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 significant challenges for instrument approaches due to its high altitude and surrounding terrain, offering only one primary approach.
Pilots must contend with strict circling limitations, including restrictions based on aircraft speed categories, night operations, and specific geographic areas.
The approach involves demanding initial approach fixes (IAFs) at high altitudes (e.g., 9,500 feet msl), complex holding patterns with tight altitude bands and long GPS legs, and a substantial altitude change during the MDA-only approach.
The missed approach procedure is also demanding, requiring a climb to 12,000 feet msl and strong aircraft performance to reach a distant holding waypoint with long GPS legs.

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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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