Flying to Kiawah Island? Try These Airports on for Size

Two busy airports serve the Charleston area and make for ideal landing spots for a visit to nearby Kiawah Island.

Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 10:49 AM ET

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A visit to Charleston, South Carolina, pictured here, and neighboring Kiawah Island combines the sites, sounds, and culture of a big city with the respite of a beach resort. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

While Kiawah Island lacks a public landing strip, pilots can access it via two main airports in Charleston, South Carolina.
Charleston Executive Airport (KJZI) is the closer, general aviation-focused option, known for being busy, friendly, and having two runways, though pilots should watch for wildlife.
Charleston Air Force Base/International Airport (KCHS) is a larger, joint-use facility with military operations, demanding pilots review extensive NOTAMs, navigate complex traffic patterns, and be aware of migratory birds.

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While there is no public-use landing strip on Kiawah Island, the city of Charleston, South Carolina, offers two large airports from which to choose, just for starters. While most general aviation pilots opt for the GA-focused Charleston Executive Airport (KJZI), you may find it more convenient to use KCHS if you have passengers to transition to commercial flights—or you just fancy landing alongside a C-17 based there.

READ MORE: Discover Kiawah Island

Charleston Executive Airport (KJZI)

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston Executive Airport is located 6 miles southwest of Charleston, South Carolina, basically just down the road from Kiawah Island. It’s the closest of two regional airports to the island. KJZI is described by the locals as a busy general aviation airport.