When you’re flying the last thing you want to hear about is ice on the runway, so it sounds completely nuts to say that a plane is going to land on a runway entirely made of ice. But that’s just what happens each winter at Lake Winnipesaukee’s Alton Bay. The Alton Bay ice runway is the only FAA-approved ice runway in the continental U.S., and it is truly amazing. Check it out:
During the summer about 50 seaplanes a month land on Alton Bay, the long, narrow bay at the southern tip of Lake Winnipesaukee.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
But once the ice settles in, the air traffic really picks up. On a busy day, the runway might see 100 planes from all over New England.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
That’s because the experience of landing on an ice runway is totally unique in the continental U.S.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
But Alton Bay Ice Runway isn’t just some crazy, daring feat. It’s an state-owned, FAA-approved runway that is said to be just as safe as any traditional landing pad.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
Of course, maintaining a runway - even an ice runway - takes careful work. The runway is always plowed.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
And careful attention is paid to the ice to make sure that is it thick enough to support the pop-up airport.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
All of that ensures that the cold, clear surface of Lake Winnipesaukee becomes the perfect place to land or take off during the winter months.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
Even if you’re not brave enough to fly onto Alton Bay yourself, watching the planes take off and land is a sight worth seeing.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
It’s no wonder that the runway has attracted national news attention.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
Plus, the view from the air isn’t bad either!
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
Who’s ready to fly?
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway/facebook
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
