Pellston Airport: Pellston Regional Airport (IATA: PLN – ICAO: KPLN) is a small regional airport located in Emmet County, northern Michigan. It primarily serves the towns of Pellston, Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Mackinaw City, providing convenient air access to the scenic northern Lower Peninsula and nearby tourist destinations.
PLN offers daily commercial flights via Delta Connection to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, along with general aviation, charter, and air cargo services. Known for its rustic lodge-style terminal, the airport reflects the region’s Up North character.
Passengers enjoy a comfortable atmosphere with amenities designed for easy travel. The airport is known for its friendly service and easy-to-navigate facilities. Whether someone is traveling for work or vacation, Pellston Regional Airport stands out as a practical and reliable choice for flyers in the region.
Contents
- 1 General Information
- 2 Parking Information
- 3 Contact Information
- 4 Passenger Information
- 5 Airport Facilities and Services
- 6 Airlines and Destinations
- 7 Local Attractions
- 8 Travel Tips and Local Insights
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions
- 9.1 What airlines provide service to and from Pellston Airport?
- 9.2 How can travelers find flight schedules for Pellston Airport?
- 9.3 Are there car rental services available at Pellston Airport?
- 9.4 What are the transportation options from Pellston Airport to Mackinac Island?
- 9.5 Does Pellston Airport support direct flights to major cities?
- 9.6 Are there any current updates on the operational status of Pellston Airport?
- 9.7 Related
General Information
Location: Pellston, Michigan, United States
Country: United States
Airport Type: Public, Commercial, and General Aviation
IATA Code: PLN
ICAO Code: KPLN
Elevation: 720 feet (219 metres)
Coordinates: 45°34′21″N 084°47′54″W
Timezone: UTC−5 (EST) / UTC−4 (EDT during Daylight Saving Time)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 3 km (2 miles) northwest of Pellston
Website: www.pellstonairport.com
Operator: Emmet County
Services: Scheduled passenger flights, general aviation, cargo, car rentals
Parking Information
Short-Term Parking
Rate: Free for up to 2 hours
Distance: Directly in front of the terminal
Ideal For: Quick pick-ups and drop-offs
Long-Term Parking
Rate: Approx. $5/day
Distance: Walkable from the terminal
Ideal For: Extended stays and overnight parking
Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, cash
Security: Lighted, monitored lots
Contact Information
Airport Info Line: +1 231-539-8442
Email: info@pellstonairport.com
FBO Services: North Country Aviation offers fueling, aircraft maintenance, and charter operations
Passenger Information
Immigration Requirements: PLN handles domestic U.S. flights only
Crew Requirements: Standard FAA documentation for domestic operations
Transport Options: Car rentals (on-site), hotel shuttles, taxis
Nearby Accommodation: Pellston Lodge, Stafford’s Perry Hotel (Petoskey), Hotel Walloon
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); major credit cards accepted
History and Development
For decades, the airport has played an important role in supporting regional transportation. It began as a local facility before becoming a public airport serving commercial and private flights. Over the years, upgrades have been made to meet the needs of passengers and airlines.
Facility improvements focused on comfort, efficiency, and convenience. Today, visitors find ample free parking, on-site rental cars, and a full-service restaurant in the main terminal. Local officials in Emmet County manage the airport, overseeing daily operations, maintenance, and flight services to ensure a smooth travel experience. The airport’s history reflects its ongoing commitment to serving both residents and tourists with reliable air service and updated facilities. Learn more about its background on the Emmet County airport page.
Location and Accessibility
Pellston Airport is located in Emmet County, northern Michigan, about 20 miles south of the Straits of Mackinac. Its location makes it convenient for visitors to popular destinations such as Mackinaw City, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs.
Travelers can reach the airport by car using US-31, and there is free parking for both short-term and long-term visitors. On-site services include car rentals and available shuttles, making the transition from air to ground transport easy. A motel stands directly across the street for those who need nearby lodging. These features help Pellston Airport offer easy access and comfort for travelers, making it a preferred regional gateway.
Airport Facilities and Services
Pellston Regional Airport provides a range of services to travelers and businesses throughout Emmet County. Visitors can find helpful amenities, varied transportation options, and convenient parking on site.
Terminal Amenities
The main terminal at Pellston Airport features several helpful services. Travelers can access free Wi-Fi throughout the building, allowing them to stay connected. There are also work stations where passengers can use laptops or mobile devices.
The terminal has a full-service restaurant where passengers can enjoy a meal before or after their flight. There is also an observation deck for those interested in sightseeing or waiting for arrivals.
Passengers benefit from covered boarding bridges, which offer protection from the weather while boarding or exiting planes. The terminal has electronic check-in stations to help speed up the boarding process. These features work together to make travel more comfortable for visitors to the airport.
Ground Transportation Options
Pellston Regional Airport offers a range of ground transportation choices for arriving or departing passengers. On-site rental car agencies are available, giving travelers flexibility for exploring Emmet County and surrounding areas.
Shuttles operate from the airport to area destinations for guests who prefer not to drive. Taxis can also be arranged for direct transport to hotels or local attractions. These services are easily accessible from the main terminal.
All ground transportation options are clearly marked and located within a short walk of the main entrance. The airport’s focus on simple, direct options makes reaching your next destination fast and straightforward. Visit the airport’s transportation page for more on these ground transportation options.
