Sedona, AZ (KSEZ) visit
My bucket list has always included a landing at Sedona, Arizona’s “aircraft carrier” runway. Unfortunately, it’s still on the list as we had to airline there and back due to schedule constraints. But since we were staying within a mile of the airport, I just had to visit as a “preflight” to my future flight there.
As I walked into the lobby, a couple of guys came through the airport-side of the FBO, and as it turns out they were RV-10 pilots. They had diverted for weather and were looking for a briefing. The RV-10 was fresh from the paint shop, had 30 hours on it, and the pilots were rightfully being cautious with a new aircraft flying through what turned out to be some very rough weather.
What I love about RV-ing, and flying in general, was the ease with which fellow pilots talk to each other, as though we had known each other for years. My spirits were raised.
The Red Rock FBO staff at Sedona, Doug and Jill, couldn’t have been nicer as I asked about tie-down rates, hangarage, etc. Doug said, let me take you on a tour and we hopped into the airport truck and drove the site. Unbelievable views. The photos below are beyond words. “Must be tough to work around here with such a terrible view,” I joked.
Doug emphasized that before you fly in, view the video on the airport website
https://sedonaairport.org/ or on YouTube
regarding procedures. The airport has its challenges and restrictions. Especially noteworthy is operations using both ends of the runway on calm days due to a 1.8 degree slope. Takeoff from runway 21 if possible (downslope) and land on runway 3 (upslope). Definitely call in and monitor the non-controlled frequency. Here’s the AirNAv link for airport information:
https://www.airnav.com/airport/KSEZ
Enjoy some photos here.
Chris
RV-10 fresh from the paint shop and headed for Tennessee.
Looking down Runway 21 from departure end. The illusion of a short runway has fooled many flyers. It’s the 1.8 degree slope that tricks the eye.
Red Rock FBO
View from Runway 3 departure end
Views from various parts of the runway upon the Mesa.
