Airport Spotlight: Watford City Municipal Airport in North Dakota

ND – The title of 2022 General Aviation Airport of the Year for North Dakota goes to Watford City Municipal Airport(WCMA). A new runway and parallel taxiway, along with new runway lighting and instrument approach procedures, pushed this airport ahead of the competition, according to the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission in partnership with the North Dakota Aviation Association. 

It was not an easy or quick process, with these projects beginning in 2020 and being completed in 2021 with a required six-month closure to tear out an existing runway. Luckily, it was all worth the work as WCMA can now accommodate larger aircraft, including charter planes, private planes, company planes, and air taxis.  

Watford City is in the middle of the Bakken oil development and has experienced a huge boom, with a census population in 2010 of 1,744 people. Today’s estimate on the city website suggests that more than 15,000 individuals currently call Watford City home. 

WCMA has worked to meet the increased demand that the oil industry has put on the facility and feels as if it’s the front door to the community for those doing business there. Watford City Municipal Airport also offers 24/7 fuel, flight instruction, and rental aircraft. 

If you’re looking to check out the renovations and see this award-winning airport, you’re in luck because the area is packed with things to do. Located north of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the area is host to Lake Sakakawea and the Missouri River. It’s an excellent area to explore on foot, bike, snowmobile, and more, offering ample options for hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures.