Put-in-Bay Airport: Gateway to South Bass Island
Located on the southern tip of South Bass Island in Lake Erie, Put-in-Bay Airport (3W2) is a year-round public-use facility that serves as a vital connection between the island and the mainland. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot, an adventure-seeking tourist, or a local resident, this airport offers essential services and unique experiences that make flying to Put-in-Bay both convenient and memorable.
✈️ Airport Overview
Put-in-Bay Airport is fully operational throughout the year, with activity permitted from dawn to dusk. It features two modern, paved runways and accommodates small private aircraft arriving from the mainland and nearby islands.
Note: The airport has no runway lighting, which means no take-offs or landings are allowed after dusk.
Key Features:
- Public-use airport open year-round
- Two runways: both are 2,870 feet long and 75 feet wide
- No fuel services onsite — fuel is available at:
- Erie-Ottawa Regional Airport
- Griffing Sandusky Airport
- Onsite amenities include:
- Vending machines
- Restrooms
- Credit card payments accepted
Flying to the Island: A Unique Alternative
Flying into Put-in-Bay offers an exhilarating alternative to the traditional ferry ride on the Jet Express or Miller Ferry. Charter services like Griffing Flying Service and Island Air Taxi provide quick, scenic, and often affordable transportation options.
Benefits of Flying:
- Avoid long ferry lines, especially during peak tourist season
- Get breathtaking aerial views of Lake Erie and its islands
- Essential during winter months when Lake Erie freezes and ferries cease operations
“Flying provides the best views and fastest route to the island — and it’s your only option when the lake ices over in winter.”
During winter, the airport becomes a lifeline for residents. All critical supplies — mail, fresh produce, dairy, and more — are flown in due to frozen lake conditions.
Pilot Information
Important Notices:
- Runway Usage:
- Runway 21: Left-hand traffic pattern (preferred)
- Runway 3: Right-hand traffic pattern
- Obstacle Caution: Planes must remain 1,000 feet clear of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, a 352-foot structure located just 1.5 miles southwest of the airport.
- Turbulence Alert: Expect light turbulence on approach if winds exceed 10 knots.
Scenic Flights & Air Tours
The airport is more than just a landing strip — it’s a launchpad for unforgettable aerial adventures.
Biplane Rides
Offered by Put-in-Bay Biplane Rides, these experiences are tailored for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike.
- Flights available for 1–2 passengers
- Choose from:
- Aerobatic rides
- Smooth scenic tours
- Hands-on flight lessons
- Fly over:
- Put-in-Bay
- Middle Bass Island
- Port Clinton
- Kelley’s Island
“Take to the skies in a beautifully restored WWII-era open cockpit biplane — where the wind rushes past and Lake Erie sparkles below.”
If you opt for a flight lesson, you’ll be guided by an instructor who will give you a taste of piloting, even letting you take the controls mid-flight.
Helicopter Tours
Put-in-Bay Helicopters offers a more modern experience with panoramic tours of the region.
- Ideal for couples and families
- See the entire South Bass Island from above
- Perfect for photography and sightseeing
🗓️ Events at the Airport
Throughout the year, Put-in-Bay Airport hosts special events that attract aviation enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
- Put-in-Bay Road Race Reunion
- Put-in-Bay 3W2 Fly-In
These events feature vintage aircraft, pilot meetups, and community celebrations, making them must-see happenings for visitors and locals.
Plan Your Stay
Planning to stay overnight? Combine your flight with the best island experiences:
- Browse lodging options on the Put-in-Bay Lodging Page
- Rent a golf cart through the island’s only overnight rental service – details available on our Golf Cart Rentals Page
💬 What Visitors Are Saying
Adam S.
“Flew in a few weeks ago and couldn’t be happier. The runway is in great shape and the people running the golf cart rental were very helpful. Flying into Put-In-Bay is the way to do it in style! See you guys next year.”
M.O.K.
“Perfect approach together with a former Navy pilot…thanks Steve! Good place to spend some time — bus station next to Airport!”
Shibley
“If you would like to not crash land your aircraft on the island, then this is the only place for you. They also offer helicopter and stunt plane rides.”
📍 Summary
Put-in-Bay Airport is more than a convenient travel hub — it’s a unique attraction offering practical services and thrilling experiences. Whether you’re flying in for the day, staying for the weekend, or living on the island through the winter, the airport is an essential part of the Put-in-Bay experience.
Fly in, rent a golf cart, and start exploring South Bass Island — from above and on the ground.
See you at the bay! 🙂