Chico Airport: A Viable Travel Option?

can you fly out of chico airport

Yes, you can fly out of Chico Municipal Airport, also known as Chico Regional Airport, which is located four miles (6 km) north of Chico, California. However, the airport does not currently offer any commercial passenger services. Instead, it hosts several operators providing private and charter flights, as well as aircraft rentals and other aviation services. SkyWest Airlines previously operated flights to San Francisco, but these ended in 2014. Despite this, Chico remains a popular destination, with Travelocity and Expedia offering flight deals from Chico Municipal Airport to various destinations.

Characteristics Values
Name Chico Regional Airport
Former Name Chico Municipal Airport
Location Chico, Butte County, California, United States
Distance from Chico 4 miles (6 km) north of Chico
Area 1,475 acres (6.0 km2)
Runways 2
Helipad 1
Fixed-base Operator Northgate Aviation
Commercial Air Service No
Commercial Passenger Service No
Services Offered Fuel, Maintenance, Flight Training, Charter Flights, Private Flights, Aircraft Rentals, Aviation Services
Transportation Options Drive, Cab Ride, Public Transport
Parking Options Long-term, Short-term

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Chico Regional Airport has no commercial air service

Chico Regional Airport, formerly known as Chico Municipal Airport, is located four miles (6 km) north of Chico in Butte County, California, United States. While the airport is operational and meets Federal Aviation Regulations Part 139 standards, it currently has no commercial air service.

The airport has two runways and one helipad, and its fixed-base operator, Northgate Aviation, provides fuel, maintenance, flight training, and charter flights. Several operators at the airport offer private and charter flights, aircraft rentals, and other aviation services. However, there are currently no scheduled passenger flights operated by commercial airlines.

SkyWest Airlines, operating as United Express, previously offered nonstop flights to San Francisco until December 2, 2014, when the service was discontinued. Other airlines that have served Chico Regional Airport in the past include American Airlines' regional affiliate American Eagle, Hughes Airwest, Pacific Express, Reno Air Express, and WestAir operating as United Express. Southwest Airways and its successors were the only airlines serving Chico from 1947 until June 1979.

Despite the lack of commercial air service, Chico Regional Airport still caters to private and charter flights, providing various aviation services to pilots and aircraft owners. Those looking for commercial flights to or from Chico may need to consider alternative nearby airports or travel methods.

Travel websites like Travelocity and Expedia sometimes offer flight deals from Chico Municipal Airport (CIC), indicating potential partnerships with private or charter flight operators. However, it is always advisable to verify the availability and nature of services directly with the airport or through official channels.

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SkyWest Airlines ended service in 2014

SkyWest Airlines is an American regional airline that operates and maintains aircraft for its partner mainline airlines. These partners include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. SkyWest Airlines is the largest regional airline in North America in terms of fleet size, number of passengers carried, and number of destinations served.

On December 2, 2014, SkyWest Airlines ended its service to Chico Regional Airport. The airline offered nonstop flights to San Francisco from Chico, operating as United Express with Embraer EMB-120 Brasilias. With the discontinuation of this service, Chico Regional Airport no longer had any scheduled passenger air service.

The decision by SkyWest Airlines to end its service to Chico was likely influenced by a variety of factors. One possible reason could be changes in demand or route profitability. Additionally, the availability of alternative transportation options, such as improved road or rail connections, may have contributed to the decision. It's also important to consider any strategic shifts within SkyWest Airlines' overall network planning during that time.

The impact of SkyWest Airlines' departure from Chico was significant. The loss of scheduled passenger air service affected the accessibility and connectivity of the region. It may have resulted in reduced travel options and convenience for residents and businesses in the area. However, it is important to note that Chico Regional Airport still accommodates private and charter flights, aircraft rentals, and other aviation services.

Despite the end of SkyWest Airlines' service in 2014, there have been efforts to restore commercial air service to Chico Regional Airport. The City of Chico is actively working towards bringing back commercial passenger operations, and information about these developments can be found on the Chico Regional Airport website.

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Chico Municipal Airport offers long-term parking

Chico Municipal Airport, also known as Chico Regional Airport, offers long-term parking. The airport is a fully certified Part 139 airport in Northern California, offering a wide range of facilities and services for the aviation community. While the airport does not currently have commercial passenger service, it does offer private and charter flights, aircraft rentals, and other aviation services.

