Pickens County Airport (LQK)

Pickens County Airport (LQK), identified by its ICAO code KLQK, is a prominent public-use general aviation facility situated in Liberty, South Carolina, approximately seven miles south of Pickens. Serving as a vital gateway for the Upstate South Carolina region, the airport features a dedicated passenger terminal building that houses the airport's administration offices and specialized facilities for pilots. The facility acts as a central hub for business travelers, private pilots, and regional flight training operations, providing a professional environment for the local aviation community. The terminal building provides essential amenities designed for comfort and operational efficiency. Inside, visitors have access to a comfortable public lounge, a dedicated pilot lounge, and a specialized flight planning area featuring computerized weather reporting tools. While the facility does not host scheduled commercial airline passenger services, it offers high-quality FBO support including full-service Jet A and 24-hour self-service 100LL Avgas. The building is typically attended from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, ensuring a consistent standard of service for visiting and based aircraft owners. Ground transportation from the LQK terminal is well-facilitated, with courtesy cars available for transient pilots and the ability to arrange for rental cars to be delivered directly to the terminal with prior notice. The airport features a single 5,002-foot asphalt runway (05/23) and provides automated weather reporting (AWOS-3) for safe arrivals and departures. The facility is known for its active role in regional logistics and emergency medical support, maintaining a focus on accessibility and reliability. Travelers and pilots are advised to utilize the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (122.8) for coordination, as the airfield operates as a non-towered facility maintained by Pickens County. The terminal remains a critical outpost for those navigating the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.