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Columbia Airport
Airport Overview
Columbia Airport is within walking distance of the historic town of Columbia in the Sierra Nevada foothills at an elevation of 2118 feet. The airport features a lighted 4,650-foot paved runway and a 2,600-foot irrigated turf runway, both well-maintained by the airport staff. Tail wheel aircraft come from neighboring airports to experience the fun and challenge of landing on a real grass runway.
AWOS (Automated Weather Observation System)
The AWOS at Columbia Airport uploads weather data to the National Weather Service every 5 minutes call (209) 536-9384 for current AWOS data.
Traffic Pattern
Columbia Airport’s traffic patterns are to the west of the airport to keep the aircraft from flying over Columbia State Park and Columbia Elementary School. The normal traffic patterns are right traffic for Runway 17, left traffic for Runway 29, and left traffic for Runway 35. Take-offs and landings are discouraged for Runway 11 due to visibility restrictions with Runway 17. There are residences around Columbia Airport, so we encourage all pilots to reduce their power settings once they reach a safe altitude after take-off.
Airport Businesses
Several aviation-related businesses are located at the Columbia Airport, providing aviation fuels, aircraft maintenance, aircraft charter, and flight instruction:
Fuel
Bald Eagle Aviation (209) 533-4616 provides fuel service via truck or a 24-hour fuel island. They sell both 100LL and Jet A and operate the airport terminal and lobby. http://baldeaglecolumbia.com/
Aircraft Maintenance
Stenger Aviation (209-533-3736) full-service airframe and powerplant maintenance and inspections. FAA Gold Seal flight instructor.
Fixed Wing and Helicopter Charter Services
Courtney Aviation (209-532-2345) has several fixed-wing aircraft for charter ranging from a four-seat Cessna to a twin turboprop. http://courtneyaviation.com/
Inter Mountain Helicopters (209-533-4374) provides helicopter charters to those that require remote access or special aircraft services.
Flight Instruction
Springfield Flying Service (209-532-4103) provides flight instruction for private pilots through commercial ratings. They have several instructors, aircraft, and an IFR-certified simulator. http://letsgofly.com/
Airport-Based Operations
Columbia Airport is the home of a CalFire Air Attack Base. They have two S2-T air tankers, a helicopter dispatched hotshot crew, and an OV-10 observation aircraft. The CalFire Air Attack crews respond to fires throughout the area, providing much welcomed support for fighting wildfires.
PHI Air Medical provides air ambulance services out of Columbia Airport. Their main mission is to provide an emergency medical response to those in need outside the Sonora area. http://phiairmedical.com/