How to Fly Into Sun ’n Fun This Year

Show organizers note the aircraft can begin to arrive and park for camping in Lakeland, Florida, starting at noon EDT on Saturday, March 29. The NOTAM procedures go into effect on Monday, March 31. The expo officially runs April 1-6.

The purpose of the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) is to increase safety and simplify procedures. Pilots are asked to have a copy of the NOTAM in their aircraft. Pro tip: Even if you work digitally, print out a hard copy of it as a backup—and for best results study it ahead of time so you know what to expect.

The NOTAM includes anointed maps either drawn or in photographs that show VFR checkpoints. Pay attention to details such as altitudes, airspeeds, and procedures for following another aircraft. For example, if it says no overtaking or S-turns, please comply.

Holding procedures over landmarks are also detailed.

Per the NOTAM, aircraft that are not equipped with an air-to-ground radio (NORDO) are instructed to land at an airport 30 minutes away from Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL) then call the tower for ATC approval for arrival.

The NOTAM also states: "Do NOT make unnecessary radio transmissions where procedures state. Monitor the frequency only.” Pilots are requested to rock their wings for airborne acknowledgments.

There are detailed instructions for the activating of VFR departure requesting airborne activation of IFR or VFR flight following, and pilots are requested to fly the published procedures as illustrated in the NOTAM.

Safety is paramount for the expo, and pilots are encouraged to file IFR from their departure airport if able when the weather is MVFR, as it can change rapidly. Due to an expected increase in traffic volume, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville approaches may be unable to issue IFR pickup clearances.

The expo has a daily airshow that necessitates the closure of airspace before the event and after for recovery of show aircraft. Arrival traffic is normally not accepted until approximately 45 minutes after the airshow ends. Pilots should check arrival ATIS to determine when the airport has reopened.

Show officials note the airport will remain closed after the night airshow, and departures will not be permitted.

Know when you want to park before you land at Sun ’n Fun and have the appropriate placard, per the NOTAM, placed in your windscreen. You don't want to be sent to the General Aviation Parking Area when your intent was to taxi to the General Aviation Camping Area. A list of the abbreviations for the different parking areas is included in the NOTAM.

Make the placard for your cockpit large enough to read from the outside of the aircraft.

Show officials note that "pilots are responsible for checking the NOTAM for air traffic information and arrival/departure procedures. Tune to ATIS frequency 118.025 upon arrival for updates."

The NOTAM is 22 pages and can be downloaded from the Sun ’n Fun Expo website.