Roberta Aguirre
Located in Central Texas, Waco is served by several airports, including the Waco Regional Airport (ACT), which is just 16 minutes from downtown Waco. The airport has a rich history, initially serving as a training airfield for the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Today, it offers flight training and convenient connections to nearby cities. Alternatively, larger international airports in Dallas, Austin, and Killeen are within a 90-100 mile radius of Waco, providing additional travel options for those visiting the region.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Waco Regional Airport |
| Address | 7909 Karl May Dr Waco, TX 76708 |
| Website | https://www.waco-texas.com/Airport/index.asp#gsc.tab=0 |
| Terminal Opening Times | 4 a.m. – 7 p.m. |
| Airlines | American Airlines, Braniff, Pioneer, Continental, Trans-Texas DC-3s, Texas International |
| Flight Training Schools | Chiota Aviation, Universal Flight Concepts, Waco Flight Training, Baylor University Flight Center |
| Distance from Downtown Waco | 16 minutes |
| Car Rental Options | Well-known car rental companies and local providers |
| Parking | Free short/long-term parking |
| Runways | 2 parallel runways |
| Airport Lighting | VASI, MALSR, taxi lights, lighted signs, lighted wind sock, rotating beacon |
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What You'll Learn
Waco Regional Airport
The history of Waco Regional Airport dates back to 1941 when construction began on what was then known as Waco Municipal Airport. The War Department leased the site from the city of Waco in early 1942, and it became a training airfield for the United States Army Air Forces. Over the years, the airport has undergone various name changes, including China Spring Army Air Field, Waco Army Air Field No. 2, and Blackland Army Airfield, reflecting its military significance.
The airport features two parallel runways, enabling simultaneous arrivals and departures, and is equipped with an advanced lighting system, including VASI, MALSR, taxi lights, and a rotating beacon. The primary runway is an all-weather asphalt surface capable of accommodating wide-bodied jets of up to 450,000 pounds. On-site support services are comprehensive, providing full fuel service, an Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS), and an ARFF Index E Unit for safety.
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Waco Regional Airport's history
Waco Regional Airport (IATA: ACT, ICAO: KACT, FAA LID: ACT) is located in Waco, McLennan County, Texas. It is owned by the City of Waco and is a 15-20 minute drive from downtown Waco. The airport covers 1,369 acres and has two asphalt runways.
The history of Waco Regional Airport dates back to the early 1940s. In 1941, the city of Waco purchased 528 acres of grazing farmland in China Spring to construct a new commercial municipal airport. Construction began in late summer 1941. However, in early 1942, the War Department leased the site to the United States Army Air Forces, who used it as a training airfield. The Army Air Force rushed the project to completion, transforming the civil building plans into those of a military airfield and ground station. The facility was initially named China Spring Army Air Field, then Waco Army Air Field No. 2, before being renamed Blackland Army Airfield after the local black soil. Blackland AAF was activated on July 2, 1942, as a glider training school. The base was home to various squadrons, including the all-black 357th aviation squadron and the all-white 871st twin-engine training squadron. Cadets received intensive flight instruction and ground classes for radio and meteorology.
In 1945, Blackland closed as a military airfield, and the facility was converted back into the Waco Municipal Airport. Braniff Airlines began operations, with Pioneer Airlines following in 1947. In the 1950s, Continental Airlines added services, temporarily increasing the airport's profile by introducing flights on the large Douglas DC-3 propeller aircraft. However, in 1963, the Civil Aeronautics Board declared that only one airline could operate in Waco, leading to Braniff and Continental's departure. This monopoly continued until strikes disrupted Trans-Texas Airway's service, allowing Rio Airways to enter the market.
Today, Waco Regional Airport provides flight training through Chiota Aviation, Universal Flight Concepts, and Waco Flight Training. It is also home to the Baylor University Flight Center, supporting the university's Aviation Sciences Program. The airport has expanded over the years, offering amenities such as the Aerodrome Cafe and additional parking.
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Waco Regional Airport's flight training
Waco Regional Airport, located at 7909 Karl May Dr Waco, TX 76708, has a long history dating back to 1941 when it was just grazing farmland. Construction of the airport began in late summer 1941, and the site was later leased by the War Department in early 1942, becoming a training airfield for the United States Army Air Forces. Over the years, the airport has undergone several name changes, including China Spring Army Air Field, Waco Army Air Field No. 2, and Blackland Army Airfield.
