Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Overview

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (IATA: SAV – ICAO: KSAV) is a public international airport in Savannah, Georgia. It serves both the historic city of Savannah and the resort destination of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Strategically positioned near the Georgia–South Carolina border, the airport offers efficient access to coastal tourism, military installations, and regional business centres.

General Information – Savannah Airport Code

  • Location: Savannah, Georgia (serving Hilton Head Island, SC)
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: SAV
  • ICAO Code: KSAV
  • Elevation: 50 feet (15 metres)
  • Coordinates: 32°07′39″N 081°12′07″W
  • Timezone: UTC−5 (Eastern Standard Time) / UTC−4 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 13 km (8 miles) northwest of downtown Savannah
  • Website: www.savannahairport.com
  • Operator: Savannah Airport Commission
  • Services: Scheduled domestic flights, cargo, limited international general aviation, and military support

Airport Details – Savannah Airport Code

  • Runways: 2
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 10/28: 2,744 m (9,003 ft) – Asphalt
    • 01/19: 2,134 m (7,000 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for narrow-body commercial and private 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 available for international general aviation with prior notice
  • Aircraft Types: Regional jets, narrow-body aircraft, business jets
  • Terminals: One main terminal with dual concourses (A and B)
  • Cargo Facilities: FedEx, UPS, and integrated freight services
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Sheltair Aviation
  • Equipment: GPU, lavatory, potable water, hangarage, maintenance
  • Ground Services: Full GA and commercial ground support

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international general aviation via CBP coordination
  • Permission Required: Yes, for foreign-registered or non-scheduled international flights
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: Regional, business, and mid-size commercial aircraft
  • Alternate Airports:
    • CHS: Charleston International Airport
    • JAX: Jacksonville International Airport

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: U.S. entry requirements apply — passport, visa, or ESTA as applicable
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration; visa/ESTA where required
  • Transport Options: Rental cars, taxis, Uber/Lyft, hotel shuttles, CAT public bus service
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Close to Airport: Hyatt Place, DoubleTree Savannah Airport, Embassy Suites
    • In the Savannah Historic District: The DeSoto, Perry Lane Hotel, and Andaz Savannah
    • Hilton Head Island: Marriott Resort & Spa, The Westin Hilton Head, Sonesta Resort
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); all major credit/debit cards accepted

Local Attractions

Historic Savannah

Known for its cobblestone streets, oak-lined squares, and antebellum architecture, explore sites like Forsyth Park, River Street, and Bonaventure Cemetery.

Hilton Head Island

A short drive away, Hilton Head is a renowned resort island famous for its golf courses, beaches, biking trails, and luxury accommodations.

Tybee Island

A laid-back barrier island with a historic lighthouse, sandy beaches, and dolphin tours—ideal for a beach day near Savannah.

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

A top-rated art and design university with campus galleries and creative energy spread throughout the city.

Wormsloe Historic Site

Home to one of the most photographed oak avenues in the South, it is perfect for a scenic stroll through history.

Savannah Riverboat Cruises

Experience the city from the water with narrated history, dinner, and music cruises along the Savannah River.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Spring (Mar–May): Azaleas in bloom and major festivals like the Savannah Music Festival
    • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Mild temperatures and fewer tourists
  • Additional Notes:
    • Sheltair offers premium services for GA, including international arrival clearance, VIP lounges, and hangar space
    • Popular for leisure travellers connecting to Hilton Head Island, with easy access via I-95
    • The airport is also used by the Georgia Air National Guard and U.S. Army

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport provides a well-connected and welcoming entry point to Georgia’s coastal beauty and Southern charm. With efficient services and proximity to key resort destinations, SAV is ideal for commercial and general aviation.