Alternate Takeoff Procedure
(Lagoon Departure)

ALL DEPARTURES REQUIRE A PILOT BRIEFING.
When wind conditions are strong from the North or East, Lake Winnebago can get very rough and dangerous. When these conditions exist, normal departure procedures are impossible to execute. The Chairman staff at the seaplane base in conjunction with the FAA have established an alternate takeoff procedure. This departure procedure is authorized only when rough water conditions exist and with strict coordination with the Chairman staff.
  • The Seaplane Base Chairman must grant approval.
  • Coordination must be established between the Chairman, Point Controller, Dock Coordinator, Harbor Master, all Boat Drivers and the departing pilots.
  • The point must rope off 100 feet from the end of the point to keep "on lookers" from being too close to the end of the point.
  • The Harbor Master, Boat Drivers and Dock Coordinator must move any moored aircraft in the creek area (if possible).
  • Radio communication must be made between all affected coordinators and pilots.
  • All boat traffic must be stopped during departure.
  • Pilots must receive a briefing from the Chairman.
  • Depending on pilot and aircraft the following will be considered:
    • Tow departing aircraft to the dock for loading and engine run and warm up.
    • Taxi or tow aircraft down the creek for departure.
    • Pilots must receive a thumbs up from the boat driver prior to engine start.
    • Pilots must receive a takeoff clearance from the point.
    • Due to cross wind and the close proximity, consider leaving water rudders down during the takeoff.
    • Pilots should consider use of gentle rudder after lift off instead of aileron to align them with the crosswind.
    • Excessive down draft may be experienced at the "cut".
    • Exercise extreme caution!