The Raeford Airport, also known as the Raeford Municipal Airport, is a public airport located in Hoke County, North Carolina. If you're planning a trip to the area or are simply interested in learning more about this airport, here are five things you should know.
History of Raeford Airport
The Raeford Airport has a rich history dating back to the 1940s. During World War II, the airport was used as a training facility for the U.S. military. After the war, the airport was turned over to the county and has since been used for civilian aviation purposes.
Facilities and Services
Today, the Raeford Airport offers a range of facilities and services to support general aviation and commercial operations. The airport has a single runway, which is 6,500 feet long and 100 feet wide. The runway is equipped with instrument landing systems (ILS) and is suitable for most types of aircraft.
In addition to the runway, the airport has a range of facilities, including:
- A terminal building with passenger amenities
- Fueling facilities for jet fuel and avgas
- Aircraft maintenance and repair services
- Aircraft storage and hangar facilities
- Pilot training and flight instruction services
Airlines and Destinations
The Raeford Airport is served by several airlines, including Cape Air and Piedmont Airlines. These airlines offer scheduled passenger services to destinations such as Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO).
General Aviation
In addition to commercial operations, the Raeford Airport is also a popular destination for general aviation pilots. The airport has a range of services and facilities to support general aviation, including fueling facilities, aircraft maintenance and repair services, and aircraft storage and hangar facilities.
Weather and Climate
The Raeford Airport is located in the southeastern United States, where the climate is generally mild and temperate. The airport experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 40°F (4°C), while the average temperature in July, the warmest month, is around 80°F (27°C).
Weather Services
The Raeford Airport has a range of weather services to support aviation operations. The airport has an Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) that provides current weather conditions, including temperature, humidity, wind direction and speed, and visibility. The airport also has a range of weather forecasting tools and services, including weather radar and satellite imagery.
Economic Impact
The Raeford Airport has a significant economic impact on the local community. According to a study by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the airport generates around $10 million in economic activity each year. The airport also supports around 100 jobs, both directly and indirectly, and has a total economic impact of around $20 million.
Business and Development Opportunities
The Raeford Airport offers a range of business and development opportunities, including:
- Aircraft maintenance and repair services
- Aircraft storage and hangar facilities
- Pilot training and flight instruction services
- Aviation fueling facilities
- Commercial and industrial development opportunities
What is the airport code for Raeford Airport?
+The airport code for Raeford Airport is SOP.
What airlines operate at Raeford Airport?
+Raeford Airport is served by several airlines, including Cape Air and Piedmont Airlines.
What are the airport's hours of operation?
+The airport is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information about the Raeford Airport. Whether you're a pilot, a passenger, or simply interested in learning more about this airport, we're glad you found this article helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.