We understand that the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak are causing changes to our everyday lives, but with that said, activity at Lake Hood is still very busy, with hunting season fast approaching, cabin close-up and the end of year float flying on the horizon, the FAA would like to emphasis the following information.
There has been an increase in Pilot Deviations at Lake Hood when aircraft operating on the surface of the water crossed active sea-lanes without an air traffic control (ATC) clearance. Crossing an active sea-lane without an ATC clearance is a Runway Incursion defined as any occurrence at an aerodrome involving the incorrect presence of an aircraft, vehicle or person on the protected area of a surface designated for the landing and take-off of aircraft.
In an effort to maintain a safe environment for all water-lane users, the Anchorage Tower ATC team requests that all pilots operating on the surface of Lake Hood:
- Exercise the highest level of cockpit situational awareness while taxiing to or from water-lanes or while transiting any designated movement area.
- Make certain that you have an ATC clearance to enter or cross any water-lane even when not advertised as the water-lane in use. For example, “West” may be the advertised active water-lane, but all aircraft still require an ATC clearance to cross the North/South and SE/NW water-lanes.
- Clarify any ATC communications or instructions that are unclear or questionable.
- When in doubt, always ask for clarification.
The Anchorage Tower ATC team remains focused on providing the safest and most efficient air traffic service possible for the pilots and passengers who use the Anchorage and Lake Hood airports.
http://www.faasafety.gov/files/notices/2020/Aug/LHD_Water_Lanes.pdf
The Anchorage FAASTeam is anticipating a Pilot/Controller forum to help bring awareness to these issues.
Note: Due to Covid-19 this meeting, may be conducted by Zoom
Neale Sheneman, Air Traffic Manager, Anchorage Tower
Phone: (907) 271-2701
