Pinedale (Ralph Wenz Field)

Ralph Wenz Field is not just a runway, but your personal gateway to the heart of the Wyoming wilderness in the USA. Located amidst breathtaking landscapes, it serves as a starting point for travellers eager to explore majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and the endless expanses of the American West. Touching down here, you immediately feel the spirit of adventure, as civilisation is left behind, and only nature and seclusion lie ahead.

Below is the essential information about the airport to help plan your journey.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Ralph Wenz Field is its strategic location. The airport is situated in immediate proximity to the Wind River Range and the Bridger-Teton National Forest, making it an ideal starting point for enthusiasts of hiking, mountaineering, fishing, and hunting. Although the airport does not service scheduled flights from major airlines, it is a vital hub for private and business aviation.

Key Benefits:

• Modern Infrastructure: Despite its small size, the airport is equipped with a long runway (over 3,000 metres), capable of accommodating even large private aircraft.
• Full Range of Services: A fixed-base operator (FBO) operates on-site, offering fuel, aircraft storage hangars, and technical maintenance.
• Convenience for Travellers: Car rental is available directly at the airport, allowing you to set off and explore the surroundings immediately upon arrival.

Thus, Ralph Wenz Field is a comfortable and modern hub for those who value their time and prefer to travel to unique natural sites with maximum convenience.

Below is the contact information for Ralph Wenz Field (PWY), serving the towns of Pinedale and Big Piney. Please note that this is a small airport, and some services, such as a dedicated lost and found desk, may not be available. For most enquiries, please contact the main telephone number.

• Official Website: A page dedicated to the airport is available on the official Pinedale city portal. We recommend visiting it for the most up-to-date information.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 307-367-4136. Please verify the number before calling, as it may change.
• Airport Address: 155 Airport Road, Pinedale, WY 82941, USA.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general enquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social media.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all questions related to lost or found items, please contact the main airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations, please contact the administration at the telephone number listed above.

Pinedale Airport (Ralph Wenz Field) with IATA code: PWY is a small but significant air gateway serving a picturesque region in the state of Wyoming, USA. It is located in a rural area, so planning transport to or from the terminal is a key element of a comfortable journey. Getting to the airport from nearby towns such as Pinedale or Big Piney is possible in several ways, though choices are limited compared to major city airports.

Taxis and Private Transfers are the simplest and most convenient way to reach your destination. Several local taxi and shuttle services operate in the region. It is highly recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. This guarantees that you will be met upon arrival. The journey from the centre of Pinedale takes about 15–20 minutes, and from Big Piney approximately 45–50 minutes. Costs may be higher than average due to the remote location, so always verify the price when booking.

Car Rental is the ideal option for tourists wishing to explore the expanses of Wyoming with its national parks and natural beauty. By renting a car, you gain complete freedom of movement. Some rental companies may offer vehicle delivery to the airport, but their main offices are located in the town of Pinedale. To ensure the availability of a suitable vehicle, especially an SUV for travel across rugged terrain, it is best to book online several weeks before your trip.

It is important to note that public transport, such as regular city buses or trains, does not run to Pinedale Airport. This is typical for small regional airports in the USA, so travellers should not rely on this option. The entire route should be planned using personal or rented transport.

For those arriving in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided at the airport. Generally, finding a free space is not difficult. Both short-term and long-term parking options are available here, and the cost is usually low or non-existent, which is a significant plus for travellers.

If your plans include a wider selection of flights, it is worth considering flying into larger regional airports, such as Rock Springs - Sweetwater County Airport (approximately 147 km away) or Idaho Falls Regional Airport (about 200 km away). From there, you can easily reach Pinedale by rental car, enjoying breathtaking views of the Wild West along the way.

Pinedale Airport (Ralph Wenz Field) is a small and very passenger-friendly aviation hub. Its key feature is compactness and simplicity, making travel through it as quick and comfortable as possible.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving passengers. Thanks to the small size of the building, navigation is intuitive, and there is no risk of getting lost. All key zones—check-in counters, security screening, the waiting lounge, and the boarding gate—are within walking distance of each other. There are no transfers between terminals, as all operations are concentrated in one place.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but located within the same building. Upon arrival, passengers quickly proceed to the baggage claim area and the terminal exit. Check-in procedures and security screening at Pinedale Airport typically take significantly less time than at major airports. Usually, arriving at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure is sufficient, although it is always recommended to check the exact time with your airline.

The main advice for navigating Ralph Wenz Field is not to worry. Everything here is simple and straightforward. Follow the signs, and you will easily find everything you need. The absence of long queues and great distances makes this airport an excellent example of how regional air travel can be fast and stress-free.

Ralph Wenz Field (PWY), serving the towns of Pinedale and Big Piney in the state of Wyoming, USA, has a relatively recent but significant history for the region. It was officially opened on 31 July 1978. The airport is named after Ralph Wenz, a local pilot and ranch owner who was a true aviation enthusiast and hero. He perished in 1975 during a search and rescue operation in the Wind River Mountains. The airport's name is a tribute to his selflessness and contribution to the community.

