DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Northern California TRACON
11375 Douglas Rd
Mather, CA 95655

Issued: 02/13/2026 1416 (UTC) Effective: 02/13/2026 1500 (UTC)
Northern California TRACON Letter to Airmen: LTA-NCT-100

Subject: KLVK: RNAV flying the Conventional LVK3 Departure

Cancellation: 02/10/2028 1200 (UTC)

Recent observations indicate that RNAV equipped aircraft flying the Conventional LVK3 Departure are turning too early prior to ALTAM to intercept course.

When departing Runway 25, an early southbound turn prior to ALTAM can place you in unsafe proximity to aircraft on final to Runway 25.

Conventional vs. RNAV:

No “RNAV Overlay” exists for the LVK3 Departure procedure.

If flying RNAV, ATC expects you to fly the Conventional procedure as depicted.

AC 90-108 (Use of Suitable RNAV system on Conventional Routes and Procedures): Pilots are expected to accurately track the procedure and route centerlines, as depicted by onboard lateral deviation indicators, displays, and/or flight guidance during all operations described in this AC, unless otherwise authorized to deviate by ATC.

Safety and Separation:

Turning too early to intercept course creates significant risk. Separation is based on aircraft remaining on the published route.

Early turns have caused serious safety concerns and near-miss scenarios.

 

 


Francine Malabo
Air Traffic Manager, Northern California TRACON