Imagine cruising through sunny skies, preparing to land at Naples Municipal Airport (APF) in Florida. While the weather may be perfect, overlooking updated airport information could turn this routine approach into a serious safety hazard. Between late 2025 and early 2026, several crucial operational parameters at Naples Airport have changed—details that demand every pilot's attention.
Magnetic Variation Update: 0.1°W Annual Change
The airport's annual magnetic variation now stands at 0.1°W. This subtle but critical change requires pilots to recalibrate compass systems accordingly. Neglecting this adjustment could lead to navigation errors, particularly during low-visibility conditions where precision matters most.
Taxiway R6.3°W: Clear Communication Protocol
When taxiing, special attention must be paid to Taxiway R6.3°W. Ground controllers will issue explicit instructions for this route, which pilots must verbally acknowledge and confirm. This strict readback protocol serves as the primary defense against runway incursions—any miscommunication here could have catastrophic consequences.
Runway Crossing: Zero-Tolerance Policy
Runway crossing procedures now carry heightened importance. Aircraft must never enter any runway without explicit clearance, and even with permission, pilots must visually confirm no landing or departing traffic exists. The FAA emphasizes this as a non-negotiable safety protocol following recent nationwide runway safety initiatives.
Essential Airport Data
Reference Coordinates:
- Northwest Corner: 26°08.5'N, 81°47.0'W
- Northeast Corner: 26°09.5'N, 81°46.0'W
- Secondary Point: 26°09.5'N, 81°46.5'W
Operational Details:
- Elevation: 5-6 feet
- ATIS Frequency: 134.225 MHz
- Tower Frequency: 124.125 MHz (when tower closed)
- Ground Control: 121.6 MHz
- Clearance Delivery: Available on multiple frequencies
Runway Specifications
Runway 14-32:
- Dimensions: 6600 x 150 feet
- Strength: S-75, D-75
- PCR Rating: 320 F/B/X/T (rigid pavement)
Runway 05-23:
- Dimensions: 5001 x 100 feet
- Strength: D-75
- PCR Rating: 210 F/B/X/T (rigid pavement)
Both runways feature 100 x 150-foot blast pads at each end.
Facility Locations
The airport's layout includes:
- Terminal: Central location
- Fuel Depot: C32 fuel available near terminal
- General Aviation Area: Eastern sector
- Fire Station: Central position
- Hazardous Materials/Customs: Northeast quadrant
Pavement Classification Numbers
The PCR values indicate Runway 14-32's superior load-bearing capacity (320) compared to Runway 05-23 (210). Pilots must consider aircraft weight and tire pressure when selecting runways.
Airport Diagram AL-6020
FAA Chart 25275 provides complete layout details. Pre-flight review is strongly recommended to familiarize with all taxi routes, facility locations, and restricted areas.