Makedonia (LGTS) Event from Vatsim

[knikos]

It is this time of year and it is really simple. On Friday, April 18th 2008, "Makedonia" Airport of Thessaloniki will be open for six hours starting 16:00Z (18:00 LT) and will handle hundreds of movements of passenger, cargo, general aviation and military traffic, both local and international.
"Makedonia" is the second largest airport in Greece, servicing the second largest city, Thessaloniki. Follow the links to read more about this interesting airport and exciting city, it's worth the read! As for procedures, we would like to note the following:



The airport has two runways, 10/28 and 16/34. Runway 10/28 has a breathtaking approach, as the threshold is right by the seaside. Currently the runway is being extended and so in the coming years, inbound airliners will be landing on a strip of land amid the beautiful, glittering sea.
The airport is often plagued by poor visibility, due to sea vapors and mists. Runway 16 offers an ILS, but if winds are not favorable, be prepared for some interesting approaches!
There are 14 stands and 4 cargo stands (aside from military). Flights are expected to (immeasurably) surpass 14+4, so please be prepared to disconnect at the gate. Also, we remind you: "request start-up clearance when the aircraft doors are closed and when ready to start engines immediately. When the expected delay is less than 15 minutes at the holding position, aircraft will be cleared to start engines immediately." Which means, please log in ready to startup and get moving!


Flight Simulation does not reach 100% of real conditions obviously, but we think you might be interested to read about the LGTS Low Visibility Procedures, some of which may come into play.

LOW VISIBILITY PROCEDURES (LVP)
LVP are activated, when RVR is less than 1400m and/ or ceiling is less than 400'. When RVR is less than 800m and/ or ceiling is less than 200' only rwy 16 will be available for landing an take-off. Pilots will be informed when these procedures are in operation by ATIS or RTF. During CAT II operations, departing acft will use twy C and twy A to the holding position rwy 16. Arriving acft will clear rwy 16 at twy D or at the end of rwy 16 and will follow twy A and twy C to the apron. Stopbars will be activated during CAT II operations. Crossing of activated stopbars without specific ATC instructions is prohibited. During CAT II operation, pilots are expected to be able to follow twy centerline light and ground signals to the apron. Alternatively FOLLOW ME car guidance may be requested. Pilots will not be refused permission to land or take-off on "pilots discretion" solely because of bad weather conditions.


The Event in Short
Friday,April 18th 2008
16:00Z