Gulf Shores Alabama: Which Airport Should You Fly Into?

Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a popular destination for tourists and travellers, with its beautiful beaches and warm Southern hospitality. The closest airport to Gulf Shores is Jack Edwards Airport, a small airport located just 2.5 miles from the city. However, as this airport is on the smaller side, you may need to make a connection in another city to reach it. Pensacola International Airport is also a good option, located about 38 miles from Gulf Shores, with over 10 rental car companies on-site, as well as taxis, limos, shuttles, and more. Mobile Regional Airport is another major airport near Gulf Shores, located about 73 miles from the city.

Pensacola International Airport

In addition to its practical amenities, Pensacola International Airport has a rich history. It began as a passenger terminal in 1935, with airline service commencing two years later. The airport has been used by various airlines over the years, including National Airlines, Eastern Air Lines, Continental, Delta, US Airways, AirTran Airways, and Southwest Airlines. The current terminal was built in 1990, and the terminal was expanded in 2011 at a cost of $35 million.

The airport also has a unique tradition of temporarily changing its name to Pensacola Intergalactic Airport each February to celebrate the local Pensacon convention. This fun annual event showcases the airport's commitment to engaging with the local community and providing a unique travel experience.

Mobile Regional Airport

The airport is served by major carriers United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, with additional weekday departures to Charlotte and Dallas/Fort Worth via American Eagle. Regional airlines primarily serve Mobile, with Delta Air Lines operating the only mainline passenger service. Mobile Regional Airport has two runways, one measuring 8,502 by 150 feet (2,591 x 46 m) and the other 4,376 by 150 feet (1,334 x 46 m). It also has an asphalt helipad, which is 100 by 100 feet (30 x 30 m).

The terminal has shops and restaurants, car rental agencies, and handicap-accessible elevators. The airport offers free Wi-Fi and 15 minutes of free parking. It is conveniently located off Interstate 10 and provides easy access to the Gulf Shores area, which is approximately an hour and a half drive away.

Jack Edwards Airport

The airport covers an area of 838 acres (339 ha) and sits at an elevation of 17 feet (5 m) above mean sea level. It has two runways: 9/27, which is 6,962 by 100 feet (2,122 x 30 m), and 17/35, which is 3,596 by 75 feet (1,096 x 23 m). Both runways have asphalt surfaces.

The airport accommodates a significant number of aircraft operations, with an average of 168 operations per day for the 12-month period ending January 31, 2023. The majority of these operations are general aviation (91%), followed by military (7%), air taxi (2%), and a small percentage of commercial flights (<1%).

Southern Airways Express previously served the airport but ceased operations due to cost considerations. However, Allegiant Air has recently announced nonstop flights to and from Gulf Shores International Airport, making it a convenient option for travellers visiting the Gulf Shores area.

Gulf Shores International Airport

Location

Accessibility

The airport is easily accessible by air, with several airlines serving the region, including Allegiant Air, which offers nonstop flights to and from the airport. Pensacola International Airport, located about 38 miles from Gulf Shores, is a larger airport option with more nonstop flight options during the busy summer months. Mobile Regional Airport, approximately 73 miles away, is another alternative, offering service from Delta, United, America, and US Airways.

Ground Transportation

For those arriving at Gulf Shores International Airport, there are various ground transportation options available. Rental car services are offered through companies such as Hertz, Enterprise, and 4 Lane Auto, providing convenient access to nearby destinations like Fort Morgan. Additionally, taxi and limo services are available through providers such as Luxury Limo LLC and Blue Dolphin Cab.

Nearby Attractions

Gulf Shores and the surrounding area offer a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors. Fort Morgan, located just 30 minutes away, boasts a laid-back community with historical and natural attractions. Gulf Shores itself is known for its stunning white sands and turquoise waters, offering a variety of outdoor activities like waterparks, fishing, hiking, and golf. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring nature centres. The region also caters to those seeking shopping, entertainment, and dining experiences.

Pensacola Regional Airport

Pensacola International Airport (IATA: PNS, ICAO: KPNS, FAA LID: PNS) is a convenient airport option for travellers heading to Gulf Shores, Alabama. Formerly known as Pensacola Gulf Coast Regional Airport and Pensacola Regional Airport (Hagler Field), it is located just over an hour's drive from Gulf Shores.

The airport is situated three nautical miles (6 km or 3 mi) northeast of Pensacola's central business district, in Escambia County, Florida. Despite its name, Pensacola International Airport does not offer scheduled international passenger flights, although chartered international flights are not uncommon. The airport is one of five major airports in North Florida and is the second-largest by passenger count, after Jacksonville.

Pensacola is served by several commercial airlines, including AirTran Airways, American Eagle, Delta Air Lines, Delta Connection, United Express, and US Airways. The airport features a single passenger terminal, built in the early 1990s, with 12 gates. Gates 1 through 10 are on the second floor, while Gates 11 and 12 are on the ground floor. The terminal was expanded in 2011 at a cost of $35 million, and further expansion plans are underway to accommodate the airport's rapid growth in passenger numbers and flights.

For travellers heading to Gulf Shores, Pensacola International Airport offers a convenient and accessible option. With its proximity to Gulf Shores and a range of flight options, it is a popular choice for those visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Frequently asked questions