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International Comanche Society
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Flying the
New York Hudson River Corridor
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One great
experience which is
reserved for GA pilots is flying
the Hudson River VFR corridor through the
heart of New York City. The commercial
flights can�t do it � they are restricted to
ATC direction in the overhead Class Bravo
airspace. We can fly at our own pace in a
non-controlled tunnel bound by the shoreline
on each side, the cross-river helicopter
traffic below 1100 feet and the Class B floor
above at
1300 feet. Landing lights on, stay to the
right, announce your position and watch for
traffic � just like flying in the pattern
back home. |
Central Manhattan |
If you are going to fly the corridor there
are some things to do before you launch.
 | First, the weather should be good VFR. An
overcast layer often means more traffic
using the low route past New York and any
haze or fog makes spotting traffic harder.
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| Second, have and be familiar with a current
New York Terminal Area chart. Know the
identity and location of the VFR position
reporting points, the boundaries of the
restricted areas (Statue of Liberty, East
River etc.), and the altitude limitations
below Class B
beyond the corridor.
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| Third, plan your trip. Know which
frequencies to use for ATC and in the
corridor. Use a gate approach for flight
planning � NYACK intersection to the North
and the Colts Neck VOR to the South
work well. Plan
any u-turns North of the Tappanzee or South
of the Varrizano bridges. |
| Fourth, do not
plan your first trip as a solo flight. You
will need extra eyes to watch for traffic
while you pay attention to flying straight
and level. Fly first, then look at the view.
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| Finally, check all sources for TFR
restrictions, particularly afternoon or
evenings when the Yankees may be playing at
home. |
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Lower Manhattan |
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While
in the corridor, pay close attention to
your altitude and position and keep a mental
picture of other traffic. Keep your radio
communications clear and concise � �Comanche
32P at Alpine, south-bound, 1200 feet.� Be
aware of turbulence where the west wind
rolls over the Palisades. Don�t buzz the
bridge towers � move toward the center of
the span. Fly at a comfortable approach
speed, not too slow but also not full bore.
Don�t tailgate traffic ahead - this is no
place to try ad hoc formation
flying. |
Liberty and Staten Island
ferry |
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And, while you are at it, take the time to
enjoy the privilege of flying your beloved
Comanche through the heart of one of the
greatest cities in the world.
Peter
Morse |
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