Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport Overview

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (IATA: MKE, ICAO: KMKE) is a public international airport serving the city of Milwaukee and the broader southeastern Wisconsin region. Located approximately 8 miles (13 kilometres) south of downtown Milwaukee, MKE is the primary commercial airport in the state and offers a convenient alternative to Chicago’s busier hubs. The airport supports commercial, general aviation, military, and limited international services.

General Information – Milwaukee Airport Code

  • Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: MKE
  • ICAO Code: KMKE
  • Elevation: 723 feet (220 metres)
  • Coordinates: 42°56′49″N 087°53′49″W
  • Timezone: UTC−6 (Central Standard Time) / UTC−5 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 13 km (8 miles) south of downtown Milwaukee
  • Website: www.mitchellairport.com
  • Operator: Milwaukee County
  • Services: Scheduled domestic and limited international flights, charter, cargo, and general aviation

Airport Details – Milwaukee Airport Code

  • Runways: 3
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 01L/19R: 2,744 m (9,003 ft) – Concrete
    • 07R/25L: 2,195 m (7,202 ft) – Concrete
    • 13/31: 1,917 m (6,291 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Concrete and asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for narrow-body and wide-body aircraft
  • Fire Services: ARFF Category 8
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP services available for scheduled and general aviation
  • Aircraft Types: Regional jets, narrow-body aircraft, and business jets
  • Terminals: One main terminal with three concourses (C, D, and E – reconfigured)
  • Cargo Facilities: FedEx, UPS, and other freight carriers operate from a dedicated cargo apron
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Jet In
  • Equipment: GPU, de-icing, lavatory, potable water, limited hangar facilities
  • Ground Services: Full passenger, crew, and GA handling

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international general aviation with CBP coordination
  • Permission Required: Yes, for charter and foreign private operations
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: Up to Code E (B777, A330); Code F operations limited
  • Alternate Airports:
    • ORD: Chicago O’Hare International Airport
    • MDW: Chicago Midway International Airport

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: U.S. entry rules apply — passport, visa, or ESTA as required
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew licence, visa or ESTA where applicable
  • Transport Options: Rental cars, taxis, Uber/Lyft, MCTS public bus service, and Amtrak nearby
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Close to Airport: Four Points by Sheraton, Holiday Inn & Suites Milwaukee Airport
    • Downtown Milwaukee: The Pfister Hotel, Kimpton Journeyman, Hilton Milwaukee City Center
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); all major debit and credit cards accepted

Local Attractions

Milwaukee Art Museum

An iconic lakeside museum featuring contemporary and classical works.

Harley-Davidson Museum

Celebrates the heritage of the legendary motorcycle brand with interactive exhibits.

Historic Third Ward

Trendy district filled with galleries, restaurants, and boutique shops.

Lake Michigan Waterfront

Scenic lakefront paths and beaches are perfect for walking, cycling, and relaxing.

Miller Park (American Family Field)

Home of the Milwaukee Brewers MLB team, offering tours and games.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Summer (Jun–Aug): For festivals like Summerfest and pleasant lake weather
    • Autumn (Sep–Oct): Colourful foliage and outdoor events
  • Additional Notes:
    • CBP services for GA must be pre-arranged; contact FBO for coordination
    • Signature and Jet In offer full VIP handling, crew facilities, and lounge access
    • MKE is a low-congestion alternative to Chicago airports with easy turnarounds
    • Amtrak station adjacent to the airport terminal offers direct connections to downtown Chicago

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is a user-friendly, efficient gateway to Wisconsin and the Midwest, offering comprehensive support for both scheduled and private operations. Ideal for business aviation, tourism, and logistical access to regional hubs.