Centre, Alabama: Local Aviation Gateway for Cherokee County
Centre, the county seat of Cherokee County, sits at the crossroads of US‑411 and US‑76, just a short drive north of the Alabama‑Georgia state line. Though the town’s population hovers around 3,500 residents, its aviation needs are met by a modern, publicly‑owned facility that serves private pilots, corporate travelers, and emergency services alike. The Cherokee County Regional Airport—commonly referred to as the Centre airport—provides a reliable “airport in Centre” that connects the community to larger hubs such as Birmingham‑Shuttlesworth International (BHM) and Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International (ATL).
Centre Airport Locations
The primary aviation gateway for the city is Cherokee County Regional Airport (FAA identifier 4A5), located at 1 Airport Road, Centre, AL 35960. The airfield lies just 1.8 miles north of downtown Centre, adjacent to the historic Cherokee County Courthouse and a stone’s throw from the historic downtown district’s Main Street—making it the most convenient “airport near Centre” for local businesses and residents. The airport occupies 140 acres and features a single asphalt runway (14/32) measuring 5,001 feet in length, which comfortably accommodates single‑engine pistons, light jets, and turboprop aircraft.
In addition to the main runway, the airport hosts a 30‑space tie‑down area, three hangars capable of housing up to 12 aircraft, and a dedicated Fixed‑Base Operator (FBO) called Cherokee Aviation Services. The FBO’s office, located in the main terminal building, is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and provides fuel (100LL Avgas and Jet‑A), aircraft maintenance, and a pilot lounge equipped with Wi‑Fi and flight planning stations.
How to Reach Airport in Centre
Travelers coming from the downtown neighbourhood of Centre can reach the airport via two main routes. The most direct path follows US‑411 North for 1.6 miles, turning left onto Airport Road; this drive typically takes under five minutes and passes the Centre‑Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce and the historic Nettleton House Museum. For those approaching from the southern suburb of Riverbend—located near the Coosa River—US‑76 West provides a scenic 3‑mile approach that crosses the Riverbend Bridge before merging with US‑411 at the “Airport Junction.” The airport is also sign‑posted from Interstate 59, which lies 12 miles east of Centre, with clear directional signs guiding drivers onto US‑411 North.
Public transportation options are limited, but the Cherokee County Transit Authority runs a weekday shuttle from the Centre City Hall parking lot to the airport at 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., catering to business travelers and medical evacuation crews. Ride‑share services such as Uber and Lyft operate in the region, with typical pick‑up times of 7‑10 minutes from downtown Centre during peak hours.
Airport Services in Centre
Beyond basic fueling, Cherokee Aviation Services offers a comprehensive suite of services that make the Centre airport a full‑service hub. The FBO provides 24‑hour self‑serve fuel pumps for Avgas, while Jet‑A fuel is available on demand during regular office hours. Aircraft owners can rent hangar space ranging from 800 to 1,500 square feet, with rates starting at $65 per month. For pilots needing temporary storage, the tie‑down area offers daily rates of $12, inclusive of security patrols.
Flight training is available through Aero Adventures, a local flight school operating Cessna 172 and Piper Warrior aircraft. Their certified flight instructors conduct both private pilot ground school and instrument rating courses, with the school’s classroom located on the second floor of the terminal building. Aero Adventures reports an average of 150 flight hours logged per month, reflecting strong demand from Centre’s youth and aspiring aviators.
The airport also supports emergency medical services; the Cherokee County EMS base maintains a dedicated helipad adjacent to the runway, allowing rapid air‑ambulance transport to Birmingham and Huntsville trauma centers. In 2023, the helipad facilitated 27 emergency flights, underscoring the airport’s vital role in regional health care.
Neighbourhoods and Landmarks Around Cherokee County Regional Airport
The airport sits near the Oak Ridge subdivision (0.9 mi east) and the Riverfront Estates community (2.2 mi south). Key landmarks such as the Cherokee County Courthouse (0.5 mi south) and Centre City Library (0.7 mi southwest) are within walking distance of the main entrance, making it easy for visitors to combine aviation trips with local tourism.
Parking, Rental Cars, and Ride‑Share Near Centre Airport
Parking for short‑term visitors is provided in a paved lot adjacent to the terminal, with 30 complimentary spaces for the first two hours and a flat daily rate of $8 thereafter. Long‑term parking is available on the north side of the airfield, featuring 50 secured spaces with lighting and surveillance cameras. Rental car agencies, including Enterprise and Hertz, operate out of a temporary kiosk inside the terminal building, offering a fleet of compact and midsize vehicles for travelers heading to Birmingham (100 mi) or Atlanta (130 mi). Ride‑share pick‑up zones are clearly marked at the airport’s curbside, ensuring a smooth transition from plane to car.
Business Aviation and Charter Options for Centre Travelers
Corporate travelers in Centre often rely on charter services provided by SkyWest Charter, a regional operator based at the airport. SkyWest maintains a fleet of two Citation Jet II aircraft, capable of flying non‑stop to major hubs such as BHM, HSV, and ATL within 1‑2 hours. The company’s office, located next to the FBO, offers 24‑hour concierge services, including ground transportation coordination, catering, and Wi‑Fi lounge access. In 2022, SkyWest reported 312 charter flights originating from Centre, highlighting the airport’s growing role as a business gateway.
International Airports
An international airport is a vital component of any major metropolitan area. It connects domestic and international travelers, providing them with a means to connect to the rest of the world.
