Northeast Alabama Regional Airport (GAD)

Northeast Alabama Regional Airport is a public-use, general aviation airport serving Gadsden and Etowah County in northeast Alabama. Opened in January 1944 and formerly known as Gadsden Municipal Airport, it is owned by the Gadsden Airport Authority and serves as a base for corporate, charter, private, and military aviation activity in the region.

Located about four miles southwest of downtown Gadsden, the airport features a single 6,802-foot asphalt runway with instrument landing capabilities, allowing it to accommodate business jets and other larger general aviation aircraft. The passenger terminal building provides a pilot lounge, conference and flight planning areas, and passenger amenities, supported by an on-site fixed-base operator offering fuel, hangar, and maintenance services. GAD does not currently host scheduled commercial airline service.

For travelers, the airport offers a streamlined alternative to larger commercial airports, with short walking distances between parking and aircraft. Car rental is available on site, and taxis, ride-sharing services, and private transfers can be arranged for travel into Gadsden. Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is approximately 60 miles to the southwest via Interstate 59 for those connecting to scheduled flights.

The airport continues to modernize through runway rehabilitation and planned hangar construction, and its long-range master plan includes a potential runway extension to support heavier freight operations. With its regional industrial role and general aviation focus, GAD functions as a practical gateway for business and private travelers visiting northeast Alabama.