North Carolina is home to over 100 public use airports, connecting cities and towns across the state with the rest of the country. These airports range from large international hubs to smaller regional airfields, giving travelers plenty of options whether flying for business or leisure. Notable airports include the busy Charlotte Douglas International Airport and Raleigh-Durham International Airport, both serving millions of passengers each year.

The state’s airport network is essential for commerce, tourism, and quick travel between regions. In addition to the major airports, there are also smaller general aviation and regional airports like Pitt-Greenville Regional Airport and Rocky Mount–Wilson Regional Airport, making air travel accessible throughout North Carolina. For a complete breakdown, you can find a detailed list of airports in North Carolina.

With an organized system of major and local airports, North Carolina supports both international connections and local flights. This variety makes it convenient for residents and visitors to reach their destinations quickly and safely.

Contents

Overview of North Carolina’s Airport System

North Carolina’s network of airports includes commercial hubs and smaller general aviation fields. These airports support travel, business, and economic development across both rural and urban areas.

Classification of Airports

North Carolina’s airport system is made up of a mix of airport types. There are 72 publicly owned, public-use airports. These include 10 airports classified as commercial service airports (also called primary airports), where airlines offer scheduled passenger flights. They serve cities such as Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, and Wilmington.

The remaining airports in the system are mainly general aviation airports. These support private pilots, flight training, emergency services, and air cargo. Additionally, there are hundreds of private-use airfields, but they are not included in the main public system. For a detailed list, see the NC Airports Association airports directory.

Role in State and Regional Economy

Airports in North Carolina drive economic growth by connecting communities with the rest of the state and country. Major airports like Charlotte Douglas International are gateways for business travel and tourism.

General aviation airports play a key role for smaller businesses, medical flights, and local activities. They often help attract new companies, support local industries, and keep supply chains moving. Airports also support jobs in aviation services, maintenance, and airport operations.

The broader airport system adds value by making it easier for companies to locate in different parts of the state. These connections make North Carolina an attractive place for both business and residents. The impact is clear in both large cities and rural regions.

Key Aviation Statistics

North Carolina’s airport system reports a range of important aviation figures. There are 72 public-use airports in the state airport system. Of those, 10 are commercial service (air carrier) airports and the rest are general aviation airports that do not have regular airline service.

In total, the state includes nearly 500 airports if private-use airfields are counted. The wide network supports millions of passengers every year at bigger terminals like Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham. General aviation airports see heavy use from private pilots and small aircraft operators.

For more figures and an overview, see the NC Department of Transportation’s State of Aviation report.

Major International Airports in North Carolina

North Carolina has several key airports that offer domestic and international flights. These airports serve millions of passengers each year and connect the state to both national and global destinations.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, located in Charlotte, North Carolina. It serves as a major hub for American Airlines, making it an important stop for travelers heading across the country and overseas.

The airport offers non-stop flights to Europe, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. With four runways and a large terminal, it handles over 50 million passengers annually.

Travelers will find many services, including free Wi-Fi, multiple dining options, and parking facilities. Charlotte Douglas International also provides easy access to car rentals and public transportation, allowing for smooth travel throughout the Charlotte area.

For more on services and connections, visit the Charlotte Douglas International Airport page.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport

Raleigh-Durham International Airport serves the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. It offers many direct flights within the United States and to international locations such as London and Paris.

The airport is split into two main terminals, each equipped with shops, food choices, and comfortable waiting areas. Security is efficient, and the airport is known for its helpful staff.

Raleigh-Durham is about 15 miles from downtown Raleigh, close to major highways, and connected to local bus services. Parking and rideshare options are easy to find.

Frequent upgrades ensure modern amenities for all travelers. To see current flight options and airport facilities, check the Raleigh-Durham International Airport details.

Piedmont Triad International Airport

Piedmont Triad International Airport serves the region including Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and High Point. Located in Greensboro, this airport is an important choice for flyers in central and northern North Carolina.

Piedmont Triad offers commercial flights to large cities like Atlanta, Dallas, and New York. While its international reach is limited, it plays a vital role in business travel and cargo operations.

