California Low-Level Flights U.S. Geological Study

Airplane to Make Low-Level Flights Over Parts of Southeastern California
Contact Information:U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological SurveyOffice of Communication 119 National CenterReston, VA 20192
Residents should not be alarmed to witness a low-flying airplane over parts of southeastern California covering the western edge of the Mojave National Preserve and extending toward Barstow starting around June 6.
For about one month, an airplane operated under contract to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) will be making low-level flights over the Soda Lakes area southeast of Fort Irwin and northwest of the Twenty-nine Palms Marine Corps combat center. The survey will cover the towns of Baker, Ludlow, and smaller towns near Barstow with the purpose of collecting and recording geologic measurements.
Anyone observing the low-flying plane should not be alarmed when they see it fly over or pass below the horizon. The airplane is operated by experienced pilots who are specially trained for low-level flying.
This survey is designed to remotely study geologic and hydrologic units that lie below land surface. It is part of an ongoing USGS program to identify features such as changes in rock types, ultimately providing a better understanding of the geology and hydrology of the area.
The airplane is operated by Firefly Aviation of Calgary, Canada, which is working with the Federal Aviation Administration to ensure flights are in accordance with U.S. law.
Editor: In the public interest and in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations, the USGS is announcing this low-level airborne project. Your assistance in informing the local communities is appreciated.