Bandera State Airport

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Bandera State Airport
IATA: n/a - ICAO: n/a - FAA: 4W0
Summary
Airport type Public
Operator Washington State Department of Transportation
Serves North Bend, Washington
Elevation AMSL 1,636 ft (499 m)
Coordinates 47°23′43″N, 121°32′11″W
Runways
Direction Length Surface
ft m
8/26 2,344 714 Turf, in fair condition

Bandera State Airport (FAA LID: 4W0) was constructed in 1948 as one of the first state airports. Nestled in the beautiful upper Snoqualmie Valley 14 miles[vague] east of North Bend, Washington, this field still serves as a vital emergency airport. This quiet, scenic airport offers a calm way to spend an hour on a stopover, or for an overnight camping trip. The airport is just a few feet off Interstate 90, yet is quiet and removed from the noise of the city. The scenery and air are truly something to enjoy. The nearby Snoqualmie River provides fairly good fishing, though the trout generally run only six to eight inches long. It is an excellent location for mountain flying practice. Though surrounded by mountains, the valley is wide enough for maneuvering most light aircraft. The airport is frequently used by instructors for training students in soft field work and in mountain flying. Glider clubs frequently base out of Bandera.

Bandera has a 2,342 foot turf runway which is extremely soft when wet. Field elevation is 1636 feet, and some density altitude problems can be encountered on a summer day. Trees surround the airport close in, and there are trees close to each end of the field in the approaches. Elk, deer and motorcyclists may be encountered on the field. The surface is rough. Vehicle ruts, and frost heaved rocks are possible. The south third of the runway is almost always soft, and the runway is generally smoother the farther north you land. Overflight to check for surface damage, presence of obstructions, and height of grass is essential. The airport is usually open from June 1st to October 1st.

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