Pensacola International Airport Overview

Pensacola International Airport (IATA: PNS – ICAO: KPNS) is a public international airport located in the westernmost part of the Florida Panhandle. Positioned just 6 kilometres (4 miles) northeast of downtown Pensacola, the airport serves as a vital regional hub for domestic travel and offers international general aviation services. PNS is known for its efficiency, coastal accessibility, and proximity to major military bases and Gulf Coast attractions.

General Information

  • Location: Pensacola, Florida
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: PNS
  • ICAO Code: KPNS
  • Elevation: 121 feet (37 metres)
  • Coordinates: 30°28′22″N 087°11′46″W
  • Timezone: UTC−6 (Central Standard Time) / UTC−5 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 6 km (4 miles) northeast of downtown Pensacola
  • Website: www.flypensacola.com
  • Operator: City of Pensacola
  • Services: Scheduled domestic flights, charter, cargo, and international general aviation

Airport Details

  • Runways: 2
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 08/26: 2,347 m (7,700 ft) – Asphalt
    • 17/35: 2,438 m (8,000 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for regional, narrow-body, and business jets
  • 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 for international general aviation by prior arrangement
  • Aircraft Types: Regional aircraft, narrow-body jets, private and charter aircraft
  • Terminals: One main terminal with 12 gates
  • Cargo Facilities: FedEx and UPS serve the region
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support
  • Equipment: GPU, potable water, lavatory service, de-icing (seasonal), hangars
  • Ground Services: Full handling for general aviation and limited commercial aircraft

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA arrivals with CBP coordination
  • Permission Required: Yes, for foreign-registered and non-scheduled international flights
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: Regional jets, narrow-body airliners, business and private aircraft
  • Alternate Airports:
    • VPS: Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport
    • MOB: Mobile Regional Airport

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: U.S. entry rules apply — passport, visa, or ESTA as applicable
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa or ESTA where required
  • Transport Options: Taxis, Uber/Lyft, car hire, hotel shuttles
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Close to Airport: Hyatt Place, Hampton Inn Pensacola Airport, Hilton Garden Inn
    • Near Beaches: Margaritaville Beach Hotel, Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); all major debit and credit cards accepted

Local Attractions

Pensacola Beach

Renowned for its white sand beaches and emerald-green waters—ideal for families, water sports, and sunset views.

National Naval Aviation Museum

One of the world’s largest aviation museums, featuring historic aircraft and flight simulators—located at NAS Pensacola.

Historic Downtown Pensacola

Charming colonial-era streets with art galleries, restaurants, museums, and vibrant nightlife.

Fort Pickens

A 19th-century coastal fortress located on Santa Rosa Island, great for history, nature walks, and beach access.

Blue Angels Practice Sessions

Watch the U.S. Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron practise in the skies over Pensacola.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Spring (Mar–May): Ideal temperatures and fewer crowds
    • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Warm weather and cultural events
  • Additional Notes:
    • Signature Flight Support provides full GA services including customs coordination and VIP handling
    • PNS is favoured for quick turnarounds, low congestion, and beach proximity
    • Book accommodation early during airshows, spring break, or Blue Angels events
    • Great base for accessing Gulf Islands National Seashore and Florida Panhandle resorts

Pensacola International Airport offers a relaxed, coastal gateway to Florida’s Gulf Coast, combining convenience, Southern hospitality, and access to both business and leisure destinations.