Francis S. Gabreski Airport (FOK) in Westhampton Beach, NY

Often still referred to as Westhampton Airport, Francis S. Gabreski Airport (FOK) is a county-owned airport in the Westhampton Beach area on Long Island’s East End. As one of the region’s most important general aviation facilities, it serves private aircraft, business aviation, charter operators, flight activity, and military operations. Its location provides convenient access to the Hamptons, East End communities, and popular South Shore destinations.

The airport is named in honor of Colonel Francis Stanley Gabreski, a Suffolk County native and one of the most highly decorated American fighter pilots of the 20th century. Today, the facility supports both civilian and military aviation and remains one of the busier general aviation airports in New York State.

History of Francis S. Gabreski Airport

The airport traces its origins to World War II, when it was constructed as Suffolk County Army Air Field. The facility served as a military training base and later became home to Air National Guard operations. In the decades that followed, the airport expanded its civilian role while continuing to support military aviation activity.

In 1991, the airport was officially renamed Francis S. Gabreski Airport to honor Colonel Gabreski, who earned distinction as one of America’s leading fighter aces in the European Theater during World War II and later served during the Korean War. His legacy remains closely connected to both Long Island and the airport that bears his name.

Airport Facilities

Francis S. Gabreski Airport has two paved runways capable of accommodating a wide range of aircraft, including piston aircraft, turboprops, private jets, corporate aircraft, and military flights. On-airport services typically include fixed-base operator (FBO) support, fueling, maintenance, hangar space, and passenger amenities, though individual services and availability may vary by operator.

The airport is also home to the 106th Rescue Wing of the New York Air National Guard, whose personnel carry out search-and-rescue and emergency response missions throughout the region. This combination of civilian and military activity makes Gabreski Airport a distinctive transportation facility on Long Island.

For visitors, Gabreski functions very differently from a large commercial airline terminal. Scheduled passenger service is limited or absent, so travelers should check directly with their air carrier, charter company, FBO, or ground transportation provider before arriving.

Gateway to the Hamptons

Francis S. Gabreski Airport serves as one of the primary aviation gateways to the Hamptons. During the busy summer season, the airport often sees increased traffic from visitors arriving by private aircraft and charter service to enjoy the area’s beaches, resorts, golf courses, and waterfront communities.

Its location near Westhampton Beach provides convenient access to numerous East End destinations, helping some travelers reduce time on Long Island’s often crowded roadways. Ground transportation, rental arrangements, and airport services can change, so it is wise to confirm details ahead of time.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors arriving through Francis S. Gabreski Airport can easily reach many popular attractions and destinations throughout eastern Suffolk County:

• Westhampton Beach – A lively South Shore village known for its beaches, restaurants, shops, and seasonal events.
• Cupsogue Beach County Park – A popular oceanfront destination for swimming, fishing, surfcasting, and scenic shoreline views.
• Quogue – A picturesque Hamptons community known for its historic charm and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
• Southampton – One of Long Island’s best-known East End destinations, with beaches, shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
• East End Vineyards and Farms – Wineries, farm stands, and agricultural attractions are spread throughout eastern Suffolk County and are especially popular from spring through fall.

Military and Community Importance

Beyond its role as a transportation hub, Francis S. Gabreski Airport serves an important public safety mission through New York Air National Guard rescue operations. The airport also contributes to the local economy through aviation services, employment, tourism, and business travel while supporting emergency response capabilities across the region.

---

Westhampton Airport

---

Key Facts & Details

Airport Name	Francis S. Gabreski Airport
Airport Code	FOK
ICAO Identifier	KFOK
Location	Westhampton Beach area, Suffolk County, New York
Ownership	Owned by Suffolk County
Primary Use	General Aviation, Business Aviation, Charter Operations, Military Activity
Runways	Two Paved Runways
Military Presence	106th Rescue Wing, New York Air National Guard
Serves	Westhampton Beach, the Hamptons, and Eastern Long Island
Named For	Colonel Francis S. Gabreski, celebrated World War II and Korean War fighter pilot

Francis S. Gabreski Airport remains one of Long Island’s most important aviation facilities, linking the East End with destinations throughout the Northeast while supporting military readiness, emergency response, business travel, and tourism. Its mix of civilian and military functions, along with its proximity to the Hamptons and nearby South Shore communities, makes the airport a vital part of Suffolk County’s transportation infrastructure.