Ephrata Municipal Airport (EPH)

Ephrata Municipal Airport (EPH) is a storied aviation facility serving the city of Ephrata and Grant County in central Washington. Spanning over 2,300 acres, the airport is owned and managed by the Port District No. 9 and acts as a primary hub for general aviation, flight training, and world-class soaring. Its location in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains provides exceptionally stable flying conditions, making it a favored destination for pilots from across the Pacific Northwest.

The airport possesses a rich military heritage, having been established in 1939 as the Ephrata Army Airbase. During World War II, it served as a critical training site for the 4th and 2nd Air Forces, where crews mastered the operation of heavy bombardment aircraft including the B-17 Flying Fortress and the B-24 Liberator. This history is meticulously preserved in a dedicated museum located within the main terminal building, and several original WWII-era hangars still stand on the airfield as a testament to its contribution to the national defense.

Ephrata is globally recognized as one of the premier centers for glider operations in the United States. It serves as the primary base for the Seattle Glider Council (SGC), which utilizes the airport's dedicated 04/22 runway for non-powered flight activities. The region's unique geography creates powerful thermals and mountain wave conditions that allow gliders to reach altitudes of up to 12,000 feet. The SGC maintains a sophisticated training center at the field, complete with sleeping quarters, kitchen facilities, and specialized tie-downs for glider trailers, fostering a vibrant soaring community that is active from March through September.

The airfield infrastructure is robust, featuring three asphalt runways and comprehensive support services including 24-hour automated credit card fueling for 100LL and Jet-A. The airport's expansive and open landscape has even caught the attention of Hollywood, serving as a primary filming location for Steven Spielberg's 1989 aviation drama "Always." While the airport does not host scheduled commercial airline services, it remains a bustling center for crop dusting operations, private pilots, and aerobatic enthusiasts. Ground transportation is straightforward, with authorized taxis and rental services providing a quick 10-minute journey to the heart of downtown Ephrata.