Located in the heart of the Sauk Valley, the Whiteside County Airport (SQI) ranks as one of the world's friendliest general aviation airports. Dedicated to noncommercial air travel, SQI averages over several thousand takeoffs and landings annually. SQI has two runways – one with full instrument landing system, a localizer back course, and several global positioning system (GPS) type approaches. The main runway is 6,500 feet in length and the crosswind runway is 3,900 feet long. SQI has a rich history in aviation, hosting many aviation and other events. SQI has even visited by President Ronald Regan, who was born just to the south of Rock Falls, in Tampico, IL.

Our fixed based operator, Sauk Valley Aviation, provides and arranges aircraft storage and parking, aviation fuel, aircraft sales, flight instruction, aircraft charter and aircraft maintenance.

In addition, SQI serves as home to Radio Ranch that provides aviation support activities such as aircraft repairs, avionics and other specialized functions.

SQI is also home to non-profit organizations such as Twin Cities Flying Club and the Sauk Valley Pilots Association, as well as the Whiteside County Civil Air Patrol. Many aviation enthusiasts and pilots participate in these valuable organizations.

Future Development

The Whiteside County Airport’s Airport Layout Plan has room for more development in the Terminal Area. This includes plans for:

• Large/corporate hangar for larger aircraft like business jets.

• New or renovated terminal building.

• Additional T-hangars.

• Individual corporate hangars with vehicle parking.

• Future commercial/industrial development along IL-40.

The Whiteside County Airport plays a crucial role in the Northern Illinois airport system, serving a variety of private, corporate and government aviation needs. By providing a place for general aviation, which encompasses all flying other than scheduled air carrier service or the military, SQI enhances both safety and efficiency at the region's commercial airports.

Business travelers and tourists using private, corporate and charter aircraft benefit from the airport's convenient proximity to area business, recreation and entertainment venues.

ROCK RIVER TRAIL AIR ROUTE

Airport services include fuel, crew cars, nearby restaurants, and locations that rent bicycles, canoes and kayaks to enjoy the Rock River and Hennepin Canal.  The Rock River Trail Air Route is one way to enjoy all 320 miles of the trail. Other trail options include: Paddling, Biking, Driving, Hiking and Horseback Riding.

The Rock River National Trail Air Route is a cooperative commitment of cities, towns, airports, FBO’s, Parks Directors, State Natural Resource Management, and the many small businesses devoted to your enjoyment of the river and surrounding area. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

The Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador™ initiative is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) effort to formally recognize NOAA partners who are improving the nation’s readiness, responsiveness, and overall resilience against extreme weather, water, and climate events. As a WRN Ambassador, partners commit to working with NOAA and other Ambassadors to strengthen national resilience against extreme weather. In effect, the WRN Ambassador initiative helps unify the efforts across government, non-profits, academia, and private industry toward making the nation more ready, responsive, and resilient against extreme environmental hazards. Weather-Ready Nation (WRN) is a strategic outcome where society’s response should be equal to the risk from all extreme weather, water, and climate hazards.

FlightAware.com FlightFeeder SITE

Whiteside County Airport is proud to host a FlightAware FlightFeeder site.  This system provides accurate flight tracking to the general public.  FlightFeeder is roughly the size of a can of soda and uses less power than a night light.

In addition, you can view live traffic and weather around the airport by visiting the airport terminal airside lobby.  Stop on by and take a look!