Parking and Accessibility
Pellston Airport offers free parking for daily, overnight, and long-term stays. Travelers can leave their vehicles on site at no extra cost, which is convenient for short and longer journeys. The spacious parking area reduces the need to search for open spots.
Parking lots are located close to the terminal, making transferring luggage between your car and the airport easy. Accessibility features are also in place, including designated parking spaces and barrier-free routes for those with mobility needs.
The airport maintains a clear layout and helpful signage, helping guests find entrances, exits, and transport services without confusion. The official Pellston Airport website has more details on parking and accessibility.
Airlines and Destinations
Pellston Regional Airport provides essential air service for Northern Michigan. Travelers can choose scheduled commercial flights or book charter and general aviation services for regional connections.
Commercial Airline Routes
The airport’s primary commercial service is operated by SkyWest, which does business as Delta Connection. This carrier offers three daily departures and three arrivals between Pellston and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. The Detroit route is the most frequently scheduled and connects many other U.S. and international cities.
List of current commercial flights:
- Pellston ⇄ Detroit (DTW) — 3 flights per day
Multiple flight times allow passengers to select a schedule that fits their needs. The Detroit connection is popular for both business and leisure travelers. For up-to-date details on schedules and tickets, visit the Pellston Airport official site.
General Aviation and Charter Services
Beyond commercial flights, Pellston Regional Airport supports general aviation and charter services. Local operators like Fresh Air Aviation offer charter flights to destinations such as Beaver Island and Mackinac Island, making the airport a hub for those wanting quick access to these locations.
Top regional charter destinations:
- Beaver Island
- Mackinac Island
Private pilots also use the airport, which provides essential facilities for small aircraft. The full-service airport has amenities for fueling, maintenance, and passenger comfort. Emmet County, which administers the airport, can provide more details about charter offerings.
Local Attractions
Mackinac Island
Car-free historic island featuring Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and scenic biking trails.
Petoskey State Park
Lake Michigan beach with dunes, hiking trails, and popular Petoskey stone hunting.
Harbor Springs
Charming resort town known for waterfront dining, boating, and skiing in winter.
Tunnel of Trees Scenic Drive (M-119)
The picturesque coastal route is especially vibrant during the fall foliage season.
Mackinaw City
Historic attractions include Fort Michilimackinac, lighthouse tours, and ferry access to Mackinac Island.
Travel Tips and Local Insights
Travelers flying in or out of Pellston Airport can enjoy a smooth experience with helpful airport amenities and explore some interesting spots in Emmet County. Planning ahead and knowing what is nearby makes the trip easier and more enjoyable.
Travel Planning Suggestions
Pellston Airport offers travelers several conveniences, such as free parking, making it easier for people to come and go without extra costs. The main terminal has a full-service restaurant, so guests can grab a meal or a snack before a flight. Travelers will also appreciate free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
On-site rental car options and available shuttles allow quick access to different areas. For those flying with Delta, daily flights connect Pellston directly to Detroit Metro Airport. Booking flights early is recommended for better rates and seat availability.
Table: Pellston Airport Amenities
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Free Parking | Yes |
| Restaurant | Full-service, main terminal |
| Wi-Fi | Free throughout terminal |
| Rental Cars/Shuttles | Available on-site |
Bringing a valid photo ID, checking baggage guidelines, and arriving about 90 minutes before departure can help reduce stress. The airport environment tends to be calm, so check-in and security are usually quick.
Things to Do Near Pellston Airport
Pellston is just a few miles north of the village and close to many highlights of Emmet County. The area features outdoor attractions like skiing, boating, hiking, and exploring Lake Michigan beaches. Burt Lake State Park and Mackinaw City are short drives away.
Popular stops include the small town of Pellston, where visitors can find local shops and restaurants. Petoskey, a larger city nearby, offers unique shops, coffee houses, and the famous Petoskey Stone beaches. Farmers’ markets, golf courses, and lake activities are easy to reach in warmer seasons.
Golfers, hikers, and families may enjoy the trails and the scenic inland lakes. For those with
Frequently Asked Questions
Pellston Airport connects travelers to Detroit and supports a range of transportation options. The airport provides on-site amenities, travel information, and up-to-date operational details.
What airlines provide service to and from Pellston Airport?
Delta Air Lines mainly serves Pellston Airport. It offers daily flights connecting Pellston to the Detroit Metropolitan Airport.
How can travelers find flight schedules for Pellston Airport?
Flight schedules can be checked on the official Pellston Airport website. The site shares up-to-date arrival and departure times for all current services.
Are there car rental services available at Pellston Airport?
Yes, there are car rental services at Pellston Airport. Rental counters can be found in the main terminal, and it’s possible to reserve a car in advance. For added convenience, shuttles and free parking are also available. More information can be found on the airport amenities page.
What are the transportation options from Pellston Airport to Mackinac Island?
Travelers can take a shuttle or taxi from Pellston Airport to Mackinaw City, where ferries depart regularly for Mackinac Island. Some services allow reservations for rides to and from the airport. Trip details are available on the Emmet County website.
Does Pellston Airport support direct flights to major cities?
Pellston Airport offers direct flights to Detroit. From there, travelers can connect to other major cities within the United States and internationally.
Are there any current updates on the operational status of Pellston Airport?
For the latest updates on the airport’s operational status, hours, or temporary changes, it’s best to check the official airport website. This site provides the most accurate and up-to-date information for travelers.