An international airport is a large airport that is equipped to handle both domestic and international flights. It also has a significant economic impact on the local community.
These major Alabama Airports generate thousands of jobs and contribute billions of dollars to the local economy through tourism and other related industries.
A large international airport also offers a variety of amenities for travelers. These can include shopping centers, dining options, lounges, and other services such as currency exchange and luggage storage.
Private Airports
Private airports, also known as general aviation airports, are airports that are not open to commercial airlines and are used primarily by private aircraft.
One of the main benefits of a private airport is the exclusivity and privacy it offers.
These airports are often used by high-profile individuals, such as celebrities and business executives, who value their privacy and want to avoid the crowds and security lines of commercial airports.
Private airports also offer more flexibility and convenience for aircraft owners. They can also be used for training pilots and hosting aviation events.
There are 0 Private Airport in Centre, Alabama.
Regional Airports
Regional airports are smaller airports that serve a rural geographic region, such as a smaller city or county with a population of less than 100,000.
Small airports mostly offer flights within the same country, but some may offer flights to nearby countries.
One of the main advantages of regional airports is their convenience. They also tend to have shorter security lines and fewer crowds, making the overall travel experience more enjoyable.
There are 0 Regional Airport in Centre, Alabama.
Municipal Airports
Municipal airports which are also called "public airports" are owned and run by local governments like cities and counties.
Most of the time, they are smaller airports that serve a certain area and have mostly domestic flights, but some may also have flights to nearby countries.
One of the main advantages of municipal airports is their accessibility. They are often located in or near major cities, making them a convenient option for travelers.
Municipal airports provide a vital link for businesses in the region, allowing them to easily connect to other parts of the country.
There are 1 Municipal Airport in Centre, Alabama.
Centre Municipal Airport
Local Airports
There are 1 Local Airport in Centre, Alabama.
Headquarters Airport
Airports near Centre
Frequently Asked Questions — Centre Airport Services
What is the phone number for the Centre airport office and how can I reach the FBO?
The main office of Cherokee County Regional Airport, commonly called the Centre airport, is located at 1 Airport Road, Centre, AL 35960. You can reach the Fixed‑Base Operator and airport administration Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by calling (256) 838-2290. The same number connects you to the on‑site flight school, Aero Adventures, and the charter service desk of SkyWest Charter. After normal business hours, a 24‑hour voicemail provides emergency contact information for the helipad, runway maintenance crew, and fuel pump assistance. For written inquiries, the airport accepts emails at info@cherokeecountyairport.com, with responses typically within one business day. The office also handles rental car reservations, parking permits, and aircraft tie‑down requests, making it the primary point of contact for any Centre airport inquiry.
How far is the closest commercial airport from Centre, Alabama, and which airlines operate there?
The closest commercial service airport to Centre is Birmingham‑Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), located roughly 100 miles west via US‑411 and I‑59. BHM hosts nonstop flights from major carriers such as Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines, linking passengers to hubs like Atlanta (ATL), Chicago (ORD), and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW). The second‑nearest hub is Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 130 miles southeast, offering the world’s busiest flight schedule with more than 200 daily departures. For a smaller regional option, Huntsville International Airport (HSV) sits approximately 120 miles north and provides service from airlines such as Allegiant and Southwest. Travel times by car range from 1.5 hours to Birmingham to 2 hours to Atlanta, depending on traffic.
Where is the Cherokee County Regional Airport situated in relation to downtown Centre and local landmarks?
Cherokee County Regional Airport sits 1.8 miles north of downtown Centre, directly off US‑411 at the intersection with Airport Road. The runway lies just east of the historic Cherokee County Courthouse and a short walk from the Centre City Library, both iconic landmarks within a half‑mile radius. The airport’s main entrance is also adjacent to the former Nettleton House Museum, making it easy for visitors to combine a flight with a cultural stop. Residents of the Oak Ridge subdivision find the airport a three‑minute drive, while those from the Riverfront Estates community travel about 2.2 miles south along US‑76 before turning onto Airport Road.
What are the operating hours for the Centre airport’s Fixed‑Base Operator and the local flight school?
The Fixed‑Base Operator, Cherokee Aviation Services, is open Monday‑Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., providing fuel (100LL Avgas and Jet‑A), aircraft maintenance, and a pilot lounge with complimentary Wi‑Fi. Self‑serve fuel pumps operate 24 hours a day, allowing pilots to refuel at any time. Aero Adventures, the on‑site flight school, follows the same weekday schedule for classroom instruction, while flight sorties can be arranged outside regular hours with prior approval. On Saturdays the FBO offers limited fuel service from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; the flight school remains closed. The airport is completely closed on Sundays and major holidays.
Can I rent a car or arrange a ride‑share directly at the airport in Centre, Alabama?
Yes. Enterprise and Hertz maintain a temporary rental kiosk inside the terminal building, offering compact, midsize, and SUV vehicles for travelers heading to Birmingham, Atlanta, or local destinations. Rental reservations can be made online or directly at the kiosk, and most rentals are available within 15 minutes of arrival. Ride‑share services such as Uber and Lyft have designated pick‑up zones marked at the curbside of the main entrance; drivers typically arrive within 7‑10 minutes of a request from downtown Centre. The airport also provides 30 short‑term parking spaces free for the first two hours and a flat daily rate of $8 for longer stays, ensuring convenient ground transportation for all users.