In this episode, Max talks with Jeff Menasco, the Director of Aviation at Truckee Tahoe Airport, who describes the unique challenges and beauty of the airfield. Situated at a high elevation of 5,901 feet, the airport experiences high-density altitudes, often exceeding 9,000 feet, which can surprise pilots unaccustomed to such conditions. The surrounding mountainous terrain further complicates approaches, creating high minimums and orthographic wind effects, particularly in the afternoons with gusts up to 35 knots.

Winter weather adds another layer of complexity, with heavy snowfall requiring extensive snow removal efforts. The area’s scenic appeal and proximity to the Bay Area draw significant air traffic, with 65% originating from there. Jeff highlights accident trends, noting that 24 accidents over 28 years were primarily due to high-density altitude, gusty winds, and IFR conditions with visual obscurations.

The airport’s FLY SAFE program incentivizes pilot proficiency through the FAA WINGS program, offering discounts for training and monthly seminars. Efforts to maintain safety include hosting flight clinics and fostering a culture of continuous learning. Noise abatement procedures are also emphasized to respect the community’s tranquility, with specific protocols and quiet hours for operations.

If you're getting value from this show, please support the show via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or Patreon.

Support the Show by buying a Lightspeed ANR Headsets
Max has been using only Lightspeed headsets for nearly 25 years! I love their tradeup program that let's you trade in an older Lightspeed headset for a newer model. Start with one of the links below, and Lightspeed will pay a referral fee to support Aviation News Talk.
Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset $1199
Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset $899
Lightspeed Sierra Headset $699
My Review on the Lightspeed Delta Zulu

Send us your feedback or comments via email

If you have a question you’d like answered on the show, let listeners hear you ask the question, by recording your listener question using your phone.

News Stories

Mentioned on the Show
#322 N960LP TBM 960 Truckee Cr ash
Video of the Week: CHP Foot chase over rooftops
Helicopter makes emergency landing in Philadelphia after running low on fuel
Virginia flight school closes abruptly, leaving students out thousands of dollars
Buy Max Trescott's G1000 Book Call 800-247-6553
Buy Max Trescott's G3000 Book Call 800-247-6553

Free Index to the first 282 episodes of Aviation New Talk

So You Want To Learn to Fly or Buy a Cirrus seminars
Online Version of the Seminar Coming Soon – Register for Notification

Check out our recommended ADS-B receivers, and order one for yourself. Yes, we’ll make a couple of dollars if you do.

Get the Free Aviation News Talk app for iOS or Android.

Check out Max’s Online Courses: G1000 VFR, G1000 IFR, and Flying WAAS & GPS Approaches. Find them all at: https://www.pilotlearning.com/

Social Media
Like Aviation News Talk podcast on Facebook
Follow Max on Instagram
Follow Max on Twitter
Listen to all Aviation News Talk podcasts on YouTube or YouTube Premium

"Go Around" song used by permission of Ken Dravis; you can buy his music at kendravis.com

If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.

344 Truckee Airport’s Challenges and its FLY SAFE Program for Pilots – with Jeff Menasco + GA News

Aviation News Talk – Pilot Stories, Safety Tips & General Aviation News