Imagine flying through the mountainous terrain of Colorado, preparing to land at San Luis Valley Regional Airport in Alamosa. Wind conditions and magnetic variation become critical factors that directly impact flight safety and precision landing. This guide provides key operational data for pilots navigating this high-altitude airport.
Magnetic Variation: The Foundation of Accurate Navigation
With an annual westward change of 0.1°, Alamosa's magnetic variation may seem insignificant at first glance. However, this small deviation accumulates into substantial navigation errors during long-distance flights. Current data for January 2025 shows the airport's magnetic variation at 7.9°E. Pilots must account for this variation to ensure their navigation instruments display accurate headings and maintain intended flight paths.
Airport Overview: Location and Infrastructure
San Luis Valley Regional Airport (also known as Bergman Field) serves the Alamosa area in southern Colorado. Its geographic coordinates place it between 37°25.5' and 37°26.5' north latitude and between 105°51.5' and 105°52.5' west longitude. The airport's elevation of 7,539 feet above sea level provides crucial data for calculating aircraft performance during takeoff and landing operations.
The facility features comprehensive infrastructure including a terminal building, fixed-base operator (FBO) services, and a fire station/SRE. Runway 02-20 measures 8,521 feet in length and 100 feet in width, with a pavement strength rating of PCR 392 F/C/X/T, accommodating various aircraft types.
Communication Frequencies: Maintaining Critical Contact
Effective communication with air traffic services remains essential for Alamosa operations. Key frequencies include:
- CTAF/UNICOM: 122.8 MHz for general traffic advisories and airport information
- ASOS: 135.175 MHz providing automated weather observations
Runway Specifications: Ensuring Safe Landings
Runway 02-20 serves as the primary landing surface, with its dimensions and load-bearing capacity being vital for flight planning. Pilots should carefully calculate required takeoff and landing distances based on aircraft performance characteristics and prevailing weather conditions.
Operational Notice: Winter Restrictions
Pilots should note that SW-1 operational limitations will be in effect during winter 2025-2026 (December 25 through January 22). Advance awareness of these seasonal restrictions helps ensure flight safety during challenging weather conditions.
Understanding these operational parameters enables pilots to conduct safer and more efficient flights at Alamosa's high-altitude airport.