Alternate Airport

Alternate Airport

What does an Alternate Airport mean?

Choosing an Alternate Airport in Flight Planning

An Alternate Airport is identified in flight plans as a suitable landing option should the intended destination become unavailable.

An alternate airport is a pre-designated airport used for landing when the intended destination airport is unsuitable, typically due to adverse weather, operational issues, or emergencies.

• Flight Planning Consideration: Pilots and airlines identify alternate airports during flight planning as part of their contingency plans.
• Safety and Operational Necessity: Having an alternate airport ensures that an aircraft can land safely if it cannot proceed to its original destination.
• Criteria for Selection: The choice of an alternate airport is based on factors like runway length, navigational aids, weather conditions, and the availability of required services.

The designation of alternate airports is a key aspect of flight safety, providing pilots with planned options for safe landing in case the intended destination becomes unavailable.