Overview of Altoona Blair County Airport
Altoona Blair County Airport is a public airport located in Martinsburg, Pennsylvania, United States. Initially opened in 1940 as a military airfield, it has since become an important hub for general aviation and commercial air travel in the region.
The airport covers an area of 1,200 acres and has two runways: one asphalt runway measuring 7,100 feet long and another grass runway measuring 3,500 feet long. The airport is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and offers a wide range of services and amenities to passengers and pilots.
Altoona Blair County Airport is served by several major airlines, including Delta Airlines and American Airlines, which offer daily flights to cities such as Chicago, New York City, and Atlanta. In addition, the airport is home to several fixed-base operators (FBOs) that provide services such as fueling, aircraft maintenance, and hangar rentals to private and corporate aircraft owners.
The airport’s terminal includes a variety of amenities for passengers, including a restaurant, gift shop, and free Wi-Fi access. There are also several car rental companies located at the airport, making it easy for travelers to rent a car upon arrival.
Overall, Altoona Blair County Airport is a vital transportation hub for the central Pennsylvania region, providing convenient air travel options and supporting local economic development.
Terminals at Altoona Blair County Airport
Altoona Blair County Airport has one terminal building that serves both commercial and general aviation operations. The terminal is located in the central part of the airport property and is easily accessible from any direction.
The airport terminal features a spacious lobby with comfortable seating areas, a snack bar and vending machines, public restrooms, and a conference room for business travelers. The terminal also has a rental car counter, baggage claim area, and an airline ticketing counter.
Passengers can expect a hassle-free experience at Altoona Blair County Airport, thanks to its efficient check-in and security procedures. The airport has TSA PreCheck lanes and a dedicated checkpoint for passengers with disabilities or medical conditions.
The general aviation terminal at the airport is located adjacent to the main terminal and offers private jet services, charter flights, and flight training. The general aviation terminal provides a lounge area with comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, and a pilot briefing area.
The airport terminal also offers free Wi-Fi access, charging stations for electronic devices, and ample parking options for both short-term and long-term stays. The terminal is open daily from early morning until late evening, accommodating flights departing and arriving throughout the day.
In conclusion, Altoona Blair County Airport’s terminal provides a modern and convenient facility for both commercial and general aviation passengers. The airport’s focus on customer service and efficiency ensures a smooth travel experience for all who pass through its doors.
Airlines and Destinations
Altoona Blair County Airport offers flights from two major airlines: Southern Airways Express and United Airlines. Southern Airways Express provides regional flights to Pittsburgh, DuBois, and Baltimore, while United Airlines has daily flights to Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
Additionally, during the summer months, Allegiant Air offers seasonal flights to Myrtle Beach International Airport in South Carolina. These flights typically operate from late May to early September.
Overall, Altoona Blair County Airport provides convenient access to several regional and national destinations for travelers in central Pennsylvania.
Transportation Options at Altoona Blair County Airport
Altoona Blair County Airport serves as a gateway to the central region of Pennsylvania and is home to a variety of transportation options to make your travel easier and more convenient.
One of the most popular transportation options at the airport is the shuttle service provided by local companies such as Altoona-Blair County Airport Express. The shuttle runs on a regular schedule, making stops at various destinations in the city and surrounding areas, providing affordable and efficient transportation for both travelers and locals.
For those who prefer more flexibility and independence, car rental services are available at the airport through major companies like Hertz and Avis. This allows visitors to explore the area on their own schedule and at their own pace.
Another option for group travel or special events is the shuttle bus service. These buses can accommodate groups of any size and can provide transportation to various locations around the region. They are often used for corporate events, weddings, and other special occasions.
For those coming from further away, Amtrak train lines run through the nearby city of Tyrone, just a short drive from the airport. This provides another convenient option for travelers looking to explore the region without needing a car.
No matter what your transportation needs may be, Altoona Blair County Airport has a variety of options available to make your travel experience as easy and stress-free as possible. From shuttles and car rentals to shuttle buses and train lines, visitors are sure to find a transportation option that meets their needs and budget.
Parking at Altoona Blair County Airport
Altoona Blair County Airport offers two parking options for travelers: short-term parking and long-term parking. The short-term parking lot is located directly in front of the terminal building and is designed for vehicles that need to be parked for less than 24 hours. There are no height restrictions in this lot, and the daily rate is $9.
The long-term parking lot is located just a short walk away from the terminal building and is designed for vehicles that will be parked for more than 24 hours. This lot has a height restriction of 8 feet and 2 inches and the daily rate is $6. The weekly rate is $36, making it the best option for those planning on a longer trip.
Both lots are well-lit and secure, making them a safe place to park your vehicle while you are away. Additionally, there are handicap parking spaces available in both lots. If you are a frequent traveler, you may want to consider signing up for the airport’s loyalty program, which offers discounts on parking rates.
Overall, Altoona Blair County Airport provides convenient and affordable parking options for travelers. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you can rest assured that your vehicle will be safe and secure while you are away.
Check-In Procedures
At Altoona Blair County Airport, there are several options for checking in for your flight. For those who prefer to check in online, the airport website offers a convenient online check-in process. Travelers can simply log onto the website, enter their reservation details, and print out their boarding passes from home.
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, the airport also offers self-service kiosks. These kiosks are located in the terminal and allow travelers to check in, print out boarding passes, and even select their seats. The self-service kiosks are available 24 hours a day and are a great option for those who want to avoid lines at the traditional check-in counters.
Finally, for those who prefer the more traditional check-in process, the airport has staffed counters where travelers can check in, drop off their bags, and receive assistance with any questions or concerns. These counters are staffed by friendly, knowledgeable airport personnel who are committed to providing passengers with a smooth, stress-free experience.
