At the bustling Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), pilots engage in meticulous preparations for takeoffs and landings. Each instruction and confirmation carries significant weight for flight safety. Behind the routine operations lie critical details that demand special attention from aviation professionals.
Magnetic Variation and Annual Changes: 2025 Key Data
As of January 2025, Akron-Canton Airport reports a magnetic variation of 0.0°W with an annual rate of change. This requires pilots to carefully account for magnetic variation's impact on navigation headings and ensure timely updates to their navigation systems. The VA R8.4°W information must also be incorporated into flight planning.
Runway Instruction Readbacks: A Safety Imperative
The airport explicitly mandates: "READBACK OF ALL RUNWAY HOLDING INSTRUCTIONS IS REQUIRED." This protocol serves as a fundamental safety measure, ensuring pilots fully comprehend and correctly execute instructions. The readback procedure effectively prevents runway incursions caused by misunderstandings or oversights.
Runway Crossing Vigilance: Maintaining Constant Awareness
The advisory "CAUTION: BE ALERT TO RUNWAY CROSSING CLEARANCES" underscores the need for continuous alertness in the airport's busy environment. Pilots must remain vigilant when receiving runway crossing clearances to prevent potential conflicts with other aircraft or ground vehicles, particularly during periods of reduced visibility.
Geographic Positioning and Elevation Data
Precise location information is critical for flight operations. The airport's reference points are positioned at 40°55.0'N 81°27.0'W and 40°54.5'N 81°26.5'W. Elevation data, including FIELD ELEV 1180, 1209 ELEV, and 1214 ELEV, provides essential references for altitude calibration and approach planning.
Airport Facilities and Services
Akron-Canton Airport offers comprehensive support services:
- Transient Parking: Designated areas for temporary aircraft parking
- Deicing Facilities: Northern and southern deicing pads (DE-ICE NORTH PAD, DE-ICE SOUTH) for winter operations
- Communication Frequencies: Clearance Delivery (121.7/348.6), Ground Control (134.75/279.575), Tower (121.05), and ATIS (25107)
- Emergency Services: Fire department contact at 1226
Runway Specifications and Operational Limitations
The airport features two primary runways: 05-23 with strength ratings of S-120, D-160, 2D-250 and PCR value 410 F/B/X/U, and 01-19 designated J1 D1. Notably, EC-2 restrictions will be in effect from December 25, 2025, through January 22, 2026.
Additional Operational Information
The airport maintains U.S. Customs facilities (CUSTOMS US BROSE) and provides compass calibration data at 055 .9°, 235 .9°, 010 .9°, and 190 .9°. The control tower/beacon (TWR/BCN) stands at 1,323 feet, with additional facilities including hangars and ANG infrastructure.
For pilots operating at Akron-Canton Airport, thorough familiarity with these operational details, strict adherence to procedures, and constant attention to magnetic variation, runway instructions, and crossing clearances form the foundation of safe flight operations.