The Chesapeake Regional Airport, located in the heart of Virginia, serves as a vital transportation hub for the region. As a gateway to the Norfolk-Chesapeake metropolitan area, the airport's elevation plays a crucial role in its operations. But what exactly is the Chesapeake Regional Airport elevation, and how does it impact the airport's functionality?
The importance of airport elevation cannot be overstated. It affects the airport's ability to accommodate various types of aircraft, influences flight planning and navigation, and even impacts the airport's environmental footprint. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Chesapeake Regional Airport elevation, exploring its significance and the factors that contribute to its unique characteristics.
Understanding Airport Elevation
Airport elevation refers to the height of the airport's surface above sea level. This measurement is typically taken at the airport's reference point, which is usually the center of the runway. The elevation is expressed in feet or meters above mean sea level (MSL). The accuracy of the airport's elevation is crucial, as it affects the aircraft's performance, navigation, and safety.
Chesapeake Regional Airport Elevation
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Chesapeake Regional Airport elevation is 14 feet (4.3 meters) above mean sea level. This relatively low elevation is characteristic of airports located in coastal regions, where the terrain is generally flat and close to sea level.
Factors Influencing Airport Elevation
Several factors contribute to the Chesapeake Regional Airport's elevation, including:
- Geography: The airport's location in a coastal region, where the terrain is flat and low-lying, contributes to its relatively low elevation.
- Tectonic activity: The region's geology is characterized by a stable tectonic plate, which minimizes the risk of significant elevation changes due to earthquakes or other seismic events.
- Sea level changes: As the global sea level rises, airports like Chesapeake Regional may experience changes in elevation due to the increased water level.
Impact of Elevation on Airport Operations
The Chesapeake Regional Airport elevation has a significant impact on its operations:
- Aircraft performance: The airport's low elevation can affect aircraft takeoff and landing performance, particularly during hot and humid weather conditions.
- Navigation: The elevation influences the airport's navigation systems, including the Instrument Landing System (ILS) and the Global Positioning System (GPS).
- Environmental considerations: The airport's elevation affects its environmental footprint, including the risk of flooding and the impact of sea level rise.
Airports with Similar Elevations
Other airports with similar elevations to Chesapeake Regional include:
- Norfolk International Airport: Located in nearby Norfolk, Virginia, this airport has an elevation of 26 feet (7.9 meters) above mean sea level.
- Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport: Located in Newport News, Virginia, this airport has an elevation of 43 feet (13.1 meters) above mean sea level.
Gallery of Chesapeake Regional Airport
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the elevation of Chesapeake Regional Airport?
+The elevation of Chesapeake Regional Airport is 14 feet (4.3 meters) above mean sea level.
How does the airport's elevation affect its operations?
+The airport's elevation affects its operations, including aircraft performance, navigation, and environmental considerations.
What other airports have similar elevations to Chesapeake Regional Airport?
+Other airports with similar elevations include Norfolk International Airport and Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the Chesapeake Regional Airport elevation and its significance. Whether you are a pilot, a passenger, or simply interested in aviation, it is essential to appreciate the unique characteristics of each airport, including their elevation.