Lois Larson
Will Rogers World Airport, now known as OKC Will Rogers International Airport, is a bustling hub serving Oklahoma City. Named after the legendary Oklahoma-born cowboy and comedian, Will Rogers, the airport has a rich history dating back to 1911. With two terminals offering a range of amenities, including a children's play area and various dining and shopping options, the airport provides a comfortable and convenient travel experience. The airport is easily accessible via shuttle services, taxi, and private rides, ensuring smooth arrivals and departures for passengers. Will Rogers World Airport has witnessed significant growth and expansion over the years, including plans for international routes, solidifying its position as a vital gateway to Oklahoma and beyond.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Will Rogers World Airport/OKC Will Rogers International Airport |
| Location | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States |
| Year of opening | 1911 |
| Renaming year | 1941 |
| Number of terminals | 2 (Main Terminal and West Concourse) |
| Number of gates | 22 (17 in the Main Terminal and 5 in the West Concourse) |
| Shuttle services | Available |
| Transportation services | Available 24/7 |
| Accommodation options | Available near the airport |
| Dining options | Available |
| Shopping options | Available |
| Wi-Fi | Available for free |
| Lost and found | Available in the Main Terminal |
| Play area for children | Available in the West Concourse |
| Airlines | Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, and more |
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What You'll Learn
History of Will Rogers World Airport
Will Rogers World Airport, also known as Will Rogers Airport, WRWA, or simply Will Rogers, is a passenger airport located in southwestern Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, about 6 miles from the city's downtown area. It is a civil-military airport on 8,081 acres of land. The airport is named after comedian and legendary cowboy Will Rogers, an Oklahoma native who died in an airplane crash in 1935. The airport is unusual in that it is the only airport to use the designation "World", and its name makes no reference to its city location.
The airport first opened in 1911 as Oklahoma City Municipal Airfield. It was renamed in Rogers' honor in 1941. During World War II, Will Rogers Field was a major training facility for the United States Army Air Forces, and many fighter and bomber units were activated and received initial training there. In 1951, a C&GS chart showed that the airport had four runways. By 1967, the terminal building was constructed. However, in the late 1990s, the Oklahoma City Airport Trust deemed the terminal building unsuitable, and preparations for renovating the airport were launched in 2001.
Will Rogers World Airport is the busiest commercial airport in the state of Oklahoma. In 2019, the airport handled nearly 4.42 million passengers, marking its busiest year on record for three years in a row. Southwest Airlines carries the most passengers at this airport, with a market share of nearly 48% as of April 2022.
In recent years, the airport has undergone further changes and expansions. In 2024, the city council of Oklahoma City approved a name change, officially changing the airport's name to "OKC Will Rogers International Airport". This change was made to market the airport to a wider audience. Additionally, the airport announced plans to expand routes to Mexico and the Caribbean in 2025, with its first nonstop international destination being Cancún, Mexico. The airport also features world-class artwork, eateries, shops, and amenities for travellers to explore and enjoy.
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Airport facilities and services
OKC Will Rogers International Airport, previously known as Will Rogers World Airport, is a bustling hub serving Oklahoma City and its metropolitan area. The airport offers a seamless travel experience with various facilities and services for passengers' convenience and comfort.
Transportation
Will Rogers International Airport is easily accessible via Airport Express shuttle services, which operate 24/7 and accommodate various transportation needs, including handicapped-accessible options. The airport also offers a shuttle bus service connecting the Main Terminal and the West Concourse, with directional signs guiding passengers between the two.
Dining and Shopping
The airport boasts an array of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets, ensuring travellers can enjoy a bite before their flight. For those seeking last-minute purchases, the airport also offers an extensive range of shopping opportunities, including duty-free shopping in the Main Terminal.
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, enabling passengers to stay connected and entertained during their time in the airport.
Art and Culture
The airport showcases world-class artwork throughout its premises, providing travellers with a unique cultural experience and an insight into the history and heritage of Oklahoma City.
Passenger Comfort
Recognising the importance of rest during travel, the airport offers a children's play area in the West Concourse to keep young travellers engaged and entertained. Additionally, the airport provides an interactive airport map and valuable tips to enhance passengers' overall experience and navigation.
Future Developments
OKC Will Rogers International Airport continues to evolve, with plans to expand routes to Mexico and the Caribbean in 2025. The airport also announced its first nonstop international destination to Cancún, Mexico, commencing in November 2025.
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Transport to and from the airport
OKC Will Rogers International Airport is located in Oklahoma City, United States. The airport is named after Oklahoma native, comedian, and legendary cowboy Will Rogers, who died in an airplane crash in 1935. It is the busiest commercial airport in Oklahoma, handling nearly 4.42 million passengers in 2019.
Transport to the Airport
There are various transport options for getting to the airport. Here are some recommendations:
- Shuttle Services: Airport Express provides shuttle services to and from the airport. Their shuttle vans are located outside the lower-level baggage claim, and they are open 24/7. They can accommodate various transportation needs, including handicapped-accessible transportation.
- Taxi Services: You can use taxi services to get to the airport. Taxi services are readily available in Oklahoma City and can be a convenient option for travelling to the airport.
- Ridesharing Apps: Ridesharing apps like Uber offer a convenient way to get to the airport. Uber provides various ride options, from private rides to premium cars or more cost-effective choices. You can request a ride or reserve one in advance. It is recommended to arrive at the airport three hours early for international travel.
