In challenging weather conditions, pilots rely on precise airport navigation data as their "eyes" for safe takeoffs and landings. Albany International Airport (ALB), New York's capital region air hub, maintains comprehensive navigation systems that ensure aviation safety. This guide examines ALB's critical navigation infrastructure.
Airport Overview: ALB as New York's Capital Gateway
Located in New York's capital region, Albany International Airport (ALB) serves as a vital transportation hub. Its geographic coordinates span 42°44.0' to 42°45.5' North latitude and 73°47.5' to 73°48.5' West longitude, with an elevation of 285 feet (87 meters) above sea level.
Communication Frequencies
ALB maintains multiple radio frequencies for air traffic coordination:
- Pre-Departure Clearance (PDC): 127.5 MHz
- Clearance Delivery (CLNC DEL): 121.7 MHz and 348.6 MHz
- Ground Control (GND CON): 119.5 MHz and 257.8 MHz
- Tower (ALBANY TOWER): 120.45 MHz
- Digital ATIS: Provides real-time weather and operational updates
Runway Specifications
ALB operates two primary runways with distinct characteristics:
- Runway 01-19: 8,500 ft (2,591 m) long × 150 ft (46 m) wide with pavement classification S-140/D-200/2D-400, indicating maximum weight capacities of 140,000 lb (single wheel), 200,000 lb (dual wheel), and 400,000 lb (dual tandem wheel). PCR value of 508 confirms excellent surface condition.
- Runway 10-28: 7,200 ft (2,195 m) long with identical width and weight ratings. PCR value of 266 suggests moderate surface wear requiring attention.
Runway magnetic headings are 191.2°/011.2° (01-19) and 281.2°/101.2° (10-28), with annual magnetic variation of 0.1° East.
Lighting Systems
ALB's lighting infrastructure supports operations in low visibility:
- Runway 1 features touchdown zone and centerline lights (D TDZ/CL)
- Runway 10/28 equipped with runway end identifier lights (REIL)
- Medium-intensity runway lights (MIRL) on 10-28
- High-intensity runway lights (HIRL) on 1-19
- Dedicated ILS hold areas protect instrument approach signals
Operational Areas
Key airport facilities include:
- Aircraft tie-down zones with parking restrictions
- Dedicated general aviation parking pads
- Three engine run-up areas (South, North, and East pads)
- Cargo handling zone
- 24/7 fire station
- Customs processing for international flights
- Passenger terminal complex
- New York Air National Guard facilities
- Four maintenance hangars (A-D)
Safety Protocols
Critical operational requirements:
- Mandatory readback of all runway holding instructions
- Heightened vigilance for runway crossing clearances
- Land and Hold Short Operations (LAHSO) in effect for runways 10/19
Data Validity
This navigation information remains current through December 25, 2025 - January 22, 2026. Pilots must verify all data against current aeronautical publications before flight.