Quincy Municipal Airport

Overview

Quincy Municipal Airport (FAA identifier 80T) is a small, publicly owned general aviation airport located just east of downtown Quincy, Washington. It serves primarily private pilots, agricultural aviation, and occasional business or charter flights. With its straightforward layout and easy road access, the airport is a practical gateway for those visiting the Columbia Basin region – whether for agriculture, recreation, or the famous Gorge Amphitheatre. While it offers no commercial airline service, its single runway and basic facilities make it a reliable and convenient option for pilots flying into central Washington.

Getting to and from the Airport

Quincy Municipal Airport is located at 7792 Road 4 NW, Quincy, WA 98848. It sits just off State Route 28, about 1.5 miles east of Quincy’s town center, making it easily reachable by car. From Interstate 90, take Exit 149 and head north on SR 281 for about 10 miles, then turn east on SR 28. The airport is well signed, and the entrance road leads directly to the apron and parking areas. Road access is excellent year-round, though winter weather can occasionally bring snow or ice – check local conditions. There is no public transit directly serving the airport; a rental car or taxi ride from Quincy or nearby Ephrata is the most practical option. Rideshare availability is limited, so pre-arranging transportation is advisable.

Facilities and Services

As a small municipal airport, Quincy Municipal is minimalist by design. There is no commercial terminal, no airline gates, and no concessions or shops. Pilots will find a basic apron, tie-downs, and a single asphalt runway (Runway 11/29, 3,800 feet long). The airport does not have a control tower; all operations are self-announce on the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF). Fuel services are typically not available on the field – pilots should plan to fuel up before arrival or at nearby airports such as Ephrata Municipal (KEPH) or Moses Lake (KMWH).

For pilots and passengers, there is a small parking area near the apron. Restroom facilities are very basic – likely a portable toilet or a simple restroom in a small building. There is no pilot lounge or flight planning room, but the airport’s simplicity means little waiting or hassle. The airport manager can be reached at +1 509-787-3715 for any inquiries.

Parking for vehicles is free and ample, located adjacent to the apron. The airport is not staffed full-time, so visitors should be self-sufficient. There are no hangars available for temporary visitors, but permanent hangars are leased to local aircraft owners.

Peak Hours

The busiest time at Quincy Municipal Airport is between 8:00 and 9:00 in the morning. This peak likely reflects the departure time for agricultural flights (crop dusters) and local pilots beginning their day. If you plan to fly in during this window, be alert for increased radio traffic and aircraft movement on the apron and runway. Outside of these hours, the airport is very quiet, often with little to no activity, especially on weekends. The airport is not officially monitored after dark, but the runway is not lighted, so operations are limited to daylight hours.

About Quincy and the Columbia Basin

Quincy Municipal Airport is deeply tied to the agricultural heart of central Washington. Quincy itself is a small city of about 8,000 people, known for its role in the region’s fruit production – especially apples, cherries, and pears – as well as potatoes and wine grapes. The Columbia Basin, shaped by massive irrigation projects from the Columbia River and Grand Coulee Dam, is one of the most productive agricultural areas in the United States. The airport supports this industry through crop dusting, aerial surveys, and transport of farm equipment and personnel.

Beyond agriculture, Quincy has become a destination for recreational travelers. The Gorge Amphitheatre, a world-renowned outdoor concert venue, is just 15 miles south – a major draw during summer concert season. The Columbia River itself offers boating, fishing, and water sports. Nearby attractions include the Grand Coulee Dam (45 miles north), the Wild Horse Monument, and the town of Leavenworth (about an hour west) for a Bavarian-themed getaway. For pilots, Quincy is a convenient stop before heading into the Cascades or onward to other central Washington fields.

The climate is semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters. The airport is at an elevation of 1,296 feet, and winds can be gusty, especially in spring and summer. Density altitude can be a factor on hot days – pilots should calculate performance accordingly. Despite its simplicity, Quincy Municipal Airport is a well-maintained facility that serves its community faithfully. It embodies the utility and convenience of small-town aviation, offering easy access to a region rich in natural beauty and agricultural heritage.