Chandler Municipal Airport: A Hub of General Aviation Excellence

Overview of Chandler Municipal Airport

Chandler Municipal Airport (IATA: CHD, ICAO: KCHD) is situated approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from Chandler's central business district. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), it serves as a reliever airport for Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, helping to manage the air traffic load in Arizona. The airport primarily focuses on general aviation, encompassing all types of civil flying, whether private or commercial.

Key Features and Services

• General Aviation Focus: The airport caters to various general aviation activities, including chartered flights, flight training, gliding, parachuting, and air ambulance services.
• Economic Contribution: Despite the absence of scheduled commercial flights, Chandler Municipal Airport generates substantial revenue from general aviation, positively impacting the region's economic growth.
• Aviation Storage and Maintenance: The airport offers a range of hangars in different sizes and constructions to store private aircraft. Recent expansions have increased storage capacity, and an improved helicopter facility has been built, featuring a 100-square-foot concrete helipad.

Runways and Flight Schools

Chandler Municipal Airport boasts two asphalt-paved runways, each 75 feet wide. The longer runway measures 4,870 feet, while the shorter one is 4,401 feet long. These runways are utilized not only by the public but also by three prominent flight schools:

1. Quantum Helicopters: Specializes in training pilots for chartered planes and rotorcraft.
2. Chandler Air Service: Provides training for pilots of all fixed-wing aircraft, adhering to FAA regulations.
3. Wings 270: Offers private pilot training for various aircraft types.

Maintenance Services

The airport is home to several aeronautical maintenance companies, offering comprehensive services such as engine repairs, fueling, and parts replacement. This makes Chandler Municipal Airport an ideal location for addressing any aircraft troubleshooting needs.

Dining and Amenities

In addition to its aviation services, Chandler Municipal Airport features a charming diner called Hangar Café. Known for its delicious food, the café offers outdoor seating, providing a pleasant dining experience for visitors and pilots alike.

Interesting Statistics

• Busiest General Aviation Airport: Chandler Municipal Airport is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the United States, with over 200,000 aircraft operations annually (FAA, 2022).
• Economic Impact: The airport contributes approximately $53 million annually to the local economy, supporting over 500 jobs (Arizona Department of Transportation, 2021).

Conclusion

Chandler Municipal Airport is more than just a small public airport; it is a vital component of Arizona's aviation infrastructure. By focusing on general aviation and providing top-notch services, the airport not only supports the local economy but also ensures a seamless flying experience for pilots and aviation enthusiasts. Whether you're a pilot in training or simply looking for a great meal at Hangar Café, Chandler Municipal Airport has something to offer for everyone.

For more information, you can visit the FAA's official page on Chandler Municipal Airport and the Arizona Department of Transportation's economic impact report.

Sources:

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
• Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT)