Olympia Regional Airport

Overview

Olympia Regional Airport, located in Tumwater, Washington, serves as the primary general aviation airport for the state capital region. Operated by the Port of Olympia, this airport is used mainly by private pilots, corporate aircraft, flight schools, and air cargo operators. It does not handle scheduled commercial airline service; the nearest major commercial airports are Seattle-Tacoma International (about 60 miles north) and Portland International (about 110 miles south). The airport plays an important role in supporting local businesses, emergency services, and recreational flying. Its facilities are tailored to general aviation, with a focus on efficiency and accessibility.

Location & Access

Olympia Regional Airport is situated in Tumwater, a city immediately south of Olympia, the capital of Washington. The airport address is 7661 Old Highway 99 SE, Tumwater, WA 98501. It lies off Interstate 5, making it easily accessible from the major north-south highway that connects the Pacific Northwest. The airport is about 5 miles south of downtown Olympia and roughly 10 miles from the state capitol building. For travelers from Seattle, the drive takes approximately one hour under normal traffic conditions. From Tacoma, it is about 30 minutes south. The airport is also close to the Washington State Capitol Campus, the Port of Olympia’s marine terminals, and the area’s numerous outdoor recreation areas.

Access by car is straightforward: take Exit 102 from I-5 and follow signs to the airport. There is ample parking for vehicles, including a wheelchair-accessible car park. Public transportation options are limited; the Intercity Transit bus system serves Tumwater, but routes may not connect directly to the airport terminal. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or taxi/rideshare.

Facilities

Olympia Regional Airport provides essential facilities for passengers and pilots. The terminal building is modest, designed to accommodate those arriving by private aircraft or corporate flights. The following amenities are confirmed:

• Wheelchair-accessible car park – Designated spaces close to the terminal entrance.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance – No steps or barriers at the main door.
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet – Restrooms within the terminal are built to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
• Toilet – Standard restroom facilities are available.

The airport does not have a restaurant, café, or retail shops on site. Passengers should plan accordingly, especially for longer waits. There are vending machines in some areas. Free Wi-Fi may be available, but it is not guaranteed. For those needing fuel or aircraft services, the airport has a fixed-base operator (FBO) that provides amenities like pilot lounges, flight planning rooms, and tie-downs. However, for the purposes of this passenger guide, focus on the terminal facilities as confirmed.

About the Region

Olympia Regional Airport is located in the heart of Washington’s South Sound region, an area known for its natural beauty and political importance. Olympia is the state capital, home to the Washington State Legislature and the Governor’s mansion. Tumwater, where the airport sits, is famous for the Olympia Brewery (now closed), and the Tumwater Falls Park, which offers scenic waterfalls and walking trails.

The region is a gateway to the Olympic Peninsula and the Cascade Mountains. Popular destinations include Mount Rainier National Park (about two hours east), Olympic National Park (about two hours west), and the many islands of Puget Sound. Outdoor enthusiasts come for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The area also has a thriving arts scene, with the Washington Center for the Performing Arts and the Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia.

Business travelers often use the airport to visit state agencies or military installations like Joint Base Lewis-McChord, located about 25 miles north. The airport also serves medical transport and air taxi services. Because of its location near the state capital, it is common to see legislative staff and lobbyists using the airport for quick trips.

Practical Information

Operating Hours: Olympia Regional Airport is not open 24 hours a day. The terminal building is open during daylight hours and for scheduled flights. The airport is closed on major holidays and during severe weather. It is best to call ahead to confirm hours if you are arriving or departing outside typical business times.

Contact Information:

• Airport Administration: +1 360-528-8079
• Website: Port of Olympia Airport Page

The airport is operated by the Port of Olympia, which also runs the nearby marine terminals. For flight planning or aircraft services, contact the FBO directly; the administration office can provide their number.

Parking: Parking is free and available in a lot adjacent to the terminal. The lot includes accessible spaces. Long-term parking is allowed, but vehicles are left at the owner’s risk.

Ground Transportation: Car rental services are not available on site. The nearest rental car agencies are in downtown Olympia or at the Olympia Airport (a separate small airport). Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, as do local taxi companies. For those staying in the region, renting a car in advance is recommended.

Accessibility: The terminal is fully wheelchair-accessible, with appropriate parking, entrance, and restrooms. Service animals are welcome.

Tips for Travelers: Since the airport lacks food and beverage options, bring snacks and water. If you have a layover or wait, the terminal offers basic seating but no lounges. The closest hotels are in Tumwater and Olympia, a short drive away. For those flying into the area for tourism, the airport is a convenient starting point for exploring the state capital and surrounding natural attractions.

Olympia Regional Airport may be small, but it serves as an important hub for the region’s general aviation needs. Its accessible facilities and central location make it a practical choice for travelers visiting Washington’s South Sound.