🇺🇸 Mettie Airstrip

Mettie Airstrip (US-0087), also known by its FAA LID Z99, is a small military airstrip located on the Yakima Training Center (YTC) in Yakima, Washington, owned and operated by the U.S. Army. Due to its status as a restricted military facility, there are no traditional public traveler reviews or experiences available regarding commercial flights, terminal facilities, security wait times, or customs/immigration, as these services are not offered. Information is primarily focused on operational details for authorized personnel and pilots.

What Authorized Users Should Know:

• Military Ownership and Operation: The airstrip is owned by the U.S. Department of the Army and is situated within the Yakima Training Center.
• Communications: Specific communication frequencies are in place, including CTAF (Common Traffic Advisory Frequency) on 139.60 (Rattlesnake RDO) and Range Operations frequencies. All aircraft must contact Range Ops and Rattlesnake Radio prior to entry.
• Runway: It features a single asphalt runway (12H/30H) approximately 4,600 feet (1,402 meters) in length.
• Attendance: The airstrip is attended during scheduled training.

Key Restrictions and Operational Notes:

• Prior Permission Required (PPR): Operations require 72 hours Prior Permission Required (PPR), which must be coordinated through KFCT Base Operations.
• Closed on Holidays: The airstrip is closed on holidays.
• Fuel Availability: Fixed-wing aircraft fuel is unavailable, though rotor-wing fuel may be available at KFCT.
• Aircraft Parking: Aircraft parking is limited (MOG 3).
• ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting): ARFF services are unavailable.
• Cautionary Notes: Pilots are advised that Taxiway B is used for UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems), and C17 aircraft should reduce outboard engine power on taxiways to decrease the potential for Foreign Object Debris (FOD).

Mettie Airstrip is primarily a military installation supporting the Yakima Training Center. It is not open for public commercial travel, and therefore, typical traveler reviews and amenities associated with civilian airports are not applicable or available. Access and operations are highly restricted, requiring prior authorization.