Alturas, California: Your Complete Guide to the Local Airport
Alturas sits in the high desert of northeastern California, surrounded by the rolling foothills of the Modoc Plateau and the expansive wetlands of the Pit River. Though the city’s population is just under 5,000, its aviation needs are met by a single, well‑maintained public facility: Alturas Municipal Airport (FAA identifier A1). The airport lies only 1.6 miles north of the historic downtown district, off Highway 299 at the intersection of North Main Street and Airport Road, making it the most convenient gateway for residents, business travelers, and outdoor‑recreation enthusiasts heading to the nearby Modoc National Forest.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration’s 2023 Airport Master Record, Alturas Municipal Airport features a single asphalt runway (14/32) that measures 5,001 feet in length and 75 feet in width. The runway’s orientation provides reliable take‑off and landing conditions for a wide range of general‑aviation aircraft, from single‑engine Cessnas to light twin‑engine turboprops. The field elevation is 4,378 feet above mean sea level, which means pilots must account for density‑altitude considerations—especially during the hot summer months when temperatures frequently climb above 90°F.
The airport is owned and operated by the City of Alturas, and its modest but modern terminal building houses an airline‑style passenger waiting area, a staffed information desk, and a fully equipped flight‑planning lounge. The Alturas airport office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, and is staffed by certified aviation personnel who can assist with fuel purchases, hangar rentals, and aircraft maintenance referrals.
Alturas Airport Locations
Alturas Municipal Airport (A1) – Main Facility
The primary airport facility is located at 2185 North Main Street, Alturas, CA 96101. From the city center, the drive follows Highway 299 north for 1.2 miles, then turns west onto Airport Road. The airfield sits adjacent to the Alturas City Hall parking lot, providing easy visual reference for first‑time visitors. The airport’s boundary is marked by a perimeter fence topped with warning signs, and a small grassy “welcome” area greets pilots on the southwest side of the runway.
Alturas Municipal Airport is the only paved runway in Modoc County that offers 100LL avgas and Jet‑A fuel on a self‑serve basis 24 hours a day. The fuel station is located on the east side of the apron, next to the main hangar complex, and accepts major credit cards as well as cash. In addition to fuel, the airport provides tie‑down spots for up to 30 aircraft, a modest fixed‑base operator (FBO) that offers pilot‑grounded services, and a small maintenance shop operated by Modoc Aviation Services.
Secondary Aviation Sites Near Alturas
While Alturas Municipal Airport is the primary hub, the surrounding region hosts a few satellite airstrips that support specialized operations. The Cedarville Airport (0O5) lies 22 miles east of Alturas, near the community of Cedarville, and serves the timber‑industry charter flights that operate out of the Modoc National Forest. Reno‑Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is the nearest commercial‑service airport, approximately 150 miles southwest via Highway 395 and Interstate 80, offering scheduled airline service to major hubs such as San Francisco, Denver, and Seattle.
How to Reach Airport in Alturas
Driving Directions from Downtown Alturas
Visitors departing from the historic downtown area—specifically the square bounded by Main Street, Cedar Street, and the Modoc County Courthouse—should head north on Highway 299 (also known locally as the “Alturas Bypass”). After 1.2 miles, turn left onto Airport Road; the signage reads “Alturas Municipal Airport – 0.4 mi”. The turn‑around lane at the intersection provides a safe spot for larger vehicles to adjust direction before entering the airport’s driveway.
Travel time from the downtown hotel district to the airport gate area averages 5‑7 minutes under normal traffic conditions. For cyclists, the city maintains a dedicated bike lane that runs parallel to Highway 299, allowing a safe, scenic ride to the airport’s parking lot. The bike route passes the Alturas Community Center and offers views of the nearby Pit River wetlands.
Public Transportation Options
The Modoc County Transit Authority operates a limited “Airport Shuttle” that runs twice daily on weekdays between the Alturas senior center (located at 1245 Cedar Street) and the airport terminal. The shuttle departs at 7:30 am and returns at 4:45 pm, providing a convenient, low‑cost alternative for residents who do not drive. Riders must purchase a $3.00 ticket in advance at the senior center’s front desk.
