What are the levels of Environmental Review the FAA considers as they follow NEPA?

Once the FAA determines that NEPA applies to a proposed action, it needs to decide on the appropriate level of review. The three levels of NEPA review are Categorical Exclusion (CATEX), Environmental Assessment (EA), and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

A Categorical Exclusion (CATEX) level of NEPA review is applicable for an established list of actions that do not, individually or cumulatively, have a significant impact on the environment. Additionally, the CATEX analyzes for the potential for extraordinary circumstances that could require more detailed NEPA review.

An Environmental Assessment (EA) is a concise public document that provides sufficient evidence and analysis for determining whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). The purpose of an EA level of review is to determine whether a proposed action has the potential to significantly affect the human environment. If none of the potential impacts assessed in the EA are determined to be significant, the responsible FAA official prepares a FONSI, which briefly presents, in writing, the reasons why an action, not otherwise categorically excluded, would not have a significant impact on the human environment.

An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is a detailed written statement required under NEPA when one or more environmental impacts would be significant and mitigation measures cannot reduce the impact(s) below significant levels. Direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts must be considered when determining significance. Where an EIS is prepared, the FAA will prepare a Record of Decision to document the FAA's decision on the proposed action, state whether all practicable means to avoid or minimize environmental harm from the selected alternatives have been adopted, and if not, why; and identify and discuss all factors, including any essential considerations of national policy, that were balanced by the agency in making its decision and state how those considerations entered into the decision.