IFR from FRG to the mid-Atlantic

[AlleyCat67]

I may need to fly from Long Island (FRG) to Virginia next week. It looks like the most common IFR routing is JFK-DIXIE- then further south.

My question is: how easy is it to get an IFR release from FRG for this routing in a bugsmasher at 6000 or 8000 feet? I’m afraid that ATC could keep me waiting on the ground forever until there’s a hole in NY traffic. Or is it not that bad?

I might be able to depart VFR instead, but then I’d need to be ready to climb to 8500 to overtop the Bravo.

 

[Rick A]

I may need to fly from Long Island (FRG) to Virginia next week. It looks like the most common IFR routing is JFK-DIXIE- then further south.

My question is: how easy is it to get an IFR release from FRG for this routing in a bugsmasher at 6000 or 8000 feet? I’m afraid that ATC could keep me waiting on the ground forever until there’s a hole in NY traffic. Or is it not that bad?

I might be able to depart VFR instead, but then I’d need to be ready to climb to 8500 to overtop the Bravo.

Obtaining an IFR release from FRG greatly depends upon the time of day and the runway(s) in use at JFK. It can take a long time. Off hours, not bad at all. When you get released, expect some of zig-zagging and some altitude changes while inside the Bravo before they turn you to the southwest.

If it's during a JFK push time and you're able to depart to the south/southwest of FRG VFR, I'd recommend flying out beneath the Bravo (including 500' MSL just offshore of JFK) then climbing to 1500' (if able) approaching Sandy Hook. But do this only if you're familiar with the route, and comfortable at the low altitude required for the 500' stretch off the beach abeam JFK.

Once clear of the Class Bravo, pick up an IFR for the climb and cruise to Virginia if higher clouds prevent conducting the flight VFR.

 

[AlleyCat67]

Obtaining an IFR release from FRG greatly depends upon the time of day and the runway(s) in use at JFK. It can take a long time. Off hours, not bad at all. When you get released, expect some of zig-zagging and some altitude changes while inside the Bravo before they turn you to the southwest.

If it's during a JFK push time and you're able to depart to the south/southwest of FRG VFR, I'd recommend flying out beneath the Bravo (including 500' MSL just offshore of JFK) then climbing to 1500' (if able) approaching Sandy Hook. But do this only if you're familiar with the route, and comfortable at the low altitude required for the 500' stretch off the beach abeam JFK.

Once clear of the Class Bravo, pick up an IFR for the climb and cruise to Virginia if higher clouds prevent conducting the flight VFR.

Thanks… that’s helpful. I’ve never been comfortable with that 500’ passage off the beach, especially with wake turbulence from JFK.

 

[midlifeflyer]

I’ve flown IFR from FRG (and ISP) home to North Carolina. A friend does it regularly. Based on my limited experience, you can expect a box departing easterly and then counterclockwise to cross JFK on a southerly vector. I encountered no delay getting a release, but that may have been time of day related (mid-morning). On a nice day, it a real treat.

 

[GMascelli]

Last few times heading home from FRG (to Ocean City MD) I got the Farmingdale Five departure then direct JFK at 6000. multiple handoffs along the way but pretty straight forward. I always filed because I did not want to follow the beach at 500'. ATC always asks for best rate of climb. Back when I was flying my sundowner and climbing out at 1200 fpm minute they still asked for best rate...... I should have responded with I'm giving her all i got captain.

Just be sharp and quick response on your radio work and it's no problem.