Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (IATA: BRO – ICAO: KBRO) is a public airport serving Brownsville, Texas, and the surrounding Rio Grande Valley. Located approximately 7 kilometers (4 miles) east of downtown Brownsville, BRO offers direct access to South Padre Island and northern Mexico, making it a strategic hub for tourism and business travel.

The airport supports commercial passenger service, general aviation, and cargo operations and is home to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility.

The airport serves multiple airlines and supports general aviation, making it a flexible choice for many travelers. Visitors can expect typical airport amenities and helpful information about their journey on the official Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport website. With easy access to both Brownsville and the South Padre Island beaches, it remains a practical choice for anyone headed to this part of Texas.

General Information

Location: Brownsville, Texas, United States
Country: United States
Airport Type: Public, Commercial, and General Aviation
IATA Code: BRO
ICAO Code: KBRO
Elevation: 22 feet (7 metres)
Coordinates: 25°54′28″N 097°25′34″W
Timezone: UTC−6 (CST) / UTC−5 (CDT during Daylight Saving Time)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 7 km (4 miles) east of Brownsville
Website: www.flybrownsville.com
Operator: City of Brownsville
Services: Domestic flights, general aviation, U.S. Customs, cargo, airport parking

Parking Information

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport offers multiple parking options with easy access to the terminal.

Short-Term Parking

Rate: $1/hour, $10/day max
Distance: Directly in front of the terminal
Ideal For: Quick pick-ups and drop-offs

Long-Term Parking

Rate: $6/day
Distance: Adjacent to terminal, walkable access
Suitable For: Extended travel and overnight parking

Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, cash
Security: Monitored 24/7 with lighting and surveillance

Contact Information

Airport Information Line: +1 956-542-4373
Email: info@flybrownsville.com
FBO Coordination: Southmost Aviation (general aviation, hangar, and fuel services)

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: Passport required for international connections; BRO includes a U.S. Customs facility
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa if applicable
Transport Options: Taxis, rental cars, rideshare apps, hotel shuttles
Nearby Accommodation:
Close to Airport: Hampton Inn and Suites Brownsville, Courtyard by Marriott Brownsville
In South Padre Island: Isla Grand Beach Resort, Courtyard by Marriott South Padre Island
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); major credit cards accepted

Travel Tips

Best Times to Park:
Late morning or early afternoon for easy access
Peak times include spring break and holidays

Additional Notes:
BRO offers a modern terminal with efficient TSA screening and quick boarding
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport
Proximity to the U.S.–Mexico border makes it a valuable port of entry
New terminal expansion projects are enhancing passenger experience and services

Location and Accessibility

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport is located at the southern tip of Texas. It is just east of downtown Brownsville and is the closest airport to South Padre Island, STARBASE, and the Port of Brownsville.

Its address is 700 South Minnesota Avenue, Brownsville, TX 78521. Quick access to the US Interstate highway system makes ground transportation easy for arriving and departing passengers.

The airport is about 25 miles from South Padre Island, making it a convenient gateway for travelers headed to the beach. Taxis, ride-sharing options, and rental cars are available onsite, and parking is adjacent to the terminal for easy access to the building. For more, see the official airport website.

Airport Code and Identification

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport has the airport code BRO, and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) code is KBRO.

These codes are essential for booking flights, tracking baggage, and using online travel tools. Passengers and airline staff use the BRO and KBRO codes to easily identify the location on tickets, screens, and luggage tags.

BRO is used for domestic and commercial purposes. KBRO appears more often in aviation databases and navigation systems. Both codes help travelers and airlines avoid confusion with other airports in Texas.

Terminal Facilities

The BRO terminal is designed for passenger comfort and convenience. The terminal offers several amenities, including free Wi-Fi, seating areas, charging stations, and vending machines.

Rental car counters are available inside the terminal. Parking lots are located right next to the terminal entrance for short and long-term stays. The terminal has baggage claim, ticketing counters, and security screening areas to assist a smooth travel process.

Passengers can find restrooms and basic dining options inside the terminal. Information desks and digital displays provide flight status and gate details. The terminal map, which provides a detailed layout, is available online.

Operational Hours

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport operates throughout the day and night to accommodate arriving and departing flights. Main terminal doors usually cover scheduled airline operations from early morning until late at night.

Security and airline counters follow the daily flight schedule, which may vary depending on the season and airline availability. Most major services, including rental car agencies and parking, are open as long as flights operate.

For current operational hours and updated scheduling, travelers should check with their airline or visit the official airport website. This ensures up-to-date information before planning a visit or flight.

Flights, Destinations, and Passenger Services

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport connects travelers to several important cities. In a new, modern terminal, passengers will find a choice of airlines, different routes, and convenient services.

Airlines and Destinations

The airport provides regular service with well-known airlines. Passengers can fly nonstop from Brownsville to cities like Houston and Dallas. Flights to Monterrey and Los Angeles make it easy to travel within the United States and to Mexico.

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport serves both domestic and international travelers. Three airlines offer scheduled passenger service. The airport also handles air taxis and general aviation with two dedicated FBOs
as detailed on its official site.

A summary of the main routes:

  • Domestic: Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles
  • International: Monterrey
    These locations cover many major travel needs for business and leisure.

