Chart Wise: Sedona (KDEZ) RNAV (GPS) Rwy 3

This Arizona airport's higher altitude means there are some things a pilot should be aware of when using an instrument approach to arrive.

Jason Blair

Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 08:55 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Kimberly Johnson

Sitting at a higher altitude than many other airports, there are some things a pilot should be aware of when using an instrument approach to arrive at Sedona, Arizona. [Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

Sedona Airport (KSEZ) presents a single instrument approach with high initial approach fix (IAF) altitudes and significant surrounding terrain, demanding robust aircraft performance.
Circling maneuvers are highly restricted, including limitations on areas, increased minimums for faster aircraft categories, and a prohibition on night circling for Runway 21, as well as for Category D aircraft.
The approach involves a large altitude change with multiple stepdowns to MDA-only minimums, complemented by a demanding missed approach procedure requiring a high-altitude climb and specific GPS holding patterns.

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A flight to Sedona, Arizona, to visit some local spas or art galleries, access numerous trailheads for Red Rock State Park, or for a food tour might be just the relaxation getaway needed. But sitting at a higher altitude than many other airports, there are some things a pilot should be aware of when using an instrument approach to arrive.

This Article First Appeared in FLYING Magazine

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