๐ข Terminal Information
Mifflin County Airport (RED), designated KRVL, operates as a publicly owned general aviation facility serving Reedsville and the greater Lewistown area, positioned 5 miles northwest of Lewistown in Pennsylvania's scenic Kishacoquillas Valley, nestled between Stone Mountain to the north and Jacks Mountain to the south within the distinctive Ridge-and-valley Appalachians. This strategically located facility spans 125 acres at an elevation of 819 feet, managed by the Mifflin County Airport Authority as a community-focused general aviation airport that prioritizes safety and responsible flight operations throughout central Pennsylvania's mountainous terrain. The airport serves the transportation needs of Mifflin County's rural communities, business operators, recreational pilots, and seasonal glider enthusiasts who appreciate the valley's favorable soaring conditions during summer months.
The airport operates through well-maintained infrastructure designed for diverse general aviation activities, featuring a single asphalt runway designated 6/24 measuring 5,001 feet by 75 feet, equipped with comprehensive lighting systems including REIL (Runway End Identifier Lights), PAPI (Precision Approach Path Indicator) for both runway ends, and MIRL (Medium Intensity Runway Lights) ensuring safe operations during various weather conditions and reduced visibility situations. Ground support facilities encompass aircraft parking areas on the main apron where helicopters also land, fuel services including Jet-A available by appointment (with after-hours availability through advance coordination at 717-994-0323), and hangar facilities supporting the diverse aircraft fleet based at this community airport. The facility accommodates approximately 19,400 aircraft operations annually, averaging 53 operations per day with 97% general aviation and 3% air taxi services.
Terminal facilities emphasize functional utility appropriate for general aviation operations, featuring a modest terminal building that provides essential pilot services, weather briefing capabilities, flight planning areas, restroom facilities, and basic passenger amenities for charter flights and visiting aircraft. The facility operates without commercial airline service, focusing instead on serving private aircraft owners, charter operators, flight training activities, and recreational aviation enthusiasts including the active glider community that takes advantage of the Kishacoquillas Valley's excellent soaring conditions during summer months. Passenger processing remains minimal given the general aviation focus, with services oriented toward pilot needs and occasional charter passengers utilizing this community airport for access to central Pennsylvania's rural regions.
The airport's strategic significance extends beyond routine general aviation services to supporting emergency medical transport, law enforcement operations, agricultural aviation, business travel for local industries, and recreational flying activities that connect rural Pennsylvania communities to the broader aviation network. Located at 547 Airport Road in Reedsville (phone 717-667-6829), the facility represents an essential component of Pennsylvania's rural aviation infrastructure, providing reliable access to areas where ground transportation can be challenging due to mountainous terrain and seasonal weather conditions. Despite its modest size and general aviation focus, Mifflin County Airport serves as a vital transportation asset for central Pennsylvania's Ridge-and-valley region, maintaining community connections while supporting economic development, emergency services, and recreational aviation activities in the beautiful Kishacoquillas Valley where Amish and Mennonite communities contribute to the area's unique cultural landscape.
๐ Connection Tips
Mifflin County Airport (RED) in Reedsville, Pennsylvania, is a well-maintained and scenic general aviation facility that serves as a vital gateway for the Central Pennsylvania region. Arriving here is an excellent alternative for those wishing to avoid the heavier traffic of State College (SCE) or Harrisburg (MDT). The climate in Central Pennsylvania is characterized by four distinct seasons, with hot summers and snowy winters; however, the surrounding mountain ranges can channel strong winds across the field and create localized fog, which are critical operational factors for pilots using the 1,500-meter asphalt runway.
Located just a few miles from the town of Reedsville and the historic Seven Mountains area, the airport primarily caters to private owners, corporate charters, and recreational flyers. Ground transportation is strictly a matter of pre-arrangement, as there is no on-call taxi service at the field; most visitors coordinate with local businesses or use a pre-booked rental car for the 10-minute drive into the city center. Always check the airfield's operational status and verify your ground transport in advance, as the field provides a professional and relaxed environment that reflects the traditional charm of the Appalachian foothills.
As a general aviation-focused field, the 'terminal' is a functional building that offers essential services like a comfortable pilot's lounge, flight planning rooms, and basic refreshments, but it lacks traditional commercial passenger amenities such as retail shops or duty-free zones. The airport is perfectly positioned for those wishing to explore the heart of the Pennsylvania Dutch country or attend the famous outdoor events in the surrounding valleys. The airport is also a significant base for regional forest fire observation and emergency management flights.