Republic Airport (FRG)
Republic Airport, located in East Farmingdale in Suffolk County, is one of Long Island’s most important aviation hubs for general aviation, charter flights, and flight training. Unlike commercial airports such as MacArthur, Republic serves as a vital regional facility for private and corporate aircraft and is operated by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT).
Location & Access
- Address: 7150 Republic Airport, East Farmingdale, NY 11735
- Nearby Highways: Just off Route 110, minutes from the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and Southern State Parkway
- LIRR Access: Farmingdale Station (Ronkonkoma Branch) is the closest rail access, with short cab or shuttle rides to the airport
Airport Overview
- FAA Identifier: FRG
- Elevation: 81 feet
- Runways: Two asphalt runways (5,516 ft and 6,827 ft)
- Operator: New York State Department of Transportation
- Opened: 1927 (originally as a military field, later converted for public use)
Republic Airport is not a commercial airport but sees significant air traffic from private jets, helicopters, medevac services, and aviation schools. It supports everything from pilot training to air charter companies and is a key base for corporate aviation serving the greater New York metropolitan area.
Recent and Ongoing Improvements
In 2025, Republic Airport was awarded $6.5 million in combined federal and state funds for critical infrastructure upgrades. This includes:
- Runway rehabilitation over 5,000 feet of paved surface
- Reconstruction of an aging airfield gate
These improvements are designed to ensure continued FAA compliance, operational safety, and support for the growing demand in general aviation.
Services & Tenants
Republic Airport is home to several Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) and aviation service companies:
- Sheltair Aviation – full-service FBO offering fueling, hangars, and executive lounge
- Atlantic Aviation – another major FBO serving business aviation needs
- Flight Schools – including Farmingdale State College’s Aviation Program, ATP Flight School, and others
- Maintenance & Charter Services – multiple companies offer aircraft maintenance, rentals, and charters
Special Uses & Public Events
- Helicopter operations: Regular departures to NYC and the Hamptons
- Air shows & exhibitions: Republic has hosted aviation expos and military demonstrations
- Emergency and public safety use: Medevac helicopters and law enforcement aircraft operate from the field
Community Role & History
Republic Airport sits in a highly visible area of western Suffolk County and plays a vital role in regional economic development. It was originally a WWII-era military field and has since evolved into a state-owned general aviation airport that helps relieve congestion at major commercial airports like JFK and LaGuardia.
Its presence continues to benefit:
- The local economy, through aviation jobs and fuel/service spending
- The education sector, with multiple aviation training programs
- Emergency services, offering quick-response air support
Location Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East Farmingdale, NY |
| Use | General aviation, training, charters |
| Owned by | NYS Department of Transportation |
| Runways | Two asphalt (6,827 ft & 5,516 ft) |
| Services | FBOs, flight schools, charters |
| Public Transit | Near LIRR Farmingdale Station |
| Notable Recent Funding | $6.5M in 2025 for upgrades |
