Bicycle Lake Army Air Field

Bicycle Lake Army Air Field is a military facility. Civilian access may be restricted or require Prior Permission (PPR). Pilots should consult the US AIP for current access procedures and restrictions.

Overview

Bicycle Lake Army Air Field serves the Fort Irwin military installation in the Mojave Desert region of California. Located at an elevation of 2,350 feet MSL near Barstow, the airport provides critical support for military aviation training and operational activities. Its strategic location and substantial runway lengths make it a key facility for military aircraft operations.

Flying Conditions

Weather conditions at Bicycle Lake Army Air Field are predominantly favorable for VFR flight, with 94.1% of observations showing good visual conditions. Temperature ranges from -3°C to 37°C, creating diverse flying environments throughout the year. Wind patterns are primarily from the north, with an average speed of 7.2 knots and maximum gusts up to 32 knots, though calm conditions occur 32.3% of the time.

Notable Features

The airport features two substantial runways: Runway 04/22 at 9,500 feet and Runway 13/31 at 5,800 feet, both constructed with graded earth (GRE) surfaces. Its high desert location provides consistent wind conditions, with both runways showing 100% favorable wind alignments and low average crosswind components of 4.9 and 4.3 knots respectively. The elevated terrain and open desert environment characterize the airport's geographic setting.

Approach Considerations

Pilots can expect excellent visibility averaging 9.7 statute miles, with September, October, and December presenting the most consistently favorable VFR conditions. Both runways offer reliable wind alignment, minimizing crosswind challenges during approach and landing. The extensive runway lengths provide ample space for various aircraft operations, particularly for military training missions.