AOPA Pressure Helps Break LogJam

The FAA has reportedly solved "internal logistical problems" at the Los Angeles International (LAX) tower and, beginning at 1600 local on December 2 (0000Z, December 3), will make the VFR transition "mini route" across the east end of LAX available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"Ever since the FAA established the VFR mini route, we've been urging the agency to make it available to VFR pilots on a full-time basis," said AOPA Air Traffic Manager Heidi Williams. "It is imperative that general aviation VFR traffic has adequate access through L.A.'s Class B airspace. This change will finally do that."

The "mini route" was introduced in June 2002 to replace the LAX Shoreline Transition Route. That route had been suspended after several instances of airliners getting too close to VFR traffic, although it appears the VFR pilots were never at fault.

After originally permitting use of the mini route for only four hours per day, the LAX tower doubled access in September 2002. But there had been no further expansion of the route hours for the past 14 months, so AOPA had resumed urging the FAA to provide adequate access.

LOS ANGELES TOWER LETTER TO AIRMEN NO. 03-03

SUBJECT: LAX VFR “MINI ROUTE” TRANSITION PROCEDURES
CANCELLATION: November 26, 2005

A two-directional transition over LAX Airport for VFR aircraft is known as the Mini Route. Fixed-wing, non-turbojet aircraft will transition via the Santa Monica 128 radial at 2500 feet in direct communication with Los Angeles Tower on 119.8. LAX must be in a west traffic (95% of the time) or over-ocean (generally midnight to 0630L) configuration and reporting a ceiling of at least 3000 feet and visibility of at least three miles. In addition, Hawthorne and Santa Monica Airports must be VFR.
Pilots should advise the Southern California Approach Control (SOCAL Approach) or Santa Monica, Hawthorne, or Torrance Towers that they are requesting the Mini Route. They should proceed to Loyola College (LMU) from the North or the TRW building from the South at 2500 feet, remain clear of Bravo airspace, and contact Los Angeles Tower on 119.8 for clearance.

This transition is now available 24 hours a day, weather and traffic configuration permitting, for all aircraft regardless of their departure or arrival points.

If you have questions regarding this procedure, please contact Steve Ramirez, Los Angeles Tower Support Specialist, at (310) 342-4914.

FMI: www.faa.gov