Redding (PG City)

The Flight Experience Redding serves as the "Hub of the North," offering a dramatic transition zone where the flat, agricultural Sacramento Valley abruptly crashes into the Cascade Range. It is a region of extremes: in the summer, the "Redding Heat" creates immense thermal activity and high density altitude, while the winter offers crisp views of snow-capped volcanoes.

For virtual pilots, Redding Regional (KRDD) is a unique hub because it is a major base for CAL FIRE. It is one of the best places in the simulator to fly aerial firefighting missions (using the CL-415 or BAe 146), practicing "scoop and drop" runs on the nearby lakes.

Visual Highlights

• The Sundial Bridge: This is the city's architectural masterpiece. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, its massive white pylon and glass deck span the Sacramento River. It acts as a functioning sundial and is the primary VFR checkpoint for the city center.

• Shasta Dam: Just a few minutes north of the city, this massive curved concrete dam holds back the sprawling Lake Shasta. It is the eighth-tallest dam in the U.S. and looks spectacular from 2,000ft as you fly over the spillway.

• Mount Shasta: Looming 14,179ft high to the north, this massive stratovolcano is visible from the moment you take off. It serves as a constant, majestic "North Star" for your navigation.

• Benton Airpark (O85): This General Aviation airport is a hidden gem. It is located on a hilltop mesa right in the middle of the city. The runway slopes, and the terrain drops off sharply at both ends, giving it a distinct "aircraft carrier" feel.

• Whiskeytown Lake: To the west, the crystal clear waters of this reservoir offer a stunning contrast to the red earth and green pines of the Trinity Mountains.

Pilot’s Note: Try the "River to Ridge" Run. Depart from the hilltop runway at Benton Airpark (O85). Drop down to follow the Sacramento River north at 1,000ft, passing directly over the Sundial Bridge. Follow the river canyon upstream until you hit the massive wall of the Shasta Dam, then power up to climb over the dam face and tour the arms of Lake Shasta.