Airports in Randolph County, West Virginia
Randolph County, West Virginia, sits at the heart of the Appalachian Mountains in the east-central part of the state, covering 1,040 square miles — the largest county by area in West Virginia. Its rugged terrain, with peaks reaching 4,848 feet on the Roaring Plains and ridgelines on Cheat Mountain topping 4,300 feet, shapes every aspect of aviation here. The county seat, Elkins, perches at roughly 1,900 feet in the Tygart Valley, surrounded by forested highlands that define the local flying environment. For pilots and air travelers, Randolph County's gateway is Elkins-Randolph County Airport, officially designated Jennings Randolph Field.
Elkins-Randolph County Airport (EKN / KEKN)
Located approximately two miles from downtown Elkins along Airport Road, Elkins-Randolph County Airport (IATA: EKN, FAA identifier: KEKN) is the primary public-use aviation facility serving Randolph County and the surrounding mountain region. The airport sits at an elevation of 1,987 feet mean sea level, reflecting the elevated valley floor characteristic of this part of West Virginia. The facility is operated by the Elkins-Randolph County Regional Airport Authority, with offices at 400 Airport Road, Elkins, WV 26241.
The airport maintains two paved runways capable of handling a wide range of general aviation aircraft. Runway 14/32 measures 4,544 feet by 140 feet (approximately 1,385 meters), providing the primary operations surface. Runway 5/23 runs 4,501 feet by 75 feet (approximately 1,372 meters), offering a crosswind alternative in Randolph County's variable mountain wind conditions. Both runways are paved and maintained for year-round operations, though winter weather — including snow, ice, and mountain fog — can affect schedules and instrument approaches in this high-elevation environment.
Services and Facilities
EKN functions as a full-service general aviation hub for the Elkins area and the broader Randolph County region. Fuel services include both 100LL Avgas and Jet A, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week via self-serve pumps. Attended fueling and additional FBO services are available daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Pilots arriving at KEKN can monitor weather via the Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) on frequency 119.27, with the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) operating on 123.6. The airport provides parking, tie-downs, and facilities for transient aircraft.
Randolph County Airport has a documented history dating to the 1930s, when it served as a stop on early airmail routes through the Appalachians. Commercial passenger service, including DC-3 operations by Lake Central Airways — a predecessor carrier to US Airways — connected Elkins to regional hubs for decades. Scheduled airline service continued into the 1990s before concluding in 1994. Today the airport operates exclusively as a general aviation facility, supporting private pilots, charter flights, air ambulance operations, and business aviation serving the county's approximately 27,900 residents.
Flying in Randolph County's Mountain Environment
Aviation in Randolph County demands respect for the terrain. Randolph County's ridgelines, including Rich Mountain (exceeding 4,300 feet) to the west and the Cheat Mountain range to the east, create localized turbulence, orographic lift, and rapidly changing weather conditions. The headwaters of four major river systems — the Cheat, Tygart Valley, Elk, and Potomac — originate in Randolph County, and the valley corridors they carve can channel winds in ways that challenge instrument and visual approaches. Pilots unfamiliar with Appalachian mountain flying are advised to review current NOTAMs, obtain a thorough weather briefing, and consider the airport's 1,987-foot field elevation when calculating density altitude during warm months.
Despite these challenges, EKN's location makes it an attractive destination for recreational and backcountry aviators. The airport provides access to Monongahela National Forest, which surrounds much of Randolph County, as well as Seneca Rocks, the iconic quartzite formation in neighboring Pendleton County, and Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia at 4,863 feet. Outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, anglers, and hikers frequently use EKN as their entry point to this wilderness region.
Regional Aviation Context
The nearest commercial service airports to Randolph County include Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, approximately 90 miles to the southwest, and Greenbrier Valley Airport (LWB) in Lewisburg, roughly 60 miles to the south. For travelers requiring scheduled airline service, these airports offer connections via American Eagle and United Express to major hubs. EKN itself handles general aviation traffic that serves Elkins's medical community, Davis Health System, and the business needs of Randolph County's timber, tourism, and light manufacturing sectors.
Airport facilities in a county are typically governed by regional airport authorities or county commissions that oversee operations, safety standards, and capital improvements. There are 2 Airports locations in Randolph County, West Virginia.
County residents can use this directory to identify which airports serve their area, whether they need commercial airline service, general aviation access, or cargo shipping connections. Contact the airport administration office directly for permitting, noise complaints, or facility inquiries.
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 West Virginia 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 Randolph County, West Virginia.
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 Randolph County, West Virginia.
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 Randolph County, West Virginia.
Local Airports
There are 2 Local Airport in Randolph County, West Virginia.
Jennings Randolph Airport
Elkins Randolph County Airport - Ekn
Residents of Randolph County can contact their local airport authority for information about noise abatement programs, land use around airport property, and community engagement meetings. For flight bookings and airline services, visit the airport's official website directly.
You may also find Airports locations in neighboring counties including Upshur, Randolph.
Frequently Asked Questions: Airports in Randolph County, WV
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How early should I arrive at the airport?
Most of the time, you should get to the airport at least two hours before your domestic flight and at least three hours before your international flight. This will allow you enough time to check in, pass through security, and make your way to your gate.
2. What should I do if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
If your flight is delayed or canceled, you should contact your airline as soon as possible. They will usually tell you what your options are, which could include getting a refund or rebooking on a later flight.
3. What is clear at the airport?
Clear is a TSA pre-check program that speeds up the security screening process for low-risk travelers who have already been approved.
Members of the Clear program are able to use dedicated security lanes where they do not have to remove items such as shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. This process allows for a faster and more convenient screening experience for Clear members.
To become a member of Clear, an individual must provide their biographic information and fingerprints for a background check, and then pay an annual fee.
4. Are masks required in airports?
The TSA will no longer require airport employees or patrons to wear a face covering or face mask inside the airport terminal or on airport-operated ground transportation.
5. Can you bring food through airport security?
Yes, you can bring food through airport security.
Solid foods like sandwiches, fruits, and granola bars, are allowed in your carry-on and checked baggage.
Some liquid and gel-like foods, such as yogurt, jelly, and hummus, are also permitted in your carry-on bag as long as they are in containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less.
6. How much is airport parking?
The cost of airport parking can vary greatly depending on the airport, the length of time you will be parked, and the type of parking spot you choose.
On average, hourly parking rates can range from $1-$4 per hour, while daily rates can range from $8-$30 per day. Long-term parking rates can range from $8-$20 per day.
7. Can I leave the airport during a layover?
Yes, If your layover is long enough, you may be able to leave the airport and explore the destination city. It's also a good idea to check with your airline to see if they offer any tours or other options for passengers with long layovers.
8. Can I sleep in an airport?
Yes, you can sleep in an airport, however, the amenities and comfort levels of sleeping in an airport can vary greatly depending on the airport you are in.
Some airports also offer amenities like sleeping pods, capsule hotels and lounges for passengers who want to rest or sleep before their flight. Some airlines also offer resting rooms or lounges for their premium customers.