Today, the airport offers flight training through several providers, including Chiota Aviation, Universal Flight Concepts, and Waco Flight Training. Chiota Aviation, founded in 2013 by a passionate aviator, offers various pilot training programs to help aspiring pilots achieve their certifications. With a fleet that includes the Cirrus SR22 G6, Cirrus SR20, and Cessna 172N, Chiota provides a reliable and high-performance training experience. They also offer discovery flights for those unsure about becoming a pilot, as well as recurrent and spin awareness training for existing pilots to maintain their certifications.
Universal Flight Concepts provides both helicopter and airplane training, catering to diverse aviation interests. Meanwhile, Waco Flight Training specializes in initial tailwheel training and endorsements, offering a more focused approach to flight instruction. Additionally, the Baylor University Flight Center calls the Waco Regional Airport home, conducting flight training as part of the Baylor University Aviation Sciences Program.
With a rich history and a range of flight training options, Waco Regional Airport continues to play a vital role in aviation, providing aspiring pilots with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue their dreams and careers in the skies.
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TSTC Waco Airport
The TSTC Waco Airport, formerly known as Connally Air Force Base, is located on the Texas State Technical College campus in Waco, Texas. The airport is situated less than a mile from I-35, approximately eight miles north of downtown Waco. It is conveniently central to the four largest cities in the state, with Dallas/Fort Worth 90 miles north, Houston 180 miles southeast, San Antonio 180 miles southwest, and Austin 100 miles south via I-35.
The TSTC Waco Airport boasts two parallel runways, allowing for simultaneous arrivals and departures. The primary runway, made of asphalt, measures 8,600 feet in length and 150 feet in width and can accommodate wide-bodied jets weighing up to 450,000 pounds. The adjacent parking apron covers a substantial area of approximately 3 million square feet. The secondary runway, constructed from concrete, spans 6,291 feet in length and 80 feet in width.
The airport is served by FAA-certified controllers from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily, ensuring efficient and safe operations. On-site support services are comprehensive, including a full-service fuel facility offering Avgas or Jet Fuel with a capacity of 50,000 gallons. The airport also features an Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS) and an advanced ARFF Index E Unit for added safety.
Historically, the TSTC Waco Airport has held significance during the presidency of George W. Bush, who utilised the airport when travelling to and from his home at the Prairie Chapel Ranch. The airport's proximity to Waco and its central location among Texas's major cities make it a convenient aviation hub for the region.
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Airports near Waco
There are several airports near Waco, Texas, including one within the city itself. Here is a list of the airports close to Waco and some information about each one:
Waco Regional Airport (ACT)
Waco Regional Airport is located just 16 minutes from downtown Waco, making it the most convenient option for travellers. It is a small airport, which means shorter lines and quicker security checks. The airport offers flight training provided by Chiota Aviation, Universal Flight Concepts, and Waco Flight Training. It is also home to the Baylor University Flight Centre. The airport usually has flights with American Airlines, with most flights making a stop in Austin or Dallas first. The airport has free short and long-term parking available.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
Located about 98 minutes from Waco, the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is a major international gateway with a vast network of airlines and destinations. It offers extensive amenities, including multiple dining and shopping options, lounges, and efficient ground transportation services. This airport is ideal for travellers visiting from around the world. However, if you fly to Waco through this airport, you will need to rent a car or use a ride-hailing service to get to the city.
Dallas Love Field Airport
Dallas Love Field Airport is situated around 95 minutes from Waco and is a smaller, less crowded alternative to the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. It primarily serves domestic flights, making it a convenient choice for travellers looking for easy connections. Similar to the Dallas/Fort Worth airport, you will need to rent a car or use a taxi or ride-hailing service to get from the airport to Waco.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is approximately 93 minutes from Waco and offers a wide range of airlines and destinations. The airport has various dining options and shops. If you fly into Austin, you will need to arrange transportation to Waco, such as renting a car or using a taxi or ride-hailing app.
Waco is easily accessible by car, and it is recommended to have access to a vehicle while visiting to easily explore the city and its surroundings. Waco Regional Airport's convenient location and small size make it an attractive option for travellers, although tickets directly to Waco tend to be more expensive than those to larger surrounding airports.
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Frequently asked questions
Waco Regional Airport (ACT) is located in Waco, Texas.
The address of the Waco Regional Airport is 7909 Karl May Dr Waco, TX 76708.
The Waco Regional Airport is open daily from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m.