Airport Services in Alturas
Fuel, Maintenance, and Hangar Rentals
Alturas Municipal Airport offers both 100LL avgas and Jet‑A fuel through a self‑serve pump that is monitored by the on‑site FBO staff. Fuel prices as of March 2026 are $5.79 per gallon for avgas and $6.49 per gallon for Jet‑A. The FBO also provides hourly aircraft parking, with rates of $12 per day for tie‑down spots and $85 per month for covered hangar space.
For aircraft requiring routine maintenance, Modoc Aviation Services operates a 2,500‑square‑foot hangar equipped with a modern avionics bench, engine test cell, and a small parts inventory that includes popular Pratt & Whitney and Lycoming components. The shop’s certified mechanics can perform A‑checks, B‑checks, and minor repairs on schedule, typically completing a standard oil change within 45 minutes.
Passenger Amenities and Ground Transportation
The terminal building includes a climate‑controlled waiting area with free Wi‑Fi, a vending machine offering snacks and beverages, and a bulletin board that lists local lodging options such as the Alturas Inn and Riverside Motel. Rental car services are provided by Enterprise Rent‑a‑Car, which operates a small desk inside the terminal and offers a fleet of compact cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks—ideal for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
Taxi services are available on demand from the “Airport Taxi” stand located just outside the main entrance. The most popular local provider, Alturas Taxi Co., charges a flat rate of $25 for trips to downtown and $45 to the Modoc County Airport (the nearest commercial airstrip, located 45 miles north). For larger groups, a shuttle bus can be pre‑booked through the Alturas City Hall’s transportation office.
Specialized Services for Outdoor Recreation
Given Alturas’s proximity to the Modoc National Forest, the airport frequently serves anglers, hunters, and hikers heading to the nearby Upper Pit Lake and Stone Coal Creek trailheads. The airport’s FBO staff maintains a “Recreation Desk” that provides printed maps, trail permits, and weather briefings specific to high‑desert conditions. In summer, the desk also offers a “Fly‑In Picnic” program, where pilots can reserve a shaded picnic area on the north side of the runway for a nominal fee.
Overall, Alturas Municipal Airport functions as a vital transportation hub for a region where road travel can be lengthy and weather‑dependent. Its combination of reliable runway infrastructure, 24‑hour fuel availability, and community‑focused services makes it the preferred choice for anyone searching for an “airport near Alturas” or the “closest airport to Alturas, California”.
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 California 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 Alturas, California.
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 Alturas, California.
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 0 Municipal Airport in Alturas, California.
Local Airports
There are 2 Local Airport in Alturas, California.
California Pines Airport
Wesinger Ranch Airport
Airports near Alturas
Frequently Asked Questions — Alturas Airport Services
What is the address and phone number of the Alturas airport office?
The Alturas airport office is located at 2185 North Main Street, Alturas, CA 96101. The staffed desk can be reached at (530) 894‑2635 during regular business hours.
How far is Alturas Municipal Airport from the Alturas City Hall and which road should I take?
Alturas Municipal Airport sits approximately 1.5 miles north of Alturas City Hall. From City Hall, travel north on Highway 299 for 1.2 miles, then turn left onto Airport Road; the airport entrance is clearly signed after 0.4 miles.
What are the airport office hours at Alturas airport near the downtown district?
The airport office operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm local time. The office is closed on weekends and California state holidays.
Which airport is the closest to the Cedar Street neighborhood in Alturas?
The closest airport to the Cedar Street neighborhood is Alturas Municipal Airport, located just 1.2 miles north via Highway 299. The drive takes roughly 4–5 minutes by car.
Where can I find rental car services at the Alturas airport and what are the options?
Rental car services are provided by Enterprise Rent‑a‑Car inside the terminal building. The agency offers compact cars, midsize sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks, with rates starting at $45 per day. Reservations can be made online or at the rental desk during airport office hours.