Maine has several airports, including three international options: Portland International Jetport, Bangor International Airport, and Presque Isle International Airport. These airports help connect Maine to the rest of the United States and to some international destinations. They also make it easy for visitors to explore all parts of the state.

There are also smaller regional airports throughout Maine that offer flights to major cities and important local destinations. Travelers can pick the airport that fits their trip best, whether they are coming for business, vacation, or to visit family. Knowing which airport to use can save both time and money when planning a trip to Maine.

Maine’s airports are known for being efficient and friendly. With less busy terminals than big-city airports, getting in and out is often quick and simple. Whether flying into southern Maine or to more northern areas, airports in Maine offer smooth travel options for everyone.

Overview of Maine Airports

Maine has a variety of airports that meet the needs of travelers, businesses, and the military. The airports are spread out across the state, from southern coastal cities to towns in northern and central regions.

Classification of Airports

Airports in Maine are divided into public-use, military, and general aviation categories.

Public-use airports serve commercial flights and are used by the general public. The busiest is the Portland International Jetport, which handles over 1.6 million passengers each year.

Military airports are reserved for defense purposes, while general aviation airports support small private planes, air ambulances, flight schools, and cargo.

A detailed list of airports in Maine breaks down each airport by type and location, helping users understand which airports fit their travel plans. Some facilities also offer both passenger and cargo services to support the regional economy.

Airport Distribution by Region

Maine’s airports are found in every region, providing travel options for both urban and rural areas.

In the south, the Portland International Jetport serves as the main hub for travelers flying in or out of Maine’s largest city. Central Maine features the Augusta State Airport, which connects the capital city.

Northern Maine is home to the Northern Maine Regional Airport in Presque Isle and the Bangor International Airport, which also handles many connecting flights.

This distribution helps connect remote communities to larger cities, and supports links to other states and Canada. Many airports have direct road access, making them easier to reach for residents across Maine.

Major International Airports in Maine

Maine’s busiest international airports handle most of the state’s passenger traffic and offer key connections for both domestic and limited international travel. They also serve as important access points for business, tourism, and, in some cases, support trans-Atlantic operations.

Portland International Jetport

Portland International Jetport (PWM) is the largest and most active airport in Maine. It is located just outside downtown Portland. This airport is the main hub for commercial flights in the state, handling over 2 million passengers in some years. It offers flights to many major cities in the eastern United States.

PWM has a modern terminal with amenities like free Wi-Fi, family restrooms, and several restaurants and shops. Airlines including Delta, American, Southwest, JetBlue, and United operate out of the Jetport. Most flights are domestic, but some airlines offer limited international service, mainly to Canada.

The Jetport’s location near Portland makes it an important gateway for both business and tourism. It is known for its convenience, short wait times, and easy parking. For more detailed information or updates, visit the official Portland International Jetport website.

Bangor International Airport

Bangor International Airport (BGR) is located in Bangor, central Maine. It is a key airport for travelers heading to northern or central parts of the state. BGR is well known for its large runway and history as a military airfield.

Today, the airport operates both passenger and cargo flights. Major airlines like American, Delta, and United offer regular service to cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Orlando. BGR is also notable for acting as a trans-Atlantic tech stop for international flights that need to refuel or handle emergencies.

The terminal offers basics like car rentals, luggage services, and a few places to eat. It is often praised for short lines and a friendly, easygoing atmosphere, making it popular for travelers seeking a smooth airport experience.

Primary Regional Airports

Two important regional airports in Maine connect the state’s more rural areas with larger cities. These airports handle commercial flights, general aviation, and offer services that make travel easier for residents and visitors.

Northern Maine Regional Airport

Northern Maine Regional Airport, located in Presque Isle, serves as a key air travel hub for northern Maine. It offers regular commercial flights, including routes to larger airports like Boston, making it easier for people to travel to and from this remote region. The airport code is PQI.

Facilities include a small terminal, baggage handling, rentals, and free parking. It is equipped to handle both passenger and cargo flights. Northern Maine Regional Airport also supports general aviation and charter flights.

Local businesses benefit from air service, and the airport helps connect communities in Aroostook County. For those traveling for business, family, or tourism, Northern Maine Regional Airport provides a convenient choice. Learn more about it and other regional hubs on the Maine airports map.

Knox County Regional Airport

Knox County Regional Airport is located in Owls Head, near Rockland, and serves the midcoast region of Maine. The airport code is RKD. It is known for its regular flights to Boston, along with charter and private aviation services.

Passengers use this airport especially when visiting the surrounding coastal towns or the islands off the coast, such as Vinalhaven and North Haven. Facilities include car rental, parking, and waiting areas.

Knox County Regional Airport supports tourism in the area by making travel more direct for visitors. The airport also helps local residents stay connected with bigger cities and allows for swift access in emergency situations. More information can be found on the Visit Maine airports guide.

Airports Serving Popular Destinations

Travelers wishing to explore Maine often look for airports that offer the best access to scenic and tourist-focused areas. Certain airports directly serve well-known locations, making them convenient entry points for visitors.

Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport

Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport is located close to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. This airport provides an easy way for visitors to reach one of Maine’s busiest tourist regions.

Bar Harbor is about 12 miles from the airport, and taxi or shuttle options are available. The airport offers seasonal commercial flights, making travel especially convenient during the busy months.

Airlines at this airport usually have flights connecting to larger northeast cities. Travelers can expect basic facilities like free Wi-Fi and car rental desks. For more details on flights and services, visit the Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport page.

State-Owned and Municipal Airports

Maine operates several airports owned by the state and local governments. These airports allow easy access for travelers and support regional economic activity.

Augusta State Airport

Augusta State Airport is a state-owned facility located in Augusta, Maine’s capital city. It is managed by the Maine Department of Transportation. The airport has a paved runway that supports both commercial and general aviation flights.

Cape Air offers daily scheduled service between Augusta and Boston. The airport also provides services for private pilots and serves as a hub for government-related flights. On-site, there is free parking and a passenger terminal with basic amenities.

Located close to downtown Augusta, it plays a key role for business and government travel. More details about this airport and others can be found at the MaineDOT Airports and Aviation page.

Facilities and Services at Maine Airports

Maine airports are designed to make air travel smooth and comfortable. They offer various amenities and ground transportation options to meet the needs of different travelers.

Passenger Amenities

Bangor International Airport offers easy-to-navigate terminals and provides services like free Wi-Fi, food courts, and comfortable waiting areas. Those using the Bangor International Airport will also find full international processing services for flights, along with dedicated lounges that can serve hundreds of passengers at a time.

At the Portland International Jetport, travelers will find user-friendly spaces, wheelchair accessibility, and a variety of restaurants and retail shops. Well-located restrooms and clear signage help passengers move through the terminal faster. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are available throughout the building.

Smaller airports, such as Auburn-Lewiston Airport, offer essential conveniences. These often include snacks, parking, and quick check-in processes. Local airports keep amenities simple to focus on moving passengers efficiently.

Main facilities checklist:

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and drink options
  • Comfortable lounges
  • Restrooms
  • Accessibility services

Ground Transportation Options

Travelers at larger Maine airports can use taxis, car rental counters, app-based ride services like Uber and Lyft, and dedicated shuttle buses. Portland International Jetport has drop-off and pick-up zones, short-term and long-term parking, and public transportation access, making it straightforward to reach downtown Portland.

Bangor International Airport provides ground transportation including rental cars, taxi stands, and local hotel shuttles. There are also parking lots near the terminals for both short stays and extended trips.

Many smaller Maine airports, such as Auburn-Lewiston Airport, offer free parking right next to the terminal and easy connections to local roads. Public buses or private transfer services may be available, though these options can vary depending on the location.

Ground transportation at a glance:

  • On-site car rentals
  • Taxis and ride-sharing
  • Airport shuttles
  • Public and private bus connections
  • Free or paid parking options

Airlines and Destinations

Airports in Maine offer direct flights to cities across the eastern and central United States. Travelers can also find seasonal service and charter options for added flexibility and convenience.

Domestic Routes

Portland International Jetport (PWM) is the busiest airport in Maine. It offers nonstop flights to cities such as New York, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Chicago. Major airlines include American, Delta, Southwest, United, and JetBlue.

Bangor International Airport (BGR) serves major hubs like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Airlines here include American Airlines, Delta, and United.

Northern Maine Regional Airport at Presque Isle (PQI) connects travelers with Boston.

Flight frequency varies, with more options to large cities during peak travel months. For more details on routes and carriers, visit the official Portland International Jetport or Bangor International Airport sites.

Seasonal and Charter Flights

During spring, summer, and early fall, airports in Maine often add seasonal flights. The Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) provides summer-only routes to Boston and some other East Coast cities.

Several airlines boost service to meet the demand from tourists visiting Maine’s coast and national parks. PWM and BGR may see extra flights to locations like Florida or Chicago during peak travel periods.

Charter flights are also available. Private charter companies operate from the state’s smaller airports, offering custom routes for business or leisure. These options are ideal for travelers seeking direct, flexible service or travelling to remote parts of Maine. Travelers can find a complete list of airports and their passenger services at Explore Maine by Air.

General Aviation in Maine

General aviation in Maine includes a mix of private flights, business travel, and pilot training. The state’s airports provide services for different kinds of aircraft and activities throughout the year.

Private and Corporate Flights

Maine has many airports that serve private and corporate flights. Larger facilities, like Bangor International Airport’s BGR Aviation, offer services for business jets, including fueling, hangar space, and crew lounges. Smaller airports, such as the Auburn-Lewiston Municipal Airport, cater to private pilots and charter companies.

Charter companies make it possible to reach coastal towns and rural areas not served by commercial airlines. Business travelers choose general aviation for flexible schedules and direct flights to city centers. Many airports have on-site fixed-base operators (FBOs) that provide maintenance, refueling, and ground transportation.

Key amenities often include:

  • Aircraft parking and tie-downs
  • Pilot lounges and briefing rooms
  • Rental cars and shuttle services

Some airports, like the Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, are especially active in the summer due to tourist demand.

