Sachin Walls
Small airports are often overlooked, but they offer a range of benefits to passengers and have a significant economic impact on the regions they serve. With over 5,000 public-use airports in the US, ranging from international mega-hubs like Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson to tiny local airports like Montana's Dawson Community Airport, travellers have a variety of options for their journeys. Small airports offer a more relaxed, stress-free experience, with shorter transit times, intuitive design, and unique local touches. They also contribute to the economic health of their regions, generating jobs, attracting business and tourism, and supporting local manufacturers and companies.
Characteristics of Small Airports
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Public-Use Airports | 5,000 |
| Number of Private-Use Airports | 14,400 |
| Number of Public-Use Facilities Included in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) | 3,300 |
| Types | Commercial Service, Primary, Cargo Service, Reliever, and General Aviation Airports |
| Commercial Service Airports | Publicly owned airports with at least 2,500 passenger boardings each calendar year and receive scheduled passenger service |
| Primary Airports | Commercial Service Airports with more than 10,000 passenger boardings each year |
| Cargo Service Airports | Airports served by aircraft providing air transportation of only cargo with a total annual landed weight of more than 100 million pounds |
| Reliever Airports | Airports designated by the FAA to reduce congestion at Commercial Service Airports and improve general aviation access |
| General Aviation Airports | Public-use airports with less than 2,500 annual passenger boardings or no scheduled service |
| Number of General Aviation Airports | 5,000 |
| Economic Impact | $219 billion in total economic input and $109 billion contribution to the nation's gross domestic product |
| Job Creation | 1.1 million jobs |
| Funding | Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Act of 2018 provides funding over a five-year period and a new airport infrastructure grant program with $1.7 billion allocated to southeastern states |
| Examples | Huntsville International Airport, T.F. Green Airport, Tweed-New Haven Airport, Wilmington International Airport, Piedmont Triad International Airport, Huntsville International Airport, Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport, Long Island MacArthur Airport, Gerald R. Ford International Airport, Myrtle Beach International Airport |
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What You'll Learn
The economic impact of small airports
Small airports have a significant economic impact on local and regional economies. While they are often overlooked, these airports are powerful economic drivers, contributing to growth and prosperity. The general aviation industry in the US, for instance, generates $219 billion in total economic input and contributes $109 billion to the nation's gross domestic product, supporting 1.1 million jobs.
Small airports provide access to small and remote communities, supporting business attraction and retention. They offer essential transportation links to the national system, connecting communities to hundreds of destinations worldwide. This connectivity is vital for regions struggling to compete in the global marketplace. For instance, the Greenville Downtown Airport in South Carolina has an annual payroll of almost $35 million and is credited with $68.8 million in economic activity, while the McKinney National Airport in Texas has an annual impact of $212 million on the region.
Small airports also provide a range of services, including medical flights, agricultural applications, and flight training. They can attract businesses and tourism, leading to economic development in the region. For example, the South Alabama Regional Airport Authority expanded its business activity by leasing space to a medical air rescue company, increasing its economic impact and creating awareness of its potential.
Additionally, small airports create contracting opportunities and jobs, contributing to the economic vitality of the region. They often serve corporate aircraft and airplanes owned by individuals, universities, organizations, and businesses. The growth at these airports leads to construction projects, such as new terminals, hangar upgrades, and runway expansions, further boosting the local economy.
Despite their impact, small airports are sometimes undervalued, with leaders focusing on major international airports. However, with proper management and strategic oversight, small airports can become thriving hubs, as seen with Chicago's DuPage Airport, which generated $1.5 billion in economic impact. Engaging local leaders and building relationships within the aviation community are crucial to maximizing the economic benefits of small airports.
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Small airports with unique features
Small airports are often preferred for their convenience and service. While some are just smaller versions of large airports, others stand out for their unique features. Here are some small airports with distinctive characteristics:
Barra Airport, Scotland
Barra Airport is the only airport in the world where scheduled flights take off and land on a tidal beach. The runway, located in the wide, shallow bay of Traigh Mhor, is underwater at certain times of the day, so flight schedules are dictated by the tides. The airport's facilities are minimal, but the breathtaking scenery and unique setting make for a remarkable experience.
