PORTLAND (AP) — A National Guard proposal to expand airspace for fighter jet training low over Maine has dragged on for so long that many of the aircraft currently used for training could be retired by the time the plans are completed.
Vermont-based F-16 fighters account for the bulk of the training flights and are due to be replaced by stealthy F-35 fighters that figure into the National Guard proposal to hold training exercises over a larger area.
F-35 fighters aren’t allowed to fly low to the ground and the guard says that means less noise from fighter jets screeching overhead. Some locals aren’t so sure.
The plans are now in their 14th year and an environmental impact statement is being revised, which could take another couple of years
Comments are not available on this story. Read more about why we allow commenting on some stories and not on others.
We believe it's important to offer commenting on certain stories as a benefit to our readers. At its best, our comments sections can be a productive platform for readers to engage with our journalism, offer thoughts on coverage and issues, and drive conversation in a respectful, solutions-based way. It's a form of open discourse that can be useful to our community, public officials, journalists and others.
We do not enable comments on everything — exceptions include most crime stories, and coverage involving personal tragedy or sensitive issues that invite personal attacks instead of thoughtful discussion.
You can read more here about our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is also found on our FAQs.
Show less