Alabama Airports: Key Facilities, Locations, and Travel Tips

Air travel in Alabama is easier than many people think, thanks to a wide network of airports across the state. Alabama has several key airports, including Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International, Huntsville International, Mobile Regional, and Montgomery Regional, that make both domestic and regional flights accessible for travelers (list of airports in Alabama). These airports offer flights for both business and leisure, helping travelers get where they need to go quickly.

Beyond the main hubs, Alabama also has smaller municipal and regional airports serving different communities. Whether a visitor needs to fly into a major city or a more rural area, there is likely an airport nearby. This range of options is important for families, business professionals, and tourists alike who want to explore all parts of the state.

Overview of Alabama Airports

Alabama is home to several airports that support travel within the state, across the United States, and internationally. These airports are part of the larger network of North American airports and play a role in connecting Alabama to other regions.

There are both major commercial airports and smaller regional or local airports in Alabama. The state has 7 primary commercial airports. The largest among them is Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. This airport serves Birmingham and much of Central Alabama. Two of Alabama’s airports are classified as international airports.

Other notable commercial airports in the state include:

• Montgomery Regional Airport
• Huntsville International Airport
• Mobile Regional Airport
• Dothan Regional Airport

A total of 34 airports serve Alabama, covering both public-use and military airfields. Many of these cater to general aviation and private flights in addition to commercial service.

Below is a simple table highlighting major airports in Alabama:

Airport Name	Location	Type
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International	Birmingham	International
Huntsville International	Huntsville	Commercial
Montgomery Regional	Montgomery	Commercial
Mobile Regional	Mobile	Commercial
Dothan Regional	Dothan	Commercial

For a complete list of airports in Alabama, see this detailed directory.

Major Airports in Alabama

The state of Alabama has several key airports that handle a large number of passengers each year. These airports support both international and domestic travel and provide important connections for various destinations.

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) is the largest airport in Alabama. It serves Birmingham and Central Alabama. BHM operates direct flights to several major cities around the United States. The airport handles a significant number of passengers each year, making it an important hub for business and leisure travel in the state.

BHM has a modern terminal with amenities like food courts, shops, and rental car services. Travelers appreciate the covered parking options and convenient access to downtown Birmingham. Airlines such as American, Delta, and Southwest fly from BHM.

International service is available, including flights to Canada, making it one of the only airports in Alabama with regular international flights. The airport is managed by the Birmingham Airport Authority and follows all DOT regulations.

Huntsville International Airport

Huntsville International Airport (HSV) is the main airport serving North Alabama. HSV is known for being the largest commercial airport in the region, with over 1.7 million passengers each year. The airport is located a short drive from downtown Huntsville, making it accessible for both local and regional travelers.

HSV offers nonstop flights to several major cities, such as Atlanta, Dallas, and Charlotte. Major airlines include Delta, American, and United. Business travelers use HSV often due to its close proximity to technology companies and scientific research centers in the area.

Facilities at HSV include a modern terminal, parking garages, Wi-Fi, and rental car services. The airport is recognized for reliability and efficiency. Passengers traveling through HSV often mention the ease of check-in and short security lines.

Mobile Regional Airport

Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) is a key airport for travelers in southern Alabama. It is located about thirteen miles west of downtown Mobile. The airport provides flights to several hubs in the United States, with frequent routes to Atlanta, Dallas, and Charlotte.

MOB is served mainly by American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The airport is designed for smooth passenger flow, with a single main terminal building offering ticketing, baggage claim, and parking services. It is popular with both business and vacation travelers heading to the Gulf Coast region.

Amenities at Mobile Regional Airport include food options, car rentals, and on-site parking. Its location near Interstate 10 gives travelers quick access to Mobile and nearby coastal destinations. The airport is managed under DOT aviation standards and helps connect southern Alabama to other parts of the country.

Regional Airports Serving Alabama

Regional airports in Alabama offer scheduled commercial flights, serve key cities, and support educational and economic activities. They are important for business travelers, students, and residents who need direct access to destinations in the southeastern United States.

Auburn University Regional Airport

Auburn University Regional Airport is located in Auburn, Alabama, about 1.5 miles from the Auburn University campus. The airport plays a vital role in supporting Auburn’s educational and research missions, especially for students in aviation programs.

This airport features two runways and handles general aviation, flight training, and sports charter traffic. Game days see increased use as fans and teams arrive for events. Services offered include aircraft maintenance, fueling, and a fixed-base operator (FBO). The airport is equipped for small jets and propeller aircraft.

Auburn University Regional Airport does not offer scheduled commercial airline service. Much of its passenger traffic is related to Auburn University, making it important for the city and school community. As a non-commercial airport, it still maintains high safety and security standards like many North American airports.

