Municipal Airport FAQ
Elkhart Municipal Airport (EKM) is a public-use general aviation airport owned by the City of Elkhart. The airport supports private aviation, business travel, flight training, and emergency aviation services for the region. The following frequently asked questions provide helpful information about the Elkhart Municipal Airport, including airport operations, services, and resources for pilots and visitors.
Airport Information
What is the airport code for Elkhart Municipal Airport?
The airport code is EKM. The airport’s ICAO code is KEKM.
Does Elkhart Municipal Airport offer commercial airline service?
No. Elkhart Municipal Airport stopped offering scheduled commercial airline service in 1987. Today, the airport is classified as a General Aviation airport.
What is a General Aviation (GA) airport?
A General Aviation (GA) airport is a public-use airport that does not provide scheduled commercial airline service. These airports support a variety of aviation activities, including:
- Private flying
- Flight training
- Emergency and medical flights
- Business aviation
- Aircraft maintenance and aviation services
General aviation airports typically do not provide commercial airline transportation or military operations.
What is the closest commercial airport to Elkhart?
The nearest airport with scheduled commercial airline service is:
4477 Progress Drive
South Bend, IN 46628
Phone: 574-282-4590
Website: www.FlySBN.com
Do general aviation airports have TSA security checkpoints?
Most smaller general aviation airports do not have TSA security checkpoints like commercial airports. However, pilots must still comply with TSA regulations, including providing passenger information and maintaining aircraft security.
Services & Operations
What is a Fixed Base Operator (FBO)?
A Fixed Base Operator (FBO) is a commercial aviation service provider located at an airport. FBOs typically provide services such as:
- Aircraft fueling
- Aircraft parking and hangar storage
- Aircraft maintenance
- Flight instruction
- Pilot services and passenger facilities
Does Elkhart Municipal Airport have a Fixed Base Operator?
Yes. The Indiana Flight Center (IFC) serves as the Fixed Base Operator for Elkhart Municipal Airport. Indiana Flight Center – Indiana Flight Center
Are there landing or airport fees?
Elkhart Municipal Airport does not charge landing fees. However, the Fixed Base Operator may charge for services such as:
- Aircraft parking
- Hangar rentals
- Aviation fuel
- Rental cars
- Additional aviation services
Does Elkhart Municipal Airport have an air traffic control tower?
Yes. Elkhart Municipal Airport has a staffed Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT).
Tower hours are:
7 days per week — 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
After hours, tower services are provided by South Bend International Airport’s control tower.
Hangars, Flight Services & Aviation Resources
Can airport hangars be used for non-aviation storage?
No. Airport hangars may only be leased for the storage of airworthy aircraft.
How do I inquire about hangar rental or hangar construction?
For information about hangar rental or construction opportunities, please visit:
Hangar Rental and Construction | City of Elkhart
How can I inquire about flight instruction?
Flight instruction opportunities may be available through aviation service providers operating at the airport.
Flight Instruction | City of Elkhart
How do I inquire about membership in the Michiana Air Activities Flight Club?
Information about flight club membership is available here:
Michiana Air Activities Flying Club in Elkhart
How do I notify the airport about drone operations?
Drone operators must follow Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations when operating unmanned aircraft.
For information on drone registration or flight notifications, please visit:
Drone Flight | City of Elkhart
Contact & Administration
How do I contact the Airport Director or administrative office?
Phone: (574) 264-5217
Email: andy.jones@cityofelkhartin.gov
Can I volunteer?
Yes. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Those under 18 require a parent or guardian waiver, and those under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If signing up online, a parent or guardian must also create an account to complete the waiver.
How do I contact the Airfield Maintenance Supervisor?
For hangar repairs, snow removal, or airfield maintenance issues, contact:
Phone: 574-361-2123
Email: rick.johnson@cityofelkhartin.gov
How can I inquire about employment opportunities at the airport?
Employment opportunities may be posted through the City of Elkhart Human Resources Department.
