BCFA and WSPA (Washington Seaplane Pilots Association) have a goal to increase interaction amongst members. Notwithstanding the border between us we share all of the same challenges and opportunities.
We will be kicking this effort off with a splash out in September to Phantom Lake, BC. Phantom is approx. 15nm NW of Squamish. Phantom Lake (3100’ msl and 10,000 feet long) is a popular destination for floatplanes. There is a convenient sandy beach with nearby primitive camping. BCFA seasonally positions a canoe at the camp site. Nearby float accessible lakes include East Falk Lake and Kato Lake. These latter lakes, being higher and shorter, are a bit more challenging and suitable for higher performance aircraft.
The general plan for the weekend is as follows;
Saturday, September 21 Late morning/early afternoon arrival at Phantom Lake
- Late morning/early afternoon arrival at Phantom Lake
- Camp Set Up
- 1800 dinner (BYOF&B)
- Evening presentation/discussion by BCFA’s Mike Thompson on alpine lake flying
Sunday, September 22
- After breakfast optional exploration of nearby lakes for those interested
- Afternoon break camp and depart
Customs Clearance
Multiple options for amphibs. Straight floats recommendation is Bedwell Harbor (CAB3), Victoria Airport (Patricia Bay CAP5) or Nanaimo Harbor (CAC8). If unfamiliar with the border crossing process, please contact Don Goodman.
Frequencies
Mike Thompson provided the following:
CTAF at Phantom will be: 123.2
Other useful frequencies en-route;
118.4 for Vancouver Harbour
123.2 for Burrard inlet and Howe sound
126.7 for enroute position reporting
122.8 for Squamish airport
123.5 for Sechelt airport
Route
Recommended approach via Salmon Inlet or Howe Sound. Be very mindful of CYVR and CYYJ airspace and the busy traffic zone between Vancouver and Victoria/Nanaimo.
WSPA Contact – Don Goodman, donaldjg56@gmail.com, 360-303-7076
BCFA Contact – Mike Thompson, mike@thompsonfoundry.com, 604-813-1863
The following photos are courtesy of Mike Thompson. WOW!!
Phantom Lake:
Kato Lake (aka Chickwat Lake):
East Falk Lake:
