Sossamon Field—PIREPs?

[RyanB]

Dad is wanting to go to the Oconaluftee Indian Village here soon and we figure we might as well fly it to save travel time.

Sossamon Field (57NC) looks closest, although it’s private. I know a few folks who used to do fly camping there years ago, so I assume it’s not too difficult to gain access. Ground transportation would be the most challenging part. I assume Uber would be available, but I’d have to check.

Anybody flown into Sossamon? Any better airports as an alternative for this mission?

 

[Velocity173]

Never seen anything go in and out of 57NC. Be careful with that little runway and warmer temps this time of year. I’d look at Jackson County myself. Even though it’s a bit higher, runway is in decent shape and there’s actually airplanes on the ramp. Probably able to get a rental car also. Beautiful area. Actually picked up a Cherokee Indian at the local hospital. Casino brings big $$$ to that area.

 

[RyanB]

Be careful with that little runway and warmer temps this time of year. I’d look at Jackson County myself. Even though it’s a bit higher, runway is in decent shape and there’s actually airplanes on the ramp.

Yeah I was thinking that as well. Checked the airport remarks and I see :
USE CARE ON RY 28 APCH DUE TO POSSIBLE DOWNDRAFT, ESP DURG SPRING.

2265ft @ 1900ft elevation. Could definitely get a bit questionable during the mid-day summer etc.

I think we will use 24A. 21 miles from there to the Indian Village. Just need to check on ground transportation. Definitely beats a 2:40 min drive each way!

 

[ChemGuy]

Ive flown into 24A Sylva NC. Make sure its daylight. You will be below nearby hills and could easily CFIT in the dark. Also it doesnt look like it from the map but the runway doesnt just have trees along both sides, its like they had to bury the runway some. I mean the runway is sunken 10-15 ft and trees on top of that, but its plenty wide. Once you are low and near flare there no where to go but straight, or into the hill/trees on each side. The effect reminded me of the Death Star canyon scene from Star Wars. Its a weird way to land when your used to wide open flat airports.

Did I mention only fly during daylight hours.