Imagine navigating your aircraft through the frigid Alaskan winter, preparing to land at Kodiak Airport. Suddenly, air traffic control instructs you to cross an active runway. In such moments, every action becomes crucial. Kodiak Airport has recently issued an important safety notice emphasizing heightened vigilance during runway crossings and mandating readback of all hold-short instructions.
According to a newly published Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM), this safety directive will take effect in January 2025. The notice specifies that Kodiak Airport (ADQ/PADQ) experiences an annual magnetic variation change of 0.2 degrees west. Additionally, it highlights that Runway VA R13 has a magnetic variation of 13.4 degrees east—critical data for precise navigation.
Enhanced Communication Protocols
Airport authorities stress that pilots must verbatim repeat all hold-short instructions to confirm accurate understanding and execution. This protocol aims to eliminate safety risks arising from miscommunication or misinterpretation. Runway incursions represent a significant aviation hazard, and clear instruction readbacks serve as an effective preventive measure.
Located at 57°45' North latitude and 152°31' West longitude, Kodiak Airport sits 26 feet above sea level. The facility features multiple runways (01-19, 08-26, and 11-29) with strength classifications of S-53, D-110, 2D-150 and a Pavement Classification Rating of 480 F/C/X/T. All runways are equipped with Engineered Materials Arresting Systems (EMAS) to enhance landing safety.
Operational Specifications
The airport provides comprehensive ground facility information: Tower frequencies operate at 119.8 and 239.0 MHz, Ground Control at 121.9 MHz, and Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) broadcasts at 134.45 MHz. Fixed Base Operator (FBO) services and general aviation apron areas are available to support flight operations.
Pilots should note the updated Airport Diagram (AL-1238 FAA) reflecting current layouts. The NOTAM also details runway gradient information—one runway features a 0.8% upward slope while another has a 0.3% incline—critical data for takeoff and landing performance calculations.
The United States Coast Guard maintains dedicated apron space at the airport, with general aviation temporary parking available from November 27, 2025 through January 22, 2026.
Safety First Initiative
This safety reminder underscores Kodiak Airport's commitment to operational safety through enhanced runway crossing procedures and communication standards. By implementing these measures, the facility aims to provide pilots with a more secure operating environment. Aviation professionals are expected to thoroughly review and adhere to these protocols to maintain the highest safety standards.
The updated NOTAM serves dual purposes: providing essential navigational data while emphasizing runway safety. All pilots operating at Kodiak Airport must carefully review and strictly comply with these regulations to ensure safe flight operations.