Wausau Downtown Airport: Your Gateway To Wisconsins Northwoods

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Wausau Downtown Airport, also known as CWA or KCWA, is a public airport located in Marathon County, Wisconsin, United States. It serves the Wausau metropolitan area and is the primary gateway to Wisconsin's beautiful Northwoods region. The airport has a rich history, dating back to 1927, and has undergone significant transformations over the years to meet the growing demands of air travel.

Airport History and Development

Wausau Downtown Airport was established in 1927 as a small airfield, catering to the needs of local aviators and occasional airshows. However, with the rise of commercial air travel, the airport underwent significant expansions and modernizations. In the 1950s, the airport's first terminal building was constructed, followed by the addition of a new runway in the 1960s.

In the 1980s, the airport underwent a major renovation, which included the construction of a new terminal building, expansion of the apron, and improvements to the airfield lighting system. This upgrade enabled the airport to accommodate larger aircraft and increased passenger traffic.

Airport Facilities and Services

Wausau Downtown Airport offers a range of facilities and services to cater to the needs of passengers, airlines, and general aviation users. Some of the key amenities include:

• A modern terminal building with comfortable waiting areas, snack bars, and gift shops
• Multiple airlines operating regular scheduled flights to major hubs
• A range of ground transportation options, including taxis, car rentals, and shuttle services
• A general aviation terminal with amenities such as fueling, maintenance, and hangar space
• A fixed-base operator (FBO) providing services such as aircraft maintenance, avionics, and flight training

Airport Operations and Statistics

Wausau Downtown Airport operates 24/7, with a team of dedicated professionals ensuring safe and efficient airport operations. The airport handles a mix of commercial, general aviation, and military flights, with a total of over 50,000 aircraft movements per year.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the airport's annual passenger traffic exceeds 250,000, with a peak of over 300,000 in 2019. The airport's cargo traffic is also significant, with over 10 million pounds of cargo handled annually.

Airlines and Destinations

Wausau Downtown Airport is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. These airlines operate regular scheduled flights to major hubs such as Chicago O'Hare, Detroit Metropolitan, and Minneapolis-St. Paul.

Some of the popular destinations from Wausau Downtown Airport include:

• Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
• Detroit Metropolitan (DTW)
• Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP)
• Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
• Orlando (MCO)

General Aviation and Flight Training

Wausau Downtown Airport is also a popular destination for general aviation users, with several flight schools and charter operators based at the airport. The airport's general aviation terminal offers a range of amenities, including fueling, maintenance, and hangar space.

Flight training is a significant activity at the airport, with several flight schools offering training programs for private pilots, commercial pilots, and flight instructors. Some of the popular flight training programs include:

• Private Pilot Certification
• Commercial Pilot Certification
• Instrument Rating
• Multi-Engine Rating

Community Involvement and Events

Wausau Downtown Airport is committed to community involvement and hosts several events throughout the year. Some of the popular events include:

• Wausau Air Show: A biennial air show featuring aerobatic performances, military demonstrations, and static displays
• Airport Open House: An annual event showcasing the airport's facilities, services, and general aviation aircraft
• Aviation Day: A celebration of aviation, featuring educational displays, flight simulators, and aircraft exhibits

Economic Impact

Wausau Downtown Airport plays a significant role in the local economy, generating over $100 million in annual economic impact. The airport supports over 1,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly, and attracts millions of dollars in investment and tourism revenue.

Environmental Initiatives

Wausau Downtown Airport is committed to environmental sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. Some of the initiatives include:

• Energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems
• Recycling programs for paper, plastic, and glass
• Stormwater management and erosion control measures
• Wildlife habitat conservation and management

Challenges and Future Developments

Wausau Downtown Airport faces several challenges, including increasing competition from larger airports, rising operating costs, and the need for infrastructure upgrades. However, the airport is committed to addressing these challenges and has several development projects underway, including:

• A new terminal building expansion to accommodate growing passenger traffic
• Upgrades to the airfield lighting and navigation systems
• Expansion of the general aviation terminal and FBO services

Conclusion

Wausau Downtown Airport is a vital gateway to Wisconsin's beautiful Northwoods region, offering a range of facilities and services to cater to the needs of passengers, airlines, and general aviation users. With its rich history, commitment to community involvement, and focus on environmental sustainability, the airport is poised for continued growth and success.