Altus Air Force Base

Altus Air Force Base is a military facility. Civilian access may be restricted or require Prior Permission (PPR). Pilots should consult the US AIP for current access procedures and restrictions.

Overview

Altus Air Force Base is a medium-sized airport located in southwestern Oklahoma, serving as a critical training facility for military aviation. Positioned at an elevation of 1,382 feet MSL, the base offers multiple runways supporting diverse aircraft operations. Its strategic location provides consistent flying conditions across multiple runway configurations.

Flying Conditions

Weather conditions at Altus AFB are predominantly favorable for flying, with 90% of observations reporting VFR conditions. Temperature ranges from -11°C to 37°C, creating varied but generally stable atmospheric environments. Prevailing winds from the southeast at an average of 8.8 knots support predictable flight planning, with only 12.1% of observations showing calm conditions.

Notable Features

The airport features four distinct runways with similar orientation (17/35), offering multiple approach and departure options. The longest runway (17R/35L) extends 13,440 feet, providing substantial landing and takeoff capabilities for larger aircraft. All runways demonstrate consistent wind alignment, with 100% favorable wind conditions and an average crosswind of only 4.5 knots.

Approach Considerations

Pilots can expect excellent visibility averaging 9.7 statute miles, with minimal instances of reduced visibility (only 0.2% below 3SM). September, January, and November represent the most consistently favorable months for operations. The southeast prevailing winds make runways 17/35 and 174/354 particularly suitable for most approach and departure scenarios.