Our History

Ephrata Municipal Airport (KEPH) was established in 1939 as Ephrata Army Airbase to support adjacent bombing and gunnery ranges.  In 1940 the airport was transferred to the 4th Air Force for use in B-17 and B-24 aircraft training, aircraft maintenance, and supply depot.  In the late 1940s, the airport was transferred to Grant County, Washington from the War Assets Administration for use as a commercial airport.

Notably, B-17 and B-24 aircraft were received in Hangar 405 by aircrews for training following assembly at the nearby Hangar 734.  Also Hangar 405 was used in the production of the 1989 film “Always” by Steven Spielberg.

Ephrata has a rich historical background that can be viewed in the airport’s museum located on the first floor in the Terminal Building.