Dare County Regional Airport (MQI)

Overview

Dare County Regional Airport is a public-use regional airport located in Manteo, North Carolina, serving as a key aviation hub for the Outer Banks. With its modern facilities and convenient location, MQI offers essential services to private pilots, charter operators, and the local community. The airport provides an ideal gateway for visitors exploring North Carolina's scenic coastal region and outdoor recreation destinations.

Airport Codes:

• FAA Identifier: MQI

• IATA Code: MEO

• ICAO Code: KMQI

Location: One mile northwest of Manteo's central business district, on Roanoke Island

Key Facts

• Ownership: Publicly owned and operated by Dare County

• Status: Open to the public, attended year-round

• Elevation: Approximately sea level

• Total Area: 340 acres

• Accessibility: Adjacent to the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island

Runways

Dare County Regional Airport features two well-maintained runways:

Runway 05/23

• Length: 4,306 feet

• Surface: Asphalt

• Condition: Full service, regularly maintained

Runway 17/35

• Length: 3,303 feet

• Surface: Asphalt

• Condition: Full service, regularly maintained

Both runways are maintained to FAA standards and accommodate a wide range of general aviation aircraft.

Facilities & Services

Fuel Services

• 100LL Avgas: Full service ($6.00) and self-service ($5.70) available

• Jet A: Full service ($5.70) available

• Fueling Hours: Available during regular FBO business hours

• Fuel Provider: Titan Aviation

Ground Support Services

• Aircraft parking (ramp and tie-down areas)

• Hangar leasing and sales

• Aircraft ground handling services

• Passenger terminal and lounge

• Flight training programs

• Aircraft rental services

• Aerial tours and sightseeing flights

• Aircraft maintenance and repair

Amenities

• Staffed UNICOM (year-round)

• Passenger terminal facilities

• Comfortable waiting areas

• Convenient ground transportation arrangements

• Vehicle rental coordination services

Contact Information

Dare County Regional Airport
410 Airport Road
PO Box 429
Manteo, NC 27954

Phone: 252-475-5575 or 252-475-5570
Fax: 252-473-1843
Email: 

airportops@darenc.com

Website: 

www.darenc.com/Airport

Why Choose Dare County Regional Airport?

Strategic Location

Located just minutes from the heart of the Outer Banks, MQI offers unbeatable proximity to:

• Kill Devil Hills

• Kitty Hawk

• Nags Head

• Cape Hatteras National Seashore

• Area attractions and outdoor recreation

Pilot-Friendly Operations

• Professional and welcoming staff

• No landing fees

• Excellent service and hospitality

• Convenient rental vehicle delivery to aircraft

• Experienced FBO personnel

Perfect for Recreation & Business

Whether you're arriving for a beach vacation, business meeting, or exploring the Outer Banks' rich aviation history, MQI provides all necessary amenities and support services in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Historical Significance

The Outer Banks has played a pivotal role in aviation history. On December 17, 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright conducted the world's first powered flight near Kill Devil Hills, just a short distance from Dare County Regional Airport. This revolutionary achievement launched the aviation age and transformed human transportation forever.

Today, visitors can explore this historic legacy at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, located nearby, which features:

• A 60-foot granite monument

• Historical exhibits and displays

• Museum showcasing Wright Brothers artifacts

• Visitor center with educational programs

• Walking trails and scenic overlooks

The region remains a testament to innovation, determination, and the pioneering spirit that defines the Outer Banks.

Nearby Airports

General Aviation Airports

First Flight Airport (KFFA)

• Distance from MQI: 6 nautical miles north (approximately 3-minute flight)

• Location: Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

• Runway: 3,000 feet x 60 feet, asphalt surface

• Facilities: Limited facilities, no fuel available

• Special Features: Adjacent to Wright Brothers National Memorial

• Tie-downs: Available but limited to 24-hour parking

• AWOS: 118.075 / 252-449-0698

• Notes: Historic general aviation airstrip; pilots can arrange 4x4 vehicle delivery to aircraft for Outer Banks exploration

Currituck County Regional Airport (KONX)

• Distance from MQI: 33 nautical miles northwest (approximately 30 miles by road, 40-minute drive)

• Location: Currituck, North Carolina

• Runway: 5,500 feet x 150 feet

• CTAF: 122.9 MHz

• Special Features: Ideal for tourists seeking convenient access to northern Outer Banks

• Notes: Public-use general aviation airport serving the northern OBX region

Billy Mitchell Airstrip (HSE)

• Distance from MQI: 41 nautical miles south (approximately 41 miles by road)

• Location: Frisco, North Carolina (within Cape Hatteras National Seashore)

• Runway: 3,000 feet x 75 feet, asphalt surface

• Ownership: National Park Service (operated by NC DOT Division of Aviation)

• Facilities: Unattended; minimal facilities with two portable restrooms and pilot operations room

• Fuel: No fuel or water available

• Tie-downs: 39 locations (31 near pilot facility, 8 mid-field)

• Parking Limit: 14 consecutive days during any 30-day period

• Hours: Open 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset

• CTAF: 122.9 MHz

• Pilot Facility Access Code: Squawk VFR

• Important Notes: Deer frequently on runway; pilots should buzz runway before landing. Located across from Frisco Rod and Gun near 4WD beach access ramp 49

