Imagine you're an experienced pilot planning a flight to a tropical paradise off the northern coast of Queensland, Australia—Lizard Island. When charting your course and preparing flight plans, one crucial piece of information becomes indispensable: the ICAO code for Lizard Island Airport. This four-letter identifier serves as the airport's unique fingerprint within global aviation networks, ensuring precise navigation to your destination.
Lizard Island Airport Overview
Lizard Island Airport serves as the primary aviation gateway to this stunning island located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Though modest in size, this facility plays a vital role in connecting the island's luxury resorts and research stations with mainland Australia through scheduled and charter flights.
Critical Aviation Identifier: The ICAO Code
The International Civil Aviation Organization designates YLZI as Lizard Island Airport's official four-letter code. This standardized identifier enables:
- Accurate flight plan submissions
- Precision in air traffic control communications
- Reliable navigation system inputs
- Consistent aviation documentation
Additional Essential Airport Information
Beyond the ICAO code, pilots require these operational details for flight planning:
- IATA Code: LZI (used for commercial airline operations)
- Location: 14°40'0.12"S, 145°26'59.99"E
- Elevation: 70 feet (21 meters) AMSL
- Runway: 1,020 meters × 30 meters, asphalt surface (Runway 11/29)
- Navigation Aids: Non-directional beacon (NDB) available
- Fuel Availability: AVGAS provided
Operational Considerations
Pilots should note these practical aspects when planning flights to YLZI:
- The airport operates as an uncontrolled aerodrome (Class G airspace)
- Common traffic advisory frequency: 126.7 MHz
- No instrument landing systems available—visual approaches required
- Significant bird activity in the area warrants caution
- Rapid weather changes common in tropical marine environments
About Lizard Island
This continental island forms part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, renowned for its:
- Pristine coral reefs with exceptional diving
- Exclusive resort accommodations
- Marine research facilities
- Protected national park status
The airport serves as the primary access point for visitors to this remote ecological treasure, with flight durations from Cairns typically under one hour.