Overview of Lancaster Airport
Lancaster Airport is a public-use airport located three miles from the central business district of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The airport covers an area of 623 acres and has one runway, measuring 7,000 feet in length. It serves general aviation and commercial airlines connecting Lancaster to major cities in the U.S. such as Chicago, Boston, and New York.
The airport was established in 1936 and has since undergone several upgrades, including runway lengthening and widening, construction of a new terminal building, and modernization of air traffic control systems. Today, Lancaster Airport serves over 200,000 passengers annually and is one of the busiest airports in the state of Pennsylvania.
In addition to commercial flights, Lancaster Airport provides various aviation-related services such as aircraft maintenance and repairs, fueling, and aircraft rental. The airport also houses a flight school, offering pilot training programs ranging from private to commercial licenses.
Lancaster Airport is committed to providing safe and efficient air transportation services to its customers. It adheres to the highest standards of airport security and maintains a robust safety management system to ensure the well-being of passengers, employees, and local communities.
Whether you are a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor, Lancaster Airport offers a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Its modern facilities, professional staff, and strategic location make it an excellent choice for your next trip.
Terminals at Lancaster Airport
Lancaster Airport has one terminal building, which is the main passenger terminal for all commercial flights. The terminal features a variety of amenities and services to make the travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible.
Inside the terminal, passengers will find several food and beverage options, including a restaurant and coffee shop that serve a variety of light meals, snacks, and drinks. There are also several shops selling souvenirs, gifts, books, magazines, and newspapers.
Passengers can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, so they can stay connected to their devices while waiting for their flight. The terminal also has several charging stations and power outlets for travelers to use.
The terminal at Lancaster Airport is equipped with several baggage claim areas, which passengers can access once they arrive at their destination. The airport staff is always available to assist passengers with any questions or concerns they may have about the baggage claim process.
Overall, the terminal at Lancaster Airport is designed to provide a seamless and stress-free travel experience for all passengers. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the airport’s amenities, and services will ensure that you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Lancaster Airport with their respective destinations.
American Airlines flies to Charlotte, North Carolina; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Washington, D.C.
United Airlines offers flights to Chicago, Illinois; Houston, Texas; and Newark, New Jersey.
Allegiant Air flies to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Punta Gorda, Florida; and Savannah, Georgia.
Delta Air Lines has routes to Atlanta, Georgia; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota.
All of the airlines offer domestic routes, while some also offer international flights to various countries in Europe, Central America, and the Caribbean.
It is recommended to check with each airline for any seasonal changes in destination availability.
Transportation Options at Lancaster Airport
Lancaster Airport serves as a gateway to the city of Lancaster and the surrounding areas, offering various transportation options to travelers. Shuttle services provide an easy and convenient way to get to and from the airport, with several reputable providers serving the airport. One such shuttle provider is the Go Airport Shuttle, which offers shared ride services to destinations throughout Lancaster County.
Car rentals are another popular option for travelers landing at Lancaster Airport, with multiple major car rental agencies operating out of the airport, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Enterprise. Rental cars provide travelers with maximum flexibility in terms of their transportation needs, allowing them to explore the city and surrounding areas at their own pace.
In addition to shuttle and rental car services, travelers can also take advantage of shuttle bus services that run between the airport and nearby hotels and attractions. For example, the Red Rose Transit Authority operates a shuttle service that runs between the airport, downtown Lancaster, and the Lancaster Amtrak station.
Speaking of train lines, Lancaster Airport is conveniently located near several major train stations, making it easy to travel to and from the airport by rail. The Lancaster Amtrak station is just a short shuttle ride away from the airport, and provides connections to major cities throughout the East Coast, including New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.
Overall, travelers to Lancaster will find no shortage of transportation options at Lancaster Airport, ranging from shuttle and rental car services to shuttle buses and trains. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, these transportation options provide you with the flexibility and convenience you need to make the most of your trip.
Parking at Lancaster Airport
Lancaster Airport offers several parking options for passengers. The airport has a large, on-site parking lot that is conveniently located just steps away from the terminal. There are both covered and uncovered parking spots available for hourly, daily, and long-term parking.
For travelers who are only going to be at the airport for a short period of time, there are hourly parking options right in front of the terminal. The rates for these spots start at $2 per hour and can go up to $12 for a full day.
For those who are going to be away for longer periods of time, there are daily and long-term parking options. The rates for these spots vary depending on the length of stay. Daily parking rates start at $10 for 0-24 hours and go up to $60 for 7 days. Long-term parking rates start at $8 per day and go up to $48 for 7 days.
The airport also offers valet parking services for those who want to save themselves the hassle of finding a spot. Valet parking is available for $20 per day. Regardless of the parking option you choose, Lancaster Airport provides a safe and convenient parking experience.
Check-In Procedures:
At Lancaster Airport, passengers have multiple options for check-in. Online check-in is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. Passengers can simply visit the airline’s website, enter their booking reference number and personal details, and choose their preferred seat.
For those who prefer self-service, there are kiosks located throughout the terminal. These kiosks allow passengers to check-in, print boarding passes, and even check luggage in some cases. They can also make changes to their reservations or upgrade their seats if desired.
Of course, traditional check-in methods are also available. Passengers can approach the airline counter and present their identification and booking reference number. The airline staff will then issue boarding passes and check any luggage. This method may be more time-consuming than online or self-service check-in, but it can be helpful for passengers who need assistance or have special requirements.