Paro International Airport, Bhutan
Paro International Airport, Bhutan's only international airport, offers a spectacular experience with breathtaking vistas of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The treacherous landing involves navigating through jagged peaks and strong winds, and the airport is only accessible during daylight. The terminal building reflects Bhutan's traditional architecture, providing a comfortable waiting area adorned with paintings of Bhutan's past and present kings.
St Helena International Airport
St Helena International Airport is located on a remote island between Africa and South America. The airport is known for its challenging weather conditions and cliffside location. Due to its isolation, the island was previously accessible only by a Royal Mail ship from Cape Town until the airport opened in 2017.
Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport, Azerbaijan
Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport stands out for its distinctive design, featuring striking wooden cocoons on the top floor that house cafes, bars, shopping kiosks, a children's play area, and luggage storage. The airport serves as the home base for Azerbaijan Airlines and was ranked 57th in Skytrax's list of the world's top 100 airports in 2024.
Huntsville International Airport, USA
Huntsville International Airport, located between Nashville and Birmingham, offers a seamless experience with efficient check-in and security lines. It also features an on-site hotel and is the first commercial airport to receive spaceport status for commercial space vehicles. Additionally, Huntsville provides unique amenities like F.E.T.C.H. therapy dogs and art displays showcasing local artists.
Gisborne Airport, New Zealand
Gisborne Airport is one of the few airports in the world with a railway line crossing its main runway. The Palmerston North–Gisborne Line runs directly through the airport, requiring careful coordination between train and air traffic to ensure safety.
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Small airports with great staff
If you're looking for small airports with great staff, look no further! Here are some fantastic options:
Bangor International Airport (BGR)
Bangor International Airport in Maine boasts three dining options, a gift shop, and a child's play area, making delays feel much less tedious. But what really stands out is the friendly and dedicated ground crew and airport staff, who work hard to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently, even in challenging weather conditions.
Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO)
Located in North Carolina, Piedmont Triad International Airport is known for its Southern hospitality. The staff are incredibly welcoming and helpful, and the airport itself is clean and easy to navigate. With short lines, sparse crowds, and eight on-site rental car options, flying from GSO is a breeze.
Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)
If you're looking for an alternative to the busy Boston Logan International Airport, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in New Hampshire is a great choice. The airport staff are friendly and helpful, and you'll find inexpensive on-site parking, short lines, and minimal traffic. Before your flight, you can even enjoy a beer and some snacks at the on-site Sam Adams Café & Pub.
Huntsville International Airport (HSV)
Huntsville International Airport, located between Nashville and Birmingham, provides a seamless experience with efficient check-in and security lines. The airport also offers unique features like therapy dogs to reduce travel stress and local art displays. HSV also has an on-site hotel, which can be a lifesaver during overnight delays.
Lehigh Valley International Airport
Lehigh Valley International Airport is a fantastic option for families, with a children's play area and a sensory room. The friendly staff will make your departure pleasant, and the airport has three major airline partners and a budget partner with 15 nonstop destinations.
So, the next time you're planning a trip, consider one of these fantastic small airports. With their great staff and convenient amenities, they'll make your travel experience much more enjoyable and memorable!
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Small airports with easy access
Small airports are known for their convenience, comfort, and lack of crowds. They are the perfect alternative to big, crowded airports. Here are some small airports with easy access:
Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN)
Located in New Haven, Connecticut, this airport is ideal for those travelling to New York City who want to avoid the crowds at JFK or LaGuardia airports. It is just four miles from New Haven's Union Station, which offers commuter rail services into NYC. The airport is also appreciated for its close and reservable parking.
Wilmington International Airport (ILM)
This small and easy-to-navigate airport is located in North Carolina, just 10 miles from the Cape Fear beaches. It offers budget-friendly flights and has 25 nonstop routes.
Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI)
Piedmont Triad International, with its motto "fly easy", is known for its short lines, sparse crowds, and eight on-site rental car options. It is conveniently located in Greensboro, North Carolina, serving the Piedmont Triad area, including High Point and Winston-Salem. The airport is praised for its Southern hospitality and clean, intuitive design.
Huntsville International Airport (HSV)
Huntsville International Airport is located halfway between Nashville and Birmingham, offering a seamless experience compared to larger airports in nearby cities. It features efficient check-in and security lines, as well as an on-site hotel for added convenience during overnight delays.
T.F. Green Airport (PVD)
Located in Rhode Island, this airport is a favourite among travellers looking for an alternative to Boston Logan International Airport. It offers quick access to Providence and Boston via a dedicated train station. It is also a great option for those travelling to Cape Cod, providing a peaceful and efficient travel experience.
Long Beach Airport
Located just four miles from the ocean, Long Beach Airport is a convenient alternative to LAX for travellers headed to the beach towns south of Los Angeles. From there, travellers can easily drive south to San Diego and enjoy the scenic coastal views.
Dallas Love Field Airport
Dallas Love Field Airport is a compact and affordable alternative for travellers headed to Texas. As a major hub for Southwest Airlines, it is conveniently located close to downtown Dallas, making it ideal for weekend getaways to the city. The airport has recently undergone cosmetic renovations, enhancing its appeal for domestic travellers.
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Small airports with great food and beverage options
While small airports often have a limited selection of food and beverage options, some have been applauded for their culinary offerings. San Francisco International Airport, for instance, offers a variety of dining choices, including sushi at Sankaku (Terminal 3) and Tomokazu (Terminal G), pho at Bun Mee (Terminal 1), coffee at Roasting Plant Coffee (Ed Lee International Main Hall), and picnic provisions from Napa Farms Market (Terminal 2).
Portland International Airport is another highly-regarded foodie hub, featuring local favourites like Lardo for sandwiches (Terminal E), Country Cat for non-alcoholic cocktails (Main Terminal), and Screen Door for fried chicken (Concourse B). The airport is also undergoing renovations that will introduce 14 additional dining options by 2025, ensuring an even broader range of culinary delights for travellers.
Nashville International Airport is a haven for barbecue enthusiasts, with options like Bar-B-Cutie SmokeHous (A/B North Terminal), Swett's BBQ (Concourse C), and Pig Star by Peg Leg Porker (Concourse B). For those craving Nashville's famous hot chicken, 400 Degrees Hot Chicken in Concourse C is a popular choice.
For those seeking a taste of local flavours, Austin's International Airport is the place to be, with breakfast tacos at Tacodeli (Gate 23) and locally-made ice cream at Amy's Ice Creams (Gate 21).
Outside of the United States, Madrid's airport boasts Enrique Tomás, a Spanish jamón bar that also serves exceptional espresso. This spot offers a great pre-flight or post-flight snack, such as a jamón ibérico de bellota bocadillo paired with a doppio espresso.
While not all small airports can boast impressive dining options, the ones mentioned above certainly offer a delightful culinary experience for travellers to savour.
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Frequently asked questions
Small airports offer a relaxed, stress-free passenger experience without the crowds and noise often seen at larger airports. They are also more convenient for passengers as they have shorter transit times and are less likely to have lengthy delays.
Small airports have a significant economic impact on the local and regional areas they serve. They support jobs, attract business and tourism, and provide access to more remote communities.
There are over 5,000 airports in the US, ranging from international mega-hubs like Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) to tiny airports like Dawson Community Airport (GDV) in Montana.
Some small airports in the US include Wilmington International Airport (ILM) in North Carolina, Huntsville International Airport (HSV) in Alabama, and Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (BTV) in Vermont.
Small airports typically have shorter transit times, fewer crowds, and more relaxed atmospheres. They may also have unique features like local food and beverage options, art displays, and therapy dogs.
