Week of September 22, 2025

Airport Spotlight

The University of Alabama and University of Georgia face off this weekend in one of the season’s most anticipated college football matchups. Bulldogs and Crimson Tide fans from across the country will flock to the Athens, Georgia, area for the big game.

Whether you’re rooting for UGA or UA, general aviation pilots flying into Athens/Ben Epps Airport (AHN) should check the weather and any Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) before heading out. AHN has two runways, 02/20 and 09/27, and Approach Runway Verification to enhance surface safety and controller awareness. Air traffic controllers staff AHN’s contract tower Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends.

Did you know?

On average, general aviation at Athens Airport more than doubles when UGA hosts a football game!

FAA Weather Squad Guest Forecaster

Keeping an eye on Georgia skies is WRDW meteorologist and recent UGA grad Malik Bryant. Malik is tracking some wet weekend weather that could impact air travel and your favorite team’s football game.

ICYMI

• The FAA surpassed its air traffic controller hiring goal for FY2025 by hiring 2,026 new controllers. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy’s supercharge efforts ensured we exceeded our original goal of 2,000 new hires. We are hiring at least 8,900 new air traffic controllers through 2028. Learn more about this great career.
• Taking your carry-on luggage during an emergency evacuation puts you and other passengers in danger. That's why the FAA is recommending operators evaluate their emergency evacuation procedures, training, announcements and commands. Learn more by reading our Safety Alert for Operators.