There are many ways for visitors to come to Scioto County. Some drive, of course, or take a bus to the bus station on U.S. 23. Others may choose to take a train to the South Shore, Ky., Amtrak station. Still others prefer to fly into the county.

Their destination is the Greater Portsmouth Airport on Ohio 335, which is owned by Scioto County. Chasteen Aviation operates the airport for the county.

The 5,006 foot runway can accommodate a variety of aircraft, including corporate jets. About 10 or 11 airplanes use the airport each day. "We provide fuel, airplane repair and have a flight school," said Nathan Davis, a member of the airport's line crew, and who also manages the airport at times. "We also rent planes to pilots who don't have their own." 

In addition to Davis and owner Mike Chasteen, airport employees are Crystal Horton, Paul Claxon, Josh Blair, and Fred Cassidy. The airport is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. When it is closed, pilots can turn on the runway lights by using their radios. They also follow a particular pattern and can use the airport even when it is closed. "Our radio is a courtesy that we offer," Davis said. "That means if we're here we talk to the pilots. And if not, it's not a big deal." Davis said the fall and winter months are the busiest times at the airport. That is because the lack of humidity allows the planes to climb quicker.

The Skyline Restaurant is also housed at the airport, but it is not owned by Chasteen. However, it has proven to be a popular destination among pilots.

"We have retirees fly in from Ashland, Ky., and Columbus just to eat at the restaurant," Davis said. "One time we had a guy from St. Louis come in to eat." It's not only pilots who can enjoy the airport.

"A lot of people don't know this, but the public can come out and watch the planes from behind the fence," Davis said.