Since opening its doors in October 2000, the Sanford-Lee County Regional Airport has already made an impact on aviation in the Research Triangle Region. Designated as a reliever for Raleigh-Durham International, the airport is home to corporate aircraft, recreational aviators and an active flying club.

Located on more than 700 acres just off U.S. 1 at exit 76 (Farrell Road), the airport is about 20 uncrowded miles from Cary along a four-lane stretch of highway. It serves corporate pilots from the rich manufacturing base in Sanford, as well as Triangle-area pilots wanting an easier, less-crowded alternative to Raleigh-Durham International.

Pilots enjoy a 6,500-by-100-foot runway with parallel taxiway and a weight capacity of 80,000 pounds. The airport has full lighting, signage and an automatic weather observation system (AWOS), instrument landing system (ILS), nondirectional beacon (NDB) and ground communicator outlet (GCO).

Even casual guests appreciate the recently-constructed terminal, featuring a lobby that looks more like home than an airport. Conference rooms are available for those important meetings and rest lounges are available when you are seeking comfort and solitude. The building even provides showers, with everything just steps from the reception area.

The airport features full services by FBO Sanford Aircraft Services, including Jet A and 100LL aircraft fuel, complete aircraft maintenance, avionics repair, pilot weather services, a flight school, all FAA written tests by computer, secure hangars with limited-access gates, courtesy and rental automobiles, and catering.

Technical airport data from NavAir.com