Discover Our Legacy
Defiance County Memorial Airport: A Community Pillar
Welcome to Defiance County Memorial Airport, where our commitment to connecting communities and fostering growth takes flight.
With nearly 17,000 arrivals and an economic impact of over $4 million per year, our airport continues to serve as a vital hub for Defiance County.
Our Mission
Defiance County Memorial Airport's Commitment
At Defiance County Memorial Airport, our mission is to provide exceptional aviation services that support the growth and connectivity of our community. We are dedicated to ensuring safety, efficiency, and accessibility for all our passengers and partners. By promoting aviation education and maintaining a high standard of service, we aim to be a cornerstone of the local economy and a proud representative of Defiance County’s spirit.
We strive to enhance the quality of life for our residents by facilitating travel and commerce. Our commitment extends beyond the runway, as we engage with local organizations and initiatives to uplift our community and inspire future generations of aviation enthusiasts.
Our Journey Through Time
Explore the milestones that have shaped Defiance County Memorial Airport into the thriving aviation hub it is today.
1950s
Airport Moves To New Home
The Defiance County Memorial Airport moves to it’s current location and constructs a 3,000-foot runway and new steel hangar which are still used today.
1980s
Airport Authority Board Established
In the early 1980’s the Defiance County Commissioners transferred direct control of the airport to an independent five-person Airport Authority Board.
1999
Eight Private Hangars Built
In 1999 eight private T-hangars were built at the airport and are available for rental.
2000s
Placehold Text (?)
Air travel has been an important part of the economy in Defiance County for a century. One of the earliest photos of flight in Defiance County was taken in 1911 and titled “Defiance Summer Fair 1911”. The photo captured an airplane flying over a large crowd only eight years after the advent of powered flight.
The first recognized airport in Defiance County was a grass field next to the railroad near Spruce Street in the City of Defiance. In late 1928 O.L. Woodson, an early aircraft designer, proposed a production facility at this location with a mission to build a revolutionary designed aircraft called “The Simplex”. Only nine or ten were built prior to the onset of the Great Depression, which ultimately ended production of this aircraft.
The second recognized airport in Defiance County was a grass runway on the north side of the City of Defiance adjacent to Elliott Road. The site was active just after World War II, however in the early 1950’s the airport moved to its present day location on 318 acres of county land about six miles outside of Defiance on State Route 15.
In the mid-1950’s a 3,000 foot paved runway was constructed at this location along with a new steel hangar, which is still in use today. This early development was completed in conjunction with Williams County in a joint effort. The runway was then hastily lengthened to 4,200 feet in anticipation of a visit from President Dwight Eisenhower; however the President ultimately switched travel arrangements and visited Defiance on October 15, 1953 by way of the B & O Railroad.
By 1965, the joint venture with Williams County dissolved when Williams County constructed their own airport near Bryan.
Our Comprehensive Services
Onsite Airport Services
24/7 Fuel
Self-Service
Self-serve 100 LL Av gas and Jet A available 24/7.
Maintenance
TAS Aviation
The Recognized Leader in Twin Cessna Services since 1976.
Hangar Rental
Arend Enterprises
Secure your aircraft with our flexible and affordable hangar rental options.
Courtesy Car Available
We have a Courtesy Car available on a first come, first served basis.
Our Comprehensive Services
Pilot Information
Radio Frequencies
IATA Code
DFI
ICAO Code
KDFI
CTAF
122.700
Unicom
122.700
AWTS
121.425
Airport Businesses
Service, Training, and Rental
- On-site Maintenance
- Emergency Services
- Daily and call out basis
- Premier maintenance facility for Twin Cessna Aircraft worldwide
- Emergency Services
- Flight Training – teaching people to fly and helping them obtain their pilots license
- Self-Service Fuel
- Owners & Operators of the “Twin Cessna Flyer” – membership organization providing training and safety information to owners of Twin Cessna aircraft.
- Hangar Rental
- Manages Defiance County Memorial Airport’s facilities and grounds
Call: +1 419-658-4444
Email: TAS Aviation
Aircraft Storage
Arend Enterprises
Convenient and affordable hangar rental services designed to meet the needs of private pilots and aviation enthusiasts.
Our well-maintained hangars provide secure, sheltered storage for a variety of aircraft sizes, with easy access to the runway and essential ground services.
Whether you’re looking for a long-term rental or short-term storage, our flexible lease options and friendly on-site staff ensure a hassle-free experience. With a focus on personalized service and a welcoming atmosphere, our airport is the perfect home base for your aircraft.
Call: +1 419-542-7679
Email: Arend Enterprises
Meet Our Board of Directors
The Defiance County Memorial Airport is guided by a dedicated board of directors who bring a wealth of experience and passion to our operations. Their leadership ensures that we remain aligned with our mission and vision, while continuously striving for excellence in service and community engagement.
Monthly Board Meetings are on first Thursdays at 5:30pm in Main Terminal.
Explore Our Facilities and Operations
Defiance County Airport Photo Gallery
