Southwest Washington Regional Airport (KLS)

Southwest Washington Regional Airport (KLS), designated KKLS, operates as a vital regional transportation hub serving the greater Kelso-Longview metropolitan area in Cowlitz County, Washington. Located two nautical miles southeast of Kelso's central business district at coordinates 46.118°N, 122.898°W at an elevation of 20 feet above mean sea level, this city-owned public facility covers 110 acres and has served southwest Washington since its establishment in May 1941. Originally developed as a training field for amateur pilots on a converted dairy farm, the airport has evolved into a modern general aviation facility supporting regional transportation, business aviation, and recreational flying throughout the Pacific Northwest. The airport operates with a single runway designated 12/30 equipped with comprehensive lighting and navigation systems essential for safe operations in Washington's variable weather conditions. The runway features Medium Intensity Runway Lights (MIRL) controllable via Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF), along with Runway End Identifier Lights (REIL) and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI) for both runway ends, providing precise visual guidance during approach and landing phases. These navigation aids ensure operational capability during low-visibility conditions common to the Pacific Northwest, while approach and departure control services are coordinated through Seattle ARTCC on frequencies 124.2/317.6, with communications support provided by Seattle Radio on frequency 122.4. Terminal and administrative facilities reflect the airport's gradual development from its modest beginnings to a modern regional facility. The first administration and terminal buildings were constructed during the 1960s, with significant improvements completed in the 1980s to accommodate increasing traffic volumes. Current terminal infrastructure provides essential passenger and pilot services, though specific details emphasize the airport's focus on general aviation operations rather than commercial passenger service. The facility includes pilot amenities and aircraft operations support while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere typical of community-owned airports throughout Washington State. Fuel services feature 24-hour self-service 100LL aviation fuel available through credit card-operated systems, with after-hours Jet-A service available on call-out basis, ensuring comprehensive support for diverse aircraft operations. Security camera monitoring and modern safety systems reflect ongoing commitment to operational security and safety standards. The airport is managed by the City of Kelso (203 S. Pacific Ave, PO Box 819, Kelso, WA 98626, phone 360-577-3370), with Airport Manager Craig Stommel overseeing daily operations (360-261-8268). This strategic location and comprehensive services make Southwest Washington Regional Airport an essential aviation asset supporting economic development, emergency services, and recreational flying throughout the Columbia River valley region of southwest Washington.