Winston-Salem, Nc: Airport Services And Amenities Guide

Winston-Salem, North Carolina is served by Smith Reynolds Airport, a public airport located 3 miles (5 km) northeast of the city in Forsyth County. The airport has two runways and is used for general aviation, flight training, and aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations. Despite not offering scheduled commercial air service, Smith Reynolds Airport provides critical support for private, corporate, and educational aviation. Winston-Salem is also within close proximity to other airports, including Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, offering additional travel options for those visiting or departing the area.

Smith-Reynolds Airport (INT)

The airport covers 702 acres (284 ha) of land and features two runways. Smith-Reynolds Airport primarily serves general aviation and does not offer scheduled commercial air service. However, it plays a crucial role in supporting private, corporate, and educational aviation. The airport is well-equipped with facilities for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, making it an ideal base for corporate aircraft, air charter services, and air cargo.

A variety of services are available at Smith-Reynolds Airport to cater to the needs of travellers. These include parking facilities, car rental options through nearby vendors, and cab services for local transportation. The airport also has an operational control tower that remains active from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM throughout the year.

Historically, Smith-Reynolds Airport has undergone several name changes and served different purposes. Initially known as Miller Municipal Airport, it was renamed in 1942 to honour Smith Reynolds, a pioneer in aviation. During World War II, from 1942 to 1945, the airport served as a training base for military pilots, in addition to its commercial and private airline services. Over the years, various airlines such as Eastern Air Lines, Capital Airlines, and Piedmont Airlines operated flights to and from the airport, offering connections to destinations across the United States.

Aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is home to the Smith-Reynolds Airport (INT), which primarily serves general aviation and does not offer scheduled commercial air services. The airport is conveniently located minutes from downtown Winston-Salem, providing an effective base for corporate aircraft, air charter services, general aviation, and air cargo.

Smith-Reynolds Airport's facilities are well-suited for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, making it a popular choice for aviation-related industrial and commercial development. The airport is equipped to handle a range of MRO services, ensuring the efficient maintenance and upkeep of aircraft.

One notable MRO service provider at Smith-Reynolds Airport is Signature TECHNICAir Winston-Salem, a total service FAA Part 145 repair station. Signature TECHNICAir offers comprehensive aircraft maintenance capabilities, including engine overhaul and replacement, major and minor checks, and full avionics installations. Their expertise covers a wide range of aircraft systems, ensuring that aircraft based at or passing through Smith-Reynolds Airport receive the highest quality maintenance and repair work.

In addition to MRO services, Smith-Reynolds Airport also offers a range of other aviation-related services. These include parking, car rental, and cab services for local transportation, catering to the needs of both business and leisure travellers. The airport's convenient location and range of services make it a valuable asset to the local community and a critical hub for aviation activity in the region.

Overall, Smith-Reynolds Airport's focus on aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations sets it apart as a key aviation hub in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Its facilities and service providers, such as Signature TECHNICAir, ensure that aircraft can receive the maintenance and upkeep they require, contributing to the safe and efficient operation of aviation in the area.

Aviation-related industrial and commercial development

Smith Reynolds Airport, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a hub for aviation-related industrial and commercial development. The airport has a rich history dating back to the 1920s when the city of Winston-Salem was deciding on an airport site. The airport has two runways and is currently used for general aviation, corporate aviation, air charter services, and flight training. While there are currently no scheduled passenger airline flights, Smith Reynolds Airport remains a busy base for private flights and aviation-related services, supporting the local economic development of the region.

The airport's facilities are well-suited for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, attracting businesses and operators in the aviation industry. The airport's proximity to downtown Winston-Salem, just 3-5 miles away, makes it an attractive location for businesses and travellers alike. With easy access to local attractions, restaurants, and the arts district, it is a convenient gateway to the city and the Piedmont-Triad region.

Smith Reynolds Airport has a long history of commercial and private airline services, with several major airlines operating flights to various destinations across the United States. Capital Airlines and Eastern Air Lines served the airport until 1961, offering nonstop flights to Washington National Airport, Charlotte, and New York La Guardia Airport, among other destinations. In the 1980s, USAir Express operated multiple daily flights to Charlotte, and by the late 1990s, US Airways Express had taken over these operations.

In addition to its role in aviation, Smith Reynolds Airport has also been a training base for military pilots during World War II, further solidifying its significance in the region's aviation history. Today, the airport continues to be a vital hub for aviation-related development, with a focus on aircraft maintenance and private aviation services.

Overall, Smith Reynolds Airport's convenient location, excellent infrastructure, and dedication to customer service make it an ideal location for aviation-related businesses and travellers seeking aviation services in the Winston-Salem area.

Flight training

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is served by two airports that offer flight training: Smith Reynolds Airport and Piedmont Triad International Airport.

Smith Reynolds Airport

Smith Reynolds Airport (INT), also known as Winston-Salem Municipal Airport, is a general aviation airport located three miles from the central business district of Winston-Salem. It is the busiest general aviation airport in North Carolina in terms of aircraft operations. The airport is home to several flight schools and aviation businesses that offer flight training.

The airport has a rich history in aviation, with a long-standing commitment to promoting aviation education and safety. It features a variety of facilities and services to support flight training activities, including two asphalt runways, a full-service fixed-base operator (FBO), and several aviation maintenance and repair businesses.

Piedmont Triad International Airport

Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) is a larger commercial airport located about 20 miles from downtown Winston-Salem. While it primarily serves commercial airline traffic, it also accommodates general aviation activities, including flight training. The airport is home to several flight schools and aviation businesses that offer flight training services.

Piedmont Triad International Airport boasts three asphalt runways, including a 10,000-foot primary runway, and has the capacity to accommodate large jet aircraft. The airport also features a modern terminal and several FBOs, providing a range of services for pilots and passengers alike.

In addition to standard flight training, students can explore specialized programs tailored to their interests and experience level. These may include flight instructor certification, tailwheel endorsement, or advanced training in complex aircraft.

Local transportation

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is served by Smith-Reynolds Airport (INT), located just 3 miles (5 km) northeast of the city in Forsyth County. The airport primarily serves general aviation and does not offer scheduled commercial air service. However, it is important for private, corporate, and educational aviation. Local transportation options at the airport include car rental through nearby vendors and taxi services.

The closest major airport to Winston-Salem is Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), located in Greensboro, North Carolina, approximately 24 miles from the city centre. This airport is served by major airlines such as American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offering a wider range of domestic and international flight options.

Smith-Reynolds Airport has a rich history dating back to the 1920s when the question of an airmail route and an airport for Winston-Salem was decided. The airport has played a significant role in aviation, including serving as a training base for military pilots during World War II and supporting various commercial and private airline services.

Today, Smith-Reynolds Airport continues to be a vital hub for general aviation and private business aircraft activity. It provides essential facilities for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, as well as aviation-related industrial and commercial development. The airport also boasts an impressive infrastructure, including two runways, multiple flight schools and maintenance facilities, and an operational control tower operating year-round from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM.

In conclusion, while Winston-Salem's Smith-Reynolds Airport may not offer scheduled commercial flights, it is a bustling centre of aviation activity, supporting private, corporate, and educational aviation needs. For those seeking commercial flights, the nearby Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro serves as a convenient alternative, offering connections to a wider range of destinations.

Frequently asked questions