Aviation Safety

Alaska is a large state, roughly twice the size of Texas. Many national parks in Alaska are spread-out, isolated, rugged, and remote. Small planes are often the best way to get around, but flying has its risks. Aviation safety requires more than just a pilot’s skill–it takes all of us. Learn more about aviation to increase the safety of your next park flight.

Bush planes can take you to beautiful places

NPS / Kara Lewandowski

Passenger Safety

To help park visitors access Alaska's parks, the National Park Service depends on a number of air taxi providers. These businesses are licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and some pilots have been flying in the region for many years. However, safety depends on more than just a pilot's knowledge. An aviation passenger also has rights and responsibilities with regard to safety.

Small aircraft are used throughout Alaska and passengers should take an active role to ensure everyone's safety by getting familiar with the details of their trip. As a passenger you should be willing to ask questions in a polite way if you feel uncomfortable about something or have additional questions. This idea can be intimidating, but if you are uncomfortable about something there is probably a reason. It is important to act on those feelings and voice any concerns. The pilot may have a simple answer that restores your comfort level. Asking a question may be all it takes to refocus on safety and avoid a mishap with the flight.

On the other hand, if the pilot's answer does not satisfy you, stick to your instinct and either insist of safe practices being followed, or postpone the flight. It is better to ask questions about a flight and avoid a potential tragedy. This is good “risk management,” in which the passenger has a key role.

Passengers should get to know the aircraft they're traveling in

NPS / Kent Miller

On every trip, passengers should be familiar with:

• the weather
• the pilot
• the plane
• the plan
• what to do in an incident

Know the Weather

• Ask the pilot about the current weather along the flight path if you don't already know and use that knowledge to make the decision about whether or not to fly. For flights crossing large bodies of water, a follow up question is "Will the flight be able to glide to shore at all times, if needed?"
• Ask the pilot if it will be a VFR or IFR flight. Pilots flying VFR (visual flight rules) rely upon visual cues, not instruments, to navigate and avoid other aircraft. They cannot fly through clouds or fog like IFR (instrument flight rules) flights and must be able to see in front of and around the plane at all times while flying. Knowing the difference is important when making the choice whether or not to fly in poor weather conditions. Remember, you have the right to postpone or cancel a flight if you feel uncomfortable with the pilot's choice to fly.
• Be wary of pilots willing to fly in poor weather conditions when other companies are unwilling to go out.
• Take appropriate action when required. If you have concerns about weather, equipment condition, or other aspects of the flight, speak-up.
• Be prepared to change your plans. You may need to delay the start of your trip, or stay out in the wilderness longer than expected due to safety concerns including poor weather conditions.

The weather can change dramatically on a flight across a large Alaska park.

NPS / Liza Rupp

Know the Pilot

Questions to consider about the pilot:

• Is the pilot well-rested?
• Is the pilot in a hurry?
• Is the pilot aware of possible hazards and weather conditions?

Know the Plane

• In winter or snowy conditions, ask your pilot if your plane has de-icing systems. Planes with de-icing systems are more appropriate for flying in winter.
• Prepare for each flight. Learn what your weight limit for people and gear will be for the flight and pack accordingly. Do not ask a pilot to exceed the weight limit. Wear sturdy footwear and bring warm layers and rain gear on all flights.
• Pay attention during boarding and throughout the flight. Ask for a complete flight briefing if one is not offered so you can learn where safety equipment such as radios, emergency locator transmitters (ELTs), fire extinguishers, float jackets, and first aid kits are located. If you have questions, ask them during the briefing before the flight.

Knowing your flight plan will not only help you in the event of an emergency, it will also help you plan photo opportunities.

NPS Photo

Know The Plan

• Ask if the pilot has filed a flight plan and do not fly until one is on file. Rescue personnel will use this plan to help locate the plane in the event of an emergency landing.
• Ask the pilot what the plan is if you encounter inclement weather. Will they be turning around? Is there another route they would try?

Want to know more? Read about the FAA's "Circle of Safety" program, which is focused on how to stay safe as an aviation passenger.

Other aviation resources:
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/aviation/index.htm

https://www.nps.gov/orgs/aviationprogram/index.htm

 

Know What To Do in case of an Aircraft Accident

First, ensure everyone onboard the aircraft is safe and you have a plan for getting to a safe location:

1. Call ARCC - 907-683-2276 to report the incident to the park.
2. Contact insurance company.
3. Contact aircraft company to schedule removal of the downed aircraft.
4. Work with the park to secure a Special Use Permit for aircraft removal.

For more information about Special Use Permits, visit the Permits & Reservations web page.

Special Use Permits (SUP) are required for helicopter use within park and preserve boundaries. This is to ensure the activity is conducted in a safe and environmentally sound manner and does not adversely affect natural or cultural resources, subsistence resource or use, visitor use or administration of the area.