Clarion County Airport Serves the Community While Helping it Grow

Clarion County Airport (AXQ) in Pennsylvania has supported the region since 1976 and boasts more than 8,000 operations per year. It has a 5,000-foot runway with two GPS approaches, making it easier for planes to land in inclement weather. This airport is a significant asset to the business community and also offers Part 61 flight training.

“It’s a well-used airport,” says Bill Guth, Manager of AXQ. “A lot of aviation operations go on at these little airports that no one is aware of.”

AXQ plays an important role in Clarion County's economic development. It supports businesses across the region and makes it easier for executives to meet with clients or travel to different facilities. The airport also benefits residents through partnerships with medical transport companies and other government service providers.  

If you haven’t visited AXQ, it’s time to explore this airport and see everything it has to offer. You might be surprised at how involved it is in the community.

Executives Reach Their Meetings Faster

AXQ is an essential tool for the business community in Clarion County. Approximately 13 companies use the airport each year, ranging from local businesses to medical service providers such as STAT Medevac. Corporate aviation is responsible for nearly a third of flight traffic at AXQ.

“We’re right next to I-80, so it’s convenient for executives to fly into our airport to visit their facilities,” says Guth. “They don’t have to go to big airports like Pittsburgh and then drive in. Business executives can land and reach their business meeting efficiently.

The next-closest airport is 45 miles away, so AXQ is an asset for business travelers who want to save time while meeting in person.

“We want businesses in Clarion County to be aware of what the airport has to offer,” adds Guth. “Their clients can fly in and meet with them directly.” 

AXQ Meets Local Flight Training Needs

More than half of AXQ’s flight operations support the local flight school. Clarion County Airport has offered Part 61 one-on-one flight training since it opened in the 1970s. Guth has been a flight instructor since 1999.

“Our flight training program provides an opportunity for us to grow the pilot numbers while also keeping local pilots current,” he says. “Clarion County is fortunate, as many communities don’t have flight schools at their airports.”

Many airlines have mandatory retirement ages, which makes it hard to pair new pilots with more experienced ones. The need for pilot training is higher than ever to build experience before the veteran pilots retire.

AXQ completes about 150 hours of flight instruction per year. Guth frequently meets with people who are interested in securing their pilot's licenses and potentially entering aviation career fields. He reviews their career options, from corporate aviation to cargo, and discusses other aviation options, such as working in air traffic control, being a radar controller, and enrolling in airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanics and avionics schools. He recently met with a student interested in meteorology and its role in aviation.

“We have an open-door policy at the airport,” says Winfield Lutz, Authority President. “If you have any interest in the airport operations or flying, we’ll do whatever we can to show you around and help you get you in the air. Don’t be shy about walking through the door.”

Residents Benefit from the Clarion County Airport

They might not realize it, but AXQ plays an essential role in keeping residents safe. The partnerships with STAT Medevac and Life Flight allow people to reach major hospitals and receive life-saving care. AXQ offers 24/7 refueling, allowing pilots to refuel after hours. The airport even supports the Department of Conservation of Natural Resources (DCNR) and the Department of Agriculture in their efforts to evaluate and protect the environment.

“You don’t realize what you don’t have until you need it,” says Guth. “We have two medical helicopters in Clarion County that fly daily throughout the year. These are invaluable for medical transport for our local communities.”

Most people engage with the airport at the annual Appalachian Mountain STOL (short takeoff and landing) competition, but it provides an opportunity for emergency transport throughout the year and contributes to job growth in the region.

“This Clarion County Airport helps us attract businesses to the region,” says Jarred Heuer, Executive Director of the Clarion County Economic Development Corporation (EDC). “It also helps existing businesses grow by making client meetings faster and easier. It’s a tremendous asset to our community.” 

AXQ is in Good Condition 

The Clarion County airport has been well-maintained over the decades, and the management team is taking steps this year to update its runway lighting and install new fuel tanks. This allows the airport to offer fuel savings down the road by increasing its fuel storage capabilities.  

“We have a very supportive board and a skilled maintenance team,” says Lutz. “The airport is in great condition, so we don’t have to redo a lot. Most of these projects are standard maintenance.”

Upcoming projects also include removing obstructions (trimming trees), replacing roofs, and refurbishing metal buildings.

“Often your first impression of a county happens at the airport as the business owners and executives arrive for their meetings.”

Discover the Assets of Clarion County 

Clarion County is a strong option for your business expansion or relocation plans. It has several location advantages, including AXQ and its proximity to I-80. There are multiple communities ready for growth in the region, and a strong workforce living nearby.  

Find your future in Clarion County and contact the EDC to discuss your opportunities.