Jacksonville International Airport Overview

Jacksonville International Airport (IATA: JAX – ICAO: KJAX) is a public international airport located approximately 21 kilometres (13 miles) north of downtown Jacksonville, Florida. It serves as the main gateway to northeast Florida and southeast Georgia, offering a mix of domestic and limited international services. With efficient operations, modern facilities, and access to nearby beaches, business centres, and military bases, JAX supports commercial, cargo, and general aviation traffic.

General Information

  • Location: Jacksonville, Florida
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: JAX
  • ICAO Code: KJAX
  • Elevation: 30 feet (9 metres)
  • Coordinates: 30°29′39″N 081°41′15″W
  • Timezone: UTC−5 (Eastern Standard Time) / UTC−4 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 21 km (13 miles) north of Jacksonville
  • Website: www.flyjacksonville.com
  • Operator: Jacksonville Aviation Authority
  • Services: Scheduled domestic and limited international flights, cargo, charter, and general aviation

Airport Details

  • Runways: 2
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 08/26: 3,048 m (10,000 ft) – Asphalt
    • 14/32: 2,439 m (8,000 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for aircraft up to Code E (e.g. B777, A330)
  • Fire Services: ARFF Category 9
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available for international GA and scheduled flights
  • Aircraft Types: Regional jets, narrow-body, business jets, military aircraft
  • Terminals: One main passenger terminal with Concourses A and C
  • Cargo Facilities: FedEx, UPS, and other freight operators
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Atlantic Aviation
  • Equipment: GPU, lavatory, potable water, hangars, de-icing (rarely needed)
  • Ground Services: Full commercial, GA, and VIP handling

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international general aviation with CBP coordination
  • Permission Required: Yes, for international and non-scheduled charter flights
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: All aircraft up to Code E
  • Alternate Airports:
    • CRG: Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (GA preferred)
    • SAV: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: U.S. entry rules apply — passport, visa, or ESTA required
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration; visa/ESTA as applicable
  • Transport Options: Taxis, Uber/Lyft, hotel shuttles, car hire, JTA buses
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Close to Airport: DoubleTree by Hilton, Hyatt Place, Hampton Inn & Suites
    • In City Centre/Beach Area: One Ocean Resort, Omni Jacksonville, Marriott Southpoint
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); major credit/debit cards widely accepted

Local Attractions

Jacksonville Beach

Popular beachside destination known for sunbathing, surfing, and seafood dining.

Downtown Jacksonville

Features riverfront parks, museums, and the Jacksonville Jaguars’ NFL stadium.

Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens

A beautiful riverside museum offering art collections and formal gardens.

Amelia Island

Scenic coastal area with historic charm, nature parks, and upscale resorts.

St. Augustine

The oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the U.S., about 1.5 hours away.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov): Warm, pleasant weather
    • Winter: Mild and less crowded
  • Additional Notes:
    • Signature and Atlantic Aviation provide complete VIP handling and crew amenities.
    • CBP services are available with prior notice for international GA and charters
    • The airport has low congestion, offering fast turnaround and convenient parking.
    • JAX is a preferred airport for private flights to Florida’s northeastern coast

Jacksonville International Airport combines efficient operations with southern hospitality and strategic access to beaches, businesses, and resort destinations. It is ideal for commercial and private aviation alike.