Flying to the Finger Lakes

One of these airports is Skaneateles Aerodrome (6B9). The property’s history dates back to 1947, when it was a grass strip with minimal traffic. Today it has a 3,134-foot paved runway with two GPS approaches and a 3,550-foot turf runway, according to its project manager, Michael Lazar.

Lazar, an instrument-rated private pilot, has been involved with the airport since 2007. Since then, there have been several improvements undertaken at the field to ensure it’s an attractive option for transient and local aviation pilots. These efforts have included the runways and on-field facilities, including 18 hangars between four structures. The improvements have ensured that the airport is an attractive option for local and transient pilots.

Looking at the sectional, it is apparent that there are several airports in the Skaneateles area for pilots to choose from—all of which are within striking distance of restaurants, shops, vineyards, and, of course, lakes. These lakes are popular for boating, fishing, and other leisure activities.

“Cortland (N03) and Whitfords (B16) are the two closest [airports with paved runways]. And there are a couple of grass strips that we don’t really compete with,” said Daniel Arnold, the facility manager. “I think that what we found is we’ve actually gotten people that have moved from those airports. We keep the runway open in the wintertime—unless there’s a blizzard or severe ice. But we keep it open, and we keep it open late, which is why people come here.

“Plus, we now have two GPS approaches to the paved runway, one at each end. That’s a real plus for pilots who need to get in and get out. Another positive is the turf runway, which isn’t quite a golf course, but sure is nice.”

Skaneateles Aerodrome offers 100LL, hangars, and tie-down spaces, and currently has 28 aircraft based there. Occupancy has been at 100 percent for the last four years, which has helped the management team commit additional resources towards the airport’s future.

“Right now, it’s getting to the point where, through these projects, we have been able to get the cash flow up to where it’s positive and throws off enough each year to be able to do some of these smaller projects on our own, which is the goal,” Arnold said. “Three [of the] hangars are old, and they require regular capital investments. We’ve got a capital program for the next five years as part of our budgeting and would like to add another hangar, because we do have a waiting list and it tends to be at the higher end of the spectrum in aircraft.

“We did previously get state funding [to support development activities], as they had a period where they were willing to pay for hangars and we got a 10-unit T-hangar in. That was fully leased within six months of completion, and we’ve had a formal waiting list since then.”

The location of the airport and the competitive hangar rents are only two considerations for those who decide to base their aircraft at Skaneateles Aerodrome. Another is the ownership group’s commitment to the airport and its continued operations.

Arnold explained that there is a vibrant community of aircraft owners at the airfield.

“The arrival and departure views of the lake and village are quite amazing, but over the last few years, I would hope the customer service and attention to detail that we provide for such a small airfield is another big reason so many enjoy flying in,” he said. “Our tenants are also very friendly and inviting to all who visit the airfield. They will stop and chitchat with anyone who has questions, or just has a love of aviation. Our tie-down spaces are always full during the summer, and we don’t charge for two, three days. Usually if pilots are just coming in for a day or two, we tell them it’s on the house in the hopes that they’ll get fuel from us.”

There is a lot to do in the area, Arnold added. The busiest times are during the spring and summer, but fall and winter still see their fair share of traffic from near and far.

“The village in the area [Skaneateles, population of less than 10,000], while maybe unknown to some, a lot of people call this the mini-Hamptons of upstate New York,” he said. “It’s a very touristic type of area that’s just outside of the city [Syracuse] area to where you get a little bit of country with a little bit of city life. So, there’s a good mixture. Plus, there’s some really popular restaurants, shopping, things like that. It keeps a lot of the old original charm of the area, and a lot of people like coming here for that. There are a lot of things to do out here, and it almost feels like its own little world that’s slightly isolated from the rest of the area.”

The Finger Lakes area of upstate New York is hallmarked by a number of hotels, resorts, and short-term accommodations. Paul Anthony Jr., the proprietor of Fall Brook Point (a rental accommodation on nearby Skaneateles Lake), advises of some "must-see" local experiences, as well as popular dining and shopping options.

“Wherever you stay, we hope you visit our favorite restaurants and eateries,” Anthony said. “Anyela’s Vineyard is Skaneateles’ only vineyard and frequently boasts live music in their spacious facilities. The Krebs is one of Skaneateles’ oldest landmarks dating back to the 1800s. Be sure to enjoy dinner or Sunday brunch by the thoughtfully designed bar or an evening cocktail on the porch. Take a stroll down Genesee or Jordan Street to visit some of our many shops.

“Summertime in the Village of Skaneateles offers a myriad of experiences, including the Antique Boat Show, SkanFest, and musical concerts in the gazebo. Be sure to check the Skaneateles Chamber of Commerce website for details. If you plan to visit in the winter, be sure to check out Dickens’ Christmas in the Village, which is a winter tradition appropriate and fun for the whole family. The year-round spa experience at Mirbeau is also a must if you are looking to add an elegant touch of relaxation to your visit.”

Skaneateles Aerodrome, which has been around since the late 1940s, continues to be an integral part of the region and a gateway for pilots looking for a diverse recreational getaway.

“Growing up in the area, I remember biplane rides out of the aerodrome and seeing the place we call home from the sky,” Anthony said. “Even though the area has grown in popularity, quaint familiarity and nostalgia are what keep Skaneateles truly special for aviators and all visitors alike.”