Harrisburg International Airport Overview

Harrisburg International Airport (IATA: MDT, ICAO: KMDT) is a public international airport serving Pennsylvania’s capital region. Located in Middletown, approximately 14 kilometres southeast of Harrisburg, the airport provides essential domestic connectivity and limited international handling, primarily for general aviation. MDT is the third-busiest airport in Pennsylvania and offers convenient access to the state’s capital and surrounding counties.

General Information

  • Location: Middletown, Pennsylvania
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: MDT
  • ICAO Code: KMDT
  • Elevation: 310 feet (94 metres)
  • Coordinates: 40°11′36″N 076°45′54″W
  • Timezone: UTC−5 (Eastern Standard Time) / UTC−4 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 14 km (9 miles) southeast of Harrisburg
  • Website: www.flyhia.com
  • Operator: Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority (SARAA)
  • Services: Scheduled domestic passenger flights, cargo, general aviation, and limited international arrivals

Airport Details

  • Runways: 1
  • Runway Designation and Length:
    • 13/31: 3,048 m (10,001 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surface: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for narrow-body and medium wide-body aircraft
  • Fire Services: ARFF Category 7
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available by prior arrangement for general aviation and limited charter flights
  • Aircraft Types: Regional jets, business jets, turboprops
  • Terminals: One main passenger terminal with 12 gates
  • Cargo Facilities: Dedicated cargo apron; FedEx and UPS services
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support
  • Equipment: GPU, lavatory service, potable water, limited hangar space
  • Ground Services: Full handling for GA and business aircraft

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international general aviation arrivals
  • Permission Required: Yes, for international and non-scheduled operations
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: All aircraft up to Code D (e.g. B757, A310)
  • Alternate Airports:
    • PHL: Philadelphia International Airport
    • BWI: Baltimore/Washington International Airport

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: U.S. CBP rules apply — passport and visa or ESTA as required
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, visa or ESTA depending on nationality
  • Transport Options: Taxis, rental cars, Uber/Lyft, Capital Area Transit bus services
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Close to Airport: Fairfield Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Harrisburg East
    • Downtown Harrisburg: Hilton Harrisburg, Crowne Plaza, The Manor on Front
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); major cards widely accepted

Local Attractions

Pennsylvania State Capitol

A stunning architectural landmark in Harrisburg offering free public tours.

Hersheypark & Hershey’s Chocolate World

Theme park and visitor centre located just 20 minutes from the airport.

National Civil War Museum

Comprehensive exhibits covering the American Civil War from both Union and Confederate perspectives.

Amish Country (Lancaster)

Historic and cultural tourism with scenic farmland, craft shops, and horse-drawn buggies.

Harrisburg Riverfront Park

Beautiful riverside walking and cycling paths with views over the Susquehanna River.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Spring (Apr–Jun): Mild weather and blooming countryside
    • Autumn (Sep–Oct): Ideal for foliage and harvest festivals
  • Additional Notes:
    • International general aviation arrivals require advance CBP coordination
    • Signature Flight Support provides full GA services, including VIP handling
    • MDT is an ideal alternative for operators avoiding congested Northeast airports
    • Short taxi and turnaround times for business aviation

Harrisburg International Airport is a well-equipped regional gateway offering smooth access to Pennsylvania’s government, business, and leisure destinations. With strong GA support and light air traffic, MDT is ideal for efficient, low-hassle operations.