Overflying the Grand Canyon

Living the Dream

Ever since I learned how to fly, I wanted to fly my own airplane over the Grand Canyon. It only took me 16 years to actually realize this dream but it was magnificent. You can see for yourself.

The Plan

Grand Canyon airspace is a SFRA. SFRA means Special Flight Rules Area, so normal flight rules are augmented by several additional ones. For example, there are no-fly zones, where you cannot fly under 14,500 feet (like Toroweap / Shinumo Flight Free Zone or Bright Angel Flight Free Zone which is pictured above on the chart excerpt). The area is divided into several corridors that criss-cross the Grand Canyon. No, you cannot overfly the length of the canyon below 14,500 feet. You are also required to keep specific altitudes in the allowed corridors.

I planned to take off from Sedona, fly north to intercept the Dragon Corridor entrance and fly it northbound at 11,500 feet. Then turn around, descend to 10,500 and fly the Fossil Canyon Corridor. Then overfly Diamond Creek sector and depart the area to the west direct towards Apple Valley airport where I planned a fuel stop.

The Flight

There were no modifications to the plan. I flew what I planned. See the overflight videos below.

The Scenery

I took some more pictures while flying. Amazing, majestic views, I strongly encourage you to fly there yourself, you won’t regret it, no chance.