Salome Emergency Airfield

Salome Emergency Airfield (US-1309), also known historically as American Airways Field or Salome Field, is not a commercial airport and therefore lacks traditional traveler reviews or experiences regarding facilities, security, or transportation. Established in the early 1930s as a dirt airstrip for emergency landings, it was officially listed as closed by 1956 and has since reverted to an "emergency use only" status, largely becoming overgrown and unmaintained. Consequently, there is no traveler sentiment or satisfaction data available.

What is Notable About Salome Emergency Airfield:

• Historical Significance: It served as an emergency landing site for early air routes between Phoenix and Los Angeles, providing crucial support for airmail and early commercial carriers in the 1930s.
• Emergency Use: Although largely overgrown, the field is occasionally still used by small aircraft for emergency purposes.
• Community Use: The remote and dark sky location makes it a popular meeting place for local astronomy, rocket, and aviation clubs for events.
• Relic of Early Aviation: It remains an interesting relic of the early commercial air program in the Arizona desert.

Common Realities (not complaints from travelers):

• No Commercial Facilities: There are no terminal facilities, amenities, customs, or security services as it is not a commercial airport.
• Overgrown and Unmaintained: The site is described as mostly overgrown, with its dirt runways remaining recognizable but not actively maintained for regular operations.
• Limited Accessibility: While near I-10, it's a remote, unpaved site without dedicated transportation connections or parking infrastructure for the public.
• Unsafe for Some Aircraft: By 1959, it was described as having a 4,140' bare strip and being "Unsafe for small aircraft. Emergency only."

In summary, Salome Emergency Airfield (US-1309) is a historical emergency landing strip that is no longer operational as a commercial or public-use airport. It offers no conventional traveler services or experiences and is primarily noted for its historical role in early aviation and its current use by niche local groups.