Overview of Rapid City Regional Airport
Rapid City Regional Airport is a public airport located 10 miles southeast of Rapid City, South Dakota, United States. It is the second-largest airport in South Dakota and serves as a gateway to the Black Hills region. The airport has a single terminal building with two concourses, A and B. It offers non-stop flights to several major cities in the United States, including Denver, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Minneapolis/St. Paul, and Phoenix.
The airport is owned by the City of Rapid City and operated by the Rapid City Regional Airport Board. It covers an area of 1,655 acres and has two runways, one with an asphalt surface and the other with a concrete surface. The airport served over 650,000 passengers in 2019, making it the busiest airport in South Dakota.
Rapid City Regional Airport offers a wide range of facilities and services for passengers. The airport has several dining options, including cafes and restaurants, and a gift shop. It also features business centers and free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal. Passengers can park their cars in the long-term parking lot or use the short-term parking garage located just across from the terminal building.
The airport is also home to several aviation-related businesses, including aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul companies, as well as flight training schools. It has a large cargo area that handles freight and express shipments from various airlines. In addition, the airport serves as a base for the South Dakota Army National Guard’s aviation unit.
Overall, Rapid City Regional Airport provides convenient and efficient air travel services to the Black Hills region and serves as an important transportation hub for the state of South Dakota.
Terminals at Rapid City Regional Airport
Rapid City Regional Airport has one terminal building, which serves both domestic and international passengers. The terminal is divided into two levels – the ground level and the upper level. The ground level is where arriving passengers exit the aircraft and proceed through the baggage claim area to retrieve their luggage.
The upper level is used for departing passengers. This level houses the check-in counters for the airlines, TSA security screening checkpoints, and the gate areas for boarding. The upper level also includes amenities such as restaurants, shops, and restrooms, providing passengers with comfortable surroundings before boarding.
The terminal building has a modern design that reflects the essence of the South Dakota region. The tall glass windows provide natural light and offer panoramic views of the Black Hills.
To cater to the needs of passengers, the terminal also offers wheelchair-accessible facilities, including ramps, lifts, and dedicated restrooms. There are also nursing rooms available for mothers who need to breastfeed their babies.
In addition to the main terminal building, the airport also has a general aviation terminal, which is used by private aircraft owners and charter operators. The general aviation terminal offers amenities such as a pilots’ lounge, conference room, and airport management offices.
Overall, the terminals at Rapid City Regional Airport are well-equipped to cater to all types of passengers and their respective needs. The focus on providing top-notch facilities, coupled with a commitment to customer service and satisfaction, makes it an excellent airport for travelers.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Rapid City Regional Airport: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Allegiant Air.
American Airlines offers flights to Dallas/Ft. Worth and Chicago O’Hare. Delta Air Lines offers flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. United Airlines offers flights to Denver and Chicago O’Hare.
Allegiant Air offers flights to several domestic destinations, including Las Vegas, Phoenix/Mesa, Oakland, and Los Angeles. Some of these flights operate seasonally, so be sure to check the airline’s website before booking.
There are currently no international routes operating from Rapid City Regional Airport.
Transportation Options at Rapid City Regional Airport
Rapid City Regional Airport offers a variety of transportation options to meet the needs of its passengers. One popular option is the airport shuttle service, which provides door-to-door transportation to and from the airport. The shuttle service is provided by several local companies and can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport.
For travelers who prefer more freedom and flexibility, car rentals are also available at the airport. Several major rental companies have desks located in the terminal, making it easy to rent a vehicle and hit the road. Whether you’re looking for a compact car or a larger SUV, there are plenty of options to choose from.
If you’re traveling to a nearby city or town, shuttle bus services are available to some destinations. These services typically run on a set schedule and offer comfortable, reliable transportation to popular destinations within a reasonable distance of the airport.
For those who prefer to travel by train, there are several train lines that operate near Rapid City Regional Airport. Amtrak, for example, offers daily service to destinations throughout the region. Some hotels in the area also offer shuttle service to and from the nearest Amtrak station, making it easy to combine air and train travel.
