Combining Mixed-Use Flight Operations Safely at Airports

Abstract

The basic premise behind an airport being open to the public is that the airport will make reasonable accommodations for all types of aeronautical activities. Safety, of course, is paramount. Mixed-use aeronautical activity requires the public-use airport to accommodate all comers in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sponsor assurances. The different categories of aircraft can include gliders, helicopters, ultralight vehicles, balloons, airships, blimps, skydiving, aerial applications for agriculture and firefighting, banner towing, aerobatic practice, and similar flight operations. Unmanned aircraft systems and radio-controlled model aircraft activity that take place on an airport can become part of the mix of an airport’s operation. Not included in this report are seaplane operations; a separate report is referenced. In accommodating mixed-use operations, an airport is challenged in two ways—with operational accommodation in the local airspace and runway environment, and with ground operational and logistical accommodation on the airfield. This report is intended to serve as an informative document for those airport operators and policymakers who seek information about how other airports have safely accommodated mixed-use flight activity on their airport. Information used in this study was acquired through a review of the literature and interviews with airport operators and industry experts. Case examples are presented to illustrate the experiences of airport operators in accommodating users safely and efficiently. The information in this report helps an airport operator to understand better the operational characteristics and needs of the various mixed aeronautical uses, especially for airports without air traffic control tower operation (i.e., uncontrolled airports).