Small Airports are Cool! - This Old Pilot

One of my favorite things about being a pilot is exploring all of the small airports that I have a chance to land at. lf you want to talk cool, it’s beyond cool. It’s awesome! Every small airport that I’ve landed at has had something unique about it that is burned into my memory. Whether it be the architecture, location, style of hangars, variety of airplanes there, or the pilots themselves, my journeys have been pleasant ones as an aviator.

Oskaloosa Iowa Airport Terminal — The large aviation map wall at the Oskaloosa, Iowa Airport.

One hot summer day, I prepared to land at a small airport literally in the middle of nowhere in the Midwest. Upon gaining visual sight of the airport in the distance, I started to descent from altitude. As the airplane took me closer to the field, I was surprised by what was set before me. It was one of the nicest, well-kept airports I’d seen in my life, nestled next to a small town. In fact, the airport’s size appeared to be as large as the community it served! It featured two runways, rows of modern hangars, a self-serve fuel station, and more amenities.

As the airplane and I crossed the runway threshold, that’s when the shock and awe set in. The landing was buttery smooth, along with the rollout. The runway had obviously been resurfaced recently, the lights were new, and all markings had been freshly painted. The taxiways were huge, and everything was illuminated with LED lights. Parking in front of the terminal building, I shut down. Then I opened the canopy and simply sat there for a few moments, taking in the view. It was fantastic.

Exiting the plane, I was met by a group of friendly local pilots, and the usual questions and pleasantries were exchanged. I complimented them on their airport facility, and their expressions reflected the pride and care they had with it. Ushering me into the terminal building, there was a freshly-brewed pot of coffee, snacks, fruit, all for the taking. Truthfully, my first request was to point me to the bathrooms!

Whenever you have the chance to visit a small airport, take the opportunity while it’s still there! …Matt aka This Old Pilot

Sadly, all good things must come to an end, and this trip was no different. I bid my new friends a fond adieu, refueled the plane, and taxied to the active runway. While taxiing I continued to admire the pride of ownership the community had in their airport. After taking off into that cobalt-blue sky, I had one last glimpse of the airport. But to this day, I carry the memory with me.

Such is aviation. You meet great people, fly into hidden gems of airports, and have fun doing it. I do my best to support general aviation and local economies. It’s sad to see small airports closing en masse around the United States.

Fly often, fly farther, meet others, and pursue your dreams. Hopefully This Old Pilot will have a chance to make your acquaintance one of these days!
~ Matt

If you’ve ever looked up at the sky and wondered what it would be like to fly, pay a visit to your local airport and take a discovery flight!