Flight Schedules and Availability

Flight times out of Brownsville vary by airline and destination. Nonstop flights operate daily to cities such as Houston and Dallas.
Some flights, especially to international locations, may be less frequent.

The airport’s live arrival and departure information helps passengers track schedules and any delays. Travelers are encouraged to check schedules because flight times can change due to demand and weather.
Access up-to-date information through the airport’s flight status page.

Booking early is advised because flight options are limited compared to larger airports. Airlines sometimes adjust their schedules based on the season and passenger needs.

Ticketing and Fare Information

The airport offers ticket counters for all major airlines serving the facility. Passengers can purchase tickets online, through the airline’s app, or at the terminal. Most fares are divided into classes like economy and business.

Tickets to major cities such as Houston, Dallas, and Monterrey usually have competitive prices. However, fares may be higher during holidays or busy travel periods, so booking in advance can help you save money.

Discounts are sometimes available for flexible dates or off-peak travel. The new passenger terminal at Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport also provides amenities like easy check-in kiosks, baggage services, and helpful staff to assist passengers with ticketing and fares
as described on the airport’s passenger terminal page.

Transportation and Accessibility

Travelers arriving at Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport have multiple options for ground transportation. Services make it easy to get to and from Brownsville, South Padre Island, and Port Isabel with frequent transit schedules and accessibility features.

Ground Transportation Options

The airport offers several convenient ground transportation choices. Rental car companies are located at the terminal, and taxis and popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Public buses operate throughout the area, providing an affordable way to reach local destinations.

Island Metro runs every 30 to 40 minutes from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. most days, stopping at the airport and continuing to nearby cities. Buses have ADA-accessible wheelchair lifts for travelers needing extra assistance. There is also a network of shuttles dedicated to airport travel, with many easy options to pre-book online.

For added comfort, private airport transfer companies allow advanced reservations, enabling smoother and more flexible travel without waiting in line. These services can accommodate small groups and families with luggage. Details about schedules and reservations are listed on the airport’s official transportation page.

Pick Up and Drop Off Procedures

Designated pick-up and drop-off zones are located directly outside the arrivals area. Drivers must remain with their vehicles at the curbside to ensure traffic flow and security.

Short-term parking is available nearby for those greeting friends or family, allowing extra time if needed. Rideshare drivers have a specific zone to wait for passengers, making the process efficient. Signs throughout the terminal direct travelers and drivers to the proper entrances and exits.

If using a rental car, follow airport signage to the return lot close to the main terminal. For taxi or shuttle pick up, head outside baggage claim, where marked lanes separate the various transportation options. Staff are often available to answer questions and help guide riders to the correct location.

Connections to Brownsville, South Padre Island, and Port Isabel

The airport is a gateway to several popular destinations. Island Metro buses connect the terminal with Brownsville, Port Isabel, and South Padre Island. The Route #50 bus departs downtown Brownsville, includes a stop at the airport, and then continues to Port Isabel and the island.

Service operates from early morning until the evening, with most buses running every 30 to 40 minutes. South Padre Island buses run between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., with extended hours during busy times and summer months. These buses support people with disabilities and offer convenient access to hotels and resorts.

Private shuttles and ride services are available for direct trips to specific locations across all three cities. Most local hotels offer shuttle bookings, and private transfers can be scheduled online for arrival or departure at any time of day. It’s simple to arrange a trip from the airport to points throughout the area with advanced planning.

Local Attractions

South Padre Island

A top Texas beach destination known for water sports, relaxation, and family-friendly fun.

Gladys Porter Zoo

One of the top zoological parks in Texas is located in central Brownsville.

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

A preserved site of the first major battle of the U.S.–Mexican War.

Resaca de la Palma State Park

A birdwatching haven within the World Birding Center network.

Brownsville Museum of Fine Art

Local art museum with exhibitions focused on the region’s culture and history.

Boca Chica State Park & SpaceX Launch Facility

A unique coastal park and the location of SpaceX’s Starbase testing and launch site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport is a key entry point for South Texas and offers several passenger services and transportation options. The airport is served by major airlines and offers multiple ways to travel to and from South Padre Island.

What is the flight schedule for arriving and departing from Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport?

Travelers can check real-time flight arrivals and departures by visiting the airport’s official flight information page. The schedule updates frequently to reflect current flight statuses.

Can you find the terminal map for Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport?

The airport’s passenger terminal guide includes a detailed terminal map, including information on gates, amenities, and layout, which makes it easier for travelers to navigate the building.

What are the transportation options from Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport to South Padre Island?

The airport offers transportation options including rental cars, taxis, public transit, and rideshares. The airport’s transportation page provides more information about these options and contacts for each service.

Which airlines operate flights through Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport?

American Airlines and other carriers serve Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport, connecting travelers to major cities. Flight routes and airlines may change, so current listings can be found on the airport’s airlines page.

Are there shuttle services available between Brownsville Airport and South Padre Island?

Shuttle and private transportation services are available between the airport and South Padre Island. Travelers can look up specific options and schedules by contacting transportation providers listed on the airport’s ground transportation page.

How long before my flight should I arrive at Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport for check-in?

Passengers are typically advised to arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure for domestic flights. This timing helps ensure enough time for check-in, security screening, and boarding without rushing.