Finally, taxi services are also available at the airport. While these services can be more expensive than other options, they offer the convenience of door-to-door transportation and are available 24 hours a day.
No matter what your transportation needs may be, Rapid City Regional Airport has plenty of options to choose from. From shuttle services to car rentals, train lines to taxi services, getting around the area has never been easier. So the next time you’re planning a trip to the area, be sure to take advantage of these convenient transportation options.
Parking Options at Rapid City Regional Airport
Rapid City Regional Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. The airport has a total of 1,700 parking spaces, with both short-term and long-term options available.
The first option is the Short-Term Lot located directly in front of the terminal. This lot is ideal for those who are dropping off or picking up passengers and need to park for a short amount of time. Rates for the Short-Term Lot start at $2 for the first hour, with additional charges for each additional hour.
For those who need to park for longer periods, the airport also offers a Long-Term Lot. This lot is located just a short shuttle ride away from the terminal and is ideal for those who will be away for several days or more. Rates for the Long-Term Lot start at $9 per day, with discounts available for extended stays.
Finally, there is also a Valet Parking option available at Rapid City Regional Airport. This service allows travelers to drop off their vehicle at the terminal and have it parked for them. Valet Parking rates start at $15 per day.
Overall, Rapid City Regional Airport provides convenient and affordable parking options for its travelers.
Check-In Procedures
The check-in process at Rapid City Regional Airport can be completed through a variety of methods to best suit the passenger’s needs. One option is to check in online 24 hours before the flight, which allows passengers to select their seats, print their boarding passes and avoid long lines at the airport.
Another convenient option is self-service kiosks located inside the airport terminal. These kiosks allow passengers to print boarding passes, check luggage and even change seat assignments. The kiosks are available for use up to 45 minutes prior to departure.
For those who prefer a more traditional method, check-in counters are dispersed throughout the airport terminal. Passengers will need to wait in line to speak with a customer service representative who will assist with check-in, luggage drop-off and other inquiries.
It is recommended that passengers arrive at least 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow enough time for check-in, security screening and boarding. It is important to have a government-issued photo ID ready for TSA security screening.
Overall, Rapid City Regional Airport offers a variety of check-in options to accommodate the needs of all passengers. Online, self-service and traditional methods are available to make the check-in process as efficient and hassle-free as possible.
Security Procedures and Tips at Rapid City Regional Airport
At the airport, security is taken very seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers.
Passengers are required to go through a security screening process before boarding their flight. This includes going through a metal detector, placing personal belongings in bins, and having carry-on bags scanned.
To make the security process smooth, it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport early, have their boarding pass and ID ready, wear slip-on shoes and avoid wearing bulky accessories or clothing.
It is also important to follow TSA guidelines for liquids and gels, which must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and placed in a clear plastic bag.
By following these tips and cooperating with security procedures, passengers can help ensure a safe and efficient travel experience.
Customs and Immigration at Rapid City Regional Airport
Arriving passengers at Rapid City Regional Airport must clear customs and immigration if arriving from an international flight. They will be directed to the customs area where they must present their passport and declare any goods they are bringing into the country.
After clearing customs, passengers can collect their baggage and proceed to the passenger pick-up area. Departing passengers must check in for their flight and go through security before boarding their flight. If departing on an international flight, they may also have to go through a separate customs and immigration process before boarding their flight.
Amenities
– Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
– Several restaurants and cafes are available both pre- and post-security.
– Shops selling souvenirs, gifts, and travel essentials are located throughout the terminal.
– ATM machines, currency exchange, and charging stations are available.
– Rental car counters and a baggage storage facility are also on site.
– A nursing room for mothers and a pet relief area are available for those traveling with young children or pets.
Accessibility Services
Rapid City Regional Airport offers a variety of facilities and services to ensure passengers with disabilities or mobility issues are able to navigate the airport comfortably.
Wheelchairs and electric carts are available free of charge for those who need assistance getting around the terminal.
There are also designated accessible parking spaces located near the terminal entrance, as well as accessible restrooms throughout the airport.
Passengers can request further assistance from airport staff by calling ahead or notifying the airline upon booking their flight.
