There are several general VFR Routes that pilots use. Please note that you should follow all ATC instructions and relevant FARs. These are merely suggestions and expectations on how pilots generally arrive at and depart Reid Hillview. Runway 31R/L are the predominantly used runways but this is of course subject to change when winds favor operations from 13L/R. Be sure to check the ATIS on 125.20 when preparing to land, and carefully listen to and read back all instructions.

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• San Jose Class C Transition:

  • Arriving: If you're flying in from over the peninsula, after the Bay Tour, or from Palo Alto or San Carlos, you can expect to speak with San Jose Airport's tower on 124.00, and get instructions to overfly the midpoint of the airport at around 1,500' MSL, before turning towards the Highway 101 & 280 interchanges, which will set you up nicely to enter the left downwind for Runway 31L.

  • Departing: If you're planning to depart for the Bay Tour, you can generally expect to fly northbound outside of the San Jose Class C airspace, before being instructed to contact San Jose Tower on 124.00, at which they will instruct you to cross above SJC at around 1,500', and then proceed to follow either the Bayshore freeway (Highway 101) or Interstate 280.

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• Calaveras:

  • Arriving: Calaveras is indicated as GPS fix, VPCAL. Pilots generally use this route when coming from the north, to avoid the San Francisco Class Bravo, and the Oakland Class C. Overfly the reservoir at approximately 4,500' and be sure to remain vigilant for traffic in the practice area. You can then proceed directly to the airport, and expect to enter the right downwind for Runway 31R.

  • Departing: When preparing for departure, you can enter into your GPS, VPCAL, or essentially fly a heading of approximately 330, while climbing. Ensure that you do not cross over Highway 680, as this will put you inside of the San Jose Class Charlie airspace.

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• Southerly Routes:

  • Arriving: Pilots generally approach from the direction of Lake Anderson Reservoir, which is just to the East of the San Martin Airport (E16). As you call Reid Hillview Tower on 119.80 at about 10 NM out, you can expect to make a straight-in approach to the runways. It is advised you get onto the extended centerline as soon as possible to reduce the possibility of traffic conflicts.

  • Departing: You can request from Reid Hillview Tower to do a southbound departure. Essentially, you will point your aircraft south, towards Anderson Reservoir. Be sure to remain to the East of Highway 101 to avoid accidentally entering the San Jose Class C airspace. Also, keep on the lookout for any traffic that is inbound as this departure takes you into the path of the arrivals returning from the Lake Anderson practice area.​​

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