Why Are We Here?

 

 

 

The Tongass Aircraft Pilots Association was formed in response to past incidents occuring since 1987. A long-term history of air traffic congestion and noise complaints, coupled with past air traffic incidents, raised doubts and questions regarding the margin of aviation safety in the Ketchikan and Tongass Narrows area.

 

A focus group traveled to Ketchikan to gather facts and initiate a study in 1987. As a result of the study the Tongass Aircraft Pilots Association was formed to adress the issues of safety, communication, air traffic management and noise considerations in Ketchikan, Alaska

 

To provide a comprehensive analysis of air traffic management and activity in the Ketchikan, Alaska area and in recognizing higher-than-normal risks and aviation impact on the community, the Tongass Aircraft Pilots Association developed VFR patterns and procedures to enhance aviation safety and mitigate aircraft noise problems in the community.

 

TAPA now holds the task of communicating ongoing changes to air traffic management and activity in the Ketchikan, Alaska area through this site, as well as semi-annual meetings, newsletters and open communication with its members.