Marana Regional Airport: Avra Valley Airport (IATA: AVW – ICAO: KAVQ)

Marana Regional Airport, formerly known as Avra Valley Airport (IATA: AVW -ICAO: KAVQ), is a general aviation airport located in Marana, Arizona, approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles) northwest of downtown Tucson. It serves as a key reliever airport for Tucson International and supports many private, recreational, and business aviation activities.

AVQ does not offer commercial airline service but is a well-equipped facility for general aviation, military training flights, and flight schools.

The airport is home to more than 260 aircraft and offers various services for aviation enthusiasts and businesses. With its modern facilities and wide-open space, Marana Regional Airport plays a key role in supporting the region’s aviation needs. Learn more about why pilots and travelers choose Avra Valley Airport at the official site and what makes it an essential part of the Marana community.

General Information

Location: Marana, Arizona, United States
Country: United States
Airport Type: Public, General Aviation
IATA Code: AVW
ICAO Code: KAVQ
Elevation: 2,031 feet (619 metres)
Coordinates: 32°24′33″N 111°13′50″W
Timezone: UTC−7 (MST – no daylight saving time)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 24 km (15 miles) northwest of Tucson
Website: www.maranaaz.gov/airport
Operator: Town of Marana
Services: General aviation, flight training, maintenance, hangars, aircraft storage

Parking Information

While commercial parking is not required, the airport offers general aviation aircraft and visitor vehicle parking facilities.

Aircraft Parking

Rate: Based on aircraft size and duration (contact airport for details)
Distance: Direct access to FBO and tie-downs
Ideal For: Private pilots, corporate aviation, training aircraft

Vehicle Parking

Rate: Free for short visits
Distance: In front of the airport administration and terminal building
Ideal For: Pilots, trainees, and airport visitors

Security: Gated access and monitored facilities

Contact Information

Airport Information Line: +1 520-382-8052
Email: airport@maranaaz.gov
FBO Coordination: Marana Airport Services and third-party providers offer refueling, ground handling, and pilot amenities

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: Not applicable (no scheduled international flights)
Crew Requirements: Pilot licence, FAA documentation, and TSA compliance as needed
Transport Options: Rental cars, taxis, private vehicles; rideshare options are limited in the area
Nearby Accommodation:
Close to Airport: La Quinta Inn & Suites Marana, Hampton Inn & Suites Tucson Marana
In Tucson: JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort, El Conquistador Tucson
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); credit cards widely accepted

History and Development

Avra Valley Airport was first established by a private operator. Early development included the construction of the first permanent airport buildings. Over the years, the airport transitioned into a public facility managed by the Town of Marana.

Originally called Avra Valley Airport, it later became commonly recognized as Marana Regional Airport. The airport has expanded multiple times to accommodate growing aviation activities and local needs. Its history reflects steady progress, with new hangars, updated equipment, and improved services marking its development.

The airport’s reputation is built on its reliability and importance for local aviation. It supports the region’s economic development and serves as a gateway for aviation enthusiasts and businesses in Marana and nearby Pima County. More information about its background can be found on the history page of the Town of Marana’s official website.

Airport Facilities and Infrastructure

Avra Valley Airport (AVW) features key facilities supporting general and business aviation. The main runway is 6,901 feet long, suitable for small to medium-sized aircraft. The airport has more than 260 aircraft based on site, showing its capacity and activity levels.

Facilities include several hangars, tie-down spaces, and maintenance areas. Pilot lounges, fueling stations, and administrative offices are also available. According to recent data, the airport handles over 90,000 takeoffs and landings every year.

AVW is a non-towered airport, meaning it operates without a control tower. Pilots communicate with each other using standard radio procedures, which provide flexibility for aircraft operations and flight training activities. The Town of Marana airport department offers details about the facilities and airport stats.

Location and Accessibility

Avra Valley Airport is about 15 miles northwest of downtown Tucson, Arizona, near the town of Marana. It is in the Avra Valley area, making it easy to reach from Tucson and nearby communities.

