Miami International Airport Overview

Miami International Airport (IATA: MIA – ICAO: KMIA) is a major public international airport in Miami-Dade County, Florida. It is the primary gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, and one of the busiest international passenger and cargo airports in the United States. Located just 13 kilometres (8 miles) from downtown Miami, MIA is a hub for American Airlines and a key connection point for transatlantic, transcontinental, and regional travel.

General Information

  • Location: Miami, Florida
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: MIA
  • ICAO Code: KMIA
  • Elevation: 8 feet (2 metres)
  • Coordinates: 25°47′35″N 080°17′26″W
  • Timezone: UTC−5 (Eastern Standard Time) / UTC−4 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 13 km (8 miles) west of Downtown Miami
  • Website: www.miami-airport.com
  • Operator: Miami-Dade Aviation Department
  • Services: Scheduled domestic and international flights, cargo, charter, and general aviation

Airport Details

  • Runways: 4
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 08R/26L: 3,201 m (10,502 ft) – Asphalt
    • 08L/26R: 2,682 m (8,799 ft) – Asphalt
    • 09/27: 3,963 m (13,000 ft) – Asphalt
    • 12/30: 2,591 m (8,500 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for all aircraft, including Code F (A380)
  • Fire Services: ARFF Category 10
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS CAT III, VOR/DME, RNAV, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available 24/7 for commercial and general aviation
  • Aircraft Types: All types of commercial, cargo, and business aircraft
  • Terminals: One main terminal divided into Concourses D, E, F, G, H, and J
  • Cargo Facilities: One of the largest air cargo hubs in the U.S., specialising in perishables, pharma, and e-commerce
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Fontainebleau Aviation, Atlantic Aviation
  • Equipment: GPU, de-icing, lavatory, potable water, hangars, full maintenance
  • Ground Services: Comprehensive commercial and general aviation handling

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA flights with CBP coordination
  • Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled and foreign-registered flights
  • Slots: Required during peak hours for non-scheduled operations
  • Aircraft Types: All aircraft supported, including Code F
  • Alternate Airports:
    • FLL: Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
    • OPF: Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport (GA preferred)

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: Passport, visa, or ESTA as per U.S. entry regulations
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa/ESTA if required
  • Transport Options: MIA Mover (people mover), Metrorail, Tri-Rail, taxis, Uber/Lyft, shuttles, car hire
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Adjacent to Airport: Miami International Airport Hotel, EB Hotel, Hilton Miami Airport
    • In City Centre: EAST Miami, InterContinental, Kimpton EPIC Hotel
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); credit/debit cards widely accepted

Local Attractions

South Beach

Famous for white sand beaches, art deco architecture, nightlife, and dining.

Wynwood Arts District

Renowned for street art, galleries, craft breweries, and trendy restaurants.

Little Havana

Cultural district with Cuban heritage, live music, cigars, and authentic cuisine.

Everglades National Park

Nearby, a UNESCO biosphere reserve offers airboat tours and wildlife sightings.

Biscayne Bay & PortMiami

Cruise capital of the world and scenic bayfront access for boating and water sports.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Winter (Dec–Apr): Peak travel season with mild temperatures
    • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Lower prices and fewer crowds
  • Additional Notes:
    • MIA is one of the top U.S. airports for international arrivals—early slot and handling booking advised
    • Signature, Fontainebleau, and Atlantic Aviation offer luxury handling for VIP and business jets.
    • Busiest times include holidays, music festivals, and Art Basel Miami Beach
    • The airport is well-connected to international cargo and commercial hubs

Miami International Airport is a vital global gateway linking the Americas, Europe, and beyond. It offers world-class facilities, a robust cargo network, and high-quality support for both commercial and private aviation operators.