Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Operations in Mountainous Areas
Purpose:
To establish procedures for safe and efficient flight operations in mountainous areas, where terrain,
weather, and navigation pose unique challenges.
1. Pre-Flight Preparation
• Route Planning:
Carefully study and plan routes to avoid high peaks, ridges, and valleys where downdrafts
are common. Ensure alternates are selected considering terrain and weather.
• Weather Briefing:
Obtain a detailed weather report, focusing on mountain wave activity, turbulence, icing
conditions, and visibility. Avoid flight if adverse conditions are forecasted.
• Aircraft Performance:
Confirm that aircraft weight is within limits, and performance calculations (takeoff, climb,
cruise, and landing) are adapted for high altitudes and terrain.
• Terrain Awareness Systems:
Ensure Terrain Awareness and Warning Systems (TAWS) and/or Ground Proximity Warning
Systems (GPWS) are functional and set for the appropriate mode.
2. In-Flight Procedures
• Altitude Management:
Fly at or above the Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA) or the published Minimum Off-Route
Altitude (MORA). Ensure safe clearance over terrain, especially when crossing ridges or
mountain ranges.
• Weather Conditions:
Continuously monitor weather. Be prepared to turn back or divert if visibility decreases or if
turbulence becomes severe. Avoid cumulus clouds and windward sides of mountains.
• Turbulence and Winds:
Be aware of potential downdrafts, especially on the leeward side of mountains. Maintain a
safe airspeed to handle turbulence but avoid flying too slowly in high-density altitude
conditions.
• Emergency Diversion:
Identify nearby alternate airfields or landing areas in case of engine failure or other
emergencies. Always have a plan for emergency descent, considering terrain.
3. Communication
• Radio Procedures:
Monitor and communicate on appropriate frequencies, especially in uncontrolled areas.
Report position, altitude, and intentions when operating near critical points, such as ridge
crossings or in valleys.
• ATC Coordination:
If operating in controlled airspace, maintain clear communication with ATC regarding
altitude and route changes, particularly in areas with poor radar coverage.
4. Descent and Landing
• Approach Planning:
Plan for steep descent gradients and potential turbulence on approach. Consider
conducting a circling or visual approach to avoid obstacles.
• Landing Site Evaluation:
Evaluate the runway condition and surrounding terrain, especially for short runways at high
elevation airports. Use recommended landing techniques for the specific aircraft.
5. Post-Flight Procedures
• Debriefing:
Conduct a thorough debriefing to identify any operational challenges or lessons learned
from the flight in the mountainous environment.
• Aircraft Inspection:
Perform a post-flight inspection to check for signs of wear or damage from turbulence or
harsh weather conditions.
Note: These procedures must be followed in conjunction with the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) and
the company’s operational guideline
