Why do people keep flying spam cans into the cliff below the threshold at Catalina ? the runways about 3000ft.
I suspect one reason may be that landing there has a number of unusual features which can catch pilots out.
The threshold of 22 is at the edge of a 1500' cliff.
There's usually a strong down-draught.
You have to be prepared for the possibility of a sudden loss of altitude during short final.
On approach, there are none of the usual visual cues for height reference so it's particularly important to keep the picture focused on the numbers, monitor altimeter and ignore peripheral vision. (Except, of course, for normal look-out purpose.) There's a reason Avalon is known as 'the Airport in the Sky'.
The flare also needs extra care because it's on an uphill slope which can be deceptive.
Just as you touch down, much of the runway disappears. (It's about 3000' but there's a hump.)
Most flying clubs/FBOs require that renters' first landing is with an instructor or local pilot familiar with the unusual features.
Challenging the first time and extra care needed every time but good fun and, having landed, you can treat yourself to a buffalo burger in the airport cafe.
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