🇺🇸 Wausau Downtown Airport

Wausau Downtown Airport (KAUW (AUW)) is a city-owned, public-use airport located in Wausau, Wisconsin, United States. It is categorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a regional general aviation facility.

Type of Facility and Operations: The airport primarily supports general aviation, accommodating private jets, charter flights, and seaplane operations. Its operations include transient general aviation, military, air taxi, and local general aviation. Services available include air charter, flight instruction, aircraft rental, and various aviation line services such as refueling and aircraft maintenance. The airport features two asphalt paved runways and a seaplane landing area.

Notable Features and History: Established in 1927, Wausau Downtown Airport is recognized as one of Wisconsin's oldest airports. Originally known as Alexander Airport, it was once the second busiest airport in the state and hosted multiple stops for the Ford Reliability Tour in the 1920s and 1930s. The original terminal building, constructed in 1952, underwent a renovation that concluded recently, aiming to modernize utilities while preserving its historical aesthetic. Wausau Flying Service has managed the airport and provided fixed-base operator (FBO) services for nearly 30 years, with a contract renewed for another 30 years approximately four years ago.

Current Status: Wausau Downtown Airport is included in the FAA National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems for 2025–2029. As of the 12-month period ending June 6, 2024, the airport recorded 36,400 aircraft operations, and in August 2024, there were 75 aircraft based at the facility. The airport is open to the public, with attendance hours from 08:00 to 17:00 local time.