Jack Barstow Municipal Airport

About the Airport

Jack Barstow Municipal Airport is a general aviation airport located in the northwest area of Midland adjacent to the Midland County Fairgrounds and the City forest. The airport's airfield encompasses over 500 acres and serves the needs of 65 based pilots, many of whom fly for recreation and business.

A small airplane waits for action at Barstow Terminal 2.

Runways

The airport has 2 runways to accommodate various wind conditions in flight and various sizes of small aircraft. The airport handles about 20,000 operations (take-offs and landings) each year, and approximately 40 aircraft hangars can be found on site.

Terminal

A 2,100-square-foot terminal building that opened in summer 2005 is centrally located within the airfield at the end of Barstow Drive. Pilots and visitors alike can enjoy the use of the new terminal building, which includes a pilot's lounge for tired travelers, a conference room for meetings, and an aviation weather service to assist pilots with flight planning.

Quick Facts About the Airport

  • Leasing Hangar Space: Call 989-835-3231 to review available hangar locations and building sites at the airport.
  • Learn to Fly: To learn more about flying lessons, contact the flight school on the field, Slipstream Aviation, at 989-492-0218. 

Funding

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and State of Michigan provides the majority of funding for capitol improvements at the airport. On typical projects, the City of Midland's share is only 2.5% of the total cost. Proceeds from aircraft hangar rental and land lease rentals also help fund operations, and aircraft fuel sales make up a small amount of revenue.

Aviation Advisory Commission

The Aviation Advisory Commission advises the Midland City Council on user charges and other aviation costs affecting the use and development of the airport. The commission also advises the City Council on airport development plans including runways, hangars, building construction and other improvements.

20220516_205832 (2)Midland Community Aviation Discovery Area (MCADA)

Dedicated in 2016, the beautiful Midland Community Aviation Discovery Area is the perfect area to enjoy and learn about aviation. 

Funded by donations, the Discovery Area is a park area located next to the terminal building overlooking the airport and featuring a pavilion with electricity and an audio system. Picnic tables and benches make this area perfect for enjoying a meal or snack while watching aircraft come and go. Informative boards, miniature runways, a compass rose, a static aircraft display and ride on spring loaded airplanes provide fun and education for all ages. During business hours ask the airport staff to unlock the static aircraft to sit in! 

This beautiful and educational area has been host to numerous STEM and social events. Come explore and discover aviation today!