all of the traffic over either the northern departure gates (COATE, NEION, and GAYEL) or the southern departure gates (WHITE and DIXIE). During this situation, the FAA recommends operators file low-level playbook routes, like the SERMN SOUTH or the PHLYER SOUTH. These standard reroutes help traffic flow through the New York TRACON and New York Center area. The catch to filing one of these routes, though, is that you must be prepared to fly the whole route at 6,000 ft.
With the Bedminster TFR active, the airspace can be even further constrained by afternoon thunderstorms. This gives us more reasons for carrying extra fuel. Working tactically with air traffic control and being willing to fly nonstandard routing may open up some additional options. As always, if you need support or have any questions about possible routings or restrictions associated with the presidential TFR, please contact an ARINCDirect Flight Coordinator. Flight Coordinators are available 24/7 from anywhere in the world at 410-266-2266.