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
Ambler Airport (ABL) is a remote, state-owned public-use airport located in the Native Alaskan village of Ambler, within the Northwest Arctic Borough. It serves as an indispensable lifeline for this isolated community, as there are no connecting roads. The airport's infrastructure is extremely basic, reflecting its role as a bush airport. There is no traditional terminal building; instead, operations are conducted from a small, heated shelter or a designated waiting area adjacent to the gravel runway. This single facility serves as the waiting lounge, check-in area, and baggage claim point.
The airport is equipped with two gravel runways, the longest measuring 3,000 feet, operating at an elevation of 334 feet above mean sea level. This design accommodates the small aircraft, typically Twin Otters or Cessnas, that are vital for connecting Ambler to larger regional hubs. Passengers should anticipate a highly informal process, with direct interactions with pilots and airline representatives from operators like Bering Air.
Amenities at Ambler Airport are exceptionally sparse. There are no cafes, restaurants, vending machines, or shops on-site. Travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary provisions, including food, water, and personal supplies. Security procedures are minimal, consistent with bush flying operations in remote Alaska, focusing on adherence to general aviation safety guidelines.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections at Ambler Airport are exclusively through domestic bush flights, with Bering Air being the primary scheduled carrier. These flights are crucial for linking Ambler with the regional hub of Kotzebue (OTZ) and nearby villages like Shungnak (SHG) and Kobuk (OBU). Kotzebue's Ralph Wien Memorial Airport serves as the main gateway from which most flights to Ambler originate, providing essential connections to Anchorage via Alaska Airlines. Because there are no roads connecting this isolated part of the Northwest Arctic Borough to the rest of the state, these regional air links are the only way to transport supplies, personnel, and medical essentials to the community. Travelers should expect a highly personalized but informal experience, as flights often operate as multi-stop 'milk runs' across the Kobuk River valley.
Travel to and from Ambler is highly dependent on unpredictable Arctic weather conditions and available daylight hours. Flights are frequently subject to significant delays or total cancellations due to adverse weather patterns, including dense fog, heavy snow, or high winds, which are common throughout the year. It is crucial for all travelers to maintain flexible itineraries and to confirm their flight status directly with Bering Air or their charter operator before heading to the airstrip. Unlike major commercial airports, there are no inter-airline baggage transfer services here; all luggage is handled manually by the pilot and ground agents upon arrival and departure. Always prepare for the unexpected and carry essential items in your carry-on, as the challenging environment can lead to extended stays in regional hubs like Kotzebue.
Ground transportation in the village of Ambler is extremely limited and primarily relies on local community members or pre-arranged pickups from your lodging provider. There are no traditional taxi services, Uber, or rental cars readily available at the airport, which is located about 1.5 miles north of the village center. Most residents and visitors use ATVs (four-wheelers) during the summer and snow machines in the winter to navigate the gravel road between the airstrip and the community. Bering Air typically has a local agent who coordinates arrivals and can assist with logistics, but it is vital to have a clear plan for your ground transport well in advance of your touchdown to ensure you are not left stranded at the remote airfield.
Self-sufficiency is paramount when traveling to such an isolated destination, and coordination with local providers like the Kobuk River Lodge is highly recommended. This lodge is the primary provider for both accommodation and meals in Ambler and can often assist with arranging the necessary transport from the airport. During the summer months, travel between Ambler, Shungnak, and Kobuk can also be conducted via small boats on the Kobuk River, though this is a local arrangement and not part of any formal transit system. Having a thorough understanding of your ground logistics, including pre-booked lodging and a confirmed local contact for pickup, is as critical as your flight plan when navigating the unique challenges of the Alaskan bush.
โ Back to Southwest Washington Regional Airport