No matter which method you choose, the check-in process at Altoona Blair County Airport is designed to be quick and easy, allowing you to get through security and onto your flight as quickly as possible. So whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you can rest assured that your journey will begin smoothly and stress-free at Altoona Blair County Airport.
Security Measures and Tips at Altoona Blair County Airport
At Altoona Blair County Airport, security procedures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and employees. These procedures include baggage screening, metal detectors, X-ray machines, and body scanners.
To make the security check process as smooth as possible, travelers should arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time. It is also important to remove any prohibited items from carry-on bags, such as liquids over 3.4 ounces, sharp objects, and firearms.
Passengers should be prepared to remove jackets, belts, and shoes, as well as any electronics larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bags. Additionally, travelers should be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior or items to airport authorities.
By following these security procedures and tips, passengers can help ensure a safe and efficient experience at Altoona Blair County Airport.
Customs and Immigration at Altoona Blair County Airport
Arriving passengers must first go through the US Customs and Border Protection area. Officers will check passports, visas, and any necessary forms. After clearing customs, passengers can retrieve their luggage and proceed to the airport’s main terminal.
Departing passengers must check-in at their airline’s counter and go through security screening. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) conducts security checks on all departing passengers and their carry-on items. Once through security, passengers can browse the airport shops and restaurants before boarding their flight.
Amenities
– Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport terminal building.
– There are vending machines for snacks and drinks.
– Restrooms are located before and after the TSA checkpoint.
– Charging stations are located in several areas of the terminal.
– The airport has a gift shop that sells souvenirs and travel essentials.
– There is a comfortable seating area with charging stations near the gate.
– The airport provides assistance to passengers with disabilities upon request.
– Free parking is available for all passengers, with designated spaces for disabled individuals.
– There is a restaurant on-site that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accessibility Services
Altoona Blair County Airport offers several facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport provides accessible parking spaces located in front of the terminal. Additionally, the terminal entrance is equipped with automatic doors for easy access.
Inside the terminal, there are accessible restrooms, drinking fountains, and telephones. Wheelchairs are also available upon request.
Passengers with visual impairments can make use of Braille signage located throughout the airport. And those who require special assistance during boarding and disembarking can inform the airport staff before their flight.
Altogether, Altoona Blair County Airport strives to provide a comfortable and convenient travel experience for all passengers, regardless of their accessibility needs.
Connecting Flights at Altoona Blair County Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Altoona Blair County Airport, it is important to allow enough time for layovers.
Check the itinerary and gate information as soon as possible upon arrival and make sure to stay near the gate area to avoid missing your flight.
If your connecting flight is in a different terminal, follow the signs and take advantage of airport shuttles or trains if available.
Lastly, remain aware of any schedule changes or delays and communicate with airport personnel if necessary to ensure a smooth transition between flights.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Altoona Blair County Airport, passengers can retrieve their checked baggage from the baggage claim area, located near the terminal’s entrance.
If any baggage is lost, damaged or delayed, passengers should report it immediately to the airline’s baggage service office in the baggage claim area.
The airline staff will provide a Baggage Irregularity Report (BIR) and instructions for further actions.
Passengers should always keep their baggage tags until they’ve confirmed their bags have been retrieved.
For any lost property that isn’t luggage, passengers should contact the airport’s lost and found department. They can be reached at [insert phone number] or by email at [insert email address].
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, the Altoona Blair County Airport has a comprehensive emergency response plan in place. The airport’s emergency operations center is staffed 24/7 to respond to any incidents or accidents that may occur.
For medical emergencies, the airport has an on-site medical facility equipped with first aid supplies and basic life support equipment. Additionally, the airport has agreements with local hospitals and emergency medical services providers to ensure prompt and efficient transport of patients.
Hotel Accommodations
For visitors seeking accommodations near Altoona Blair County Airport, there are several options available.
These include the Courtyard by Marriott Altoona (0.5 miles), Comfort Suites Altoona (1 mile), Holiday Inn Express & Suites Altoona (1.1 miles), Hampton Inn Altoona (1.3 miles), and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Altoona (1.3 miles).
Each hotel offers a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and shuttle service to and from the airport. Visitors can easily book rooms online or by contacting the hotels directly.
Useful Tips for Navigating and Enjoying Altoona Blair County Airport
As a passenger at Altoona Blair County Airport, there are some insider tips that can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Firstly, it’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least an hour before your flight departure time, especially if you’re checking in bags.
Secondly, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout the airport to stay connected and powered up before your flight.
Thirdly, if you need any assistance or have questions, don’t hesitate to ask one of the friendly staff members who are always ready to help.
Lastly, if you have some extra time before your flight, grab a bite to eat at the airport’s cafe or browse the gift shop for some last-minute souvenirs.
Contact Information
– Altoona Blair County Airport Administration Office: (814) 793-2027
– Airport Operations/Safety: (814) 527-1137
– Fixed Base Operator: (814) 696-0831
– Airport Police: (814) 327-7090
– Maintenance & Grounds: (814) 932-3089
– Airport Security: (814) 932-3089
– TSA: (717) 221-1700
– Airline Reservation/Information: Visit airline websites or call respective airlines.
Airports Near Altoona Blair County Airport
– John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport (24 miles away) – shuttle service available
– University Park Airport (44 miles away) – rental cars and taxi service available
– Hagerstown Regional Airport (80 miles away) – rental cars and taxi service available
– Pittsburgh International Airport (107 miles away) – rental cars, taxi service, and bus service available
– Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (140 miles away) – rental cars, taxi service, and train service available.