YCAG - Caiguna WA

[poteroo]

Caiguna is on the western edge of the Nullabor, and often used for refuelling with bowser Avgas or unleaded. The strip is 03/21. It has quite a history of incidents - many associated with wildlife on the strip at any hour.

 

It is almost always 'out-of-wind' and the trees all round it - particularly to the south, create lots of shear and wind swirl. The centre of the strip is concave - and collects water after rain - creating a sloppy lagoon which is really dangerous. Lesson : be sure it's dry. If it's just been graded, as it was last week - then there will be lots of dust even in moderate winds. But also - beware roots and rocks dislodged by grading, and also small soft 'bulldust' holes. Take care turning around.

 

But, the good news is that their long, and infamous taxiway has been covered with soil and no longer qualifies for the Dakar Rally. In a pinch, with a strong southerly, it has been used for takeoff to avoid the muddy main strip. Also, the current staff are helpful and friendly.

 

happy days,

 

 

[poteroo]

Not necessarily. It has both Avgas and Premium unleaded, and parking is just out the back - so it's very convenient.

 

But, the 04/22, (03/21 sometimes), strip is almost always 'out-of-wind', has a loose powdery surface right now, and after rain it's a slushy pond due to it's concave profile. It does appear that they are trying to grade it to reduce the water problem.

 

I've been transiting Caiguna several times annually ever since 1972, and it's always been a location where you expect to battle a gusty crosswind. The taxiway used to be a horror - but much improved right now.

 

If you are in a taildragger - it's not the easiest, but a competent tri driver should be OK most times

 

In a J-170 you should consider jumping it - as Esperance to Border Village is only about 4.5 hrs average. That then leaves you about the same time interval BOV to CDU.

 

happy days,