WA09 Roche Harbor, WA

Pay2

Pay2

Oberkellner
Going to Roche Harbor in a King Air 90. What do I need to know? Taxiing and ramp space looks fun.
 
It is a tiny little airfield. Friday harbor would be an easier place to fly into, same island, but better facility. I have been to both.

As far as Roche, it has a crosswind AT ALL TIMES. It is narrow and rolling, but with a stabilized approach isn't too bad... Although I never tried it in a King Air! In a cirrus and 172 I had fun! Both were for salmon fishing trips wi my buddy.
 
I've never been into WA09 or FRH, but it'll be fun. I was just talking to a buddy who used to fly a KA 350 in and out of there. Should be pretty interesting.
 
Yeah I would say interesting is a fair word! 3500x39 is fun with a nasty crosswind! The problem comes in if you don't nail the beginning if the runway.it rolls a lot and honestly it may not even be straight! You will know what I mean after you go there!
 
FHR is great because there's rarely a crosswind...but like everyone said there's always one at Roche. Can be a pain but honestly it's just like any other crosswind. Just make sure the approach is spot on and you'll be fine.
 
I've flown here many times in Chieftains and Caravans. 2 things to keep in mind. You can't see one end of the runway from the other, so be very vigilant. You're also on a CTAF for all islands so listen ahead before backtaxiing. Also, the parking area is grass. This time of year it's pretty hard so that's not an issue. There's a paved turnaround at the far west end but don't stay there unless you're doing a real short turn. Instead, take the taxiway that heads north just before the runway ends and starts curving down to the turnaround. The grass area should have plenty of room for you to turn around and park. Best of luck, it's a really neat place.
 
Pay2 said:
By the way, what happened to all the commanders? Word has it they were all grounded. AD?
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There was an AD, it didn't take effect for like a month or something and I think they got them all checked out. We have a pretty extensive mx department. I haven't flown one since Aprilish though.
 
z987k said:
There was an AD, it didn't take effect for like a month or something and I think they got them all checked out. We have a pretty extensive mx department. I haven't flown one since Aprilish though.
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What are you flying now?
 
Roche Harbor was a lot of fun. It was tight and interesting, but I had a good time. Too bad I was only there for an hour.
 
If you go to Friday Harbor for what ever reason I know the airport manager, his name is Dave good guy, known him since the days of Midway 10 years ago.
 
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