The Unique Approach to Honolulu's LDA RWY 26L (PHNL)

Here's a breakdown of the LDA approach into Runway 26L at the O'ahu gateway airport.

Jason Blair

Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 04:01 PM ET

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PHNL LDA Runway 26L [Reproduced with permission of Jeppesen]

Key Takeaways:

The Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (PHNL) Runway 26L LDA approach is unique due to its off-angle localizer (304 degrees) necessitated by terrain, and a system of flashing lights that guide pilots from the localizer course to the actual Runway 26L.
This complex approach features mandatory crossing altitudes at specific fixes, a potentially confusing missed approach procedure that requires precise navigation, and the need to use the correct DME source (IEPC) when not relying on GPS.
While primarily a localizer approach, GPS is highly recommended for managing initial approach fixes and simplifying navigation, and the approach has specific circling limitations, prohibiting landings on Runway 22R and certain designated seaplane lanes.

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Planning a little flying around Honolulu, Hawai‘i? Following along like the aviation dork I am on an airline flight, as you check out the approach plates the crew might be using; or just looking for a busy approach to test your knowledge? You might run across the LDA approach to Runway 26L at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (PHNL). It’s an approach plate with lots going on—but don’t forget to look ahead if you break out high enough, as you’ll be aimed at the historic grounds of Pearl Harbor, before you follow the flashing lights on in to Runway 26L.

A. LDA: At an Angle

The Unique Approach to Honolulu’s LDA RWY 26L (PHNL)

Here's a breakdown of the LDA approach into Runway 26L at the O'ahu gateway airport.

Key Takeaways:

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