Visiting KHIO (Portland, OR)

[cloudclimber]

Hi there, I am planning to fly from Bellingham KBLI to KHIO (Portland, Oregon). I am planning to fly over Olympia (WA) and then go directly to HIO. However, that means I have to make a steep descend from the mountains in the north of the airport on my approach. Is there a better approach to the airport? What is the common approach people use if visiting from the north?

Thanks,

[MarkerInbound]

Oh woe is me, I'll have to lose 2500 feet in 10 miles if I cruise at 3500 from Kelso to HIO. I don't know what you're planning to fly but that'll be about a 500 fpm descent at 120 kts.

Put down your GPS and look at a map. The Columbia river runs from Portland to Kelso. If you can't handle descending 500 fpm, just fly down the river and turn right before you get to PDX.

[cloudclimber]

Yeah that's what I was thinking. I will probably follow the river when I am within 10 miles. I just want to avoid PDX as far as possible.

Another thing though, where can I find information on the frequency to use if I want updated weather report ahead?

[westhawk]

Is this proposed flight real or simulated?

[obgraham]

Just ask for VFR flight following. They will likely take you right over PDX midfield, then send you on your way to HIO. Worked for me several times.