If you are planning to fly in to Sun ’n Fun Aerospace Expo at Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL) in April, it’s time to start studying the NOTAM. Sun ’n Fun (SNF), also known as “spring break for pilots,” is scheduled for April 13-19 in Lakeland, Florida.
The 28-page NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) contains instructions for traffic flow, arrival procedures, holding, parking procedures, airport operations, departures, and frequencies. Thousands of pilots in all kinds of aircraft are expected to fly in from all over the country for the annual event.
For safe and efficient operation, it’s imperative that pilots be familiar with the procedures and have a copy of it at their fingertips when they approach.
The NOTAM contains annotated photographs of landmarks used for the VFR arrivals, as well as information as to which types of aircraft can use the approach along with details on altitudes and airspeeds.
The NOTAM also provides details on how to activate IFR flight plans or pick up VFR flight following. Pilots are encouraged to file IFR, if able, especially if the weather is marginal VFR.
Pilots should file IFR from their departure airport and receive IFR clearance and departure release on the ground. Traffic volume always increased during the show, and noting this it’s likely that Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville Approaches may be unable to issue IFR pickup clearances due to traffic volume and complexity.
The NOTAM warns that when traffic volume is low, air traffic control (ATC) frequencies and positions may be combined. Do rock your wings for airborne acknowledgments.
Pilots are reminded not to make unnecessary radio transmissions when procedures state, “Monitor the frequency only.”
Airport Closures
Remember that the airport will be closed nightly.
On Saturday, April 18, from 7-8 a.m. EDT, there will be arrival and departure delays due to the safety considerations for the Sun ’n Run 5K race.
Temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) will be in effect during aerobatic demonstrations (airshows and airshow practice). TFR information is disseminated via FDC NOTAM prior to the event.
Once published, text and graphic depictions of restrictions may be found here.
Pilots are reminded that TFRs are subject to change, and they should update their information periodically during the flights.
Working Around the Airshows
Due to the large number of departures after the daily airshow, aircraft planning to arrive need to be aware that arrival traffic is normally not accepted until 30-45 minutes after the airshow ends.
Pilots should monitor the ATIS to determine when the airport has reopened.
Pilots are cautioned not to plan an arrival or depart after night airshows. The airport is closed to SNF traffic.
Temporary Towers
To handle the increase in traffic during the event, there will be temporary Non-Federal Air Traffic Control Towers (NFATCT) in operation at the Plant City Airport (KPCM) and Winter Haven Regional Airport (KGIF) during the Aerospace Expo. Check specific airport NOTAMs for hours of operation and frequencies.
Use Your Smartphone
Pilots can text “WEATHER” to 863-375-8862 for the latest Sun ‘n Fun weather conditions.
Text “PILOT” to 863-375-8862 for the latest arrival and departure updates.
Windshield Signs for Parked Aircraft
Pilots landing or departing KLAL must display a sign on the left side of their windshield to designate their intended parking/camping area or type of departure. Signs must remain visible to SNF volunteers and ATC personnel until aircraft are parked or until after departing KLAL.
Computer- or tablet-generated signs are not acceptable. Please keep these signs in the windshield until you are parked or receive takeoff clearance from ATC.
Balloon Launch
Early arrivals are cautioned about balloon activity in the vicinity of KLAL at sunrise from Tuesday, April 14, until Sunday, April 19. Aircraft arriving may experience delays as balloons have the right of way.
Skydivers
Pilots are also cautioned to be vigilant for skydiving activity from sunrise to sunset in the vicinity of Zephyrhills Municipal Airport (KZPH), located 16.4 nm northwest of Lakeland on the LAL332 radial from 13,500 feet over KZPH, and in the vicinity of Blackwater Creek Ultralight Airport (9FD2), located 11.2 nm northwest of Lakeland on the LAL326 radial.
