Overview of Albany International Airport
Albany International Airport is a public airport located in the city of Colonie, New York. It serves as the primary airport for the Capital Region of New York and has connections to major international and domestic destinations. The airport covers an area of 1,200 acres with two runways and a passenger terminal.
The airport was originally established in 1908 as a military airfield and has since undergone numerous renovations and expansions to accommodate its growing passenger traffic. Today, it serves over 3 million passengers annually and offers a variety of amenities including shopping, dining, and airport lounges.
The airport is a hub for several airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. It also offers flights with other major carriers such as American Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines. Additionally, the airport has a strong presence of regional airlines, including Cape Air and CommutAir.
Parking at Albany International Airport is convenient with both short-term and long-term options available. The airport also offers shuttle services to and from nearby hotels and rental car facilities. Passengers can access free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal and there are several charging stations for electronic devices.
Overall, Albany International Airport is a well-connected and convenient airport for travelers visiting the Capital Region of New York. With its modern facilities and variety of airlines, passengers can easily fly to destinations both domestically and internationally.
Terminals at Albany International Airport
Albany International Airport has one terminal building with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A serves airlines such as Delta, United, and American while Concourse B serves Southwest, jetBlue, and Cape Air.
The terminal has a variety of amenities to offer passengers such as restaurants, shops, ATMs, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi. There are also a few lounges available for travelers, including the Adirondack Lounge and the Lake George Room.
Passengers can access Concourse A through the main entrance on the upper level of the terminal, while Concourse B is accessible through a separate entrance on the lower level. Both concourses have their own security checkpoints, so passengers should plan additional time for security screening when connecting between flights.
Within each concourse, passengers can find gates for their flights and additional amenities, such as restrooms and vending machines. There are also information desks located throughout the terminal building to assist passengers with any questions or needs they may have.
The terminal’s design is modern and efficient, with easy wayfinding and plenty of natural light. Overall, its compact size makes it easy to navigate, and the variety of amenities available make for a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.
Whether you are departing from Albany or connecting through, the airport’s terminal is well-equipped to handle all of your travel needs.
Airlines and Destinations
Albany International Airport is served by several major airlines, including Delta, Southwest, United, American, and JetBlue.
From Albany, travelers can fly domestically to cities such as New York, Chicago, Boston, Atlanta, and Orlando.
International destinations include Cancun, Montego Bay, Punta Cana, and Toronto.
Some airlines offer seasonal flights to popular vacation destinations, such as Fort Myers and Charleston during the winter months.
Overall, Albany International Airport provides convenient access to a variety of domestic and international destinations, making it a great option for travelers in upstate New York.
Transportation Options at Albany International Airport
Albany International Airport offers several transportation options for travelers to get to and from the airport.
For those who prefer to use public transportation, Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) buses operate between the airport and various locations in the Albany area. The 737 bus route runs every day of the week between the airport and downtown Albany, while the 117 bus route serves regional destinations, including Troy and Schenectady.
If you would like to rent a car, several rental car companies are located in the airport terminal, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty. To return a rental car, the rental car facility is located just a few minutes away from the airport terminal, accessible by shuttle.
In addition, several shuttle services operate at the airport, providing easy transportation to various locations in the Albany area. The following companies offer shuttle services:
Albany Shuttles,
Saratoga Airport Shuttle,
Catskill-Hudson Limousine Service, and
Upstate Transit of Saratoga LLC.
If you prefer to take a taxi, several taxi companies also operate at the airport. Taxi service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can be requested at the airport terminal’s ground transportation desk or via an app.
For those who prefer to use the train, Amtrak serves the Albany area with two stations: the Albany-Rensselaer station and the Union Station in Schenectady. Both stations are a short distance from the airport and accessible by taxi or shuttle services.
Overall, Albany International Airport offers a variety of transportation options to suit travelers’ needs and preferences. Whether you prefer to use public transportation, rent a car, take a shuttle, or use a taxi, there are several options available to get you to and from the airport quickly and efficiently.
Parking at Albany International Airport
Albany International Airport provides several options for parking depending on the length of your trip, budget, and convenience. There are three main parking lots: the Short Term Parking Lot, the Long Term Parking Lot, and the Economy Parking Lot.
