Imagine you're at the controls of an aircraft, preparing to land at Curtis Field Airport in Brady, Texas. To ensure a safe and smooth arrival, what critical information should you have at hand? This guide provides a detailed breakdown of Curtis Field's essential data, equipping pilots with the knowledge needed for confident operations.
Curtis Field Airport Overview
Curtis Field, also known by its BBD designation, serves the central Texas community of Brady. Its unique geographical position and standardized identification codes are vital for pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation enthusiasts alike:
- IATA Code: BBD - The three-letter identifier assigned by the International Air Transport Association facilitates airline ticketing and baggage handling systems.
- ICAO Code: KBBD - This four-character designation from the International Civil Aviation Organization is used globally for flight planning and air traffic control communications.
- FAA Code: BBD - The Federal Aviation Administration's identifier matches the IATA code for domestic aviation operations within the United States.
Operational Specifications
Beyond identification codes, pilots require precise technical specifications for flight planning and performance calculations:
- Official Name: Curtis Field
- Jurisdiction: United States
- Location: Brady, McCulloch County, Texas
- Elevation: 1,827 feet MSL - This altitude measurement is crucial for calculating aircraft performance, particularly regarding density altitude effects on takeoff and landing distances.
- Geographic Coordinates: 31° 10' 45.40" N, 99° 19' 26.10" W - These precise latitude and longitude measurements enable accurate navigation system inputs and chart plotting.
Operational Considerations
The airport's elevation places it in the category of high-altitude operations for many aircraft types. Pilots should account for:
- Reduced air density affecting engine performance
- Increased true airspeed for given indicated airspeeds
- Potential need for longer runway distances
- Local weather patterns typical of central Texas
Geographical Context
Curtis Field's position in the Texas Hill Country presents specific operational characteristics:
- Rolling terrain surrounding the airport
- Typical central Texas vegetation patterns
- Local wind patterns influenced by regional topography
This comprehensive data profile provides aviators with the essential information required for safe operations at Curtis Field. From standardized identifiers to performance-critical elevation data, each element contributes to informed flight planning and execution.