Posted on April 4th, 2023
Lake Tahoe Airport, also known as Tahoe Valley Airport, is a gateway to scenic Lake Tahoe and surrounding communities. It is a vital hub for general aviation and private jet flights and is located in South Lake Tahoe, California.
Historically, Lake Tahoe Airport has seen a variety of commercial and military operations. However, since 2000, it has exclusively served general aviation and private jet flights. The airport’s location and proximity to the California-Nevada border make it the closest airport to South Lake Tahoe and the city of Stateline, Nevada, offering easy access to the region’s numerous recreational and entertainment options—whether boating, skiing, hiking or simply spending time at local casinos.
The airport is 6,264 feet above mean sea level (AMSL), making it one of the highest-altitude airports in the United States. Lake Tahoe Airport has implemented several environmental initiatives, including noise abatement procedures and wildlife management programs, to minimize its impact on the surrounding Sierra Nevada ecosystem.
Lake Tahoe Airport (TVL, KTVL) is a premier general aviation airport in California. Managed by Mountain West Aviation, it continues to be a popular destination for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and luxurious travel experiences.
Since its establishment, the Lake Tahoe Airport has significantly facilitated travel worldwide. It has a single Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) that provides comprehensive services to pilots and passengers. Additionally, the airport terminal provides amenities such as a pilot lounge, conference rooms, and rental car services.
The airport is renowned for its 8,541-foot runway, which can accommodate large aircraft, including heavy jets. The airport features a single runway, 8,541 feet long, capable of accommodating large aircraft, including heavy jets.
The air traffic control tower closed in 2004; despite this, the airport still operates as a general aviation airport under self-announce procedures. Over the years, numerous airlines have discontinued flights to and from Lake Tahoe. In the 1990s, American Eagle and United Express ended their commuter services. Reno Air started operating in Lake Tahoe in 1994, aided by a subsidy from TAG. However, both Alpha Air and Trans World Express ceased their operations, and Sierra Expressway also halted its services.
Whether you’re planning a private jet charter or a general aviation flight, Lake Tahoe Airport offers the convenience and amenities to make your journey seamless and enjoyable.
Lake Tahoe Airport has one Fixed-Base Operator (FBO)- Mountain West Aviation. They are a cornerstone of aviation services in the region, providing a comprehensive range of amenities and support for both general aviation and commercial flights.
Mountain West Aviation offers extensive services designed to meet the diverse needs of pilots, passengers, and aircraft. These services include:
Situated at an elevation of 6,264 feet above mean sea level (msl), the airport features a single runway, 18/36, which measures 8,544 feet in length and 100 feet in width.
Lake Tahoe Airport is located in a highly sensitive region to noise, necessitating a comprehensive Noise Abatement Program to mitigate the impact of aircraft operations on the surrounding community. This program includes a variety of measures designed to minimize noise disturbances while ensuring safe and efficient airport operations.
One of the primary strategies for noise abatement at Lake Tahoe Airport is using preferred runways for takeoff and landing, depending on wind conditions. Runway 36 is designated as the preferred runway for takeoffs, while Runway 18 is preferred for landings. This strategic use of runways helps to direct aircraft away from densely populated areas, thereby reducing noise disturbances.
Pilots are instructed to opt for routes that avoid overflying populated areas. Using a higher flap setting further allows the aircraft to achieve a higher altitude more quickly, thereby reducing noise levels on the ground. For landings on Runway 36, pilots are encouraged to land past the displaced threshold and to maintain a slightly steeper approach to minimize engine noise over residential areas.
Due to the terrain, departures from Runway 18 require special attention. Pilots are advised of specific routes and altitude options. If they are unable to reach this altitude, returning to the airport is recommended.
The airport encourages pilots to review the Airman’s Information Manual regarding mountain flying and density altitude operations, ensuring that departures are conducted at the lightest practical weight. The local Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) provides real-time weather information, which is crucial for safe and noise-conscious operations.
In addition to operational measures, the City of South Lake Tahoe has established a process for residents to file noise complaints. Complaints can be submitted via email or phone and should include details such as the date and time of the noise event, a description of the aircraft, the location where the noise was observed, and the duration of the event. The airport management investigates these complaints to determine if any noise abatement procedures were violated and take steps to educate aircraft owners on proper noise abatement techniques. This proactive approach helps to maintain a balance between aviation activities and community well-being.
| Origin | Destination | Flight Time[Approx] | Private Jet Category | Passenger Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Tahoe | New York | 4.5 Hours | Heavy Jet | 10-18 |
| Lake Tahoe | Chicago | 3.5 Hours | Super-Mid | 8-9 |
| Dallas | Lake Tahoe | 3.5 Hours | Mid Jet | 6-8 |
| Los Angeles | Lake Tahoe | 1.25 Hours | Light Jet | 4-6 |
You can explore our diverse fleet at JetOptions and choose the one that best fits your travel needs. For instance, our clients prefer to fly in various jet categories ranging from light jets, midsize, and super-midsize, to heavy jets. Some prominent jets in these categories are:
Here is a list of airports closest to Lake Tahoe Airport:
Lake Tahoe Airport is operational from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.
The airport features a single runway, 18/36, which measures 8,544 feet in length and 100 feet in width.
The airports closest to Lake Tahoe Airport are:
Truckee Tahoe Airport (TRK) → 45 miles and Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) → 62 miles
The airport codes for Lake Tahoe are FAA: TVL, ICAO: KTVL, IATA: TVL.