The Short Term Parking Lot is located close to the terminal and is perfect for those who need to park for a few hours or less. The hourly rate is $4, and the daily rate is $24. The Long Term Parking Lot is farther from the terminal but still within walking distance. It is ideal for travelers going on longer trips. The daily rate is $12, and there is a free shuttle service that runs every 10-15 minutes.
Lastly, the Economy Parking Lot is the most budget-friendly option. It is located the farthest from the terminal but still accessible by a free shuttle service every 10-15 minutes. The daily rate is $8, which makes it perfect for people going away for an extended period.
In summary, parking at Albany International Airport is easy and convenient. Choose the lot that best suits your needs and budget, and enjoy your travels stress-free.
Check-In Procedures at Albany International Airport
Albany International Airport offers a variety of check-in options to cater to passengers’ preferences and needs.
One option is online check-in, which can be done up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. Passengers can visit their airline’s website or use a mobile app to check in, select seats, and print boarding passes. This option is convenient for those who want to avoid lines and save time at the airport.
Another option is self-service check-in kiosks located in the terminal. Passengers can use these kiosks to check in, print boarding passes, and select seats. This option is best for passengers with carry-on luggage and those who do not need to check bags.
Finally, traditional check-in counters are available for those who prefer to interact with an airline representative. Passengers can receive assistance with checking in, checking bags, and selecting seats.
Regardless of the check-in method chosen, passengers are still required to arrive at the airport with sufficient time before their flight. It is recommended that passengers arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and 2 hours before international flights.
In summary, Albany International Airport offers multiple check-in options to suit passengers’ preferences, including online, self-service, and traditional methods. Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to arrive at the airport with ample time before the scheduled departure.
Security Procedures and Tips at Albany International Airport
Albany International Airport considers security as one of its top priorities. All passengers must pass through security checkpoints before boarding their flights.
To ensure a smooth security check, travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours before their flight’s departure time. It is also recommended that passengers should wear easily removable shoes and avoid wearing metal objects such as jewelry and belts.
All carry-on luggage will be scanned through an X-ray machine, while all passengers must pass through a metal detector. If the machine detects any metal, passengers may be subjected to additional screening procedures, including a pat-down search.
Passengers should also remove any electronic devices larger than a cell phone from their bags and place them in a separate bin for scanning. Liquids should also be packed in a clear plastic bag and declared at the checkpoint.
By following these security procedures and tips, passengers can help the airport maintain a high level of security while ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Customs and Immigration at Albany International Airport
Arriving passengers must go through a customs clearance process where they present their travel documents and declare any items they are bringing into the country. This may include a security screening.
Once cleared, passengers can collect their luggage and proceed to the exit where they can meet their transportation or rent a car. Departing passengers must check in with their airline and go through security before entering the departure gate area.
Passengers leaving the country must go through immigration, where they present their travel documents and undergo a security screening. They then proceed to the gate area where they can wait for their flight.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes – There are several options available for food and drink at Albany International Airport. These include Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks, Villa Pizza, and more.
- Shopping – Travelers can browse a variety of stores for gifts, souvenirs, books, and more. Hudson News, CNBC News, and Discover Albany are among the shops available.
- Free Wi-Fi – Passengers can access the airport’s Wi-Fi network free of charge to stay connected while waiting for their flights.
- ATMs – There are several ATMs located throughout the airport for easy access to cash.
- Lounges – Travelers can relax in one of the airport lounges, which offer comfortable furniture, complimentary beverages and snacks, and more.
- Children’s play area – A designated area for children to play is available in the airport, complete with colorful, interactive structures.
- Pet relief areas – For travelers with pets, there are designated relief areas available both before and after security checkpoints.
Accessibility Services
Albany International Airport is committed to providing facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport offers wheelchair and electric cart services upon request, as well as accessible parking spaces in all parking lots.
The terminal building is equipped with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Service animal relief areas are also available both inside and outside the terminal.
Passengers with hearing impairments can request TTY/TDD phones at the information desk, and visual paging devices are located throughout the terminal.
