St. Mary's County Regional Airport (LTW)

St. Mary's County Regional Airport (LTW), officially known as Captain Walter Francis Duke Regional Airport, is a vital general aviation hub situated in the heart of the Maryland technology corridor, approximately 4 miles northeast of Leonardtown. The airport serves as a primary logistical point for the nearby Naval Air Station Patuxent River and is the centerpiece of the St. Mary’s County Airport Innovation District. Its recently extended 5,350-foot asphalt runway is equipped with non-precision instrument approaches, allowing it to accommodate a wide variety of corporate jets, private aircraft, and specialized research platforms. The passenger experience is centered around the Captain Walter Francis Duke Terminal Building, a modern facility that provides high-quality amenities for business travelers and pilots. Inside, the terminal offers professional conference rooms, office spaces for lease, and comfortable waiting lounges with public Wi-Fi access. Uniquely, the airport grounds are home to the University of Maryland UAS Test Site, a major hub for Unmanned Aircraft Systems research and development, as well as several specialized aerospace firms like AIRtec. These facilities create a dynamic aviation environment that distinguishes LTW from traditional regional airfields. Operational support at the airport is robust, with RCS Services providing comprehensive FBO (Fixed Base Operator) facilities including 24-hour self-service fuel and professional aircraft handling. The airfield also serves as a critical base for emergency services, housing the Maryland State Police 'Trooper 7' medevac helicopter. Transportation to the surrounding technology parks and hotels is primarily handled via private car services and on-site rentals, with the facility being easily accessible from MD Route 235. Travelers are advised that because the airport is located within restricted airspace (R-4007), strict adherence to VFR coordination procedures with Patuxent Approach is required for all arrivals and departures.