This was my first time going to Palm Springs and going through the notorious Banning Pass. The pass acts like a funnel for the winds and can throw small airplanes around like it's nothing. I always had Palm Springs on my list because it has an awesome Warbird Museum there. The perfect day came along in November, time to take advantage of the weather, and aim the nose of the Skyhawk at Palm Springs. Smooth as glass, and no turbulence at all through the pass!
Socal will loose radar contact with you while in the pass and then re-establish on the other side. ATC then asked us to follow Highway 111 inbound, then crossed midfield for right downwind entry for runway 31 Right.
We got free parking at Atlantic Aviation for getting 15 gallons of avgas. They have a small cafe right next to Atlantic, perfect for lunch or breakfast. Atlantic even gave us a shuttle van ride to and from the museum. There were lots of old guys telling stories and facts about the old Warbirds, you can even climb around inside a B-17 Fying Fortress and Catalina PBY! Like Chino, most of these aircraft are in flying condition. Good Times!
We departed runway 13L, and were asked to fly heading 030 before resuming own nav.
Flight Planning at SkyVector.com
