Imagine a night landing under starlight, where a skilled pilot gently touches down with precision, guided by accurate navigation data. Every successful takeoff and landing relies on precise ground information. Allentown-Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), a crucial aerial gateway to Pennsylvania, maintains vital flight safety protocols that demand thorough understanding by pilots and aviation professionals.
Magnetic Variation and Runway Identification: Foundations of Flight Safety
As of January 2025, Allentown Airport reports a magnetic variation of 0.0°E with minimal annual change. This negligible variation allows pilots to rely directly on magnetic compass readings without adjustment. However, regular compass checks and calibrations remain essential for maintaining navigation accuracy.
The airport's VOR (Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range) calibration data shows VA R11.8°W. This critical navigation aid requires pilots' attention to ensure precise course tracking during instrument approaches.
Runway Safety Protocols: Crossing Clearances and Readback Requirements
The airport enforces strict runway safety measures: "Attention to runway crossing clearances - all runway hold instructions require readback." This protocol serves as a vital safeguard against runway incursions, which occur when unauthorized personnel, vehicles, or aircraft enter active runways.
Pilots receiving crossing clearances must verify alignment with flight plans and immediately clarify any discrepancies with ground control. The mandatory readback system creates a verification loop, significantly reducing miscommunication risks during high-traffic operations.
Airport Layout and Critical Infrastructure: Precision Ground Operations
The airport diagram details essential infrastructure including:
- Runway 13-31: 5,800 ft × 150 ft (PCN 35 F/A/W/U), accommodating S-75, D-161, and 2D-290 aircraft
- Runway 06-24: Serving S-120, D-228, and 2D-368 aircraft (PCR 630 F/C/X/T)
- Terminal buildings, cargo areas, hangars, and fire station locations
These specifications enable pilots to select appropriate runways based on aircraft performance characteristics and weight limitations. The strategic placement of support facilities optimizes ground operations efficiency.
Communication Frequencies and Services: Ensuring Operational Continuity
Key communication channels include:
- Clearance Delivery: 124.05/257.95 MHz
- Ground Control: 121.9/257.95 MHz
- Tower: 120.5/257.95 MHz
- ATIS: 126.975 MHz (providing automated weather and operational updates)
Available services support diverse operational needs:
- U.S. Customs processing
- FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)
- Transient aircraft parking
- Fixed Base Operator (FBO) services for general aviation
Temporary Operational Changes: Maintaining Current Awareness
A temporary notice (NE-4) indicates potential operational adjustments between December 25, 2025, and January 22, 2026. Pilots must consult NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) before operations during this period to verify current airport status and restrictions.
Conclusion: The Cumulative Impact of Operational Details
Allentown-Lehigh Valley International Airport's comprehensive flight information—encompassing navigation parameters, runway protocols, facility layouts, communication systems, and temporary notices—forms an integrated safety framework. Aviation professionals must internalize these operational details to maintain the airport's exemplary safety record. In aviation, every procedural detail contributes to the larger safety ecosystem.