Abilene Municipal Airport (K78)
The Abilene Municipal Airport is a public-use facility, owned and operated by the City of Abilene, Kansas. The airport is located approximately one-mile south-southwest of the Abilene downtown business district. The Airport is managed by Abilene Flying Services, owned and operated by Jim Curtis. The Airport is available for general aviation needs. The Airport Advisory Committee, appointed by the City Commission, provides guidance to the City Commission on matters related to the Airport’s operations.
This webpage is maintained by the City and will serve to keep the community informed of anticipated stages and important dates on Airport projects. Projects will be highlighted under 'Airport Porjects' on this page. All dates are tentative and subject to change as the project progresses. Updates will be made directly to this site. Please check back often or register for notifications to stay informed.
For more information and additional resources about the Abilene Municipal Airport (K78) visit the following links:
History of the Abilene Municipal Airport
Abilene Municipal Airport (K78) Master Plan
Abilene Municipal Airport (K78) Layout Plan
Abilene Municipal Airport (K78) Environmental Assessment
Airport Advisory Committee:
The Airport Advisory Committee makes recommendations to the City Commission in matters relating to the development, operation, and maintenance of the Abilene Municipal Airport as provided in the Committee’s by-laws. Click here to learn more about the Committee, including memebrs, by-laws, and meetings.
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Airport Projects
Important Dates
Windstorm Damage
On May 4, 2020, a windstorm destroyed the city-owned 10-unit airplane hanger.
New Airport Master Plan
On July 15, 2020, Benesch completed a new Airport Master Plan to develope a long-term comprehensive plan defining Abilene's role within the regiional airport system and identifying future airport development.
City Contracts Consulting Services
On June 28, 2022, the City of Abilene contracted with Olsson Engineering for consulting services on the airfield development projects over the next five years.
Easement Acquisition
The City began the process of acquiring easements on five properties north of the airport.
Olsson Engineering Re-evaluation
Olsson began the process of writing a re-evaluation of the environmental assessment for the displaced threshold.
Easement Acquisition Completed
In May 2023, the City completed the acquisition of five easements for obstruction removal.
Grant Applications Submitted
In October 2023, the City applied for 3 separate KDOT grants to replace the beacon, replace the AWOS, and possibly replace a4-6 unit hangar.
City Commission Approval
City Commission approved the deisgn and bidding phase for the Displaced Threshold.
Grant Award Announced
Governor Kelly announced more than $14M to improve 37 Kansas Airports, including Abilene for $376,113 forall 3 requests.
City Commission Approval
The City Commission approved the construction phase to displace the threshold, awarding a contract to Atlas to move and replace runway lights and remark the runways from 17/35 to 18/36. (Construction should begin in the Fall.)
City Commission Meeting
city commission meeting – request city commission to approve the tree removal phase and award a contract from the bid letting on May 22. (Work to begin after the migratory period and long-eared bat nesting late fall/early spring).