The airport is easy to navigate, with short walking distances and simple layouts. Travelers benefit from quick parking, friendly staff, and less crowded terminals.

Business travelers often prefer this airport for its efficiency. Learn more from the Piedmont Triad International Airport section online.

Wilmington International Airport

Wilmington International Airport is found near Wilmington and the coast of southeastern North Carolina. It provides an important link for travelers going to the beach, as well as business and military trips.

Wilmington International handles more than one million passengers a year. It offers nonstop flights to major cities like Atlanta, New York, and Dallas, and connects to other large airports for international travel.

Facilities include a modern terminal, expanded parking, and car rental options. Customer service is a focus, with helpful information desks and easy boarding.

The airport supports both leisure and business needs for southeastern North Carolina. Details can be found at the Wilmington International Airport information page.

Key Regional and Municipal Airports

North Carolina’s key regional and municipal airports serve commercial travelers, connect to major hubs, and provide important services for local communities and businesses. These airports play a central role in supporting tourism, commerce, and regional transportation.

Asheville Regional Airport

Asheville Regional Airport is about 9 miles south of downtown Asheville. It serves western North Carolina and is a gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Airlines at this airport offer direct flights to major cities such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, and Denver.

The terminal has multiple gates, rental car options, and conveniences like food vendors and free Wi-Fi. The airport is known for its efficient check-in procedures and manageable traffic. Asheville Regional also sees growth in passenger numbers due to the region’s popularity with tourists.

Airlines flying here include American, Delta, Allegiant, and United. Parking options range from economy to short-term lots. The airport is close to I-26, making road access simple for residents and visitors.

Fayetteville Regional Airport

Fayetteville Regional Airport, also known as Fayetteville Regional Grannis Field, is about 5 miles south of downtown Fayetteville. It is the primary airport for Cumberland County and much of southeastern North Carolina. The airport has commercial service with carriers such as American Airlines and Delta.

Facilities include two runways, a modern terminal, car rental services, and a café. Free Wi-Fi and business workstations are available for travelers. The airport’s size allows quick check-in and baggage claim experiences.

Fayetteville Regional offers nonstop flights to major hubs like Charlotte and Atlanta. It is also important to the local military community, supporting Fort Liberty (previously Fort Bragg) and surrounding areas. The airport is located near key highways, making it accessible for daily travelers.

Coastal Carolina Regional Airport

Coastal Carolina Regional Airport is located in New Bern and serves coastal North Carolina including Craven, Pamlico, and Carteret Counties. It is close to destinations like Atlantic Beach and Emerald Isle, making it popular among tourists and local residents.

The terminal is modern and offers amenities such as a café, a business center, and car rental agencies. Travelers can connect through direct flights to Charlotte and other cities. Airlines serving the airport include American Eagle.

Parking is available in both short-term and long-term lots at affordable rates. Coastal Carolina Regional is a vital hub for both commercial flights and general aviation in eastern North Carolina. Its proximity to major highways adds to its convenience for residents and visitors.

Albert J. Ellis Airport

Albert J. Ellis Airport is west of Jacksonville, North Carolina, and serves Onslow County. This airport is key for both leisure and business travel, especially for military and family members at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.

The airport terminal was updated in recent years with new passenger facilities, expanded ticketing areas, and more comfortable waiting spaces. Airlines like American and Delta run daily flights to hubs such as Charlotte and Atlanta.

Free Wi-Fi, car rentals, and ample parking are available on site. The airport’s design allows for fast screening and ease of navigation. Albert J. Ellis is positioned near US Highway 258, making it easy for travelers to reach popular beach towns or military installations. For more on North Carolina’s airports, visit this comprehensive list of airports in the state.

General Aviation and Executive Airports

North Carolina is home to many modern general aviation airports that support business flights, private pilots, and flight schools. These facilities often feature long runways, hangar space, and on-site services like fueling and maintenance.

Raleigh Executive Jetport

Raleigh Executive Jetport serves corporate, charter, and recreational flyers in the Raleigh area. This airport is located just south of Raleigh, making it popular with those needing quick access to the Research Triangle.

