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When planning a flight, it is important to consider alternate airports in case the flight does not go as planned. While not all airports can be listed as an alternate airport, there are many airports that meet the legal requirements to be listed as one. These airports must satisfy the ceiling and visibility requirements of Part 91 and 135. Airports without weather reporting or with unmonitored approach equipment cannot be used as alternates. Additionally, the destination airport cannot also be the required alternate. When choosing an alternate airport, it is important to consider factors such as the availability of fuel, aircraft maintenance, fire and rescue services, customs, and the proximity of hotels and hospitals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alternate airport requirements | Must satisfy ceiling and visibility requirements of Part 91 and 135 |
| When is an alternate not required? | If the destination has an FAA-approved instrument approach and the weather between an hour before and after the ETA is at least a 2000-foot ceiling and three statute miles visibility |
| When is an alternate required? | If the destination has no approach, an alternate is always required |
| Fuel requirements | Enough fuel to fly to the destination, the alternate, and then for 45 minutes at normal cruise speed |
| Non-aviation factors | Proximity of hotels and hospitals |
| Other factors | Reliable weather reporting, availability of fuel and FBO services |
| Safety factors | Airports without weather reporting, or approaches with unmonitored approach equipment, can’t be used as an alternate |
| Other considerations | Choose an alternate with a better forecast if the weather is predicted to get worse |
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What You'll Learn
An airport's location and weather conditions
When choosing an alternate airport, it is important to consider the location and weather conditions of the airport.
Firstly, in terms of location, an alternate airport should be situated in an area that does not border countries experiencing civil unrest or require flights over such nations, as this may pose safety risks. Additionally, it is advisable to choose an alternate airport that is in close proximity to the intended destination, as this minimizes the distance between the aircraft and its passengers' final stop.
Moreover, it is crucial to consider the services and infrastructure available at the alternate airport. A superior alternate airport will have longer and wider runways, advanced safety features such as arresting systems, and essential services such as fueling, aircraft maintenance, fire and rescue, and customs. The presence of knowledgeable ground handlers who can assist with logistics and local information, including medical emergencies, is also invaluable.
When it comes to weather conditions, the ceiling and visibility requirements of Part 91 and 135 must be met. The standard minimum weather requirement for an alternate airport is 600-2 for a precision approach and 800-2 for a non-precision approach. However, many airports have non-standard minimums for alternate purposes, which can be found on AeroNav charts and in the "Alternate Mins" section of the approach chart book.
Additionally, it is worth noting that if the destination airport has an FAA-approved instrument approach and the weather forecast meets the 1-2-3 rule (a 2000-foot ceiling and three statute miles visibility), no alternate airport is required. However, this rule only applies if the destination has an instrument approach; otherwise, an alternate is always necessary.
In conclusion, when considering an airport's location and weather conditions in the context of choosing an alternate airport, it is essential to prioritize safety, practicality, and the availability of essential services and infrastructure.
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The availability of services and support
When it comes to the availability of services and support, not all airports can be listed as alternate airports. There are specific criteria that must be met for an airport to qualify as a suitable alternate. Firstly, the airport must satisfy the ceiling and visibility requirements outlined in Part 91 and 135 regulations. However, simply meeting the regulatory requirements does not make an airport a preferred alternate.
A better alternate airport will go beyond compliance and offer a range of additional services and support to ensure a smooth diversion. These services can include fueling, aircraft maintenance, fire and rescue capabilities, and customs facilities. The availability of reliable weather reporting is also crucial, as it enables pilots to make informed decisions during flight planning and diversion scenarios.
Alternate airports with superior airport infrastructure are also preferred. Longer and wider runways provide advantages, especially if they are equipped with security-engineered material arresting systems to mitigate aircraft overruns. Additionally, the presence of a 24-hour Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) offering various services, such as aircraft handling, hangar space, and passenger assistance, can significantly enhance an airport's attractiveness as an alternate.
The proximity of non-aviation services and facilities also plays a role in the selection of alternate airports. The availability of nearby hotels and hospitals is essential, as they provide accommodation options and trauma care for passengers and crew in the event of an unexpected diversion. Furthermore, easy access to ground transportation and commercial airlines can facilitate passenger movement and help them continue their journeys without unnecessary delays.
When selecting an alternate airport, it is also important to consider the overall safety and security of the region. Airports bordering countries experiencing civil unrest or requiring flights over such nations should be avoided. Utilizing resources like the FAA's Aviation Safety Information Analysis and Sharing (ASIAS) portal can provide valuable safety information and insights when researching alternate options.
In summary, while regulatory compliance is essential, the availability of additional services and support significantly enhances an airport's desirability as an alternate. These services encompass both aviation-related offerings and non-aviation amenities that contribute to the overall convenience and well-being of passengers, crew, and aircraft during diversion scenarios.
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The airport's infrastructure
When it comes to the infrastructure of airports as alternate options, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is crucial to understand the distinction between a basic alternate airport and a better alternate airport. A basic alternate airport satisfies the minimum requirements, such as complying with the ceiling and visibility requirements of Part 91 and 135. However, a better alternate airport goes beyond these requirements by offering additional services and support.
Better alternate airports offer a range of services, including fueling, aircraft maintenance, fire and rescue, and customs. They also boast superior infrastructure, such as longer and wider runways, and may even have security-engineered material arresting systems to mitigate aircraft overruns. These airports are strategically chosen to be located near essential facilities, such as hotels and hospitals, ensuring convenience and safety for passengers and crew.
