Operating Hours: 8 a.m.- 7 p.m. (April 16 - Oct. 15)
8 a.m. -4:30pm (Oct.16 to April 15)
Approaches:
The approach end of Catalina's runway 22 begins at the edge of a 1500' cliff. This gives the airport some characteristics similar to landing on an aircraft carrier that is 1,602' in the air.
Be Aware:
1) There are no familiar visual cues for altitude reference. You MUST rely on your Altimeter.
2) There is usually a strong downdraft at the approach end of the runway caused by the prevailing winds falling over the 1500' cliff. Be prepared for this downdraft and possible loss of altitude during your short final.
3) The uphill slope of Runway 22 can cause approach and flare problems for inexperienced pilots.
4) Most flying clubs require that on your first landing at Catalina, you are accompanied by a CFI or other pilot experienced with Catalina's features.
Departures:
Approval required through UNICOM prior to takeoff (or landing). Pilots cannot see aircraft on opposite end of runway due to the slope of the runway. No intersection takeoffs.
Catalina Flying Boats DC-3 lands at the Airport in the Sky
CLOSED all other hours except for emergencies.
Full stop landing only. For public use. Runway 22 first 2000' slopes up; remainder level. Pilots cannot see aircraft on opposite ends of the runway due to gradient.
Airport in the Sky celebrates 50th Anniversary. Click here for a video and more! Click here to read article in Pilot Getaways March/April 2010
OVERVIEW
The Airport in the Sky occupies a 1,602-foot-tall mountaintop at the center of the Island, 10 miles from the city of Avalon. It's a great destination by tour or shuttle bus, bicycle, on foot, or of course, via private or chartered small plane. Its single 3,250-foot-long runway was constructed by blasting and leveling two adjacent peaks, then using the resulting debris to fill in the gaps.
The DC-3 Gifts & Grill restaurant is famed for its buffalo burgers. You can also get regular beef, chicken, and vegetarian burgers, other sandwiches, and Mexican specialties (including buffalo tacos). During the summer, don't miss out on the Grill's Barbecue's featuring live music from Island band Hot off the Range. Call (310) 510-2196 for reservations.
The gift shop offers Airport in the Sky coffee mugs, t-shirts, and key rings; buffalo jerky; and a collectible glazed tile in the style of the famed Catalina Pottery.
Be sure to stroll through the outdoor Nature Center, just next to the terminal. It contains many interpretive displays and information about the natural history of the Island.
The native plant garden features 'habitat islands,' each with labeled plants. Its beauty is a testament to the value of California native plants for landscaping.