The main stage of the airport's development was associated with attempts to establish regular commercial air services. For several years, under the Essential Air Service (EAS) programme aimed at supporting air travel in small communities, Great Lakes Airlines operated flights to Denver. This gave residents and guests of the region convenient access to a major transport hub. Later, these flights were discontinued, and today Ralph Wenz Field functions primarily as a platform for general aviation, servicing private, charter, and corporate aircraft.

Throughout its existence, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation to meet contemporary safety and service standards. Works have been carried out to reconstruct the runway, taxiways, and navigation equipment. These improvements have allowed the airport to accept a wider range of aircraft, which is particularly important given its role in supporting two key sectors of the local economy: tourism, as a gateway to the scenic Wind River Range, and the energy industry.

One of the most interesting facts about Ralph Wenz Field is its location at high altitude. The airfield is situated at an elevation of 2,160 metres (7,085 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest in the USA. Such altitude creates special conditions for piloting: the thin air affects engine performance and aircraft aerodynamics, requiring special skills from pilots during take-off and landing. Thus, the history of the airport is not only a chronicle of infrastructure development but also a story of aviation adapting to the harsh and beautiful conditions of Wyoming.

Pinedale Airport (Ralph Wenz Field) is a compact regional airport offering passengers essential amenities for a comfortable wait before their flight. Given its size, the range of services here is basic rather than extensive.

Dining and Shopping: There are no full-service restaurants, cafés, or shops at the airport. Passengers are advised to arrange meals in advance. Vending machines with drinks and snacks may be available in the terminal for a light bite.

Lounges and Internet: A general waiting area is provided for all passengers. Specialised VIP lounges or business lounges are absent. Typically, free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal, and there are power outlets for charging mobile phones and other gadgets.

Financial and Medical Services: There are no bank branches, ATMs, or currency exchange points within the airport building. It is recommended to settle all financial matters in town. A specialised medical centre is also absent, but in an emergency, airport staff will provide basic assistance and call the necessary services.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs: The airport is equipped for access by passengers with reduced mobility in accordance with standards. However, to receive individual assistance, such as an escort or the provision of a wheelchair, it is necessary to contact your airline representatives in advance. Special facilities for passengers with children, such as play areas or nursing rooms, are not provided.

Accommodation and Business Services: There are no hotels on the airport territory. The nearest hotels and motels are located in the town of Pinedale, just a few minutes' drive from the terminal. Conference rooms and business centres are not available at the airport.

When planning your journey through Pinedale Airport (Ralph Wenz Field) (PWY), it is important to remember that this is a small and compact regional airport, serving mainly private and local aviation. Consequently, the range of services, including dining options, is quite limited here and differs from what one might expect at major international hubs.

At present, there are no full-service restaurants, cafés, or dining establishments within the terminal building of Pinedale Airport. There is no dedicated food court area or separate venues where hot meals can be ordered. For passengers wishing to have a quick snack, the only option is typically vending machines. In these, you can purchase a standard selection of snacks: crisps, chocolate bars, biscuits, as well as soft drinks and water.

Given the limited choice, we strongly recommend travellers arrange their meals in advance. The best solution would be to eat a substantial meal before leaving for the airport or to bring your own sandwiches, fruit, and other snacks. The town of Pinedale itself is only a few minutes' drive from the airport, and there you will easily find numerous restaurants, diners, and cafés offering American cuisine, where you can enjoy a full lunch or dinner before your flight.

Travelling through a regional airport such as Pinedale (Ralph Wenz Field) in Big Piney has its own specific features. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, make use of these helpful tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Although this is a small airport and queues are rare, it is recommended to arrive approximately 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This will give you enough time to check in luggage, pass through security screening, and reach the boarding gate without rushing. If possible, complete check-in online—this will save you time.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage. The screening procedure is standard for all airports in the USA. Remember the rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Remove all metal items from your pockets in advance, and be prepared to take laptops and other large electronics out of your bag.

Seat Selection and Connections. Pinedale Airport primarily serves flights from small regional airlines. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider that a window seat will offer you incredible views of the picturesque landscapes of Wyoming. If you have a connecting flight, it will likely be at a larger hub airport. Since Pinedale is a domestic airport, customs control is not conducted upon departure from it.

Economy and Comfort. To save money, book flight tickets and car rental in advance. Infrastructure in small airports may be limited, so prices for food and drinks can be higher. It is wise to bring a light snack and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing through the security zone.

In Case of Flight Delay. Delays happen, especially due to weather conditions. Before leaving for the airport, check the status of your flight on the airline's website. Ensure your phone is fully charged and bring a portable charger. Download books or films to your devices to pass the time, as leisure opportunities in the terminal may be limited.