The United States has some of the largest and busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. However, it also has many small airports that offer convenience, charm, and less hassle for travelers. These airports may not have all the amenities and services of their bigger counterparts, but they have their own advantages and features that make them worth visiting. Here are the top 10 smallest airports in the US, based on their area and passenger traffic.
Top 10 Smallest Airports in the US
#10. Cliff Hatfield Memorial Airport
Cliff Hatfield Memorial Airport is the tenth smallest airport in the US, located in California. It covers 1,860 acres and has one runway. It serves mainly general aviation flights for private pilots and charter operators. It is named after Cliff Hatfield, a former mayor of Calipatria who was an avid flyer.
#9. Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport
Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport is the ninth smallest airport in the US, located in California. It covers 1,850 acres and has two runways. It serves mainly general aviation flights for private pilots and charter operators. It is named after Jacqueline Cochran, a pioneering aviator who was the first woman to break the sound barrier.
#8. Imperial County Airport
Imperial County Airport is the eighth smallest airport in the US, located in California. It covers 1,370 acres and has two runways. It serves mainly regional flights to Los Angeles and Phoenix, operated by Mokulele Airlines and American Eagle respectively. It has a rating of 4 stars on Google for its low-cost parking and efficient security.
#7. Hays Regional Airport
Hays Regional Airport is the seventh smallest airport in the US, located in Kansas. It covers 1,080 acres and has two runways. It serves mainly regional flights to Denver, operated by United Express. It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google for its easy access and friendly service.
#6. Moritz Memorial Airport
Moritz Memorial Airport is the sixth smallest airport in the US, located in Kansas. It covers 1,040 acres and has one runway. It serves mainly general aviation flights for private pilots and charter operators. It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google for its clean facilities and helpful staff.
#5. Buffalo Niagara International Airport
Buffalo Niagara International Airport is the fifth smallest airport in the US, located in New York. It covers 1,000 acres and has one terminal and two runways. It serves mainly domestic flights to destinations such as New York City, Boston, Chicago and Las Vegas, operated by various airlines such as JetBlue, Southwest and American Airlines. It is undergoing a $65 million expansion project to improve its facilities and services.
#4. California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport
California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport is the fourth smallest airport in the US, located in California. It covers 745 acres and has two runways. It serves mainly regional flights to San Francisco, Los Angeles and Denver, operated by United Express and Avelo Airlines. It is situated near the Redwood National Park and offers scenic views of the coast and the forest.
#3. Morgantown Municipal Airport
Morgantown Municipal Airport is the third smallest airport in the US, located in West Virginia. It covers 494 acres and has one runway. It serves mainly local flights to Pittsburgh and Washington DC, operated by Southern Airways Express. It has one restaurant that offers free Wi-Fi and complimentary coffee, as well as meal selections for passengers’ convenience.
#2. Trenton-Mercer Airport
Morgantown Municipal Airport is the third smallest airport in the US, located in West Virginia. It covers 494 acres and has one runway. It serves mainly local flights to Pittsburgh and Washington DC, operated by Southern Airways Express. It has one restaurant that offers free Wi-Fi and complimentary coffee, as well as meal selections for passengers’ convenience.
#1. Dawson Community Airport
Located in Montana, Dawson Community Airport is the smallest airport in the US according to the Federal Aviation Administration. It covers only 413 acres and has one runway. It offers two daily flights to Montana and Billings, operated by Cape Air. Despite its small size, it has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google for its quick service and friendly staff.
Conclusion
These are the top 10 smallest airports in the US as of 2023. They may not be as big or busy as the major airports, but they have their own charm and benefits for travelers who prefer a more relaxed and convenient flying experience. Whether you are looking for low fares, scenic views, or friendly service, these airports can offer you something unique and memorable.
Most Asking Questions and Answers
Q: What is the smallest airport in the US by area?
A: The smallest airport in the US by area is Dawson Community Airport in Montana, which covers only 413 acres.
Q: What is the smallest airport in the US by passenger traffic?
A: The smallest airport in the US by passenger traffic is Moritz Memorial Airport in Kansas, which served only 1,200 passengers in 2019.
Q: What are the advantages of flying from a small airport?
A: Some of the advantages of flying from a small airport are:
- Less congestion and delays
- Shorter lines and waiting times
- Easier parking and access
- Cheaper fares and fees
- More personal and friendly service
- More scenic and peaceful surroundings
Q: What are the disadvantages of flying from a small airport?
A: Some of the disadvantages of flying from a small airport are:
- Limited flight options and destinations
- Fewer amenities and services
- Smaller planes and less comfort
- Higher risk of cancellations and disruptions
- Less security and safety measures