Register

Lake Crossing IFR

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Flying over the Great Lakes presents unique challenges, including unpredictable local weather patterns (like fog or deceptive visibility) and complex airspace, such as Special Use Airspace.
  • Thorough flight planning is essential, covering aircraft performance limitations for climb and glide distance, high-altitude operations (potentially requiring oxygen), and carrying vital emergency equipment like personal flotation devices.
  • Pilot readiness is paramount; this includes not just IFR currency but also recent proficiency in instrument flight and a robust personal minimums checklist to ensure comfort and capability for high-workload flights over large bodies of water.
See a mistake? Contact us.

During the summer, many pilots in the Upper Midwest plan half-day flights for vacation, and it’s inevitable that we have to contend with theGreat Lakes. Whether we stop short, go around, or go across, there’s always added bulk to the flight planning.

Want to overfly Lake Superior for both the view and the shortcut? There’s a lot to consider. Even if you’d never do that, plan it anyway as you’re guaranteed to pick up some useful knowledge. So dive in—the water’s really, really cold.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE