โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
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 46.118ยฐN, 122.898ยฐW 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.
๐ Connection Tips
Southwest Washington Regional Airport (KLS), serving Kelso and Longview, is a premier general aviation and corporate hub in the Pacific Northwest. While it does not currently host scheduled commercial airline service (like Alaska or United), it is a vital base for corporate travel, private pilots, and the region's prominent timber and industrial sectors. For travelers requiring commercial flights, the nearest major hub is Portland International Airport (PDX), located approximately 45 miles to the south via I-5. For those arriving at KLS via private aircraft, ground transportation is exceptionally well-supported.
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 comfortable lounge and flight planning room. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are active in the Kelso area and provide a convenient 10 to 15-minute link to the city center and the major industrial parks. A unique tip for visitors is the airport's proximity to the historic Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument; many travelers utilize the airfield as a technical stop before exploring the unique natural heritage of the region.
The airport features a single 4,391-foot paved primary runway and is situated near the scenic Cowlitz River. Weather in southwestern Washington follows typical Pacific Northwest patterns, with the potential for localized morning fog and persistent winter rain. Pilots should always check for the latest NOTAMs and localized weather patterns. KLS provides a professional and remarkably efficient arrival experience for business leaders and researchers visiting the region's industrial sites, provided all ground logistics are secured in advance to navigate the scenic rural highways.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Apalachicola Regional Airport (AAF), also known as Cleve Randolph Field, is a public-use facility that primarily serves the general aviation needs of Franklin County, Florida. The terminal experience here is centered around a well-maintained general aviation building that houses the Fixed-Base Operator (FBO), Centric Aviation. Unlike commercial hubs, the atmosphere is quiet and professional, catering to private pilots, corporate travelers, and flight training operations. The terminal provides essential services such as a pilot lounge, a flight planning room, and basic administrative offices, all within a compact and easily navigable single-story structure.
The facility is designed for quick transitions from landside to airside, with a parking area located just steps away from the terminal entrance. Inside, visitors will find a clean and welcoming environment with comfortable seating and access to restrooms. While there are no sprawling retail concourses or food courts, the FBO staff are known for their hospitality, often providing complimentary coffee and assistance with ground logistics. The terminal also serves as a hub for local aviation events and military training exercises, reflecting the airport's diverse role in the regional aviation landscape of the Florida Panhandle.
For those arriving by private or charter aircraft, the terminal offers seamless access to the airfield's three concrete runways. There are no jet bridges; instead, passengers deplane directly onto the apron and walk a short distance to the FBO building. Security is managed through standard general aviation protocols rather than TSA checkpoints, allowing for a much faster arrival and departure process. Despite its simplicity, the terminal at AAF provides a high level of service for the general aviation community, offering a gateway to the historic city of Apalachicola and the pristine beaches of St. George Island.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Apalachicola Regional Airport is different from commercial transfers as the airport does not host scheduled airline services. All connections are between private, corporate, or charter flights. If you are planning a multi-leg journey through AAF, coordination with the Fixed-Base Operator (FBO), Centric Aviation, is essential. They assist with aircraft staging, refueling with 100LL or Jet-A, and ensuring ground support equipment is ready. The airport operates without a control tower, so pilots must use the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) for local communication.
To transition from a private flight at AAF to a commercial airline, the nearest options are Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) or Tallahassee International Airport (TLH). Both are about an 80 to 90-minute drive from Apalachicola. Since there are no on-site rental car agencies with permanent counters, you must pre-arrange vehicle delivery or shuttle services. Many travelers find it convenient to use local taxi services or pre-arranged private transfers to reach these commercial hubs or destinations along the Forgotten Coast.
Ground logistics should be planned with the airport's operating hours in mind, as services are typically available from 08:00 to 19:00. If you require an after-hours arrival or departure, coordinate in advance with the FBO for terminal access and fuel. The rural area means ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are not reliably available, so a confirmed transport plan is crucial. Whether you are connecting to a fishing charter, a meeting, or a commercial flight elsewhere, AAF offers a low-stress environment provided that your ground and air logistics are meticulously pre-arranged.
โ Back to Southwest Washington Regional Airport