Floatplanes. As the primary aviation users of the Tongass Narrows waterway, it is expected that floatplanes would be most affected by a bridge alternative. These types of aircraft routinely utilize the Tongass Narrows for takeoff and landing procedures at three seaplane bases (Ketchikan Airport, Ketchikan Harbor, and Xxxxxx’x Pullout) throughout the project corridor. During inclement weather, exempt commercial operators flying under special VFR authorization frequently fly at altitudes ranging from 200 feet to 300 feet (XxXxxxxx, 1999). Considering the frequency of inclement weather and accompanying authorization of special VFR operations, the potential for floatplane aircraft initiating an arrival at or below an altitude of 500 feet MSL is considerable. A bridge located within the recommended flight patterns and more specifically in the approach zones for any of the three seaplane facilities would potentially require alteration of the recommended flight patterns and/or Federal Aviation Regulations governing special VFR operations.
Floatplanes. Floatplanes landing and taking off from Tongass Narrows are currently subject to the operational guidelines contained in the “Tongass Narrows Voluntary Waterway User Guide,” (3/18/99). That guide identifies two narrow floatplane operating zones, one in front of the Ketchikan waterfront, one hugging the Xxxxxxx Island shore and extending northwest from the Ketchikan Airport terminal. A third floatplane operating area is located in the vicinity of Xxxx Cove. As described in the “Tongass Narrows Voluntary Waterway User Guide,” floatplane traffic on Tongass Narrows is seasonally quite heavy, comprising in excess of 500 takeoffs and landings on an average summer day. Aviation is the topic of a separate reconnaissance report which complements this one and which should be consulted for a more thorough examination of aviation issues.
