A Local Airport Advisory (LAA) is a service that provides information about weather and aviation conditions at airports in the vicinity of the flight path. During nighttime, most airports are closed. During this time, pilots would be restricted to information published in the airport’s directory, NOTAMs, and sectional advisories. This information is published by the National Weather Service and must be accessible to pilots before taking off.
The most popular uses of a local airport include tourism, business development, and regional economic development. The airports can handle high volumes of air traffic and regional interstate trade while offering more freedom to the interstate trader. But when an airport is located in a rural area, there is no direct access to the airport. As such, local airports are a key member of a local economic development team. These benefits should not be underestimated.
Most local airports are home to a Fixed Base Operator, or FBO, which provides flight training to the local community. Many people living in rural areas have gained their pilot’s licenses through local FBOs, making it possible to fulfill a dream of flying. There is a glossary of terms associated with a local airport, including ICAO airport codes. The airport’s location is another important factor to consider. It’s worth mentioning that a local airport is also more convenient, more accessible, and more likely to benefit the community.
A local airport’s WSC must be reviewed before a pilot can begin a flight. For example, a flight to a local airport may only involve Class G and Class E airspace. In this case, minimum visibility and cloud clearance are sufficient. An altimeter is also a necessary tool to fly a proper airport pattern. If there are no restrictions for local airports, they must be reviewed for compatibility. If the local airport’s WSC requirements are met, it’s time to seek a variance.