A main feature is its long, 6,500-foot runway, which handles both small aircraft and midsize jets. The airport offers self-serve and full-service fueling options, aircraft maintenance, and hangar rentals. Users benefit from a staffed fixed base operator (FBO) that provides conference rooms, pilot lounges, and rental cars.

Flight training is available with certified instructors, and many students use the facility for both private and commercial licenses. The airport is managed by a local authority focused on maintaining high service standards and safety.

Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport

Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport is in Union County, east of Charlotte. It mainly supports general aviation, including business and private flights. This airport has an extensive ramp area and modern hangar facilities, which are suitable for corporate jets and smaller planes.

The runway is 7,000 feet long, which allows for larger aircraft and gives flexibility for various operations. The site is known for its efficient fixed base operator (FBO) that provides fueling, aircraft cleaning, and passenger amenities such as meeting rooms and a comfortable waiting area.

Flight schools, including the Academy of Aviation, have a presence here, offering programs for new pilots and advanced certifications. The airport is committed to helping local businesses and supporting economic growth in the region.

Statesville Regional Airport

Statesville Regional Airport is a key airport in western North Carolina. It handles various general aviation activities, from corporate travel to flight instruction. The airport is known for its easy access from nearby highways and its proximity to Charlotte and Hickory.

With an 7,006-foot runway, it can accommodate jets, turboprops, and smaller aircraft. Users benefit from a top-rated fixed base operator, as well as services like aircraft maintenance and avionics repair. The airport offers rental space for both aircraft and aviation-related businesses.

Several air charter and air ambulance operators are based here, and the airport is frequently used by NASCAR teams for travel to races. There are also advanced training opportunities through local flight schools.

Smith Reynolds Airport

Smith Reynolds Airport is located in Winston-Salem. It has a long history of supporting both general aviation and some commercial services. The airport has a 6,655-foot runway and numerous taxiways and aprons that make it easy to handle multiple aircraft.

The airport is home to several businesses, including maintenance providers, aircraft paint shops, and avionics shops. It also features a full-service fixed base operator with fueling, conference rooms, hangars, and crew amenities.

Flight training is available through several schools, and the location is popular with both corporate and recreational flyers. The airport supports economic development in Winston-Salem and continues to expand its facilities and services.

Coastal and Island Airports

North Carolina’s coast has several airports that make beach towns and island communities easy to reach. These airports support tourism and offer quick access for both visitors and locals.

Cape Fear Regional Jetport

Cape Fear Regional Jetport (also called KSUT) is located on Oak Island. The airport serves both general aviation and small commercial traffic. It is close to beach towns like Southport and Caswell Beach, making it convenient for tourists.

The runway is paved and can handle small jets and propeller planes. Services include aircraft fueling, tie-downs, and maintenance. The airport also has a terminal building with a lobby, restrooms, and rental car options.

Pilots like this airport because of its clear approach paths and good weather for flying most of the year. Its location makes travel easier for those visiting Oak Island and the southern coast.

Odell Williamson Municipal Airport

Odell Williamson Municipal Airport is found near Ocean Isle Beach. This airport is managed by the town and focuses on general aviation rather than commercial airline service.

It features a single asphalt runway that accommodates private planes, flight schools, and charter flights. On-site services include fueling (AVGAS and Jet A), courtesy cars, and a pilot’s lounge.

Its location is just a few miles from the Atlantic Ocean, giving travelers fast access to Ocean Isle Beach and local resorts. Events like annual fly-ins also make it popular among aviation groups.

Billy Mitchell Airport

Billy Mitchell Airport is on Hatteras Island, located inside Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The airport is controlled by the National Park Service and mainly serves private pilots and small planes.

It has a single paved runway and basic amenities, such as parking and tie-downs. There are no commercial flights, but the airport is crucial for quick access to Hatteras, especially for visitors and emergency services.

Wildlife and national seashore views are key draws for pilots. The remote setting makes it unique among North Carolina airports. Billy Mitchell Airport helps connect the Outer Banks to the rest of the state and provides a gateway to the national seashore.