Dothan Regional Airport

Dothan Regional Airport lies in the southeastern part of Alabama, about seven miles northwest of downtown Dothan. It is a public-use airport and one of the few in the region offering scheduled commercial airline service.

The main terminal is easy to navigate, and Delta Connection flights provide regular service to Atlanta, a major American airport hub. The airport has two runways designed for both passenger and cargo flights. Amenities include car rentals, parking, and a small café, allowing travelers convenience for short or connecting trips.

Many passengers in south Alabama and western Georgia use Dothan Regional Airport for direct access to the airline network. Its role as a commercial airport makes it significant for both business and leisure travel. More information is available on the Airports in Alabama page.

Tuscaloosa National Airport

Tuscaloosa National Airport is situated in Tuscaloosa, west-central Alabama. The airport is about five miles from downtown and the University of Alabama, which often brings visitors, students, and charter traffic to the city.

While the airport no longer has regular commercial airline service, it supports general aviation, private planes, and charter flights. Tuscaloosa National Airport sees increased activity during college sports events and university functions. Facilities include multiple runways, hangars, and maintenance services.

A control tower, full-service FBO, and amenities for pilots are available on site. As a regional airport, it helps relieve traffic at busier Alabama airports and gives residents flight options for smaller aircraft or charter service. The airport’s strategic location makes it important for local economic growth.

General Aviation and Municipal Airports

Alabama has a strong network of general aviation and municipal airports that support travel, business, and emergency services across the state. Several regional hubs offer key facilities for passenger flights, private planes, air cargo, and flight training.

Cullman Regional Airport

Cullman Regional Airport serves northern Alabama and is located near Cullman. The airport is mainly used by private pilots, corporate aircraft, and flight schools. It features a 5,500-foot asphalt runway that can handle a range of general aviation airplanes, from small single-engine models to some business jets.

The airport offers services like fuel, hangars, aircraft maintenance, and rental cars. Public events and airshows are sometimes held on-site, making the airport a gathering spot for the local community.

Cullman Regional is known for its convenient location, with quick access to I-65 and nearby cities. Pilots often choose this airport for its friendly staff, well-kept facilities, and lower congestion compared to larger airports. More details about Cullman Regional Airport and other Alabama airports can be found online.

Decatur Airport

Decatur Airport serves as a general aviation facility in north Alabama. It is located in Morgan County, offering vital connections for private and business flights. The airport’s paved runway is about 6,000 feet long, which allows it to serve a wide range of general aviation aircraft.

Amenities at Decatur Airport include fuel services, tie-downs, hangars, and flight planning rooms. Aircraft maintenance and pilot lounges are also available. The airport plays a role in supporting local business travel and enables quick access to the city and nearby counties.

Flight schools sometimes operate out of Decatur, making it an option for pilot training and rentals. Its helpful staff and organized layout make it a reliable stop for visiting pilots. For more on general aviation airports, visit this list of Alabama airports.

Montgomery Regional Airport

Montgomery Regional Airport is in the southern part of the state and serves the city of Montgomery and surrounding areas. Although it handles commercial flights, it also has a dedicated part for general aviation. The airport’s runways can handle both large airliners and smaller private aircraft.

Facilities for general aviation include FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) services, refueling, hangar space, and rental vehicles. The airport also provides 24-hour security and access to weather information and flight planning tools.

Montgomery Regional is an important part of Alabama’s airport network, helping business travelers, tourists, and local pilots. Its location near major highways makes it an easy choice for quick travel in and out of the region. Detailed information is available at Montgomery Regional Airport.

Airport Facilities and Services

Alabama airports offer a range of services for travelers, airlines, and cargo businesses. Facilities focus on comfort, convenience, and efficiency for both passengers and operators.

Passenger Amenities

Most major airports in Alabama provide a variety of amenities for travelers. For example, passengers at Birmingham Airport can access animal relief areas, ATMs, and baggage claim services. These amenities help make the travel experience smoother and less stressful. Families can find designated play areas for children and plenty of seating near each gate.

Food and drink options are available at most terminals, including coffee shops, snack bars, and restaurants. Some airports also offer free Wi-Fi and charging stations for electronic devices. Huntsville International Airport features on-site travel agents and multiple concession stands. Clean restrooms and helpful information desks round out the essentials for passenger comfort.

Cargo Operations

Many Alabama airports handle both passenger and cargo operations. Mobile International Airport, for example, is equipped to transport goods and offers cargo-specific facilities. Companies that need to move products find dedicated loading docks, secure storage, and flexible scheduling options. Coordination between airlines and ground crews is structured to reduce delays and ensure shipments are handled safely.