Rapid City Regional Airport is committed to providing equal access and convenience to all passengers, regardless of their mobility limitations.
Connecting Flights at Rapid City Regional Airport
Connecting flights at Rapid City Regional Airport involve arriving at the airport and identifying the appropriate gates for departure.
Passengers should check the monitor at the airport to identify their flight’s gate number and ensure they have enough time to reach the gate.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before the scheduled departure of the connecting flight.
If a passenger has a tight connection, they may request assistance from an airport personnel or use the airport shuttle service to quickly get from one gate to another.
Additionally, passengers should ensure they have all necessary boarding passes and travel documents ready to present at the gate.
It is important to be aware of any potential delays or cancellations that may affect the connecting flight and to stay updated on any changes in gate assignments or flight schedules.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After your flight lands and you exit the plane, follow the signs to baggage claim where you will find carousels with bags arriving from your flight. Look for your airline’s carousel number that matches the flight you were on.
If your bag does not show up on the carousel, do not panic. It may take some time for all bags to arrive. If all bags have been claimed and your bag is still missing, head to the lost baggage office located in the baggage claim area. There you can report your missing bag and file a claim.
If your bag arrives damaged or with missing items, report it to the lost baggage office immediately. They will assist you in filing a claim with the airline and provide you with next steps. Do not leave the airport without reporting any damage, as it may be difficult to file a claim later.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of emergency, Rapid City Regional Airport has a fully trained emergency response team available 24/7. They are equipped to handle any situation, from fire emergencies to medical emergencies.
The airport also has an on-site medical facility with a doctor and nurses available to provide medical assistance to passengers or employees if needed. The medical facility is open during airport hours and can treat a variety of non-life-threatening medical conditions.
If a passenger requires additional medical attention, the airport can arrange for transportation to one of the nearby hospitals, including Rapid City Regional Hospital, which is only a few miles away. The airport staff is trained to assist passengers in need and can quickly coordinate medical transportation if necessary.
Hotel Accommodations
If you’re looking for a place to stay near Rapid City Regional Airport, there are several options available. The closest hotel to the airport is the Fairfield Inn & Suites, which is located just half a mile away.
Other nearby hotels include the Residence Inn by Marriott (1.3 miles), AmericInn by Wyndham (1.4 miles), Holiday Inn Express & Suites (2 miles), and Sleep Inn & Suites (2.2 miles). All of these hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the airport, making your travel experience hassle-free.
Useful Tips:
– Arrive at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow time for parking, baggage check-in, and security screening.
– Consider using the TSA PreCheck program to expedite security screening if you are a frequent traveler.
– Parking at the airport can be expensive, so consider using a local shuttle service or ride-sharing app to get there.
– Check the airport’s website or social media pages for any updates or changes to flights, gates, or services.
– Be mindful of the liquids and gels you pack in your carry-on luggage, as they must adhere to TSA guidelines.
– If you have some time to spare before your flight, browse the airport’s shops and restaurants, or enjoy the art installations on display.
– Finally, be courteous to other travelers and airport staff, and follow all rules and regulations to make your experience at Rapid City Regional Airport a pleasant one.
Contact Information
Airport Administration: 605-393-9924
Airport Police: 605-394-4195
Lost and Found: 605-393-9924
Parking Information: 605-393-4117
General Inquiries: 605-393-9924
Customer Service: 605-393-9924
Volunteer Program: 605-393-9924
Airport Maintenance: 605-393-9801
Airports Near Rapid City Regional Airport
There are a few airports in the vicinity of Rapid City Regional Airport that travelers may consider as an alternative. Here are some details on the distance from Rapid City Regional Airport and transportation options to reach them:
1. Black Hills Airport – Distance: 10 miles; Transportation options: Taxi or rental car.
2. Deadwood-Lead Municipal Airport – Distance: 50 miles; Transportation options: Rental car or private transfer service.
3. Chadron Municipal Airport – Distance: 85 miles; Transportation options: Rental car or private transfer service.
These airports offer additional flight options for travelers looking to save money or have layovers and connecting flights. Make sure to plan your transportation in advance to ensure a seamless travel experience.