Wanganui Airport is a small regional airport located in the city of Whanganui, New Zealand. The airport serves the Lower North Island region and plays a critical role in providing air transportation services to the local community. With a long history dating back to the early 1930s, Wanganui Airport has seen significant growth and development over the years to become an important hub for both commercial and general aviation.

The airport covers an area of 100 hectares and is situated approximately 4.5 kilometers southeast of the city center. It is operated by the Whanganui District Council and serves as a base for several aviation businesses, including flight training schools, aircraft maintenance facilities, and charter operators. The airport is equipped with a single paved runway, measuring 1,280 meters in length, which can accommodate a range of aircraft sizes, from small general aviation planes to larger regional jets.

In terms of passenger services, Wanganui Airport is served by two commercial airlines, Air Chathams and Sunair, which provide regular flights to destinations such as Auckland, Wellington, and smaller towns across the North Island. These airlines offer convenient and reliable air connections for travelers looking to access Whanganui and the surrounding regions, reducing travel times and providing greater accessibility to the area.

The airport also serves as a vital lifeline for the local community, providing essential air services for medical evacuations, freight transportation, and emergency response operations. In times of disaster or crisis, Wanganui Airport plays a crucial role in transporting people and supplies to and from the region, ensuring that critical assistance can be delivered quickly and efficiently.

In addition to its commercial operations, Wanganui Airport is home to a vibrant general aviation community, with several flying clubs and private aircraft owners using the airport as a base for recreational flying and flight training activities. The airport offers a range of aviation services, including fueling facilities, hangar storage, and aircraft maintenance services, making it a convenient and accessible location for pilots and aircraft owners.

Wanganui Airport has undergone significant upgrades and improvements in recent years to enhance its facilities and services. In 2017, the airport completed a major runway resurfacing project, ensuring the safety and reliability of the runway for years to come. The airport also features a modern terminal building, equipped with passenger amenities, baggage handling facilities, and rental car services, providing a comfortable and efficient experience for travelers passing through the airport.

Looking ahead, Wanganui Airport is poised for further growth and development, with plans to expand its commercial air services, attract new aviation businesses, and enhance its infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the region. As a vital gateway to Whanganui and the Lower North Island, the airport will continue to play a key role in connecting communities, supporting economic development, and providing essential air services for years to come.