Purdue University Airport, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, is a public airport that serves the Purdue University community and the surrounding areas. The airport, which is owned and operated by Purdue University, is a vital transportation hub that provides a range of services and facilities to support the university's academic, research, and outreach activities.
History and Development
The Purdue University Airport has a long and rich history that dates back to the 1930s. The airport was established in 1930 as a small airfield with a single runway and a few hangars. Over the years, the airport has undergone significant expansion and modernization, with the addition of new runways, taxiways, and airport facilities. Today, the airport is a modern and well-equipped facility that offers a range of services, including flight training, aircraft maintenance, and air charter services.
Facilities and Services
The Purdue University Airport offers a range of facilities and services to support the needs of its users. The airport has two runways, including a 6,500-foot primary runway and a 4,500-foot crosswind runway. The airport also has a range of aircraft hangars and maintenance facilities, as well as a flight school and a fixed-base operator (FBO) that provides fuel, aircraft rental, and other services. In addition, the airport has a range of amenities, including a restaurant, a lounge, and a conference room.
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Runways | 2 runways: 6,500 feet and 4,500 feet |
| Hangars | Multiple aircraft hangars and maintenance facilities |
| Flight School | Purdue University School of Aviation and Transportation Technology |
| FBO | Fixed-base operator providing fuel, aircraft rental, and other services |
Flight Training and Education
The Purdue University Airport is home to the Purdue University School of Aviation and Transportation Technology, which offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in aviation and transportation. The school has a strong reputation for producing well-qualified and highly skilled aviation professionals, and its programs are accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI). The airport also offers flight training programs for private pilots, as well as advanced training programs for commercial and airline pilots.
Research and Outreach
The Purdue University Airport is also a key location for research and outreach activities related to aviation and transportation. The airport is home to a range of research centers and institutes, including the Purdue University Center for Aviation and Aerospace Technology and the Indiana Transportation Research Center. These centers and institutes conduct research and development activities in areas such as aviation safety, aircraft design and performance, and transportation infrastructure and logistics.
- Aviation safety research
- Aircraft design and performance research
- Transportation infrastructure and logistics research
- Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) research and development
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Purdue University Airport is committed to engaging with the local community and promoting aviation awareness and education. The airport offers a range of community outreach programs, including airport tours, aviation camps, and educational workshops. The airport also partners with local schools and community organizations to promote STEM education and career development in aviation and related fields.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Purdue University Airport has a range of partnerships and collaborations with industry, government, and academic organizations. These partnerships support the airport’s research and outreach activities, and help to promote economic development and job creation in the region. The airport is also a member of a range of industry associations and organizations, including the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and the Aviation Council of Indiana.
What are the airport’s hours of operation?
+The airport is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, the airport’s administrative office and FBO are open from 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday.
What types of aircraft can use the airport?
+The airport can accommodate a range of aircraft, including single-engine and multi-engine airplanes, helicopters, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). However, the airport’s runways and facilities are not suitable for large commercial airliners or military aircraft.
Are there any flight training programs available at the airport?
+Yes, the Purdue University School of Aviation and Transportation Technology offers a range of flight training programs, including private pilot, commercial pilot, and airline transport pilot programs. The airport also offers flight training programs for UAS operators.
