Airway Heights, Washington: A Brief Overview
History
Airway Heights, located in Spokane County, Washington, was founded in 1942 and officially incorporated on June 28, 1955. The city’s name reflects its proximity to the runways of Fairchild Air Force Base and Spokane International Airport.
Significant growth occurred with the opening of the Airway Heights Corrections Center by the Washington State Department of Corrections in 1992. Further development was spurred by the Northern Quest Resort & Casino, established by the Kalispel Indian Tribe in 2000. These establishments have contributed to the city’s expansion, including new retailers, housing developments, and the opening of the Spokane Tribe Casino.
Geography
Airway Heights is situated at coordinates 47°38′37″N 117°35′11″W, just west of Spokane. The city covers a total area of 6.01 square miles, all land. It lies in the northeastern corner of the Columbia Plateau, characterized by rugged terrain as part of the Channeled Scablands. The “heights” in its name denotes its higher elevation compared to Spokane’s city center, with an elevation of approximately 2,398 feet.
Climate
Airway Heights experiences a humid continental climate with dry, cool summers (Köppen climate classification Dsb). Average temperatures range from 21°F in January to 83°F in August. The area receives an average annual precipitation of 17.31 inches, with the wettest months being November and December. Snowfall is common in winter months, contributing to the region’s seasonal climate variations.
Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Airway Heights had a population of 10,757 residents. The city has seen consistent growth, with a population increase to an estimated 11,637 by July 2024. The population density is approximately 1,789.9 people per square mile. The median age is 32 years, indicating a relatively young population. The city exhibits a diverse racial composition, with 62% identifying as White (Non-Hispanic), 7.95% as Two or More Races (Non-Hispanic), 5.47% as Black or African American (Non-Hispanic), and 5.13% as White (Hispanic). Additionally, 6.98% of residents are foreign-born.
The median household income in Airway Heights is $57,857, with a per capita income of $25,908. Approximately 21.3% of the population lives below the poverty line. The city has a total of 3,371 housing units, with a homeownership rate of 36.1%. The median property value is $239,900.
Industry
Airway Heights has a diverse economy with key industries including corrections, hospitality, and gaming. The Airway Heights Corrections Center, operational since 1992, is a significant employer in the area. The Northern Quest Resort & Casino, established in 2000 by the Kalispel Indian Tribe, and the Spokane Tribe Casino contribute to the local economy by providing employment opportunities and attracting tourism. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Spokane International Airport and Fairchild Air Force Base influences its economic landscape, with many residents employed in aviation-related industries.
In recent years, Airway Heights has experienced growth in retail and housing sectors, with the addition of new retailers, apartment buildings, and housing developments. This expansion reflects the city’s ongoing development and its role as a growing community within the Spokane metropolitan area.