Flight Schools and Training Centers

Several Maine airports have flight schools and training centers for those who want to become pilots. These schools offer programs ranging from private pilot certificates to advanced ratings. Instructors use small aircraft such as Cessna 172s and Piper Cherokees for most lessons.

Approved flight schools can be found at both large and smaller airports, including the Portland International Jetport and local airfields across the state. Students learn under different weather conditions, which helps them get comfortable flying in Maine’s changing seasons.

Programs often include:

  • Ground school classes
  • Simulator training
  • In-aircraft instruction

Flight training helps support Maine’s aviation workforce and ensures a steady supply of skilled pilots for the region.

Economic and Tourism Impact of Airports

Airports in Maine drive economic growth by supporting thousands of jobs, local businesses, and key industries. They also connect the state to tourists and business travelers, boosting visitor spending and creating more opportunities across communities.

Jobs and Local Development

Maine’s airports contribute to the economy through jobs in airlines, maintenance, ground services, and airport management. In cities like Bar Harbor, the airport is a major employer and helps deliver goods, mail, and medical supplies. Charter and air taxi services also play an important role, especially for island communities.

Major airports attract aviation-related businesses and bring in outside investment. Local restaurants, hotels, and shops benefit from airport employees and travelers. For many rural areas, airports drive access to health services, emergency flights, and commercial deliveries. According to a recent state study, public airports in Maine help generate significant yearly economic activity and support local development.

Here are some of the key roles airports play in the local economy:

  • Direct employment for aviation staff and contractors
  • Support for mail and supply chains
  • Stimulus for construction and facility improvements

Tourism and Business Travel

Tourism depends on reliable air service to Maine’s most visited locations, including Bar Harbor and the coastal region. Each year, millions of visitors arrive by air, especially during peak seasons. They spend money on hotels, food, tours, and shopping, making tourism a leading economic force in the region.

In 2023, Maine welcomed over 15 million visitors who spent more than $9 billion, even though the total number of travelers was slightly lower than in 2022. Spending grew as visitors stayed longer and spent more per trip, according to the Maine Office of Tourism.

Airport access also attracts business travel, meetings, and conferences. These travelers often use car rentals, conference centers, and local services, bringing even more revenue to the state. Improved flight options make Maine a more appealing destination for both leisure and work-related trips.

Future Developments and Expansions

Airports in Maine are about to see major changes in their terminals and facilities. New projects are focused on upgrading infrastructure and adopting more sustainable practices.

Planned Infrastructure Upgrades

Several Maine airports are investing in expanded and modernized terminals to handle more passengers and improve service. Presque Isle International Airport has a plan for a new two-story terminal, covering about 30,000 square feet and costing $53 million. This upgrade will include new amenities like larger waiting areas, improved security, and better baggage handling. Read more about Presque Isle’s plans for a new airport terminal.

Portland International Jetport is spending nearly $5 million on passenger terminal upgrades, a better parking garage, and changes to flight paths. These efforts aim to make travel smoother and support future growth. Eastport Municipal Airport will also get more than $1 million for a new terminal building to replace its older facility. Together, these upgrades will improve comfort and efficiency at Maine’s key airports. For more details about recent funding for these improvements, visit the terminal upgrades summary.

Sustainability Initiatives

Maine airports are working to reduce their impact on the environment. Portland International Jetport developed a Sustainable Airport Master Plan that guides future capital improvements with a focus on sustainability.

These efforts include energy-saving building designs, better waste management, and expanded use of green spaces around the terminals. Airports are introducing energy-efficient lighting, low-water landscaping, and plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting these technologies and standards, Maine airports hope to support clean air and a healthier local environment for both travelers and nearby communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Maine is served by several airports that offer both domestic and some international flights. Travelers can find information about airline options, airport locations, and details on which airlines serve the state.

What are the major airports located in Maine?

The main airports in Maine are Portland International Jetport (PWM), Bangor International Airport (BGR), and Augusta State Airport (AUG). These airports offer scheduled passenger flights and handle most of Maine’s air traffic. Portland International Jetport is the largest airport in the state.

Which airlines offer direct flights to Maine?

Several major airlines provide direct flights to Maine. These include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. JetBlue and Southwest operate seasonally to some destinations. The available routes connect to cities such as New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

How many international airports are there in Maine?

Maine has two international airports. They are Portland International Jetport and Bangor International Airport. Both airports offer customs services and can receive flights from outside the United States, though most international flights are charter or seasonal.

What is the nearest airport to Acadia National Park?

The closest airport to Acadia National Park is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB). It is located in Trenton, Maine, about 10 miles from the park entrance. This airport offers direct flights from Boston and other regional hubs, especially during the tourist season.

What is the airport code for the principal airport in Maine?

The main airport in Maine is Portland International Jetport. Its airport code is PWM. This code is used when booking flights, checking in, and finding baggage claim information.

Which airports in Maine provide service from Southwest Airlines?

Portland International Jetport is the only airport in Maine that currently offers service from Southwest Airlines. Southwest may operate seasonal routes, so it is best to check for availability during the time of travel. No other airports in Maine have regular Southwest flights.