Forrest Airport (FOS)

Forrest Airport (FOS) is a legendary outback aviation facility located in the remote hamlet of Forrest, Western Australia, on the vast and treeless Nullarbor Plain. Established in 1929 as a critical refueling stop for West Australian Airways, the airport has a rich history, having served both the US Military and the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II. Today, it remains a vital strategic point on the east-west air route across Australia, providing a necessary waypoint for short-range aircraft, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), and military flights.

Despite its incredibly remote location, Forrest Airport offers a surprisingly welcoming experience for aviators. At 511 feet elevation, the airport operates two asphalt runways (primary runway 18/36 at 4,984 feet and runway 09/27 at 4,426 feet) with a modern, air-conditioned terminal building equipped with restrooms and complimentary tea and coffee. For those looking for more than a quick stop, the airport provides unique outback accommodations in the form of self-contained 3-to-5-bedroom cottages, complete with kitchens and climate control. Meals can be pre-arranged with the on-site managers, and there are even camping facilities available for those who prefer to sleep under the brilliant outback stars.

As a private airfield, FOS does not host regularly scheduled commercial airline services. Its primary mission is to provide 24/7 aviation fuel (both Avgas and Jet A1) for pilots traversing the continent. It is a crucial base for the RFDS, allowing for emergency medical transfers from the isolated railway communities along the Trans-Australian Railway line. The airport features two well-maintained runways, including a significant sealed strip, making it one of the few reliable all-weather landing spots in this part of the Western Australian desert.

Ground transportation at Forrest is virtually non-existent beyond the immediate airport and railway vicinity, as there are no public roads leading to the settlement; access is strictly via air or the Trans-Australian Railway. Telstra mobile services are available, providing a vital communication link in the deep outback. For many pilots, a stop at Forrest is more than just a refueling exercise—it is an opportunity to experience one of Australia's most isolated and historically significant aviation landmarks, managed by a dedicated team who keep this outback lifeline operational year-round.