Navigating Flight Operations at Van Nuys Airport (VNY)

Van Nuys Airport (IATA: VNY, ICAO: KVNY), located in Los Angeles, California, is recognized as one of the busiest and most significant general aviation airports in the world. It operates as a vital hub for private, charter, and business aviation, has seamless and efficient services that cater to corporate clients, high-profile travelers, and aviation professionals. The airport plays a crucial role in supporting the region’s economic framework by facilitating business connectivity, tourism, and high-value aviation operations. Additionally, it complements the functions of nearby commercial airports such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) by alleviating congestion and providing dedicated facilities for non-commercial aviation.

General Information For Van Nuys Airport (VNY)

Van Nuys Airport (VNY) does not have traditional terminals and gates like a commercial airport because it is a general aviation airport catering mainly to private and business aviation. It operates with Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs). There are no terminals or gates in the typical sense used at commercial airports. All international arrivals shall comply with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection All Landing Rights Instructions.

Van Nuys Airport (VNY) features two asphalt runways: Runway 16R/34L, measuring 8,001 feet (2,439 meters), accommodating a wide range of business jets, and Runway 16L/34R, measuring 4,013 feet (1,223 meters), ideal for smaller aircraft and training purposes.

Statistics of Van Nuys Airport (VNY)

In 2023, Van Nuys Airport (VNY) was home to 619 based aircraft, including 282 jets, 307 propeller aircraft, and 30 helicopters, highlighting its diverse fleet composition. The airport delivered an impressive 30,383,702 gallons of Jet A fuel and 307,333 gallons of Avgas in 2022, reflecting its role as a key hub for general aviation. With over 300,000 annual operations (takeoffs and landings), VNY stands as one of the busiest general aviation airports in the world.

Van Nuys Airport (VNY) Flight & Runway Operations

Aircraft whose takeoff noise levels equal or exceed 77 dBA, as per Advisory Circular (AC36-3H), are prohibited from arriving or departing the airport. Additionally, business jets must avoid departing or arriving between 11 PM and 7 AM to reduce noise over the surrounding community. Turbine and jet aircraft operators are encouraged to follow the NBAA Noise Abatement Program procedures or those recommended by the aircraft manufacturer.

 

The airport also enforces specific noise ordinances: turbine-powered or fan-powered aircraft are prohibited from repetitive operations at all times, and propeller-powered aircraft are restricted from repetitive operations, such as touch-and-go landings, between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM (June 21 to September 15) and between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM (September 16 to June 20). Additionally, takeoffs for aircraft exceeding 74 dBA are prohibited between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, except for military, mercy flights, or law enforcement aircraft. These measures are in place to limit noise pollution and ensure that operations at VNY remain compatible with the surrounding community.

Hours of Service for Entrance and Clearance

Inspection services for the entrance and arrival of aircraft at Van Nuys Airport (VNY) are available seven days a week during regular office hours, as per the port’s permission to land procedures. Commercial aircraft operators departing the U.S. must obtain an outbound clearance by contacting U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) directly.

Permission to Land Procedures

Van Nuys General Aviation Airport (KVNY) is designated as a “user fee airport” under U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations [19 CFR 122.1(m); 19 CFR 122.15]. This designation requires aircraft arriving from foreign locations to comply with specific protocols and pay applicable user fees for customs services. Operators must contact CBP by phone at least 24 hours before departure from a foreign location to request permission to land.

 

This permission ensures CBP is prepared to provide customs inspection services upon arrival. Permission is granted with a 30-minute tolerance before or after the requested arrival time, and if the aircraft’s Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) deviates outside this window, previously granted permission becomes invalid, requiring the pilot to re-contact CBP to secure new clearance.

 

In addition to obtaining permission, operators must provide a set of required documents, including a flight plan (detailing registration number, aircraft type, and intended route), insurance certificate, operator’s certificate (AOC for charter flights), customs and immigration documents, and a noise (abatement) compliance certificate.

 

Landing permits are generally issued for a single use, meaning they are valid only for the specific flight in question. In special cases, permits for multiple entries may be issued, though they typically do not exceed 1 month in duration. These procedures ensure that CBP can manage the flow of international flights efficiently and maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements at Van Nuys Airport.

Inspection Process

Upon arrival, CBP Officer will meet the aircraft to begin the inspection. All crew and passengers will be processed inside the Federal Inspection Services (FIS) area. Be prepared to present essential documents, including passports, visas, pilot’s license, medical certificate, aircraft registration, and user fee decal (if applicable). All luggage, passengers, and the aircraft itself are subject to inspection. After inspection, passengers are free to depart directly from the FIS.

Slot Coordination at Van Nuys Airport (VNY)

Van Nuys Airport (VNY) requires slot coordination for certain operations to manage airport traffic efficiently and minimize congestion. Slot requests should be submitted at least 48 hours in advance for domestic flights and 72 hours for international flights to ensure proper scheduling and coordination.

Required Documents

To request a slot, operators must submit the following documents:

 

• Slot Clearance Request (SCR): A detailed request that includes the aircraft’s registration number, type, intended route, and desired slot times.
• Flight Plan: A complete flight plan that outlines the route and other operational details, which must accompany the slot request.
• Insurance Certificate: Proof of insurance that covers the aircraft and its operations during the requested slot time.

Slot Validity Period

• Single Use: Most slots are allocated for a single use, valid only for the specific flight for which they were requested.
• Seasonal Slots: In some cases, slots can be allocated for a season, usually not exceeding 6 months. This is more common for high-demand periods when consistent operations are expected.

Slot Fees

• Application Fee: A nominal fee is required to process slot requests, with the exact amount varying based on the type of operation and the season.
• Usage Fee: Additional fees may apply based on the duration of the slot and the type of aircraft operating. These fees help maintain efficient airport operations during peak times.

 

This slot coordination system ensures that Van Nuys Airport operates smoothly while minimizing delays and congestion, particularly during high-traffic periods. For more detailed information, feel free to reach out to Just Aviation, where we offer expert guidance and support for all your airport coordination needs.

Ground Handling at Van Nuys Airport (VNY)

Just Aviation coordinates with FBO and ground crew to ensure seamless ground handling operations at Van Nuys Airport (VNY) for a wide range of aircraft types. The airport has fueling options for both Jet A and Avgas, ensuring that operators have access to the necessary fuel for their aircraft. Ground handling services include aircraft marshaling, baggage handling, and aircraft cleaning to maintain operational efficiency.

 

Additional services encompass aircraft towing, seasonal de-icing, and maintenance support. Ground power units (GPUs) and air conditioning units (ACUs) are also available to ensure proper electrical and climate control while aircraft are on the ramp. Through these coordinated efforts, Just Aviation ensures optimized ramp operations and efficient ground handling at VNY.