VFR flights that transit the Destin/Eglin AFB Part 93 airspace without landing should follow the initial contact procedures and routing as described in Chapter 2. The only difference would be that on your initial call to Eglin Approach you would request to transit the North – South or East – West Corridor to your final destination. Eglin Approach will give you a transponder code, if so equipped, and instructions for your routing.
1. Internal Part 93. VFR sightseeing flights along the Gulf coast are quite common and Eglin Approach will generally allow you to fly almost anyplace in the area – Air Force mission requirements permitting. These flights will generally originate from and terminate at Destin and are conducted by both local and visiting pilots. Prior to taxiing, call Destin Ground/Clearance on 121.6 with your information.
Sample transmission:
Pilot: Destin Ground, Cessna 12345, with Information (ATIS Letter) and would like to fly VFR along the beach eastbound (or westbound) for sightseeing.
Destin Ground will respond for Runway 14:
Destin Ground: Cessna 12345, maintain VFR at or below 1,600 feet, east or west along the coast, until in contact with ATC on 132.1, squawk 46XX. Runway 14 taxi via ALPHA to A-1, hold short of Runway 14.
Or, for Runway 32:
Destin Ground: Cessna 12345, turn southbound within one half mile of the end of the Runway, maintain VFR at or below 1,600 feet east or west along the coast until in contact with ATC on 132.1, squawk 46XX. Runway 32 taxi via ALPHA to A-6, hold short of Runway 32.
When you are airborne and the Tower has told you to contact Eglin approach on the assigned frequency, do so and tell him where you would like to go. Keep in mind that if you decide to go farther east than Phillips Inlet, Eglin Approach will need to turn you over to Tyndall Approach and if you go farther west than Navarre Bridge you will get switched to Pensacola Approach. If you plan to transit the Hurlburt Field area below 2500 feet, expect to follow the procedures described in Chapter 2 with respect to contacting Hurlburt Tower.
2. Pattern Work. If you plan to stay in the Destin Traffic Pattern for touch and goes, you may do so; just advise Destin Ground/Clearance when you first check in with the ATIS information.