When selecting an alternate airport, it is essential to consider the overall weather trends in the area. Analyzing weather reports and forecasts is crucial to making an informed decision. Additionally, factors such as the availability of fuel, hangar space, and accommodation options should be considered. It is also important to note that the alternate airport should not be too close to the original destination, as it may not offer improved weather conditions.
To ensure safety and compliance, it is recommended to use tools such as the FAA's Aviation Safety Information Analysis and Sharing (ASIAS) portal and the NBAA's Airport Audit Tool. These tools provide valuable insights into airport surfaces, staff training, and other factors that contribute to a safe and efficient alternate airport.
Furthermore, when planning for an alternate airport, it is advisable to consider the availability of English-speaking ground handlers, especially at international destinations. These handlers play a crucial role in assisting passengers and crew with customs, ground transportation, and local knowledge, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience during unexpected diversions.
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Proximity to other essential services
When selecting an alternate airport, proximity to other essential services is a key consideration. While the primary concern is ensuring the airport meets the legal requirements and weather conditions for landing, other factors come into play to ensure the comfort and convenience of passengers and crew.
One crucial factor is the availability of accommodation options near the alternate airport. In the event of an unexpected diversion, passengers and crew may need to stay overnight near the airport. Therefore, it is ideal to choose an alternate airport with nearby hotels or other accommodation facilities. This consideration becomes even more critical when dealing with international destinations, as it ensures that passengers are not stranded at the airport until their aircraft can depart.
Additionally, the proximity of medical facilities can be a deciding factor when choosing an alternate airport. In the event of a medical emergency, such as sickness or injury, easy access to a hospital, especially one with trauma care capabilities, becomes essential. This consideration can make all the difference in ensuring the well-being of those on board.
Another important consideration is the availability of ground transportation and customs services at the alternate airport. An English-speaking ground handler who is knowledgeable about local customs, transportation options, and the surrounding area can be invaluable. They can assist passengers and crew in navigating any necessary customs procedures and provide efficient transportation to their accommodations or other desired locations.
When selecting an alternate airport, it is also worth considering the availability of aircraft services such as fuelling, aircraft maintenance, and fire and rescue capabilities. An alternate airport that offers these services can provide peace of mind and help mitigate potential delays or complications that may arise during the journey.
In conclusion, while legal requirements and weather conditions take precedence when choosing an alternate airport, the proximity to other essential services plays a significant role in ensuring the comfort, convenience, and safety of passengers and crew. By considering factors such as accommodation, medical facilities, ground transportation, customs services, and aircraft services, flight planners can enhance the overall travel experience and be better prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
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The airport's safety features
While not all airports can be listed as alternate airports, there are several safety features that airports can implement to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, aircraft, and airport property.
Firstly, airports should have robust security measures in place to prevent any threats or dangerous situations. This includes screening passengers and their baggage for prohibited items, such as liquids over 100 ml and electronic devices, which may pose a security risk. Security screening can also help detect potential health risks, as demonstrated by a study at Helsinki-Vantaa airport, which identified plastic security screening trays as a vector for the spread of respiratory viruses, highlighting the need for enhanced sanitation practices. Additionally, airports should collaborate closely with intelligence and law enforcement agencies to share information and adjust security procedures to address evolving threats.
Another critical safety feature is the availability of emergency response services, such as fire and rescue teams. Airports should also have adequate medical facilities or proximity to hospitals, especially those with trauma care capabilities, to handle any potential health emergencies.
Furthermore, airports should maintain proper aircraft maintenance and infrastructure standards. This includes ensuring runway integrity by regularly inspecting and repairing any cracks or potholes in the airport surfaces. Additionally, implementing systems like security-engineered material arresting systems can help mitigate aircraft overruns and enhance safety during landing.
Some airports also offer fueling services, providing fuel system icing inhibitors and diesel exhaust fluid to prevent fuel-related issues.
Lastly, for international airports, it is essential to have English-speaking ground handlers who are knowledgeable about customs, ground transportation, and the local area. This helps ensure the safety and convenience of passengers and crew, especially when diversions or emergencies occur.
By implementing these safety features and adhering to regulations, airports can provide a secure and efficient environment for travellers and aviation operations.
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Frequently asked questions
An alternate airport is a backup airport that can be used if the original flight plan cannot be executed due to unforeseen circumstances such as mechanical failure, sickness, bad weather, etc.
An alternate airport is always required unless the destination has an FAA-approved instrument approach and the weather between one hour before and after the ETA has a 2000-foot ceiling and three statute miles of visibility.
Some factors to consider are reliable weather reporting, fuel availability, FBO services, longer and wider runways, and the proximity of hotels and hospitals. It is also important to analyze the overall trends of nearby weather and choose an airport that can accommodate changes in the flight plan.
An alternate airport satisfies the ceiling and visibility requirements of Part 91 and 135. A better alternate complies with the regulations while offering additional services and support such as fueling, aircraft maintenance, fire and rescue, customs, and superior airport infrastructure.
No, your destination airport cannot also be your required alternate. FAA legal clarified this in 2005, stating that alternate minimums cannot be lower than the no-light approach minimums, which typically increases the required visibility.