If you require any assistance during your travel, please inform your airline or contact the airport’s customer service department in advance.
Connecting Flights at Albany International Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Albany International Airport, it is important to give yourself enough time between flights. This can be done by checking the time of arrival and departure of both flights.
If there is not enough time between flights, it may be necessary to change flights or airlines. It is also important to keep track of any delays or changes in flight schedules.
Once you arrive at Albany International Airport, follow signs for your connecting flight and proceed to the gate. If you are unsure of where to go, do not hesitate to ask an airport employee for assistance.
Make sure to have your boarding pass and identification readily available, as you will need to present them when boarding your connecting flight. Finally, be sure to double-check that you have all of your belongings before departing the airport.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After landing at Albany International Airport, passengers should follow signs to the baggage claim area. Baggage carousels for each flight will be indicated by electronic screens above the baggage belts.
Passengers must present their baggage claim tags, which were issued at check-in, before collecting their luggage. Any missing or damaged bags should be reported immediately to the airline’s baggage service office, which is located inside the baggage claim area.
Passengers can also report lost or damaged baggage online through the airline’s website. If the bag is not found within 24 hours, passengers can file a claim for lost baggage and may be eligible for compensation.
If a passenger leaves an item behind on a plane or in the airport, they can contact the airport’s lost and found department. The lost and found office is located near baggage claim and can be contacted by phone or email. Passengers should provide a description of the lost item, the date and time it was lost, and their contact information.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Albany International Airport, contact the airport police department immediately for assistance. The airport’s emergency phone number is 911.
The airport has a fully staffed medical clinic located on the second floor of the terminal building, next to the baggage claim area. The medical clinic is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses, as well as provide vaccination services.
There are also automated external defibrillators (AEDs) located throughout the airport in case of cardiac emergencies. If you require additional medical attention, an ambulance can be called to transport you to a nearby hospital or medical facility.
Overall, Albany International Airport is well-equipped to handle any emergency or medical situation that may arise during your travels.
Hotel Accommodations near Albany International Airport
Several hotels are available within the vicinity of the airport to cater to your needs.
These include Hilton Garden Inn, located 0.4 miles away, Homewood Suites by Hilton, situated 0.5 miles away, and the Albany Marriott, which is approximately 1.2 miles away.
If you’re looking for more affordable options, you can check out the Comfort Inn & Suites, situated 1.1 miles away, or the Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham, located 1.3 miles away.
All these hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport.
Useful Tips
Navigating and enjoying Albany International Airport can be a breeze with a little bit of insider knowledge. First, arrive at least two hours before your scheduled flight time to ensure you have plenty of time to check in and go through security.
If you’re bringing a carry-on bag, make sure it meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions. Also, consider using TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to expedite the security screening process.
Once you’re inside the airport, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and charging stations. If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat at one of the airport’s restaurants or cafes, or bring your own snacks from home.
Finally, if you have any questions or concerns during your time at the airport, don’t hesitate to ask one of the friendly staff members. They’re there to help make your travel experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Contact Information
Airport information: (518) 242-2200
Lost and found: (518) 242-2200 ext. 1
Parking information: (518) 242-2200 ext. 1450
Ground transportation: (518) 242-2200 ext. 1200
Customer service: (518) 242-2200 ext. 2400
Airports near Albany International Airport
If you’re looking for alternative flight options, or have a layover or connecting flight, the following airports are within driving distance:
- Saratoga County Airport: 20 miles north of Albany International Airport. Taxi and Uber services are available.
- Dutchess County Airport: 70 miles south of Albany International Airport. Rental cars, taxi, and Uber services are available.
- Bradley International Airport: 85 miles southwest of Albany International Airport. Rental cars, taxi, and shuttle services are available.
- Manchester-Boston Regional Airport: 137 miles east of Albany International Airport. Rental cars, taxi, and shuttle services are available.
- Newark Liberty International Airport: 155 miles south of Albany International Airport. Rental cars, taxi, shuttle, and train services are available.
Keep in mind that driving time to these airports may vary depending on traffic, so be sure to plan accordingly.