- Public Transportation: While specific details could not be found, Oklahoma City likely has a public transportation system that may provide bus or train options to get to the airport.
Transport from the Airport
- Airport Shuttle: The airport provides a shuttle bus service between the Main Terminal and the West Concourse. The shuttle bus stop is located outside the baggage claim in the Main Terminal, and it drops off passengers at the West Concourse near Gate 12.
- Walking: If you prefer a walk, there is a covered walkway connecting the two terminals. Directional signs throughout the airport guide passengers towards this walkway.
- Ridesharing Apps: Similar to arriving at the airport, you can use ridesharing apps like Uber to request a ride from the airport to your destination. Uber drivers will take you to the departures entrance at your selected terminal.
- Taxi Services: Taxi services are also available at the airport. You can find taxi stands outside the arrivals area or use ridesharing apps to hail a taxi.
- Car Rental: If you prefer to drive yourself, there are several car rental agencies operating at the airport. You can rent a car upon your arrival and return it before your departure.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels in the area offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport for their guests. When booking your accommodation, look for hotels that provide this service to make your travel to and from the airport more convenient.
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Airlines operating from the airport
OKC Will Rogers International Airport (IATA: OKC, ICAO: KOKC, FAA LID: OKC), also known as Will Rogers Airport or Will Rogers World Airport, is located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States. The airport is named after the comedian and legendary cowboy Will Rogers, an Oklahoma native who died in an airplane crash near Utqiagvik, Alaska, in 1935. Wiley Post, who also perished in the same crash, lends his name to the city's other major airport, Wiley Post Airport.
Will Rogers World Airport first opened in 1911 as Oklahoma City Municipal Airfield and was renamed in Rogers' honour in 1941. During World War II, it served as a major training facility for the United States Army Air Forces, with numerous fighter and bomber units receiving their initial training there.
The airport is the busiest commercial airport in Oklahoma, handling nearly 4.42 million passengers in 2019, the busiest year on record for three consecutive years. Southwest Airlines carries the most passengers at Will Rogers International Airport, with a market share of nearly 48% as of April 2022. The airline has one of its largest customer service and support centres on the airport's northern grounds.
In terms of layout and facilities, the airport features three concourses with various eateries and shops, as well as a range of amenities and services. The current terminal utilises native stone, loft ceilings, plate glass, and brushed metal, creating a more open feel compared to the previous design. The new East Concourse, completed in September 2021, is dedicated to Delta flights and offers a modern design and an observation deck for plane spotting.
Several airlines operate from Will Rogers World Airport, including:
- Southwest Airlines: With a significant presence at the airport, Southwest Airlines offers a wide range of domestic and international destinations.
- Delta: The airline exclusively uses the new East Concourse, which provides four gates for their flights.
- American Airlines: This carrier has announced nonstop services to Cancun, Mexico, commencing on November 8, 2025.
- Frontier Airlines: Frontier Airlines provides flights to various destinations, including Denver International and Harry Reid International.
- Great Plains Airlines: This regional airline, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, previously used Will Rogers World Airport as a hub until it ceased operations in 2004.
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Hotels near the airport
There are several hotels near Will Rogers World Airport, offering various amenities and services. Here are some options:
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oklahoma City Airport
This Holiday Inn hotel is located just three miles from the airport and offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. The hotel provides free high-speed wireless internet and a variety of amenities. It also features a 900 sq ft event space and a 12-seat conference room.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Will Rogers Airport
This hotel is located near Will Rogers World Airport and offers guest rooms furnished with microwaves. While some reviews mention leaving too early for breakfast, the hotel likely provides excellent dining options.
Avid Hotel - Oklahoma City Airport
Avid Hotel is located within 1.9 miles of White Water Bay and 6 miles of the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Guests praise the hotel for its great value, comfortable beds, and excellent coffee. It is part of the IHG group, which offers family-friendly amenities and pet-friendly policies in many of its hotels.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Oklahoma City Airport
This hotel is conveniently located near the airport and offers a beautifully designed food court. It provides a good deal for the price, although some reviews mention the surrounding area being a bit dirty.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Oklahoma City Airport
La Quinta Inn is a clean and friendly hotel located near the airport. It offers a hot and fresh breakfast, and the rooms, hallways, and dining areas are well-maintained.
These are just a few examples of the many hotels near Will Rogers World Airport. Each hotel offers unique features and amenities to cater to different preferences and budgets. Be sure to check the latest reviews and offerings before making your decision.
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Frequently asked questions
The airport first opened in 1911 as Oklahoma City Municipal Airfield and was renamed in honour of Oklahoma native, Will Rogers, in 1941. During World War II, it served as a major training facility for the US Army Air Forces.
The airport has two terminals, the Main Terminal and the West Concourse, with 17 and 5 gates, respectively. The West Concourse features a children's play area. The airport also offers a range of dining and shopping options, free Wi-Fi, and shuttle services.
Airport Express offers shuttle services to and from the airport. Alternatively, you can use a ride-sharing app like Uber to get to the airport.
The layout of the Main Terminal is straightforward, but it can get busy during peak hours, so arriving early is recommended. The airport also features world-class artwork on display throughout.
The airport recently underwent a renovation and expansion, with a new East Concourse completed in September 2021. In 2024, the airport announced plans to expand routes to Mexico and the Caribbean, with the first nonstop international destination to Cancun, Mexico, beginning in November 2025.
