Blythe Airport (BLH)

Blythe Airport (BLH), operating under the ICAO identifier KBLH, is a substantial public-use general aviation facility located approximately seven miles west of downtown Blythe in Riverside County, California. Positioned at an elevation of 399 feet above sea level in the Colorado River Valley, this strategically located airport serves as a critical aviation hub for the region, particularly for cross-country flights between Los Angeles and Phoenix. The facility spans an impressive 3,904 acres and operates under Riverside County management, making it one of the larger general aviation airports in Southern California. The airport's infrastructure centers around two well-maintained asphalt runways that can accommodate a wide range of aircraft. The primary runway 8/26 measures 6,543 by 150 feet, while runway 17/35 extends 5,800 by 100 feet, both equipped with pilot-controlled lighting systems. These substantial runway dimensions allow the airport to handle everything from light sport aircraft to large corporate jets and military transports. The airport maintains an AWOS (Automated Weather Observing System) on frequency 120.17 and operates on CTAF 122.8 for traffic coordination. The terminal building houses essential amenities for general aviation operations, including a comfortable pilot lounge, flight planning area, and basic passenger services. Fixed Base Operator (FBO) services are available on-site, providing both Jet A and 100LL aviation fuel through self-serve and full-service options. The facility includes aircraft parking, tie-down services, and basic maintenance capabilities. For visiting pilots, the terminal offers restroom facilities, vending machines, and limited Wi-Fi access, though extended amenities are available in the nearby city of Blythe. Blythe Airport has historical significance as the former site of Blythe Army Air Field during World War II, where it served as a training base for military aviators. In the post-war era, the airport briefly hosted commercial airline service through carriers such as Bonanza Air Lines and Hughes Airwest. Today, the facility primarily serves general aviation traffic, recording approximately 25,150 aircraft operations annually, with 99% attributed to general aviation and 1% to military operations. The airport's proximity to Interstate 10 and its position along major transcontinental flight routes continue to make it a valuable stop for fuel, weather delays, and crew rest for aircraft traversing the American Southwest.