Imagine a pilot preparing to land, only to discover discrepancies in runway data—such scenarios pose significant safety risks. Wilmington Air Park (ILN) in Ohio has recently issued a critical notice updating its runway information and emphasizing safety protocols. These updates ensure pilots have access to the latest airport data to maintain safe operations.
Annual Magnetic Variation and Runway Designations
According to the latest data, Wilmington Air Park's magnetic variation is currently 0.0 degrees west, with an annual rate of change projected through January 2025. While this adjustment is minor, pilots relying on magnetic compass navigation must account for it to maintain precise headings. The airport has also published equivalent runway designations: RWYS 04L-22R and 04R-22L . These details are essential for flight planning and navigation.
Operational Restrictions and Safety Warnings
Wilmington Air Park operates under specific restrictions. The airport is not authorized for use by FAA Part 121 (governing scheduled commercial airlines) or Part 380 (foreign air carriers) operators, effectively limiting large commercial airlines from utilizing the facility.
A key safety focus involves runway intersection clearances. To prevent potential conflicts, pilots must exercise heightened vigilance when crossing runways and are required to fully repeat all runway-holding instructions. This protocol aims to minimize the risk of runway incursions.
Airport Specifications
Location:
Wilmington, Ohio
Airport Code:
ILN
Name:
Wilmington Air Park
Runway Details:
- 4L-22R: 10,701 ft long × 150 ft wide
- 4R-22L: 9,000 ft long × 150 ft wide
Runway Slopes:
- 4L: 0.3% uphill
- 22R: 0.4% downhill
- 4R: 0.4% downhill
Elevation Data:
- Runway 4L end: 1,053 ft
- Runway 4R end: 1,043 ft
- Control tower: 1,077 ft
- Field elevation: 1,077 ft
Runway Strength (PCN/ACN System):
- 04R-22L: PCN 98 (Rigid/Bituminous pavement)
- 04L-22R: PCN 84 (Rigid/Concrete pavement)
Blast Pads:
200 ft × 150 ft at all runway ends
Coordinates:
39°25'-39°27' N, 83°47'-83°48' W
Radio Frequencies:
- Clearance Delivery: 128.85 MHz
- Ground Control: 121.6 MHz
- Tower: 119.475 MHz
- D-ATIS: 124.925 MHz
Fire Station: Located near E Apron with 2D/2D2-750 firefighting equipment.
Understanding Runway Strength Ratings
The Pavement Classification Number (PCN) system, standardized by ICAO, quantifies a runway's load-bearing capacity. Aircraft Classification Numbers (ACN) represent an aircraft's impact on pavement. Safe operations require a runway's PCN to equal or exceed an aircraft's ACN.
Wilmington's dual runways accommodate different aircraft types—PCN 98 (04R-22L) supports heavier operations, while PCN 84 (04L-22R) serves lighter traffic. Pavement codes (e.g., R/B/W/T) further clarify surface composition, enabling informed operational decisions.
These comprehensive updates reflect Wilmington Air Park's commitment to aviation safety through accurate data dissemination and stringent operational protocols. Pilots operating at ILN must thoroughly review these specifications to ensure compliant and secure flight operations.