Regional Reliever and County Airports

Many airports in North Carolina support travel, business, and emergency services in their local areas. These airports vary in size and purpose, but each plays a vital role in connecting their communities and boosting the local economy.

Rocky Mount Wilson Regional Airport

Rocky Mount Wilson Regional Airport is located in Nash County, near the city of Rocky Mount. It offers a single, paved runway that is well-suited for small jets and propeller planes. The airport mainly serves general aviation, but it also supports charter flights and air taxi services. There are modern navigational aids and weather services available for pilots.

A Fixed Base Operator (FBO) is on site to provide fuel, maintenance, and pilot amenities. Businesses in the region rely on the airport for quick connections to other states. Rocky Mount Wilson Regional also has hangar rentals and tie-down spaces for private aircraft. Its central location to Rocky Mount and Wilson makes it a popular choice for business travelers and local pilots. The airport is included in the statewide aviation system as a key facility for regional air access.

Rowan County Airport

Rowan County Airport, sometimes referred to as Mid-Carolina Regional, is situated a few miles southwest of Salisbury. Its single, long runway can handle small jets, turboprops, and general aviation aircraft. The airport is managed by Rowan County and was modernized in recent years to improve its services and safety systems.

A full-service FBO offers fuel, crew lounges, and flight planning support. The airport also has several hangars and sites for aircraft storage. Maintenance and flight training operations are available on site. Local businesses use the airport for shipping, meetings, and travel. Community events, such as air shows and educational tours, are hosted at Rowan County Airport, bringing more attention and use to the facility. Its location along I-85 makes it easy to reach for residents and visitors.

Halifax-Northampton Regional Airport

Halifax-Northampton Regional Airport serves both Halifax and Northampton counties and is located near the town of Halifax. It features a well-maintained, lighted runway that supports single and twin-engine aircraft. The airport caters to general aviation, supporting business, tourism, and emergency flights.

A self-service fuel station offers avgas and jet fuel around the clock. The airport has a terminal building with a waiting area, restrooms, and meeting space. Halifax-Northampton Regional is especially important for connecting rural areas to larger cities in North Carolina and beyond. Agricultural aviation and aerial survey flights are also common here. The airport is part of the state’s publicly owned aviation network, helping meet the region’s transportation needs.

Richmond County Airport

Richmond County Airport is positioned in the southern Piedmont region, close to Rockingham. It has two runways, allowing it to support a range of aircraft from small planes to midsize jets. The airport primarily serves business travelers, personal aviation, and some cargo operations.

A local FBO provides fueling, maintenance, and pilot supplies. Richmond County Airport features aircraft hangars and tie-down spots. The airport is used by medical evacuation helicopters, fire and rescue teams, and flight training schools. Its location near U.S. Highway 74 makes it accessible for transport and shipping. Richmond County Airport also supports tourism and local economic development by helping move people and goods efficiently. For more information about North Carolina’s regional airports, visit the List of airports in North Carolina.

Airports in the Charlotte Metropolitan Area

The Charlotte metropolitan area is home to several important airports that serve the city’s travelers, businesses, and aviation needs. Each airport has unique features, services, and types of traffic, making them valuable to both commercial and general aviation.

Gastonia Municipal Airport

Gastonia Municipal Airport is located west of Charlotte in Gastonia, North Carolina. It is a public airport mainly used for general aviation. The airport offers a 3,770-foot asphalt runway, which is suitable for small aircraft, private pilots, flight training, and medical flights.

Common services at Gastonia Municipal Airport include aircraft fueling, hangar rentals, and maintenance. The airport does not handle commercial airline service but supports local businesses and personal flights. Pilots can also access weather information and limited terminal facilities.

Gastonia’s airport is frequently used by business travelers and flying clubs. It is a choice for those seeking a less busy alternative to larger airports. The location is convenient for Gastonia residents and nearby towns.

