A draft environmental impact statement released by the Air Force sticks with Luke Air Force Base in Glendale as the preferred alternative for flight training for new F-35 pilots. It identifies slightly higher noise levels as the biggest impacts of the new fighter.

The Air Force plans a series of public meetings to take comments on the plan next month and expects to make a final decision in July. Tucson is still in the running.

Luke beat out Gowen Field in Boise, Idaho, Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico and Tucson International Airport for the preferred pilot training base when the Air Force made its tentative decision in 2010.

The public comment period is open until March 14. Comment can be directed to:

David Martin, Air Force Contractor or Kim Fornof HQ AETC/A7CPP

266 F Street West, Bldg. 901

Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4319

Fax: 210-652-5649

Email: aetc.a7cp.inbox@us.af.mil

Three public hearings have been scheduled in Southern Arizona. All meeting begin with an open house at 5 p.m., followed by a presentation and comment period at 6 p.m.

Feb. 21 - Windemere Hotel and Conference Center, 2047 S. Arizona 92 in Sierra Vista

Feb. 22 - Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, 4550 S. Palo Verde Road

Feb. 23 - Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Road

Go online to f-35atrainingeis.com to read the environmental impact statement on the training program.