Royse City Tradewind Airport: Your Welcome to the Heart of Texas
Introduction
Located in the heart of the Lone Star State, Tradewind Airport (IATA: TDW) began life as a general aviation facility to support Amarillo, Texas soon after its dedication and opening for flight operations back in 1946. The facility has a significant history as well, serving the Amarillo area and region from its central location just 3 nautical miles southeast of downtown.
Airlines and Destinations
Currently, Tradewind Airport is not used by any commercial airlines with scheduled departures as of 2009. On the contrary, this is a major hub for private jets and charter aircraft visiting exotic destinations or enthusiasts that come here from all over the world on their business or vacationing endeavors.
Passenger and Flight Numbers
Tradewind Airport is a small airport and very few people go through the terminal. General aviation is the airport's primary service, which had 115 aircraft based at this facility as of February 2024. While specific passenger and flight counts for the airport are not made available, it plays a key role in aviation hubs within proximity.
How to Get Here
Tradewind Airport is just minutes away from central Amarillo. The airport is conveniently located near the I-27 South after exiting at Tradewind Airport/Amarillo Blvd East. Coordinates for this airport are 35.16946, -101.82566.
Parking
Parking is available at the airport for visitors and pilots. The parking facilities of the airport are absolutely accessible and free, hence it can be an easy alternative for those who are landing in their private or charter aircraft.
Transportation Price
Given that Tradewind Airport is mainly used for private and chartered flights, transportation does not have a pricing economy. Ground transfer is to be independently organized by travelers through rental and rideshare companies or other means.
Terminal Layout
Single terminal building, serving general aviation needs. The terminal is simple in layout, with access to the airport's two runways: 5/23 and 17/35.
Navigate the Airport
Navigating Tradewind Airport is a breeze. As most passengers at the airport are tourists, the airport has a small terminal and helpful signage. The approach plates, instrument departures and other terminal procedures serve as a guide to help pilots avoid confusion before starting an arrival or departure.
Getting Between Terminals
Being a single-terminal at Tradewind Airport, you need not worry about moving across terminals. All facilities in the airport are accessible to passengers and pilots through a single terminal building.
Services and Amenities
The controlling company's services and facilities are marketed at private and charter aviation customers alike, called Tradewind Airport. Services at W29 also include fuel, aircraft maintenance shops and the new Shelby's Restaurant honoring airport namesake Shelby Kritser.
Restaurants and Shops
The airport is classified as a general aviation airfield located within 15 miles of the city center, with three runways and an established control tower on site. It mainly serves corporations and GA jet aircraft but has no commercial airlines or passenger flights available for public use at this time; the exception being some charter executive jets based there that offer limited commercial pilot service when requested by passengers through their local agent in advance so others can also provide services such as fueling them out instead! Shelby's Restaurant, located right in the terminal and recently opened to replace a previous restaurant here, now offers the main dine-in experience on-site for visitors.
Security and Customs
Tradewind Airport is designed as a general aviation airport and thus lacks the same level of security and customs procedures common at larger commercial airports. Passengers are required to ensure that they comply with the rules and requirements applicable upon entering or leaving the airport.
Accessibility
Its accessibility for all visitors is second to none, with highly visible signage and immaculately equipped facilities throughout Tradewind Airport. Its small size makes it easily manageable for those participating in the service, as there is no distance between the check-in area and the gate.
Travel Tips
Due to the nature of its function as a facility catering primarily for private and charter aviation, if your travels take you through Tradewind Airport, be sure that it pairs up well with both arriving and departing flights. For more important information, additional details about the meteorological conditions or airspace limitations that might impact travelers in their trips.