Airport Overview
The Yakima, WA region is served by Mettie Airstrip (KZ99), a public-use airport at 2,151 feet elevation. Runway infrastructure includes 1 strip(s); the primary surface extends 4,025 feet (N/A). Operators and private travelers use Mettie Airstrip for its direct ramp access and minimal ground delays. For official FAA airport data, visit the FAA Airport Data portal or AirNav KZ99.
Private Aviation Briefing
KZ99 is the identifier for Mettie Airstrip, serving Yakima at 2,151 ft MSL elevation. Operators, passengers, and dispatchers should note the following details for flight planning and charter operations.
U.S. General Aviation Context
Mettie Airstrip is part of the U.S. National Airspace System, regulated by the FAA. As a WA facility, the airport contributes to the regional transportation network connecting Yakima to the broader aviation system. FAA Part 135 charter operators serve this airport, and The Jet Finder can source aircraft positioned near KZ99 for on-demand charter.
Runway Capability
At 4025 feet, Mettie Airstrip serves light jets and turboprops. The Citation CJ series, Phenom 100, HondaJet, and King Air family operate within this runway capability. Midsize jets require careful performance analysis based on temperature and aircraft weight. Pilots should reference aircraft-specific takeoff and landing distance charts for KZ99's runway length and 2,151 ft MSL elevation.
Charter Considerations
Charter availability from Mettie Airstrip depends on aircraft positioning. Airports with higher business aviation traffic generally have more aircraft based locally, reducing repositioning costs. The Jet Finder sources aircraft from the nearest available operators, comparing positioning fees, hourly rates, and aircraft quality to find the best option for your specific mission from KZ99.
What to Know Before You Fly
Pets fly in-cabin on private charter from Mettie Airstrip. No cargo hold, no carrier requirements, no breed restrictions. Dogs, cats, and other animals sit with you in the cabin. Inform The Jet Finder of pet travel when booking so we can confirm the operator's pet policy and cabin configuration for your flight from KZ99.
Safety & Planning
Aircraft operating from Mettie Airstrip file IFR flight plans regardless of weather. Instrument flight rules provide ATC separation, radar monitoring, and structured routing. Even in clear weather, IFR operations from KZ99 provide an additional layer of safety. Charter operators flying under Part 135 are required to operate under IFR for most passenger flights.
Airport Selection Strategy
For travelers based near Yakima, Mettie Airstrip may not be the only private aviation option. Comparing nearby airports on runway length, FBO services, fuel pricing, and drive time from your origin can reveal better options. The Jet Finder evaluates all airports within a reasonable radius of your departure point to find the best combination of cost and convenience.
Seasonal Factors
Winter operations at Mettie Airstrip may involve de-icing procedures that add 15 to 30 minutes to departure times. De-icing fluid costs $500 to $3,000 depending on aircraft size and icing conditions. These costs pass through to the charter client. Morning departures during winter often avoid the worst icing conditions at KZ99.
Location & Address
Geographically, Mettie Airstrip (KZ99) is located at 46.7150° N, -120.3288° W near Yakima, WA. FBO-arranged car service or rideshare connects passengers from Mettie Airstrip to Yakima and surrounding areas efficiently.
Runways & Facilities
Mettie Airstrip's 4,025-foot runway accommodates turboprops, very light jets, and most light jet categories (Citation CJ series, Phenom 100/300, Premier I). Some midsize jets can operate under light-load conditions. Pilots should calculate performance based on temperature, elevation, and aircraft weight.
FBOs & Ground Services
Aircraft services at KZ99 are handled by the airport's fixed base operation. Standard general aviation services — fuel, parking, aircraft positioning — are typically available during operating hours. Contact Mettie Airstrip directly for current service hours, fuel pricing, and hangar availability.
Charter a Jet from Mettie Airstrip
Private charter from KZ99 starts with a single call. Pricing from KZ99 depends on aircraft type, distance, and availability. Contact us for a quote tailored to your routing and schedule.
Fly Private from KZ99
The Jet Finder coordinates charter flights from Mettie Airstrip. Tell us your destination, dates, and passenger count. We source aircraft from FAA Part 135 operators matched to KZ99's runway and facilities.
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