๐บ๐ธ California, United States of America
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. Maryโs 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.
St. Mary's County Regional Airport (LTW), located in California, Maryland, is a premier general aviation hub serving the Southern Maryland region and acting as a vital reliever for Washington Dulles (IAD) and Reagan National (DCA). C. makes it a prime 'connection' point for executive travelers linking private flights with the region's prominent tech and defense centers. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are very active in the St. Arriving 45 to 60 minutes before departures is standard for these regional hops. Pilots should always be prepared for the specialized airspace coordination required when operating near the Patuxent River Restricted areas.
It primarily serves as a vital base for private pilots, corporate charters, and flight training supporting the region's prominent aerospace and defense industries, notably the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. For those arriving at LTW via private aircraft, ground transportation is exceptionally well-supported for a regional airfield. Mary's area and provide a convenient 15 to 20-minute link to the city center and the major business parks. The airport features a single 4,150-foot primary paved runway capable of handling most business jets. LTW provides a professional and remarkably efficient arrival experience, reflecting the unique industrious and maritime character of the Chesapeake Bay region.
While it does not host scheduled commercial airline service, its location just 60 miles south of Washington D. On-site car rental services are available through local agencies but should be pre-arranged with the Fixed Base Operator (FBO), which provides full-service fueling (100LL and Jet A) and professional pilot amenities including a renovated lounge and flight planning room. A unique feature of LTW is the on-site 'Pax River Naval Air Museum,' which is a popular local destination for its historic aircraft displays and high-quality exhibits. Weather in Southern Maryland follows typical mid-Atlantic patterns, with the potential for localized morning fog and afternoon thunderstorms during the summer. Always check for the latest NOTAMs and localized weather patterns before departure.
โข St. Mary's County hosts flight schools at this airport.
โข Coordinate with Pax River airspace and watch for student training circuits.
โข Check your flight status before leaving for the airport.
โข Allow extra time during peak travel periods at this airport.
โข Keep important documents easily accessible at this airport.
Minimum domestic connection:
45 minutes
International connections:
90 minutes
Interline transfers:
110 minutes
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Last updated: April 2026 | Data Source: IATA and other airline sites and resources