Location details:

Feature	Description
Distance from Tucson	About 15 miles northwest
Nearby Roadways	Close to Interstate 10
Town	Marana, Arizona

The airport is accessible via local roads and is only a short drive from major highways. Its location makes it a convenient choice for anyone in southern Arizona seeking quick access to a small airport for general aviation purposes. For more details on the location, visit the airport’s main information page.

Aviation Operations and Services

Avra Valley Airport in Marana, AZ, is a busy center for pilots, students, and maintenance staff. The airport supports flight training, aircraft repair, and various aviation activities for local and visiting users.

General Aviation Activities

Marana Regional Airport, also known as Avra Valley Airport, is a non-towered general aviation airport serving a wide range of aircraft and pilots. It is classified as a general aviation reliever for Tucson International, helping reduce congestion at larger airports and supporting recreational, business, and instructional flights.

Facilities include a long paved runway, hangar space, and tie-downs for small aircraft. Pilots regularly use the field for private flying, aerial photography, and business travel. It is about 15 miles northwest of Tucson, giving easy access to both rural and urban areas.

Avra Valley Airport is open daily, typically from early morning to early afternoon, and sees hundreds of aircraft movements per week. Its role in the local aviation community makes it an essential asset for southern Arizona. For more details on operations, see the Marana Regional Airport profile.

Flight Training and Education

Flight schools and instructors use Avra Valley Airport as a safe and accessible base for training new pilots. The non-towered environment encourages students to learn radio procedures, traffic pattern work, and emergency operations while communicating directly with other pilots.

Flight training at this small airport includes private, commercial, and instrument ratings instruction. Students benefit from low air traffic volumes and clear weather conditions for most of the year. Regular practice flights help students improve their takeoff, landing, and navigation skills.

Educational programs sometimes partner with local schools or aviation groups, creating opportunities for youth and new pilots. Training flights are supported by fixed-base operators (FBOs) who provide fuel and rental planes. Schedule information, available facilities, and flight school contacts can be found on the airport services page.

Maintenance and Support Services

Maintenance and mechanical support at Avra Valley Airport are available through local aviation businesses and FBOs. Services include regular inspections, minor repairs, avionics checks, and complete engine overhauls for small aircraft.

Aircraft owners can access on-site technicians, parts ordering, and overnight hangar storage. For pilots passing through, line crews provide refueling, oil checks, and help with ground handling. The airport focuses on reliable support to meet the needs of based and transient aircraft.

Other amenities at the airport include lounge facilities, pilot briefing areas, and assistance with ground transportation and lodging. These services help make Avra Valley Airport a convenient stop in southern Arizona. The town’s airport services site lists detailed offerings and contact numbers for support staff.

Avra Valley Airport’s Role in the Marana and Tucson Region

Avra Valley Airport is an essential general aviation facility that shapes local growth and supports transportation access in southern Arizona. Its location and services connect the Marana community to the metro Tucson area and beyond.

Economic Impact on Marana and Tucson

Avra Valley Airport brings new business activity to Marana and Pima County. It attracts jobs for airport staff, mechanics, flight instructors, and more. Aviation-related companies and flying clubs often use this airport for their operations.

Local businesses benefit from travelers and workers who spend money in the area. Airport traffic increases demand for restaurants, hotels, and car rental agencies. The airport also supports law enforcement, emergency services, and agricultural flights.

Investment in airport improvements, like runway paving and hangar construction, has boosted the regional economy. The airport’s location makes it a vital hub for private and corporate flights in northwest Tucson.

Relationship to Marana Regional Airport

Avra Valley Airport is now commonly called Marana Regional Airport. It was previously known as Avra Valley Airport and Marana Auxiliary No.2. The airport lies about 15 miles northwest of downtown Tucson, making it a convenient option for regional pilots.

Marana Regional Airport acts as a general aviation reliever airport for Tucson International. This means it helps ease congestion at larger airports while serving business jets, small planes, and charters. It is non-towered, so pilots communicate by radio to coordinate takeoffs and landings.

As a regional connector, the airport helps link Marana’s growing population and economy to Tucson and the rest of Arizona. It supports aviation groups, recreational pilots, and flight schools, playing a significant part in the area’s aviation activities.

