Santiago de Cuba, Cuba (MUCU/SCU)

[AA 777]

This time from Santiago de Cuba on the Southeastern coast of Cuba

They are iPhone pictures so not the best clarity
Enjoy!


Santiago de Cuba - the destination today


Like most approaches in Cuba, Santiago features a rather complex ILS when compared to other destinations


They don't make them like that anymore!




The main terminal ramp at Antonio Maceo International Airport in Santiago de Cuba

[Mateo]

What makes the ILS complicated, other than the fact that it's a LOC/DME? Do they actually make you fly the DME arc as opposed to getting vectors to begin the approach?

[AA 777]

What makes the ILS complicated, other than the fact that it's a LOC/DME? Do they actually make you fly the DME arc as opposed to getting vectors to begin the approach?

ATC in Cuba is really good, however they will make you fly the full approach until you call the field in sight for a visual approach (most of the time). Clearly I was tired when I posted and meant LOC/DME (Not ILS). Some things on it that are different from ones in the states are different DME turns for different speeds etc - nothing major. It looks worse than it is! :D

[Mateo]

Because those flights are pretty regulated, what do you file as an alternate? Do you use another airport in Cuba, friendly territory nearby (MWCR/MMUN/MYNN/MKJS), or say "screw it" and go back to Miami?