Destination: Jackson Hole

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grand Teton National Park by flying into Jackson – or other airports close by.

Pia Bergqvist

Tuesday, May 09, 2023 at 10:55 AM ET

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Runway 19 at Jackson Hole Airport (KJAC). [Credit: Glenn Watson]

Key Takeaways:

Jackson Hole Airport (KJAC) has undergone significant modernization focused on commercial and business jet traffic, leading to the displacement of general aviation (GA) aircraft and their long-term hangar residents.
The Jackson Hole area is a renowned destination for year-round outdoor activities, offering skiing, hiking, biking, fishing, and a vibrant western town atmosphere.
Pilots flying into KJAC face unique challenges including high elevation, mountainous terrain, unpredictable weather, and specific noise abatement procedures, requiring thorough preflight planning and performance calculations.
Several nearby alternate airports, such as Driggs (KDIJ) and Idaho Falls (KIDA), offer more GA-friendly services or different operational benefits, making them viable gateways to the Grand Teton region.

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There have been times in my life when foreshadowing preceded notable events. A flight to Jackson Hole Airport (KJAC) in 2004 was one of those times. I’m a lover of the outdoors, whether I’m skiing, hiking, biking, or climbing, so Grand Teton National Park has long been on my bucket list. I decided to take a detour to visit the famous resort on my way back from EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh to Los Angeles in a Cessna 182.

A recent major airport renovation focused mostly on jet traffic and pushed many light GA aircraft out. [Credit: Glenn Watson]

I departed Fond du Lac, Wisconsin (KFLD), in the early morning, taking a quick break in Huron, South Dakota (KHON), for lunch. There were some scattered clouds over the Great Plains, so I chose to fly IFR and shoot the ILS to Runway 12. However, I was able to depart KHON VFR and stay clear of the localized thunderstorms to the west. The total flight time was nearly eight hours, so I was thankful for the extended daylight of summer.