Aero-Tips!

A good pilot is always learning -- how many times have you heard this old standard throughout your flying career? There is no truer statement in all of flying (well, with the possible exception of "there are no old, bold pilots.")

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Aero-Tips 11.21.06

"November 329 Papa Tango, you're cleared to land runway 19 Right, land and hold short of runway 14."

Evidently someone has been cleared to land or take off from the cross runway. You're job is to land and come to a complete stop before crossing onto Runway 14. If you accept the Land and Hold Short clearance, what exactly are you obligated to do?

LAHSO

Air Traffic Controllers have been directing Land and Hold Short Operations (LAHSO) since 1968. Until July 17, 1997, LAHSOs were conducted to intersecting runways only and that procedure was referred to as Simultaneous Operations on Intersecting Runways (SOIR). Prior to July 17, 1997, there were a few locations that were authorized to land and hold short of a taxiway or approach path.

Occasionally, LAHSO clearances have been refused by the pilot and the refusal has been questioned by the controller. Please remember that the pilot is directly responsible for, and is the final authority concerning, the operation of an aircraft, and depending on several variables, may not be able to accept this type of clearance.

When LAHSOs are expected an announcement will be made on the Automatic Terminal Information System (ATIS). Otherwise pilots shall be advised on initial contact or as soon as practicable thereafter to expect a LAHSO clearance.

Pilot actions

When cleared to land and hold short of an intersecting runway, taxiway or an approach path to a non-intersecting runway, the pilot in command must evaluate his/her ability to touch down and stop before the restriction -- there is no "oops, I landed a little hot" allowed where conflicting traffic is concerned. Then the pilot must either:

• Accept the clearance, and responsibility to perform as prescribed; or
• Decline the clearance, informing ATC as soon as possible that you're unable to comply.

Slow to the appropriate landing speed using the optimum flap configuration and braking as necessary to stop in time. If you float or land longer than expected, power up and go around, being careful to safely lift off before the crossing restriction point. If you have any doubt about being able to set down accurately and stop in time, decline the LAHSO clearance.

Aero-tip of the day: Know the very serious responsibility of accepting a LAHSO clearance.

FMI: Aero-Tips