Oregon's Madras Municipal Airport: Your Gateway to the Heart of Oregon
Introduction
Located in the rural community of Madras, Oregon (USA), lies the county-owned and operated regional airport known locally as Turbulence Field or S33, with an IATA code call sign "MDJ/Trio" - a kind compliment from Airports Worldwide magazine, which posted this photo here. Located at the site of the former City-County Airport, this general aviation service has been in operation since 1938, offering a popular and consistent access path for private planes as well as charter flights.
Airlines and Destinations
Since it is a small regional airport, there are currently no scheduled commercial passenger flights available at Madras Municipal. Nonetheless, the airport hosts several FBOs and charter operators to serve a diverse mix of local businesses, recreational flyers, and those seeking alternatives for private air travel.
Passengers and Flights
Information regarding passengers or flights is not tracked for Madras Municipal since it is primarily a general aviation airport. Finally, the airport is a private and charter home-based operation, so aircraft movements will also change based on the needs of the local community air service and regional activity.
How to Get Here
Madras Municipal Airport is a public-use airport located 3 miles (6 km) northwest of Madras, in Jefferson County, Oregon. The airport is easily accessible to visitors from the major arteries entering Redmond, the main one being US 97 and OR-361.
Parking
There is plenty of parking available at the airport for visitors in short- and long-term locations. It offers parking at no additional charge, which is especially convenient if you are arriving by private car.
Transportation Pricing
Madras Municipal, being a small regional airport, has no public transport. However, guests may use regional taxi or vehicle-for-hire services to get to and from the airport. Prices depend on the transport provider and distance.
Terminal Layout
The airport is a single terminal building that includes the administrative offices, the Fixed Base Operator (FBO), and all other aviation-related services. Passengers should have no trouble navigating through the terminal, as this two-story structure with a small footprint is quite simple.
Navigating the Airport
Navigating Madras Municipal Airport is relatively simple. All facilities are contained within a single terminal building and are well-signed throughout the airport. FBOs, parking, and all other possible services a visitor may want access to are easily accessible.
Getting Between Terminals
Madras Municipal Airport has a sole terminal, and therefore there is no need to navigate between terminals. Everything the airport has to offer is in one building, which makes it easy for visitors to get an overview of all its operations.
Services and Amenities
For private and charter aviation, the Madras Municipal Airport provides a suite of services and amenities, including aircraft fueling services, ground management, and coordinating transport. In addition to the terminal, there is an FBO (Fixed Base Operator) at this airport that offers more services and support for pilots and aircraft owners.
Restaurants and Shops
With the focus being general aviation at a very small airport, there are no services or restaurants inside the Madras Municipal Airport terminal. Nonetheless, there are plenty of dining and shopping opportunities in the nearby town of Madras, only a short drive away from the airport.
Security and Customs
Because Madras Municipal is a general aviation airport, it lacks the security and customs procedures large commercial airports have in place. Given that the airport services mostly private and charter aircraft, travelers are not subjected to heavy security checks or customs.
Accessibility
The Madras Municipal Airport is specifically constructed to be welcoming for all comers, with handicap-accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms located throughout the terminal building and surrounding areas.
Travel Tips
If you're visiting Madras Municipal Airport, don't be late for your flight — the airport's focus on general aviation and compact size can lead to a simplified check-in/boarding process. Lastly, expect few amenities at the airport for your travel arrangements, so plan accordingly with transportation and food.