Challenging Airports Around the Globe

Challenging Airports, by a real-world pilot Chris Frishmuth, takes a look at some of the most exciting and challenging airports from across the globe.

We have endeavoured to replicate some of the challenging and unique approaches that can set the heart beating that little bit faster. Rarely are airports considered to be ‘dangerous’, but the combination of difficult weather, terrain, aircraft performance challenges, or unusual procedural parameters can combine to ratchet up the risk factor. That’s why many of the airports that we have covered in this series require special aircrew certification and training or at the very least an elevated level of respect, study, and planning to operate to and from that location safely.

The airports in this series have been specially chosen because they provide particular challenges for the pilot. Instruction is then given on how best to fly safely into and out of each location while minimising the risk factors. Due to popular demand, we have selected a number of our ‘Challenging Airports’ articles and compiled them into this special volume. So, whether you’re new to flight simulation or a seasoned veteran, you will find many airports in this volume that will challenge your flying skills.

Challenging Airports

Challenging Airports - Alert, Nunavut, Canada (CYLT) Feature Premium

Challenging Airports - Alert, Nunavut, Canada (CYLT)

In this instalment of our Challenging Airports series, we travel to the uniquely situated, northernmost permanently inhabited place on the planet: Alert, Canada.

Challenging Airports - Narsarsuaq, Greenland Feature Premium

Challenging Airports - Narsarsuaq, Greenland (BGBW)

Whether you are flying scheduled airline routes to Narsarsuaq or utilising it as a mid-trip fuel stop on a longer journey, operating to the airport requires careful consideration and preparation due to the extremes of distance, weather and geography.

Much like the bird of prey in the foreground, the Boeing 757 approaches Toncontín with leading edge slats and flaps extended as it swoops down the hillside on short final. Feature Premium

Challenging Airports - Toncontín International Airport (MHTG)

A flight that combines all of the normal challenges with high elevation, mountains and a short runway is guaranteed to pique the interest of those of us who enjoy a challenge. Such a place exists in the mountainous interior of Honduras, Toncontín International Airport.

Challenging Airports: Toronto City Airport (CYTZ) Feature Premium

Challenging Airports - Toronto City Airport, Canada (CYTZ)

Some airports are conveniently located in city centres and provide measurable savings for those who value time as a commodity. In this issue, we take a look at a popular near-city airfield that serves the bustling Canadian metropolis of Toronto: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

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Challenging Airports - Cochabamba, Bolivia (SLCB)

In this instalment of the Challenging Airports series, we revisit the Cordillera Central mountain range in Bolivia and explore the high-altitude airport of Jorge Wilstermann, home to a fleet of relics from the golden age of aviation.

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Challenging Airports - Samedan, Switzerland

We return to the deep mountain valleys of Switzerland to visit the fly-in ski resort of Samedan. Known as a playground for sports enthusiasts, a privileged few access the region via private and chartered corporate jets. While most of us might not be able to afford a single night in one of the exclusive mountainside resorts, we can take a crack at the journey to get there.

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Challenging Airports - Chambéry, France (LFLB)

In this Challenging Airports episode, we dip into the southeast of France, this time to Chambéry and the subalpine mountain ranges that precede entry into the higher French Alps further to the east.

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Challenging Airports - Donegal, Ireland (EIDL)

The coastal airstrip in Donegal in Ireland features prominently in the Landing Challenges activities section in the new Microsoft Flight Simulator. Don a windproof rain jacket and join Chris Frishmuth in battling the often harsh conditions at Donegal Airport.

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Challenging Airports Courchevel, France (LFLJ)

This Challenging Airport episode takes us to Courchevel in France – a small airport carved out of the side of the French Alps!

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Challenging Airports - Reggio di Calabria, Italy (LICR)

This Challenging Airport episode takes us to the seaside airport of Reggio Calabria. Squeezed between the Strait of Messina and the mountains of the Aspromonte massif, the airport presents somewhat unorthodox approaches.

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