The low ridge of Landguard Bluff still provides a sound buffer for the city from the ever increasing decibels of modern aviation. Yet the aerodrome is very close to the city. Wanganui Airport has developed in line with world aviation history. Operations now include Airline charter and Ambulance, Agricultural flying, Helicopters and training. We enjoy favourable weather and terrain.
Minimal time is lost to traffic or transit to training areas.
A westerly take-off goes straight into the Normal Training Area and the Low Flying Area is immediately east of the airfield. Perhaps, as from the beginning, Wanganui's main function is still flight training. Despite many New Zealand pilots finding employment overseas, there has been a temporary surplus of qualified pilots. Now worldwide there are less pilots coming from air forces into civil flying and less would-be pilots being recruited for air force training. Replacements for those retiring from civil flying must come from civil flight training organisations.