The Airspace Protection Act proposes significant amendments to Ohio's aviation regulations, focusing on navigable airspace and airport operations. It introduces new definitions, such as "navigable airspace" and "obstruction," while expanding the definition of "airport" to include heliports and seaplane landing sites, excluding federal navigable waterways and military airports. The bill establishes the Department of Transportation's role in overseeing aviation safety and development, including the creation of an Office of Aviation responsible for accident investigations and promoting aviation education. It streamlines language related to airport activities and mandates inspections and approvals for all airports before commercial use, ensuring compliance with federal standards.

Additionally, the bill addresses airport zoning by establishing an airport zoning commission to recommend regulations and boundaries, requiring public hearings and legislative approval for amendments. It emphasizes safety in determining obstructions to air navigation and mandates timely reviews of permit applications. The bill also clarifies the appeals process for zoning variances and allows for legal action against violations. Overall, the Airspace Protection Act aims to enhance safety, regulatory clarity, and compliance within Ohio's aviation framework while balancing local land use interests.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4561.01, 4561.021, 4561.05, 4561.06, 4561.08, 4561.09, 4561.11, 4561.12, 4561.14, 4561.15, 4561.31, 4561.32, 4561.33, 4561.34, 4561.341, 4561.35, 4561.36, 4561.37, 4561.38, 4561.39, 4561.99, 4563.01, 4563.03, 4563.031, 4563.032, 4563.04, 4563.05, 4563.06, 4563.07, 4563.08, 4563.09, 4563.10, 4563.11, 4563.12, 4563.13, 4563.16, 4563.18, 4563.20, 4563.21, 4906.10, 4561.30