First time Sun n Fun questions

[201er]

Gonna be in Florida all week so thinking of popping into Sun n Fun for a day. Never been. For those who have flown in before can you tell me a few things?

1) Do you have to tie down in daytime GA Parking?

2) Is GA Parking paved or grass?

3) Do you need to bring your own ropes? Do you need to bring your own stakes?

4) Realistically how long should I plan for the arrival to take? Is there usually a lot of waiting/holding?

5) Any other advice/tips? I've only done Oshkosh so please point out any differences I should be ready for.

[A64Pilot]

You must tie down, they sell them to you pretty cheap. They are just cheap dog screw in anchors, some cheap rope and a piece of PVC pipe to use for the dog screw in anchors, although it’s been a few years since I’ve been just for the day.

Often the ground guides are just kids, so don’t let them guide you where you might get a prop strike

I think sometimes you may be on pavement but usually not, years ago I parked the 210 on pavement but I assume those spots go fast.

Of course there are only a few arrival / departure windows, be slow on final so you can spot land on the dot they tell you. I personally shoot for 100 or so feet short, so I usually have to add a little power, but that’s easier than being long because the wind changed on short final.

The wait at the lake usually isn’t long, but watch for idiots, they are out there. I think during the week the wait is shorter as it’s only the day traffic and not those camping 

Edited March 29 by A64Pilot

[Hank]

You will taxi and park in the grass.

Bring your own tie downs. I bought a set of screw-ins made by EAA to replace my dog screws, and they held when the tornadoes hit. Many claw-types pulled loose.

I arrived right as the airport was opening after the airshow, didn't even have to hold over the lake. Not sure how long it took--look at your EFB, measure the route and calculate time at 90 knots.

Study and highlight the Procedure. Fly it accurately, and expect craziness around you. Eyes outside, head on a swivel.

I was following a flight of two RVs, they didn't turn until after I had passed the landmarks . . .

Oh, and have fun!!

[201er]

  On 3/29/2025 at 7:18 PM, A64Pilot said:

You must tie down, they sell them to you pretty cheap. They are just cheap dog screw in anchors, some cheap rope and a piece of PVC pipe to use for the dog screw in anchors, although it’s been a few years since I’ve been just for the day.

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So I'm guessing it's ok to bring my Oshkosh tie down stakes? The Claw I think, or whatever everyone has at Osh...

Also I didn't see much about IFR arrivals. I'm guessing it's normal IFR if the weather is crummy? No reservations and special procedures like OSH?

[A64Pilot]

I would absolutely bring my own tie downs, In truth not much works well as it’s sand, but they require tie downs. I have the claw as well pretty good in clay soils but not much holds well in sand, maybe if you had real long nails?

I’ve never considered IFR to be honest, I don’t think IFR is forecasted this week.