Tuscaloosa National Airport also supports freight movement for local industry with fixed base operators (FBOs) and modern logistics equipment. Some airports provide customs services for international shipments, improving business links throughout the region. Reliable cargo operations help local businesses grow and keep supply chains running smoothly.

Ground Transportation

Passengers arriving at Alabama airports have several options for ground transportation. Taxis, ride-share services, and rental car counters are commonly available at major airports like Huntsville, Birmingham, and Mobile. Detailed maps help visitors find parking lots, shuttle pick-up locations, and terminal entrances with ease.

Some airports offer on-site parking with short-term, long-term, and accessible spaces. Shuttle buses run between parking areas and terminals, making it easy to transport luggage or travel with families. Car rental facilities at airports such as Tuscaloosa National Airport allow travelers to book vehicles directly after landing. These transportation options provide flexibility for both business and leisure travelers.

Airlines and Destinations From Alabama Airports

Alabama airports connect travelers to key cities across the United States and a small number of international locations. The state’s main airports feature flights run by well-known airlines including American, Delta, Southwest, and United.

Domestic Flight Routes

Major airports such as Huntsville International (HSV), Birmingham-Shuttlesworth (BHM), Mobile Regional (MOB), Montgomery Regional (MGM), and Gulf Shores Airport feature flights to popular American cities. Travelers can choose direct flights to hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Chicago, Houston, Detroit, Orlando, Miami, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles. Many of these destinations are serviced daily.

A snapshot of popular direct routes from key Alabama airports:

Airport	Popular Destinations
HSV	Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas
BHM	Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Charlotte
MOB	Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Houston
MGM	Dallas, Washington DC, Charlotte, Atlanta

Several routes help travelers reach even more cities through layovers. Airlines offering these flights include American, Delta, Southwest, and United. Learn more about destinations and airlines at Huntsville International Airport, Birmingham Airport, Mobile Regional Airport, and Montgomery Regional Airport.

International Connections

While most Alabama airports focus on domestic routes, there are a few limited options when it comes to direct international flights. These are typically charter or seasonal flights and may not operate year-round.

For international travel, most passengers fly to major American airports first. Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, and Houston are frequent layover points for flights to Canada, Europe, Mexico, and other destinations. Large North American airports in these cities make onward international travel easier and often involve a single stop from Alabama.

Travelers should check with airlines or airport websites for current international options and advisories, as schedules can change depending on demand and season. Most international journeys from Alabama require a transfer in a large U.S. gateway city.

Economic Impact and Tourism

Airports in Alabama play a central role in supporting local economies and attracting visitors from across the country. These airports help drive business activities, provide jobs, and boost state and regional tourism.

Local Economic Contributions

Alabama airports bring in millions of dollars each year through direct and indirect spending. Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport alone generates a total economic impact of about 1.6 billion dollars each year. This includes direct spending by airport operations and travelers, as well as more spending created in related industries like hotels, restaurants, and transportation.

These airports support thousands of jobs. Positions range from airline staff and baggage handlers to security officers and construction workers. Many small businesses rely on airport services for shipping goods and meeting clients, helping boost local economies and improve business connections.

Revenue from airport operations also supports city budgets through taxes and fees. This money can be used for public services, infrastructure, and education. Investment in airport facilities often leads to more business growth and new opportunities for local communities.

Airport-Driven Tourism

Airports in Alabama make it much easier for tourists to visit the state, including places like Birmingham, Mobile, and Huntsville. The travel and tourism industry had a total impact of about $7.7 billion on Alabama’s earnings in 2023. Easy airport access boosts travel spending on hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

Visitors arriving by air are more likely to stay longer and spend more money than those traveling by car. Airports also help Alabama host conferences, sports events, and concerts, drawing in guests from outside the state. This increased tourism supports many local businesses, creates more jobs, and helps showcase what Alabama has to offer.

Safety, Security, and Regulations

Alabama airports follow strict rules to keep passengers, staff, and aircraft safe. Oversight comes from federal and state agencies, while airports themselves apply specific safety and security measures every day.

Federal and State Oversight

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) manages safety at all public airports in Alabama. It sets standards through programs like airport certification, runway safety, and inspections. These standards apply to both large and small airports for safe takeoffs, landings, and ground operations. The FAA is also responsible for enforcing the rules around pilot qualifications and airspace use.

At the state level, the Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Bureau manages airport system planning and development and works to promote airport safety and security. It inspects airports and helps ensure compliance with Alabama laws, such as keeping approach and departure paths free from obstructions. The Bureau works closely with local airport authorities to make sure state and federal rules are followed any time an airport expands or makes changes.

