Bangor International Airport (IATA: BGR – ICAO: KBGR) is a regional airport in Bangor, Maine. It serves as a key gateway for travelers in the northeastern United States. Positioned just 5 kilometres (3 miles) west of downtown Bangor, the airport is known for its strategic location as a technical stop for transatlantic flights and its strong military and general aviation presence.
BGR handles over 500,000 passengers annually and provides a mix of domestic commercial service, general aviation operations, and U.S. Customs preclearance for international arrivals.
Located on the west side of Bangor, it provides important access for residents and visitors, making travel smoother in this part of Maine. Its mixed civil-military use adds to its unique role in the area. Bangor International Airport stands out as a practical choice for travelers looking for reliable and local airport options.
Recent events, like a flight from Athens to Washington D.C. diverting to Bangor, highlight the airport’s preparedness and strategic position on flight routes. Many appreciate the airport for its accessibility and the way it serves the community. More details about its services and role can be found at Bangor International Airport’s official page.
Contents
- 1 General Information
- 2 Airport Details
- 3 Flight Operations
- 4 Contact Information
- 5 Passenger Information
- 6 Facilities and Amenities
- 7 Airlines and Destinations
- 8 Ground Transportation and Parking
- 9 History and Future Developments
- 10 Local Attractions Near Bangor International Airport
- 11 Travel Tips
- 12 Frequently Asked Questions
- 12.1 What airline services are available at Bangor International Airport?
- 12.2 How do I navigate the terminal map at Bangor International Airport?
- 12.3 Where can I find the arrival schedule for Bangor International Airport?
- 12.4 Are there international flights at Bangor International Airport?
- 12.5 What are the parking options at Bangor International Airport?
- 12.6 How many terminals are present at Bangor International Airport?
- 12.7 Related
General Information
Location: Bangor, Maine
Country: United States
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: BGR
ICAO Code: KBGR
Elevation: 192 feet (59 metres)
Coordinates: 44°48′27″N 68°49′42″W
Timezone: UTC−5 (EST) / UTC−4 (EDT during Daylight Saving Time)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 5 km (3 miles) west of downtown Bangor
Website: www.flybangor.com
Operator: City of Bangor
Services: Domestic scheduled flights, transatlantic diversions, general aviation, military
Airport Details
Runways: 1
Runway Designations and Lengths:
15/33: 3,230 m (10,600 ft) – Asphalt
Runway Surface: Asphalt
Runway Strength: Supports all aircraft up to Code E and emergency diversions of Code F
Fire Services: ARFF Category 9
Tower Frequency: Available
Ground Frequency: Available
Navigation Aids: ILS, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available 24/7
Aircraft Types: Regional jets, narrow-body, wide-body, military, and general aviation
Terminals: 1 passenger terminal
Cargo Facilities: Basic cargo handling available
Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
FBOs: Bangor Aviation Services
Equipment: GPU, potable water, lavatory, hangar space, de-icing
Ground Services: Commercial, military, and general aviation support
Flight Operations
Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA with CBP coordination
Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled and foreign-registered aircraft
Slots: Not required
Aircraft Types: All types up to wide-body and military aircraft
Alternate Airports:
PWM: Portland International Jetport
PQI: Presque Isle International Airport
BOS: Boston Logan International Airport
Contact Information
Enquiries: +1 207-992-4600
Email: info@flybangor.com
FBO Coordination: Via Bangor Aviation Services
Passenger Information
Immigration Requirements: U.S. visa, ESTA, or passport as required
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa/ESTA if applicable
Transport Options: Taxis, rental cars, hotel shuttles, limited public bus access
Nearby Accommodation:
Close to Airport: Bangor Aviator Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Bangor Airport
In Bangor: Residence Inn Bangor, Hollywood Casino Hotel, Fairfield Inn Bangor
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); major credit cards accepted
Facilities and Amenities
The airport has two main terminals: international and domestic. The domestic terminal has two levels. The upper level handles departures and arrivals, while the lower level covers ticketing, check-in, baggage claim, and car rentals.
Facilities include restaurants, shops, and waiting areas designed to make travel comfortable. Services such as rental car counters and parking garages are also available on-site for passenger convenience.
The airport is staffed year-round, seven days a week. It maintains a clean, organized environment for families, business travelers, and leisure visitors.
Airport Codes and Statistics
Bangor International Airport’s FAA and IATA code is BGR. Its ICAO code is KBGR. It features one main runway, numbered 15/33, 11,440 feet (3,487 meters) long, which can accommodate large commercial and cargo aircraft.
The airport is located at an elevation of 192 feet. It is equipped with an air traffic control tower that operates during daily hours all year round.
Bangor International Airport handles commercial, private, and military flights. It has customs facilities for international arrivals and supports general aviation and commercial passengers. Their official fact sheet provides more details about customs and CBP procedures.
Airlines and Destinations
Bangor International Airport serves several airlines and offers flights to multiple cities. It supports passenger and cargo transport, connecting the region with key locations across the U.S. and some international destinations.
Domestic Flights
The airport provides regular nonstop service to important U.S. cities. Airlines like American, Delta, United, and Allegiant frequently fly from Bangor to hubs such as New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Orlando. These flights cover business and leisure travel needs.
Passengers can directly reach major East Coast cities, including Washington, DC, Charlotte, and Newark. The airport focuses on convenient schedules and reliable connections for travelers heading to popular destinations within the United States.
International Services
While primarily a domestic airport, Bangor International also handles limited international flights. Some airlines connect Bangor to destinations outside the U.S., mainly for passenger transfers and seasonal travel.
The airport is a customs entry port that supports international arrivals and departures. Its strategic location allows it to serve as a gateway for select international routes, though these services are not as extensive as domestic flights.
