St. Louis Regional Airport, also known as Alton/St. Louis Regional Airport, is a public airport located in Bethalto, Illinois, United States. Situated approximately 20 miles northeast of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, this airport serves as a vital hub for general aviation, corporate flights, and recreational pilots in the region. With its strategic location and modern facilities, St. Louis Regional Airport plays a crucial role in supporting the economic development and connectivity of the Greater St. Louis metropolitan area.

The history of St. Louis Regional Airport dates back to the early 1940s when it was established as a military airfield during World War II. Initially known as Alton Auxiliary Airfield, the airport served as a training base for pilots and aircrew of the United States Army Air Forces. After the war, the airfield was converted into a civilian airport and became an integral part of the regional aviation infrastructure.

Today, St. Louis Regional Airport boasts a comprehensive range of amenities and services to cater to the needs of both private and commercial aviators. The airport features two asphalt runways, with the primary runway measuring 6,502 feet in length, capable of accommodating a wide variety of aircraft types. Additionally, the airport offers a full-service fixed-base operator (FBO) that provides fueling, maintenance, and other support services to pilots and passengers.

One of the key advantages of St. Louis Regional Airport is its convenient access to the major highways and transportation arteries of the St. Louis metropolitan area. The airport is located just off Interstate 255, a major east-west corridor that connects the airport to St. Louis and its surrounding suburbs. This strategic location makes St. Louis Regional Airport an ideal choice for travelers seeking to avoid the congestion and delays often associated with larger commercial airports.

In addition to its general aviation services, St. Louis Regional Airport also serves as a base for several flight schools and aircraft rental companies. These flight training organizations offer a variety of programs for aspiring pilots, ranging from private pilot certifications to advanced instrument ratings. By providing access to quality flight training and education, St. Louis Regional Airport plays a crucial role in developing the next generation of aviators and professionals in the aviation industry.

Furthermore, St. Louis Regional Airport serves as a key economic driver for the surrounding community, generating revenue and employment opportunities for local businesses and residents. The airport supports a variety of aviation-related businesses, including aircraft maintenance facilities, aircraft rental companies, and aviation fuel providers. These businesses contribute to the overall economic vitality of the region and help create a sustainable and thriving aviation industry in the St. Louis area.

In conclusion, St. Louis Regional Airport is a vital transportation hub and economic engine for the Greater St. Louis metropolitan area. With its modern facilities, strategic location, and comprehensive range of services, the airport plays a crucial role in supporting general aviation, corporate flights, and flight training in the region. As the demand for air travel continues to grow, St. Louis Regional Airport stands ready to meet the needs of travelers and aviators alike, ensuring that the airport remains an indispensable asset for the local community and the broader aviation industry.