Airport Safety Measures

Each airport in Alabama is responsible for putting safety plans into action. This includes having clear runways and taxiways, working approach lights, and marked emergency exits. Larger airports, like Huntsville International, have their own Department of Public Safety to provide police, fire, and emergency medical services on-site.

Security screening is a key step to prevent restricted items from being brought onto planes. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) operates checkpoints at commercial airports in the state. Passengers experience bag checks, screening equipment, and sometimes extra checks during busy days. Smaller regional airports often follow similar safety checks but may adjust procedures based on their unique needs and resources. Regular training, clear safety rules, and quick response teams are put in place to keep travelers safe at all times.

Development and Modernization Efforts

Alabama airports are experiencing significant upgrades due to new grants and major construction. Key projects focus on improving terminals, parking, and taxiways while also preparing for future growth in air travel.

Recent Expansion Projects

Multiple airports in Alabama have received state and federal grants to support vital improvements. For example, Cullman Regional Airport was awarded over $1 million to construct a new 600-foot midfield taxiway. This upgrade will help the airport handle more flights and increase safety. Montgomery Regional Airport secured a $5 million federal grant to modernize important systems and maintain strong operations for passengers.

In Mobile, a large-scale $380 million modernization project is underway at the international airport. This project includes building a new terminal and parking garage as well as replacing old infrastructure, such as utilities. These efforts aim to provide travelers with better amenities and make the airport more efficient. As a result, both local and regional airports are increasing their capacity to accommodate more flights and passengers.

Future Infrastructure Plans

Alabama’s airport modernization does not stop with current projects. The state recently approved over $3.6 million in new grants to help local airports with essential upgrades, which include runway improvements, taxiway repairs, and advanced lighting systems. These investments aim to keep airports operating safely and efficiently for years to come.

Birmingham’s airport is focused on steady growth by improving credit ratings and preparing for future development. Lower interest rates on upcoming debt could make it easier for the airport to fund additional upgrades and modernization efforts. With these plans in place, Alabama airports are positioned to handle more traffic and support economic growth throughout the region.

Sustainable Airport Initiatives

Alabama airports are working to lower their impact on the environment and find ways to save energy. These steps help airports operate more efficiently and meet new guidelines.

Environmental Programs

Airports across Alabama take part in several sustainability efforts. Many use environmental programs that focus on areas like water management, air quality, and waste reduction.

For example, some airports join federal programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and control noise. The FAA’s Airport Environmental Programs guide airports to follow key laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). These rules help airports run safer and cleaner operations.

Other local plans set out steps to cut pollution and use fewer resources. Huntsville International Airport created a plan to set clear goals for improving sustainability over time, as shown in their Sustainability Management Plan.

Key strategies include:

• Monitoring water and soil quality
• Carefully handling hazardous materials
• Promoting recycling efforts

Energy Efficiency Measures

Airports in Alabama are also working to use energy smarter. Many invest in upgrades that lower the amount of electricity and fuel they use every day.

Typical improvements include switching to LED lighting on runways and taxiways. Some update heating and cooling systems in terminals to use less power. Solar panels are being tested at a few sites to cut demand for electricity from the grid.

Several airports look for grants and funding to support these changes. Programs like the FAA’s VALE Program encourage airports to install equipment that runs on clean energy or uses less fuel.

Examples of energy-saving projects:

• Using motion sensors to control terminal lights
• Upgrading older, less efficient machinery
• Adding electric vehicle charging stations

These efforts make airports more reliable and cost-effective over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alabama has several notable airports, ranging from large international terminals to smaller regional locations. Travelers can find flights from a mix of domestic and international airlines, with different services depending on the airport.

What are the primary airports located in Alabama?

Key airports in Alabama include Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), Huntsville International Airport (HSV), and Mobile Regional Airport (MOB). Other important locations are Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM), Dothan Regional Airport (DHN), and Tuscaloosa National Airport (TCL).

Which airlines provide services to and from Alabama?

Major airlines such as Delta, American, and United operate at several Alabama airports. Some airports also offer flights with Southwest Airlines, Frontier, and other regional carriers.

How many international airports are there in Alabama?

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport and Huntsville International Airport are the main airports offering international flights. Both serve as key international gateways in Alabama.

What is the largest airport in Alabama?

The largest airport in Alabama is Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. It handles the most passenger traffic and has the greatest number of direct flights to major U.S. cities.

What is the code for the main airport in Birmingham, Alabama?

The main airport in Birmingham is Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, and its airport code is BHM.

Which airports in Alabama does Southwest Airlines operate from?

Southwest Airlines operates out of Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. Travelers can book direct flights from this airport to several U.S. destinations.