Cargo Operations
Bangor International Airport plays a vital role in cargo transport. It handles air freight with regular shipments from carriers that support the regional economy.
The airport’s cargo facilities offer efficient handling and storage for various goods. This supports businesses in the area by providing timely air shipment options, including express and bulk cargo services. The cargo sector is a key part of the airport’s operations.
Ground Transportation and Parking
Bangor International Airport offers several options for travelers to reach their destinations. Visitors can use public transit services, rent cars on-site, or park in designated airport lots.
Public Transit Options
Public transportation is available to and from Bangor International Airport, helping passengers save money and avoid driving. Local bus routes connect the airport to downtown Bangor and nearby areas. Schedules vary, so travelers should check current timetables before planning their trips.
Shuttle services operate regularly between the airport terminal and certain parts of the city. These shuttles offer a convenient alternative for travelers without private vehicles. Taxi services and ride-share options like Uber and Lyft are also available outside the terminal, providing flexible travel choices.
Car Rentals
Several major car rental companies have offices at Bangor International Airport. Travelers can book vehicles in advance or directly at the airport. Rental desks are located inside the terminal for easy access.
Available vehicles include economy cars, SUVs, and trucks to match passenger needs. Renters must bring a valid driver’s license and a credit card. Rates vary depending on rental length and vehicle type. Car rentals offer convenient mobility for those planning to explore the region or travel beyond the airport area.
Parking Facilities
Bangor International Airport provides both short-term and long-term parking options. The main parking area is the Monty Moose Lot, which charges $12.00 per day and is convenient for travelers needing easy terminal access.
Long-term parking is located off Godfrey Boulevard. Rates are $1.00 per half-hour or part of it, with a daily maximum of $12. A free shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes between the long-term lot and the terminal, making transfers smooth and straightforward.
Here is a quick overview of the parking:
| Lot Name | Rate | Access | Shuttle Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monty Moose Lot | $12.00 per day | Near terminal | Yes, every 10-15 minutes |
| Long-Term Lot | $1.00 per half-hour | Off Godfrey Boulevard | Yes, every 10-15 minutes |
History and Future Developments
Bangor International Airport has a long history shaped by military and civilian use. It continues evolving, with recent upgrades and plans to improve travel and infrastructure.
Historical Significance
The airport began as Godfrey Field in 1927, named after Edward Rawson Godfrey, who owned the land. During World War II, it became a military base known as Dow Air Force Base. This role remained important for many years. Even today, Bangor International Airport hosts the 101st Air Refueling Wing of the Maine Air National Guard.
Its military past helped build a strong infrastructure supporting commercial and military flight operations. The airport’s location in Maine is a key refueling and stopover point for transatlantic flights.
Recent Upgrades
Bangor International Airport is undergoing significant improvements to enhance the passenger experience and airport infrastructure. Two ongoing projects will cost more than $59 million together.
These upgrades focus on renovating the terminal, improving runways, and updating airfield facilities. The goal is to modernize key areas, making operations smoother for passengers and airlines.
Work includes better passenger amenities and state-of-the-art technology to speed up boarding and baggage handling. The airport also aims to improve safety features during these upgrades.
Planned Expansions
Plans include further terminal modernization and expanding runway capacity over the next few years. These efforts will support increased flight traffic and improve the airport’s efficiency.
Bangor International Airport also invests in infrastructure to support larger aircraft and more frequent flights. This expansion will help the airport meet growing demand and enhance its role as a regional hub.
A focus on sustainability and energy efficiency is likely in planned projects, aligning with broader industry trends.
Detailed project timelines are available on the Bangor International Airport website.
Local Attractions Near Bangor International Airport
Bangor Waterfront
A scenic area along the Penobscot River, offering walking paths, event venues, and open-air concerts.
Stephen King’s House
Famous home of the iconic horror writer, and a photo stop for literature fans.
Cole Land Transportation Museum
A museum showcasing Maine’s history of trucks, trains, and snowplows.
Maine Discovery Museum
A family-friendly science and learning center ideal for young travelers.
Bangor City Forest
Over 600 acres of forest and trails, perfect for walking, biking, and nature observation.
Acadia National Park (Nearby)
It is one of the top national parks in the U.S., located about an hour away, and is excellent for day trips and scenic drives.
Travel Tips
Best Times to Visit:
May–Oct: Mild weather and access to nearby outdoor destinations
Winter: Quiet and snowy, ideal for those who enjoy winter sports
Additional Notes:
BGR is well-known as a refueling and diversion stop for transatlantic flights
Military and charter operations are frequent
Easy navigation and short lines make for a quick airport experience
24/7 CBP and ample runway length support long-haul international arrivals
Frequently Asked Questions
Bangor International Airport offers various airline services, a clear terminal layout, and up-to-date flight information. It has facilities to support both domestic and international flights. Parking choices cater to short-term and long-term needs.
What airline services are available at Bangor International Airport?
The airport serves several commercial airlines that provide daily flights to major cities. It also supports cargo and private aviation services.
The terminal is designed for easy navigation with clear signs and maps available online and inside the building. Passengers can find information desks to assist when needed.
Where can I find the arrival schedule for Bangor International Airport?
Arrival times and flight statuses are posted on the airport’s official website. Travelers can check real-time updates under the flight status section.
Are there international flights at Bangor International Airport?
Yes, the airport handles some international flights, mainly to Canada. It has customs facilities to process passengers arriving from abroad.
What are the parking options at Bangor International Airport?
Multiple parking lots provide short-term and long-term parking. Rates and availability can be found on the airport’s parking information page.
How many terminals are present at Bangor International Airport?
Bangor International Airport has a single terminal that includes all passenger services and airline counters, simplifying travel within the airport.