The airport provides free parking adjacent to the terminal building, accommodating both short-term and long-term parking needs without any charges. All parking spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis, making it convenient for visitors or passenger pick-ups and drop-offs. However, it is important to note that Chico Airport does not offer a parking reservation system, covered parking, or valet parking services.

For those with aircraft, overnight transient parking is available. Single-engine aircraft can park overnight for $7, or $40 per month. Multi-engine aircraft overnight parking is $10, and $60 per month. Monthly tie-down agreements and hangar rentals/leases are also available for those who need longer-term aircraft parking.

Chico Airport also offers a variety of services for different users. Pilots and their associates, student pilots, aircraft renters, and more can obtain gate cards to access the Airport Operations Area. The airport also hosted "Girls in Aviation Day" in collaboration with Women in Aviation International (WAI) Northern California Chapter, showcasing its commitment to promoting aviation within the community.

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Northgate Aviation provides charter flights

While Chico Airport does not currently offer commercial passenger services, Northgate Aviation provides charter flights and aircraft rentals. Northgate Aviation Chico Jet Center is a full-service fixed-base operator located at Chico Regional Airport (KCIC). They offer Titan-branded Jet-A and 100LL fuel at competitive rates, with discounts for Titan Fuel Rewards and Titan Contract Fuel customers. In addition to fuel services, Northgate provides GPU/LAV service, complimentary tie-downs, and access to a large flight school with experienced instructors.

Northgate Aviation has over 250,000 square feet of directly-managed ramp space and an additional 500,000 square feet available through Chico Airport Management. They also have 20,000 square feet of hangar space capable of accommodating light jets and external facilities for piston and turboprop aircraft storage. Northgate offers office and conference space for short-term rentals and is dedicated to serving the unique needs of government, military, public safety, and other specialized customers.

As a veteran-founded company and the primary service operator for CALFIRE's Chico Air Attack Base, Northgate Aviation prioritizes service and supports its public safety customers with generous discounts and special amenities. They are recognized for their consistently excellent service and have been the longest-operating full-service fixed-base operator in Chico's history.

Northgate Aviation is centrally located at Chico Regional Airport, providing convenient access to nearby destinations such as California State University Chico and Sierra Nevada Brewery. They offer premier travel experiences with world-class facilities housed within an original World War II hangar and award-winning hospitality. Their website invites customers to "learn how we are keeping you flying" and encourages visitors to make reservations for their flights and flight training.

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One of Chico's standout attractions is the Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park, where visitors can explore the grand, three-story Italianate home of city founder John Bidwell. The city also offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including the sprawling Bidwell Park, which stretches for 11 miles from the heart of the town into the foothills. The park boasts six "urban swimming holes," hiking trails, and a golf course. For art enthusiasts, the Museum of Northern California Art showcases the works of regional artists, while the National Yo-Yo Museum offers a unique cultural experience.

Chico is also known for its vibrant food scene, with local restaurants showcasing the bounty of the surrounding farmland. The city's twice-weekly farmers' markets and the annual Taste of Chico event in September provide the perfect opportunity to discover delicious cuisine and craft beer. Additionally, Chico is home to the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., offering tours and tastings for beer enthusiasts.

While Chico does have an airport, the Chico Regional Airport, it currently does not offer any commercial passenger service. However, the airport hosts several operators providing private and charter flights, aircraft rentals, and other aviation services. For those looking to fly in or out of Chico, nearby airports such as Sacramento International Airport or Redding Municipal Airport may offer more options for commercial flights.

Chico, California, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation, making it a popular destination for travellers seeking an authentic Northern California experience. From its beautiful campus and downtown to its diverse culinary scene and recreational activities, Chico has something for everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can fly out of Chico Municipal Airport, also known as Chico Regional Airport. However, there is currently no commercial passenger service at the airport.

Chico Airport hosts several operators offering private and charter flights, as well as aircraft rentals and other aviation services.

Yes, Travelocity and Expedia offer great flight deals from Chico Municipal Airport.

You can get to Chico Municipal Airport by cab, public transport, or by driving yourself and using the airport's long-term parking facilities.

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