Charlotte Municipal Airport

Charlotte Municipal Airport served as the original airport for Charlotte, NC. It opened in the late 1930s and played a major role in moving people and cargo in the region. Early commercial airlines flew from Charlotte Municipal, which helped grow the city as an air travel hub.

Eventually, the airport was expanded and modernized, later becoming Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Today, the original buildings no longer serve as the main terminals, but the location remains central to the city’s aviation history. It established Charlotte as a key player in eastern U.S. air travel.

Though no longer active under the “Charlotte Municipal Airport” name, the site’s legacy can still be seen in the growth and success of its successor airport, which continues to serve millions each year.

Douglas Municipal Airport

Douglas Municipal Airport is now known as Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the largest airport in the Charlotte metropolitan area and one of the busiest in the United States. It is located about eight miles west of downtown Charlotte.

The airport features multiple runways, large passenger terminals, and international and domestic flights. Major airlines operate out of Douglas, with American Airlines using it as a major hub. The airport includes shops, restaurants, rental cars, and parking for travelers.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport connects the region to destinations across the country and worldwide. It plays a crucial role in business, tourism, and economic growth for Charlotte and the surrounding area. Travelers appreciate the efficient layout and variety of services offered at the airport.

Military and Special Purpose Airfields

North Carolina has a range of military and special purpose airfields used for training, medical transport, and support for military operations. These sites help connect personnel, support medical emergencies, and assist in regional defense.

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune is located near Jacksonville, North Carolina. It covers about 246 square miles and includes miles of beaches and training grounds. The base is a vital area for the U.S. Marine Corps, used for training, mobilization, and deployment of troops.

Within Camp Lejeune, several airfields and landing zones support operations. These fields handle all types of aircraft, including helicopters and cargo planes. The base’s runways and pads allow for rapid movement of equipment and supplies.

Camp Lejeune is also important for joint training exercises with other branches of the military. Its airfields serve a key role in moving Marines and equipment to and from other locations. The site helps the military stay ready for both combat and relief missions.

Hoke Community Hospital Heliport

Hoke Community Hospital Heliport is a small medical heliport located near Raeford, North Carolina. It is owned by Hoke Community Hospital and is used mainly for air medical services. The heliport is important for emergency medical flights.

Patients in serious condition can be flown to larger trauma centers much faster from this facility. The heliport is not used for commercial flights or general aviation. Only helicopters, such as air ambulances, land here.

Staff at the heliport work closely with medical teams and flight crews to provide fast and safe patient transfers. The facility has basic lighting and safety systems to allow for quick takeoffs and landings in urgent situations.

Airport Operations and Infrastructure

Airport operations in North Carolina rely on both strong infrastructure and efficient services. Facilities and systems are designed to meet the needs of commercial airlines, private aviation, and cargo transportation.

Runway and Hangar Facilities

Major North Carolina airports like Charlotte Douglas International and Raleigh-Durham International have multiple runways to support high volumes of aircraft. Runways are built to handle different types of planes, from small general aviation aircraft to large commercial jets. Most runways are paved and regularly maintained for safety.

Hangar space is important for storing and protecting aircraft. Large airports offer various hangar options, including corporate hangars, T-hangars for smaller planes, and maintenance hangars. Smaller regional airports often provide less hangar space but cater to private pilots and businesses. Airports like Currituck County Regional Airport focus on serving general aviation and offer hangar rentals to the public.

Many airports have illuminated runways and taxiways, which allow operations day and night. Modern infrastructure helps lower delays and keeps flights running on time.

Traffic and Capacity

Airports in North Carolina hosted millions of passengers and thousands of cargo flights last year. Charlotte Douglas International is the busiest airport in the state, serving as a hub for major airlines and handling more than 100,000 daily passengers before the pandemic.

Raleigh-Durham International and Piedmont Triad International also support high traffic and frequent commercial flights. These airports have wide terminals, multiple concourses, and expanded parking to meet growing capacity.

Smaller airports handle less traffic but remain vital for local communities. Their runways and terminal sizes are built to match their specific passenger or cargo capacities. Busy airports may have more congestion during peak hours, but 24-hour terminal operations and early opening TSA checkpoints help manage flow.