Commercial Airports

Norfolk International Airport (ORF)

• Distance from MQI: Approximately 95 miles north (approximately 2-hour drive; 90-minute flight time)

• Location: Norfolk, Virginia

• Type: Major commercial airport

• Services: Multiple daily flights from major U.S. cities

• Airlines: Delta, United, American, Southwest, Frontier, Allegiant, and more

• Ground Transportation: Rental cars, shuttles, ride-sharing services, taxi cabs

• Address: 2200 Norview Ave, Norfolk, VA 23518

• Phone: 757-857-3351

• Website: 

• www.norfolkairport.com

• Notes: Closest major commercial airport to the Outer Banks; most popular option for OBX visitors

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

• Distance from MQI: Approximately 192-210 miles west (approximately 3.5 to 4-hour drive)

• Location: Morrisville, North Carolina

• Type: Major international airport

• Services: Extensive domestic and international flight network

• Airlines: 10 major carriers including Delta, American, United

• Direct Flights: Over 60 destinations across the country

• Ground Transportation: Wide variety of rental car, taxi, ride-share, and shuttle services

• Address: 2400 John Brantley Blvd, Morrisville, NC 27560

• Phone: 919-840-2123

• Notes: Greater selection of flight options and origin points; scenic drive through historic North Carolina towns

Nearby Attractions & Amenities

Recreation

• Cape Hatteras National Seashore

• Beach activities and water sports

• Off-road vehicle adventures

• Fishing opportunities

• Hiking and nature trails

Cultural & Historical Sites

• Wright Brothers National Memorial

• North Carolina Aquarium

• Outer Banks History Center

• Local art galleries and museums

• Seasonal events and festivals

Dining & Lodging

• Full range of restaurants and cafes

• Vacation rentals and hotels

• Resorts and beachfront accommodations

• Local shops and markets

Flight Information

Communications

• CTAF Frequency: 122.9 MHz

• Control Tower: Seasonal (operates during peak travel periods)

• UNICOM: Staffed year-round

• AWOS-3: 128.275 / Tel. 252-473-2826

• Cherry Point Approach: 124.725 / 350.35

• Cherry Point Departure: 124.725 / 350.35

Operational Hours

• Airport is open for public use during daylight hours

• Exact hours vary by season; contact airport for current information

Getting to Dare County Regional Airport

By Air

Dare County Regional Airport is easily accessible from major aviation hubs throughout the eastern United States:

• Typical flight time from Washington D.C.: ~90 minutes

• Typical flight time from New York metro: ~150 minutes

• Typical flight time from Charlotte: ~90 minutes

Ground Transportation

Upon arrival, visitors can arrange:

• Vehicle rentals (Beach4x4.com offers 4WD vehicles for beach driving)

• Ground transportation to local hotels

• Charter car services

• Shuttle services to nearby attractions

Driving Directions

From Manteo (approximately 1 mile):

• Head northwest from downtown Manteo toward Roanoke Island

• Follow signs for Dare County Regional Airport

• Enter via Airport Road

Planning Your Visit

Pre-Flight Information

• Check current weather conditions and NOTAMs

• Contact airport for runway conditions

• Confirm fuel availability (call ahead during off-season)

• Reserve hangar space in advance during peak season

What to Bring

• Valid pilot's license and aircraft registration

• Appropriate charts and flight planning materials

• Current weather briefing

• Contact numbers for ground services

Additional Resources

• AirNav: Complete aeronautical information

• AOPA Airport Directory: Pilot reviews and resources

• FAA Flight Service Station: Flight planning assistance

• Local Dare County Tourism: Vacation planning information

Seasonal Considerations

The Outer Banks experiences seasonal variations that may affect airport operations:

Peak Season (Summer & Fall Holidays):

• Increased traffic and congestion

• Higher demand for services

• Reserve facilities in advance

• Popular vacation destination

Off-Season (Winter & Spring):

• Reduced traffic

• More available facilities

• Weather can be variable

• Great time for quieter getaways

Safety & Airport Regulations

Dare County Regional Airport maintains strict adherence to FAA safety standards:

• Regular runway inspections and maintenance

• Professional airport management and security

• Compliance with all federal aviation regulations

• Modern lighting and navigation equipment

• Experienced staff trained in emergency procedures

Pilots should:

• Follow all posted airport procedures

• Contact UNICOM for landing instructions

• Adhere to noise abatement procedures

• Comply with all parking and tie-down regulations

Community Connection

Dare County Regional Airport serves not only as a vital transportation hub but also as an important facility for the local community. The airport supports:

• Emergency medical flights

• Coast Guard operations

• Search and rescue missions

• Local business aviation

• Flight training and education programs

• Aerial touring services for visitors

Contact the Airport

For flight planning, facility questions, or general inquiries, contact:

Dare County Regional Airport Operations
Phone: 252-475-5575
Email: 

airportops@darenc.com

Hours: Year-round staffing available during business hours

Whether you're a seasoned aviator or a first-time visitor to the Outer Banks, Dare County Regional Airport welcomes you with professional service, modern facilities, and Southern hospitality.