Airport Chalons Vatry (LFOK) IFR

LFOK (Châlons Vatry) offers a large, quiet airfield with a 3900 m runway, full IFR procedures including ILS and radar, and on-site customs generally available without prior notice, though customs PPR by email, phone, or fax is preferred. The airport is suitable for IFR training and technical stops. Operations are typically straightforward, but the airport can be very quiet outside of occasional charter or cargo activity. French language skills may help with communication.

Fee structures are inconsistent and can be unexpectedly high. Multiple reports describe unclear or unpublished tariffs, surprise compulsory handling charges (especially for overnight stays), and significant discrepancies between quoted and invoiced amounts. Examples include a technical stop charged at about €240 without fuel, a five-day stay invoiced at close to €400 after an initial quote of €190, and landing fees ranging from about €7 to €65 for aircraft under 2 t. Example: landing and parking about €30 for a weekend stay. Handling is sometimes waived if explicitly declined in advance by email in French; otherwise, it may be added unpredictably. Procedures vary; see AIP/NOTAM.

Facilities include large aprons, long walking distances, free WiFi in the GAT, vending machines for snacks and drinks, and a rest area for crews. A restaurant is available on the field but typically only opens for lunch from around 12:00 or 12:30 when charter flights are scheduled; otherwise, food options are limited to vending machines or a fast-food restaurant about 1 km away on foot. On-airport car hire is unreliable—advance confirmation is essential as staff may need to travel from Reims (about an hour away). No Avgas is available; Jet A1 is reliably provided with prompt service.

Customs are present on site and generally flexible; brief interactions suffice for most GA needs. The airport is described as friendly and efficient for customs stops if fuel requirements can be met with Jet A1.

Overall, LFOK provides excellent infrastructure for IFR operations and customs stops but poses significant unpredictability in fee calculation and handling requirements. Advance written confirmation of all charges is strongly advised before arrival.