LOFT: Denver to Jackson Hole
Mountain IFR into challenging terrain with special approach procedures and weather considerations.
View FAA WINGS activity on FAASafety.gov →Scenario Overview
Mountain IFR flight from Denver to Jackson Hole, one of the most challenging airport environments in the US. High terrain, single runway, special approach procedures, and mountain weather combine to create a demanding scenario that requires thorough planning and conservative decision-making.
Complete this LOFT with one of our CFIIs to earn WINGS credit toward your pilot proficiency. Learn more at FAASafety.gov
Route & Flight Plan
ATC Audio Practice
Real ATC recordings from LiveATC. Practice extracting weather from ATIS and copying IFR clearances at real-world cadence. Learn IFR clearance techniques
These are actual recordings from airport frequencies. The weather, routing, and clearances will differ from the planned scenario — the training value is in listening proficiency and ATC communication cadence.
ATIS
Denver International ATIS — high-altitude airport with mountain weather and multiple parallel runway operations
IFR Clearances
SID with amended route — climb via SID, FL190 expect FL210. Practice recognizing an amended clearance that changes your route after initial readback
Airport Information
| RWY | Length | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 16R/34L | 16,000 ft | concrete |
| 7/25 | 12,000 ft | concrete |
| 16L/34R | 12,000 ft | concrete |
| 8/26 | 12,000 ft | concrete |
| 17L/35R | 12,000 ft | concrete |
| 17R/35L | 12,000 ft | concrete |
| RWY | Length | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 01/19 | 6,300 ft | asphalt |
| RWY | Length | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 16L/34R | 12,002 ft | concrete |
| 16R/34L | 12,000 ft | concrete |
| 17/35 | 9,596 ft | asphalt |
| 14/32 | 4,893 ft | asphalt |
Weather Scenario
An autumn mountain weather pattern with snow showers developing over the Teton Range. Denver is clear but conditions deteriorate moving northwest toward Jackson. The TAF for KJAC shows the 1500-1630Z window as marginal with gusty winds and snow showers. Mountain wave turbulence is reported along the route. The single-runway airport with terrain on all sides demands careful weather evaluation.
Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts
Lesson Profile
| Phase | Time | Altitude | Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Briefing & Setup | 0:00-0:20 | Ground | Thorough route briefing with MEA analysis. Review KJAC special procedures and the ILS Y RWY 19. Brief the missed approach (critical in terrain). Discuss go-around considerations. |
| Departure | 0:20-0:35 | 5,434-FL210 | Depart KDEN via PLAIN5 SID. Climb to FL210. Contact Denver Center. High-altitude cruise performance planning. |
| Enroute | 0:35-1:05 | FL210 | Cruise northwest. Mountain wave turbulence encounters along the Wind River Range. Receive updated KJAC weather. Evaluate continue/divert decision. |
| Descent & Approach Setup | 1:05-1:25 | FL210-10,000 | Begin descent for KJAC. Terrain awareness critical. Brief ILS Y RWY 19 with all crossing altitudes. Configure for approach. |
| Approach | 1:25-1:45 | 10,000-6,451 | ILS Y RWY 19 at KJAC. Gusty crosswind. Terrain on both sides of approach corridor. Break out with Teton Range visible. Landing on single runway. |
| Debrief | 1:45-2:00 | Ground | Review mountain flying decision-making, terrain awareness, approach to a constrained airport. Discuss what conditions would have required diversion to SLC. |
Post-LOFT Approach Practice
After the LOFT scenario concludes, practice 2 additional approaches for a total of 3 per session. Session is planned for up to 6 approaches — ask your CFII for additional practice.
Training Objectives
Proficiency
- Navigate high-altitude airways through Rocky Mountain terrain
- Execute the ILS Y RWY 19 at Jackson Hole with terrain awareness
- Manage high-altitude performance limitations
Progress
- Interpret mountain weather and terrain-induced turbulence
- Apply special approach procedures for mountain airports
- Evaluate go-around considerations at terrain-constrained airports
Single-Pilot CRM
- Brief approach thoroughly including missed approach into mountainous terrain
- Manage workload during complex mountain approach
- Make conservative go/no-go decisions for terrain-constrained airports
Prepare for Your Session
What makes Jackson Hole Airport uniquely challenging?
What are the missed approach considerations at KJAC?
What is mountain wave turbulence and when should you expect it at KJAC?
What personal minimums would you set for a flight into KJAC?
Instructor Notes
Related IFR Training Guides
Deepen your understanding of the skills practiced in this scenario
Mastering Climb Gradients for IFR Departures
Calculate and fly departure climb gradients — obstacle clearance and terrain awareness.
How to Brief a Jeppesen Approach Plate
Step-by-step Jeppesen chart briefing checklist used by airline pilots.
How Should You Fly an Instrument Approach?
Technique and standards for flying stable, safe instrument approaches.
Questions? Text us at +1 (347) 450-7519 or email hello@aviator.nyc