Gladwin Zettel Memorial Airport (GDW)

Gladwin Zettel Memorial Airport (GDW) is a publicly-owned general aviation facility located southeast of the city of Gladwin in central Michigan. Serving the local community and the surrounding Gladwin County, the airport features two runways: a 4,699-foot paved asphalt runway and a parallel turf strip. Its role is central to the region's aviation activity, providing a vital link for recreational pilots, private aircraft owners, and small-scale corporate travelers exploring Michigan's lower peninsula. The terminal environment at GDW is centered around high-quality general aviation services provided by the on-site fixed-base operator (FBO). The airport's main terminal building offers a professional and welcoming atmosphere, featuring a crew lounge, flight planning facilities, and essential passenger amenities including internet access and clean restrooms. While the airport lacks the commercial retail and dining options of larger commercial hubs, it provides a highly efficient and personalized experience for visiting aviators. The terminal is typically staffed daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, though it remains accessible to pilots after hours via a secure keypad entry system. Ground transportation from Gladwin Zettel Memorial Airport is well-managed, with several options available for reaching the city center and other regional destinations. The airport provides courtesy cars for local use by visiting pilots, and several professional car service providers can be arranged for more extensive travel needs. While there is no formal public bus or rail service directly serving the terminal, the airport's proximity to State Street and highways M-18 and M-61 ensures easy road access for those with their own transportation. As a single-terminal general aviation facility, there are no inter-terminal transfers, and most visitors can reach downtown Gladwin within a 10-minute drive. Pilots are advised to coordinate their arrivals in advance, as the facility is unattended on major holidays.