Logistics for the Mackinac Island 2021 adventure

Mackinac Island Airport (KMCD) has a 3,500’ x 75' runway with two good GPS approaches 08LP and 26LPV. The field is completely new as of five years ago. There is NO FUEL on the field. Plan accordingly. Both 100LL and Jet fuel are available 5 miles west at 83D-see alternate #1 below. The ramp will park about 25 aircraft. If you come in late you may end up in the grass. Bring your own tie downs and chocks. There is a landing and a parking fee. The airport Manager is Myron Johnson and the Asst. Mgr. is Justin  Wright.

When you land at KMCD sign in and pay your landing and parking fee. The attendant will call the horse drawn taxi to take you to the Grand Hotel Hotel. Unless you are lucky that a taxi is already on the way it can take 15-20 minutes for the taxi to arrive. Have your partner call as you tie down. The fee for the taxi is approximately $8-10 cash per person, one way. I would not recommend walking to the hotel carrying your luggage.

Alternate #1: The closest alternate is Mackinac County (83D) in the town of St Ignace is 5 miles West. The runway is 3,800’ with two GPS approaches: 07LNAV and 25LNAV. No weather is reported but it is lower than KMCD so you may get into 83D is you miss the approach at KMCD. There IS both 100LL and Jet Fuel at 83D. If you divert to 83D there is a shuttle service for the two mile ride to St.Ignace Boat dock where the ferry docks. You can then take the ferry over to Mackinac Island.

Alternate #2: If the weather is below GPS minimums at both KMCD and 83D then plan to divert to Pelleston Regional Airport (KPLN). The runways are 5,400’ and 6,500’ and have three GPS and one ILS approach, but no tower. There is fuel and a nice GA/Commercial terminal. This field is more inland and usually has better weather. This would be my first choice if the ceilings are below 400 AGL at KMCD or 83D. If you land here you will need to contact the Mackinaw Shuttle Service, who are located on the Pelleston Airport, at 231-539-7005 http://www.mackinawshuttle.com to arrange transport you to Mackinaw City and the boat dock.