What You Need to Know Before Flying Into Sun 'n Fun

Pilots should study the FAA's Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prior to departure.

Meg Godlewski

Monday, April 08, 2024 at 02:18 PM ET

Verified

Edited By: tccjeremy

The FAA predicts nearly 2,000 pilots are headed to Sun 'n Fun this year. [Credit: Jason McDowell]

Key Takeaways:

Pilots flying to the Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo must thoroughly study the FAA's NOTAM, which outlines specific and updated VFR, enroute, and NORDO (no-radio) arrival/departure procedures for the event.
Adhere strictly to operational guidelines including specific speeds (e.g., 100 knots at 1,200 feet msl), altitudes, communication protocols, and visual cues (e.g., landing lights, wing rocks) to ensure safe traffic flow and avoid unexpected situations.
Be prepared for potential delays by carrying extra fuel, follow ATC instructions for landing and taxiing without stopping on runways, and observe all ground safety rules including designated parking, tie-downs, and pedestrian awareness.

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If you are planning to fly yourself to Lakeland, Florida, for the annual Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo, make sure you study the notice to air missions (NOTAM) prior to departure. There have been several changes from previous years, and you don’t want to be the pilot who does something silly, unexpected, and potentially dangerous.

The FAA, which predicts nearly 2,000 pilots are headed to Sun ‘n Fun (SNF), has published a NOTAM for the event, effective Monday, April 8, to Sunday, April 14, for the duration of the event.