Groton New London Airport
Groton New London Airport
Location and general information
Groton-New London Airport (IATA: GON, ICAO: KGON) is an airport for public use located in Groton, Connecticut, near the Thames River and about seven miles from downtown New London. Established in 1929, it was the first state airport in Connecticut and has played an essential role in supporting general aviation, corporate travel, private charter flights and military operations. The airport covers an area of 489 acres and has two asphalt runways, making it suitable for a wide variety of air operations.
Runways
- Runway 5/23: 5000 feet (1524 metres), suitable for larger general aviation aircraft and private jets.
- Runway 15/33: 4000 feet (1219 metres), used mainly for smaller aircraft and for training purposes.
The airport is managed by the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) and is designed to support business, recreational and government aviation activities. Unlike major commercial airports, Groton-New London Airport does not offer regular airline services, but caters for private charter flights, flight training and government operations.
Aviation services and facilities
Groton-New London Airport offers a wide range of aviation services for pilots, aircraft owners and travellers. The airport's fixed base operators (FBO) offer refuelling, aircraft maintenance, hangar space and other aviation support services. Private pilots and business travellers benefit from the airport's efficient operations, minimal congestion and convenient location.
Fixed base operators (FBO) and aircraft services
- Full service refuelling (Jet A and Avgas) for private and corporate aircraft.
- Aircraft maintenance and repair services, including inspections and engine work.
- Rental of hangars and mooring spaces for short- and long-term aircraft storage.
- Options for renting and chartering private aircraft for business and leisure travellers.
- Pilot services, including flight planning support, weather briefings and ground handling.
Charter and private jet services
Although commercial airline operations are not available, Groton-New London Airport is a popular destination for private jet charters and business aviation. Charter flights operate on demand, allowing passengers to travel to and from the airport on their own schedule. The airport serves executives, celebrities and individuals who require fast and flexible air travel options without the delays associated with larger airports.
The most popular private charter routes include:
- New York (JFK, LGA, TEB, HPN): approximately 30-40 minutes flight time.
- Boston (BOS, BED): 25-35 minutes flight time.
- Philadelphia (PHL): around 1 hour flight time.
- Washington, D.C. (DCA, IAD, BWI): 1.5 hours flight time.
- Pittsburgh (PIT): approximately 1.5 hours of flight time.
These flights are operated by regional charter companies and private jet providers, offering an exclusive and convenient alternative to traditional commercial flights.
Flight training and education
Groton-New London Airport is home to flight schools and aeronautical training programmes for both novice and experienced pilots. These programmes include:
- Private pilot training, which allows individuals to obtain their pilot's licence.
- Instrument and commercial pilot certification for those who wish to pursue a professional career in aviation.
- Flight simulator training for new pilots and advanced instruction.
Many local and regional pilots choose the Groton-New London airport for their training due to its low air traffic congestion and high-quality facilities.
Ground services and passenger amenities
- Car rental services, including national and local providers for seamless ground transportation.
- Full-service restaurant and cafeteria, for travellers, pilots and airport staff.
- Pilot lounge and crew rest areas for relaxation before and after flights.
- Concierge services, including baggage handling, catering arrangements and ground transportation coordination.
Military and government operations
Groton-New London Airport is a key centre for military aviation and government flight operations. The airport is home to the 1109th Theater Aviation Sustainment Maintenance Group (TASMG), a unit of the Army National Guard that provides technical support and maintenance to military aircraft. This unit plays an essential role in the military deployment and preparation of aircraft for the US Army and National Guard.
In addition, the airport supports training exercises for pilots and military personnel. Submarine escape training programmes are carried out at the nearby Naval Submarine Base in New London, and the airport plays a role in coordinating air transport for military personnel, government contractors and naval officers.
The presence of military aircraft at the airport is commonplace, and helicopters, cargo planes and other military aircraft regularly use the facilities for maintenance, refuelling and mission support.
Economic and regional importance
Groton-New London Airport is an important asset for southeastern Connecticut, supporting economic growth, tourism and local businesses. The airport benefits businesses, tourism industries and defence contractors, providing a gateway to the region for business leaders and visitors.
Impact on business aviation
- The airport is frequently used by executives and corporate aviation departments of the area's major companies.
- It provides efficient air access to business leaders attending meetings and events in New London, Mystic and the surrounding area.
- It serves as an alternative airport for travellers avoiding congestion at Bradley International Airport (BDL) or airports in the New York area.
Tourism and leisure travel
- Groton, Mystic and New London are popular tourist destinations known for their historic sites, waterfront attractions and cultural events.
- The airport accommodates charter flights for leisure travellers, including those visiting yacht clubs, golf courses and exclusive resorts in the region.
- It offers quick access to casinos such as Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods, which attract a high-end clientele that often arrives in private jets.
Future development and expansion plans
The Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) continues to study possible improvements and expansions for the Groton-New London Airport. Ongoing initiatives include:
- Improving runway infrastructure to accommodate private jets and larger business jets.
- Expanding hangar and aircraft storage capacity to meet growing demand.
- Enhancing FBO services to attract more corporate aviation customers.
- Improving amenities for private charter passengers.
These developments aim to consolidate the airport's role as a key regional aviation centre, ensuring that it remains a preferred destination for private, corporate and military aviation.
Key points
- Groton-New London Airport provides general aviation services, private jet charters and military operations, rather than scheduled commercial airline flights.
- The airport offers high-quality FBO services, flight training programmes and support for private aviation.
- The military presence is significant, as the airport is home to the 1109th Mobile Air Tactical Support Group (TASMG) of the Army National Guard.
- Economic contributions include commercial aviation, tourism and local commerce, benefiting the southeastern Connecticut region.
- Future development projects aim to improve airport facilities, attract more aviation business and maintain its role as a vital regional aerodrome.
Groton-New London Airport remains an essential part of Connecticut's aviation infrastructure, providing vital support for private, corporate and military flight operations.