Future Developments and Community Engagement

Avra Valley Airport in Marana plans several improvements to meet local aviation needs. Advisory committees are helping shape airport decisions, and the airport hosts programs that build strong community ties.

Planned Expansions and Upgrades

Avra Valley Airport is included in Marana’s long-term strategic plans. The airport is set to get upgrades that aim to support a growing number of flights and improve pilot safety. Key projects may involve runway improvements, taxiway extensions, and expansion of aircraft parking areas.

The Marana Regional Airport master plan mentions the establishment of advisory committees. These groups advise on guiding the airport’s development and prioritizing needed improvements. Community and local government input is essential in ensuring changes fit aviation and public interests.

Plans focus on making Avra Valley Airport a more effective reliever for Tucson International Airport. This includes improving infrastructure and adding services for both private and business aviation. Details on these projects can be found in the airport master plan summary.

Community Programs and Events

The airport works closely with the Marana community by offering educational programs and public events. These efforts teach people about aviation and inspire young residents to take up flying.

Avra Valley Airport participates in local open houses, tours, and aviation day events. Such activities allow residents to meet local pilots, learn about airport operations, and discover career opportunities in aviation. These events help strengthen the connection between the airport and Marana’s citizens.

Volunteers and local schools often participate in airport programs and activities. This encourages youth involvement and helps the airport stay engaged with the wider Marana community. The Marana Regional Airport’s official website has more details about community outreach.

Local Attractions

Saguaro National Park

Explore scenic desert trails and iconic saguaro cacti just east of Marana.

Old Tucson Studios

A Wild West theme park and film location offering entertainment and history.

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Blends zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum elements in a desert setting.

Downtown Tucson

Historic architecture, restaurants, shops, and cultural venues.

Ironwood Forest National Monument

A lesser-known desert reserve is ideal for hiking and off-road adventures.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Fly:
Early mornings are best to avoid high heat and turbulence
Contact FBO in advance for fuel and hangar arrangements

Additional Notes:
AVQ is ideal for pilot training and general aviation activity
No TSA screening required due to lack of commercial service
Runway 12/30 is 6,900 feet long, accommodating a wide variety of aircraft
Nearby flight schools and maintenance shops make AVQ a regional aviation hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Marana Regional Airport serves mainly general aviation and does not host large commercial airline flights. Basic information, such as the airport’s location, contact details, parking options, and airport maps, is important for anyone planning to visit or use the facility.

What is the address of Marana Regional Airport (Avra Valley Airport Marana AZ)?

The address for Marana Regional Airport is 11700 W Avra Valley Rd, Marana, AZ 85653. This location is north of Tucson and easy to access from Interstate 10.

How can I contact the Marana Regional Airport (Avra Valley Airport Marana AZ)?

Visitors can reach the airport’s administrative office by phone at (520) 382-8052 for questions or assistance. More contact details can be found through the official Town of Marana airport page.

Are commercial flights available at Marana Regional Airport (Avra Valley Airport Marana AZ)?

Marana Regional Airport is a general aviation reliever airport. It does not offer scheduled commercial airline service and is primarily used for private, business, and instructional flights. Travelers looking for commercial flights can use Tucson International Airport nearby, which handles most of the region’s airline traffic. More details are available on the airport information page.

What information is there about recent aircraft incidents at Marana Regional Airport (Avra Valley Airport Marana AZ)?

There have been no widely publicized recent major aircraft incidents at Marana Regional Airport. Local news sources and the FAA are good resources for the latest updates on aviation safety records and incidents.

Where can I find a map of Marana Regional Airport (Avra Valley Airport Marana AZ)?

The Discover Marana airport page includes a detailed map showing the airport’s layout and surrounding roads. This can help visitors plan their trip and navigate once they arrive.

Does Marana Regional Airport have parking facilities?

Parking is available at Marana Regional Airport for both short-term and long-term needs. The facility is designed to accommodate general aviation visitors and pilots, with spaces near the main buildings and terminals.