Mathews Memorial Airport (K8C4)

Airport Overview

The Tipton, IA region is served by Mathews Memorial Airport (K8C4), a public-use airport at 840 feet elevation. The airfield offers 1 runway(s) — 3,000 feet on the primary strip — for private and corporate traffic. Operators and private travelers use Mathews Memorial Airport for its direct ramp access and minimal ground delays. For official FAA airport data, visit the FAA Airport Data portal or AirNav K8C4.

Private Aviation Briefing

Located near Tipton, Mathews Memorial Airport (K8C4) sits at 840 ft MSL above sea level. Below is the operational context for private jet and charter operations from this airport.

U.S. General Aviation Context

Mathews Memorial Airport is part of the U.S. National Airspace System, regulated by the FAA. As a IA facility, the airport contributes to the regional transportation network connecting Tipton to the broader aviation system. FAA Part 135 charter operators serve this airport, and The Jet Finder can source aircraft positioned near K8C4 for on-demand charter.

Runway Capability

Mathews Memorial Airport's 3000-foot runway limits operations to piston aircraft, light turboprops, and select short-field-capable jets. The Pilatus PC-12 (2,600 ft required), Cessna Caravan, and King Air C90 are among the turbine aircraft that can use fields of this length. Charter passengers should coordinate with The Jet Finder to identify aircraft types suited to K8C4's runway.

Charter Considerations

Ground transportation at Mathews Memorial Airport is a factor in total travel time. Private aviation eliminates the commercial terminal experience, but the drive from K8C4 to your final destination determines the true door-to-door advantage. FBOs at most airports offer car service coordination, rental car delivery to the ramp, and concierge ground transportation for arriving passengers.

What to Know Before You Fly

Fuel pricing varies significantly between airports and FBOs. Jet-A at Mathews Memorial Airport may cost $5.50 to $10.00 per gallon depending on the FBO. On shorter flights, fuel cost is a minor component. On longer legs, the price difference between FBOs adds up. The Jet Finder factors fuel cost into charter quotes to ensure accurate pricing from K8C4.

Safety & Planning

Flight planning from Mathews Memorial Airport accounts for current NOTAMs, TFRs, and airspace restrictions. Pilots operating from K8C4 check published notices before every departure. Temporary flight restrictions near stadiums, presidential movements, and military operations can affect routing and timing. The Jet Finder monitors these factors and communicates schedule impacts proactively.

Airport Selection Strategy

Based aircraft availability at Mathews Memorial Airport directly impacts charter pricing. Airports with more locally based jets generate lower positioning costs. If K8C4 has limited based aircraft, the charter operator repositions from the nearest base, adding 30 to 60 minutes of flight time at the hourly rate. The Jet Finder identifies the closest available aircraft to minimize this cost.

Seasonal Factors

Convective weather season (May through September) impacts afternoon scheduling reliability at Mathews Memorial Airport. Thunderstorm activity typically builds after 2:00 PM local time, potentially delaying departures from K8C4. Morning flights on this corridor routinely depart on schedule. The Jet Finder recommends morning departures when schedule certainty matters.

Location & Address

Mathews Memorial Airport occupies coordinates 41.7634° N, -91.1529° W at 840 feet above sea level. FBO-arranged car service or rideshare connects passengers from Mathews Memorial Airport to Tipton and surrounding areas efficiently.

Runways & Facilities

The 3,000-foot runway at Mathews Memorial Airport supports piston aircraft, turboprops, and very light jets (VLJs) under favorable conditions. Light jet operators should verify takeoff and landing performance against current density altitude and weight. Midsize jets typically require a longer field.

FBOs & Ground Services

FBO services at K8C4 cover the standard general aviation needs: fuel, parking, and ground handling. Service levels vary by facility size and staffing. Pilots and passengers should coordinate arrival requirements in advance, particularly for after-hours operations at Mathews Memorial Airport.

Charter a Jet from Mathews Memorial Airport

Private charter from K8C4 starts with a single call. The Jet Finder sources aircraft from a nationwide network of FAA Part 135 operators, matching runway capabilities at K8C4 with the right aircraft for your route.