The United States is home to a remarkable network of airports that seamlessly integrate military and civilian aviation operations. These joint-use facilities, strategically positioned across the country, serve as vital gateways for both national defense and commercial air travel. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the Top 5 US Airports Serving Both Military and Civilian Flights that have mastered the art of balancing these dual responsibilities, showcasing their impressive capabilities and the critical role they play in the nation’s transportation infrastructure.
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1. Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Nestled just seven miles from the heart of Richmond, Virginia, Richmond International Airport (RIC) is a shining example of the harmonious coexistence between military and civilian air operations. Established in 1975, RIC serves as the Aviation Support Facility for the Virginia Army National Guard’s 224th Aviation Regiment, which operates a fleet of 25 helicopters and one C-12 Huron transport aircraft. This joint arrangement allows the airport to leverage the expertise and resources of the National Guard while catering to the needs of the region’s civilian air travelers.
In 2023, RIC handled an impressive 105,000 civilian aircraft movements and welcomed over 4.76 million passengers through its terminals. The airport’s strategic location and multi-faceted capabilities make it a vital asset for both military readiness and commercial air connectivity in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The TSA PreCheck Advantage at RIC
To enhance the passenger experience, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has established a temporary PreCheck application center at Richmond International Airport. This pop-up enrollment truck provides a convenient opportunity for travelers to sign up for the expedited security screening program, streamlining their journey through the airport.
2. Charleston International Airport (CHS)
Situated just 12 miles northwest of Charleston, South Carolina, Charleston International Airport (CHS) is a shining example of the successful integration of military and civilian aviation operations. Established in 1928, the airport operates under a joint agreement between the Charleston County Aviation Authority and the United States Air Force’s 628th Air Base Wing, Air Mobility Command (AMC).
In 2023, CHS handled over 123,000 civilian aircraft movements and welcomed more than 6.15 million passengers. The airport’s strategic location and close collaboration with the USAF have made it a vital transportation hub for the region, serving as the focus city for Breeze Airways and the site of Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner assembly.
Breeze Airways Expands Flights from Charleston
Recognizing the growing demand for air travel to and from Charleston, Breeze Airways has announced plans to double its flight frequency between CHS and Los Angeles (LAX) this summer.
3. Portland International Airport (PDX)
Situated just six miles northeast of downtown Portland, Oregon, Portland International Airport (PDX) is a true marvel of joint-use aviation. Established in 1936, the airport covers an expansive 3,000-acre area and accounts for a staggering 90% of Oregon’s air passengers and over 95% of its air cargo.
In 2023, PDX handled an impressive 190,000 civilian aircraft movements and welcomed over 16.5 million passengers. The airport’s strategic location and multi-faceted capabilities make it a crucial hub for both commercial and military aviation in the Pacific Northwest.
The Return of an Iconic Carpet Design
Portland International Airport has long been known for its unique and iconic carpet design, which has become a beloved part of the passenger experience. After a brief hiatus, this distinctive flooring pattern is making a triumphant return, much to the delight of PDX’s loyal travelers.
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4. Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Originally known as Berry Field Airport, Nashville International Airport (BNA) is a true aviation powerhouse in the Volunteer State. Established in 1937, the airport covers an expansive 4,550-acre area and serves as the busiest airport in Tennessee, with more aircraft movements than any other state airport combined.
In 2023, BNA handled an astounding 281,000 civilian aircraft movements and welcomed over 22.9 million passengers through its terminals. The airport’s strategic location and close collaboration with the Tennessee Army National Guard’s 118th Wing and 1/230 Air Cavalry Squadron make it a vital asset for both military readiness and commercial air travel in the region.
Nashville International Airport Breaks Daily Passenger Record
Nashville’s growing popularity as a destination has been reflected in the airport’s impressive passenger numbers. In a recent milestone, BNA set a new daily passenger record, underscoring the city’s status as a thriving hub of commercial and leisure air travel.
5. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
Situated just six miles west of Charlotte, North Carolina’s business district, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is the crown jewel of the state’s aviation landscape. Established in 1935, the airport covers an expansive 5,550-acre area and serves as a hub for one of the largest US carriers, American Airlines.
In 2023, CLT handled an astounding 506,000 civilian aircraft movements and welcomed over 53.4 million passengers, cementing its position as the busiest joint-use military/civil airport in the United States. The airport’s strategic location and close collaboration with the North Carolina Air National Guard’s 145th Airlift Wing make it a vital asset for both national defense and commercial air travel.
The Latest Expansion at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the passenger experience, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is currently in the midst of a major expansion project. The new Concourse A facility will feature a range of amenities, including new art pieces, terrazzo flooring, and auto-tinting glass, all designed to create a more inviting and comfortable environment for travelers.
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Conclusion
The five joint-use military/civil airports highlighted in this article represent the pinnacle of aviation excellence in the United States. By seamlessly integrating military operations with civilian air travel, these facilities have become critical hubs for national defense, commercial connectivity, and economic growth. As the demand for air transportation continues to soar, these airports will undoubtedly play an increasingly vital role in shaping the nation’s transportation landscape for years to come.
FAQs
1. What is a joint-use military/civil airport?
A joint-use military/civil airport is an airport that serves both military and civilian aviation operations, with the infrastructure and facilities shared between the two entities.
2. Why are joint-use airports important for the US?Â
Joint-use airports are important for the US because they allow for the efficient and coordinated use of aviation resources, supporting both national defense and commercial air travel. These airports leverage the expertise and resources of the military while catering to the needs of civilian passengers and cargo.
3. Which airports in the US have the most flights?
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest in the US, accommodating 45.4 million passengers across 337,023 flights annually, which amounts to nearly 1,000 flights daily.
4. What is the hardest airport to fly into in the US?
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is regarded as the most dangerous airport in the U.S. due to its short runways, which can cause pilots to overshoot. Additionally, Chicago’s poor weather conditions make landing particularly challenging for pilots.
5. Which US airport has the most runways?
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
