East Gig Harbor Heliport

East Gig Harbor Heliport (6WA8) is a privately-owned, private-use, and unattended heliport in Gig Harbor, Washington. Due to its nature as a private, non-commercial facility, traditional traveler reviews and experiences regarding terminal facilities, security, or customs are not available. Information is primarily operational data for pilots.

What Travelers Love (Operational Strengths):

• Private Use: The heliport serves private operations, suggesting a tailored experience for authorized users.
• Water Approach/Departure: Operations are specifically designated to approach and depart over water only, which might be preferred by pilots for certain flight profiles.
• Unattended Operation: The heliport is unattended, offering flexibility for users without the constraints of staffed hours.

Common Complaints (Operational Considerations/Limitations):

• Lack of Public Amenities: As a private and unattended facility, there are no public terminal facilities, amenities, or services (e.g., FBOs, restrooms, lounges) typically found at commercial airports.
• Limited Helipad Size and Surface: The helipad, designated H1, is small (16 x 12 ft / 5 x 4 m) and has a gravel surface, which could be a factor for certain helicopter types or operations.
• Environmental Obstacles: Pilots are advised of "numerous boats in harbor" and a "stone wall 1.5 ft high" defining the east edge of the helipad, requiring careful navigation.
• No Instrument Procedures: There are no published instrument procedures at 6WA8, meaning operations are likely limited to visual flight rules (VFR).
• No Security or Customs: As a private heliport, there are no security checkpoints or customs/immigration facilities as would be found at a commercial airport.

In summary, East Gig Harbor Heliport (6WA8) is a basic, private heliport designed for specific operational needs rather than public commercial travel. Users should be aware of its unattended nature, limited facilities, and specific operational considerations regarding water approaches and environmental factors.