Mountain Top Landings

Pia Bergqvist

Tuesday, April 01, 2014 at 05:10 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Hilltop runways, like Catalina Airport, present significant visual illusions due due to their elevation and slope, often leading to pilots misjudging their approach and potentially overrunning the runway.
To counteract these illusions, pilots must diligently monitor their altimeter and strictly adhere to established approach procedures, including maintaining pattern altitude and using consistent power, flap, and speed settings.
Pilots should aim to stay slightly above the targeted approach path to mitigate risks like downdrafts near the runway end, and always be prepared to execute a go-around if too high, rather than attempting a dangerously early or low touchdown.

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There are many visual illusions that can present themselves during flight. One scenario that can mess with the normal cues during the approach and landing phases is a runway that is located on a hilltop.

I recently flew into Catalina airport on Catalina Island to enjoy one of their fantastic buffalo burgers. While the airport is a fantastic place to visit, it does present special challenges and many local flight schools require a special checkout in order to land their rental airplanes at Avalon.