Fixed Based Operators

Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) are businesses that provide ground services for general aviation at airports. These services include fueling, aircraft parking, hangar rentals, maintenance, and flight planning help.

North Carolina’s major airports generally have multiple FBOs, offering competitive options for pilots and private aircraft owners. Services vary, but may include luxury passenger lounges, car rentals, and catering.

At smaller airports, FBOs play an important role in supporting local pilots and business travelers. Amenities may be simpler but still include essentials like fuel, hangar access, and meeting spaces. FBOs help keep general aviation active and accessible across the state.

Codes and Identifiers

Airports in North Carolina use several systems to identify and describe each location. Each airport usually has a set of codes along with important data such as its coordinates and elevation. These identifiers help pilots, airlines, and travelers stay organized and safe.

IATA and ICAO Codes

The IATA (International Air Transport Association) code is a three-letter code used for passenger reservations, ticketing, and baggage handling. For example, Charlotte Douglas International Airport uses the code CLT, and Raleigh-Durham International Airport uses RDU. These codes are widely used on booking sites, tickets, and flight boards.

ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) codes are four letters and are mostly used by air traffic control and in flight planning. In the United States, ICAO codes begin with the letter “K.” For instance, Charlotte’s ICAO code is KCLT, and Raleigh-Durham’s is KRDU. These different codes avoid confusion and support global aviation operations.

To explore a full list of airports and their IATA and ICAO codes, visit the North Carolina Airports – FlightAware page.

FAA LID

The FAA Location Identifier (FAA LID) is another way airports are recognized, especially in the United States. They are usually three to five letters or numbers. Major airports may use the same code for IATA and FAA LID, but smaller regional and private airports can have different FAA LIDs.

For example, Greensboro’s Piedmont Triad International uses GSO for both FAA and IATA. However, private airports or small public fields may use codes such as NC81 or NC44.

A complete database of FAA LIDs and other code information is available at sites like Airplane Manager NC Airport Codes. This helps pilots and airport staff quickly identify locations, file flight plans, and find navigation data.

Airport Coordinates and Elevation

Every airport has a set of latitude and longitude coordinates. These coordinates are key for navigation and are often used in GPS devices, aeronautical charts, and flight planning software.

Airport elevation tells the height of the airport above sea level, measured in feet or meters. Elevation can affect aircraft performance, especially during takeoff and landing. For example, higher elevation airports often require longer distances for aircraft to become airborne due to thinner air.

Pilots and planners check both coordinates and elevation before a flight. Detailed airport records include this information to ensure accurate maps, safe flight operations, and up-to-date airport listings in North Carolina.

Frequently Asked Questions

Airports in North Carolina handle both domestic and international flights. Several airports offer services from major and low-cost airlines, making travel convenient.

What are the international travel hubs in North Carolina?

The main international gateway in North Carolina is Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Raleigh-Durham International Airport also offers international flights. Both airports connect travelers to destinations outside the United States.

Which airports in North Carolina offer flights with Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines provides service at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Travelers can also find Southwest flights at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. These airports offer routes to various cities across the U.S.

How many airports operate in North Carolina with international services?

Two airports in North Carolina offer scheduled international flights. Charlotte Douglas International and Raleigh-Durham International have direct flights to destinations outside the country. Other airports handle mainly domestic travel.

Can you list the major airports located in North Carolina?

Major airports in the state include Charlotte Douglas International, Raleigh-Durham International, and Piedmont Triad International. Wilmington International and Asheville Regional also serve as significant hubs for travelers in North Carolina. These airports provide a variety of domestic and some international flights.

What is the largest airport in terms of passenger traffic in North Carolina?

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is the largest in North Carolina. It serves the most passengers and offers both national and international connections. Detailed airport information can be found at the Raleigh-Durham International Airport FAQ.

Which airport serves as the main gateway to NC State University?

Raleigh-Durham International Airport is the closest airport to NC State University. It provides numerous flight options and easy access to the university campus. Shuttle and ground transportation services are available for students and visitors.