Overall, Lancaster Airport offers a range of check-in options to suit different preferences and needs. Whether passengers prefer the convenience of online check-in or the personal touch of a face-to-face interaction at the airline counter, they can rest assured that their check-in experience at Lancaster Airport will be smooth and hassle-free.
Security at Lancaster Airport
At Lancaster Airport, security is taken very seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers and employees.
Before entering the airport, passengers are required to present valid identification and their boarding passes. All bags and personal items are also subject to screening through x-ray machines.
To make the security process smoother, passengers should pack any liquids or gels in a clear, plastic bag and remove them from their carry-on bags before screening. Additionally, shoes, jackets, and belts must be removed and placed in bins for screening.
It is important to follow these procedures and cooperate with security personnel to ensure a quick and efficient security check. Remember to stay aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious behavior to airport staff.
Customs and Immigration Process at Lancaster Airport
Arriving passengers must first clear passport control before proceeding to baggage claim. Non-U.S. citizens are required to provide necessary travel documents, including visas and ESTA authorization. After collecting their luggage, passengers must declare any items that exceed the duty-free allowance.
Departing passengers must check in at least 2 hours prior to their flight and proceed through security screening. Non-U.S. citizens must complete an exit form and immigration clearance, which includes surrendering their I-94 card. Any goods purchased at the airport must be presented for inspection before departure.
Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- ATM machines located in the main lobby and baggage claim area
- Multiple dining options, including a café and bar
- Retail shops selling books, magazines, snacks, and travel gear
- Airline lounges with comfortable seating and complimentary drinks and snacks
- Baby changing stations in all restrooms
- Conference rooms and business centers available for rent
- Special assistance services for travelers with disabilities
Accessibility Services
Lancaster Airport provides various facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
They have designated parking spaces for people with disabilities near the entrance of the terminal building, as well as wheelchair ramps and elevators to ensure easy access to all areas of the airport.
Assistance can also be provided for boarding and disembarking from aircraft, as well as through security screening checkpoints.
In addition, Lancaster Airport has accessible restrooms, TTY phones for the hearing impaired, and visual paging monitors for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Passengers requiring special assistance should contact their airline at least 48 hours before their scheduled flight to make arrangements.
Connecting Flights at Lancaster Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Lancaster Airport, the process can be fairly straightforward. Upon arrival, follow signs for connecting flights and proceed to the gate for your next flight.
Be sure to have your boarding pass and any necessary travel documents ready, as you may need to present them again at your connection. Check the departure gate and time for your next flight, and make sure to be there at least 20-30 minutes before departure.
If you have a tight connection, consider asking a flight attendant or airport personnel for assistance in getting to your gate quickly. And, if your flight is delayed or you miss your connection, don’t panic – speak with airline staff at the gate or customer service desk for help rebooking your travel plans.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
When arriving at Lancaster Airport, passengers can collect their baggage from the designated baggage claim area. Bags are typically delivered on a conveyor belt, and passengers are advised to check the overhead screens for their flight number and baggage carousel.
In the event that baggage is lost or damaged, passengers should immediately report it to the airline’s customer service desk or baggage claim office. The staff will assist with filing a claim and provide updates on the status of the lost/damaged baggage. It is important for passengers to keep their baggage tags and boarding passes as proof of ownership.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Lancaster Airport, the first step is to contact the airport operations center. The airport has designated personnel trained in emergency response procedures available 24/7.
For medical emergencies, there is an on-site medical clinic staffed by a registered nurse during normal business hours. Additionally, there are automated external defibrillators (AEDs) located throughout the airport for use in cardiac emergencies.
If additional medical attention is needed, there are several hospitals and urgent care facilities located within a short drive from the airport. The nearest hospital is Lancaster General Hospital, which is approximately 15 minutes away by car.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Lancaster Airport. Some of the options include Marriott, Hilton Garden Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Comfort Suites and Wingate by Wyndham.
Marriott is the closest hotel to the airport, located just 0.5 miles away. Hilton Garden Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites are both located 1 mile away from the airport.
Comfort Suites is located 2.6 miles away from the airport while Wingate by Wyndham is located 3 miles away.
All of these hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport for the convenience of their guests.
Useful Tips:
Here are some insider tips to help you navigate and enjoy your experience at Lancaster Airport.
Firstly, arrive early to avoid any unexpected delays or long lines at security.
Make sure to check the airport website for parking options and rates before arriving.
Consider packing snacks and an empty water bottle to refill after clearing security.
If you have limited mobility or special needs, notify the airport staff in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
Lastly, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and charging stations available throughout the terminal.
Contact Information
– Airport Administration: (717) 569-1221
– Air Traffic Control Tower: (717) 569-7280
– Airport Maintenance: (717) 569-3746
– TSA Security Office: (717) 481-9942
– Airport Police Department: (717) 569-6401
– Lost and Found: (717) 569-1400 ext. 1007
– Flight Information: (877) 288-3037
– Customer Service: (717) 569-1221
– Airlines:
- Allegiant: (702) 505-8888
- Delta: (800) 221-1212
- United: (800) 864-8331
Airports near Lancaster Airport
There are several airports within a reasonable driving distance of Lancaster Airport:
- Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) – 33 miles, shuttle and taxi services available
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) – 76 miles, train, shuttle, and car rental options available
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) – 88 miles, train, shuttle, and car rental options available
Travelers may want to consider these airports as alternative flight options or for layovers or connecting flights.