North Perry Airport (NPA), officially known as Broward County North Perry Airport, is a general aviation airport located in Pembroke Pines, Florida. While it might not be as well-known as some of the larger airports in South Florida, it offers a unique set of advantages and disadvantages that make it a perfect fit for some pilots and a less-than-ideal choice for others. This guide will help you determine if North Perry Airport is the right airport for your aviation needs.
What Makes North Perry Airport Unique?
NPA distinguishes itself from other airports in the area through several key features:
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Excellent Runway System: The airport boasts a substantial runway system, capable of handling a variety of aircraft sizes. This is a significant advantage for pilots flying larger, more demanding planes. The longer runways allow for safer takeoffs and landings, particularly in challenging weather conditions.
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Less Congestion: Compared to busier airports like Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), NPA experiences significantly less air traffic congestion. This translates to shorter wait times for takeoff and landing slots, making it a more efficient option for many pilots.
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Convenient Location: Located in Broward County, NPA offers easy access to the surrounding areas, including popular destinations in South Florida. This accessibility is a key draw for both local pilots and those visiting the region.
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Variety of Services: North Perry Airport provides a range of services to its users, including fuel, maintenance, flight schools, and aircraft rental. This comprehensive offering makes it a convenient one-stop shop for many aviation-related needs.
What Are the Downsides of North Perry Airport?
While NPA offers many advantages, it's crucial to acknowledge its drawbacks:
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Limited International Flights: Unlike larger airports, NPA doesn't handle international flights. This limitation can be a significant factor for pilots requiring international travel capabilities.
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Fewer Amenities: While it provides essential services, NPA lacks the extensive amenities found in larger airports, such as extensive shopping and dining options.
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Potential for Noise Complaints: Being located closer to residential areas than some other airports, NPA might experience more noise-related complaints, potentially leading to flight restrictions at certain times.
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Limited Availability of Certain Services: While offering a good range of services, some specialized services might not be readily available at NPA compared to larger hubs.
Is North Perry Airport Expensive?
The cost of using North Perry Airport varies depending on several factors, including the type of aircraft, the length of stay, and the services utilized. While landing fees and other charges are generally in line with comparable airports of its size, it's always advisable to check the current fee schedule on the official Broward County website before your flight.
What Types of Aircraft Operate at North Perry Airport?
North Perry Airport caters to a diverse range of aircraft, from smaller general aviation planes to larger corporate jets. However, its infrastructure is geared primarily towards general aviation and doesn't handle the massive airliners found in major international airports.
What are the flight schools located at North Perry Airport?
Several reputable flight schools operate at North Perry Airport, offering a range of training programs for aspiring pilots. It's best to research and compare different schools based on your specific needs and preferences before enrolling in a course. Information on flight schools is generally available on the NPA website or through online searches.
Is North Perry Airport a good option for private jet owners?
North Perry Airport can be a suitable option for private jet owners, primarily due to its less congested airspace and readily available services. However, the lack of extensive luxury amenities found in some larger private aviation facilities should be considered.
Conclusion: Is North Perry Airport Right for You?
Ultimately, the suitability of North Perry Airport depends on your individual needs and priorities as a pilot. If you value less congestion, efficient operations, and easy access to South Florida, NPA could be an excellent choice. However, if you require international flights, extensive amenities, or specialized services not readily available at smaller airports, then you might find a larger airport more suitable. Carefully weigh the pros and cons outlined above to make an informed decision.
