TPA TRACON Controller reported the departure procedures out of LAL are unusable due to VFR aircraft flying just outside the D airspace. Controller had to maneuver an airline away from traffic as there were VFR aircraft in direct conflict with the SBOAT departure procedure.

Date: 2026-03 · Aircraft: Commercial Fixed Wing · Phase: cruise

Anomalies: ATC issue all typesConflict airborne conflict

Synopsis

TPA TRACON Controller reported the departure procedures out of LAL are unusable due to VFR aircraft flying just outside the D airspace. Controller had to maneuver an airline away from traffic as there were VFR aircraft in direct conflict with the SBOAT departure procedure.

Narrative

Aircraft X departed LAL on the SBOAT departure. There were VFR aircraft at 2500 and 4000 who were in direct conflict with the SBOAT. I stopped Aircraft X at 2000 and turned him. Not only is the SBOAT (and the OWAYY) departure usually unusable due to VFR aircraft just outside the D airspace; the entire sector is a safety nightmare. Aircraft approach LAL from any and all directions and at any altitude. THERE IS ZERO safety net protecting approaches and departures in and out of LAL.If measures aren't taken to protect aircraft in and out of LAL there is going to be a midair. LAL should have been a CHARLIE years ago.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.