Overview of Vernal Regional Airport
Vernal Regional Airport (VEL) is a public-use airport located in Uintah County, Utah. The airport covers an area of 374 acres and has one asphalt runway that is 8,199 feet long. It serves as a general aviation facility and is also used by the military and wildfire management agencies.
In 2019, the airport had approximately 22,000 aircraft operations, with an average of 60 per day. It primarily caters to small and midsize aircraft, but larger aircraft can also use the facilities. The airport has a full-service Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) that offers fuel services, maintenance, and hangar rentals.
Passenger amenities at Vernal Regional Airport include a small terminal building that is open from 6 am to 6 pm daily. The terminal features a waiting area, vending machines, and restroom facilities. The airport does not currently offer commercial passenger service.
Vernal Regional Airport is an essential transportation hub for the Uintah Basin region and plays a critical role in supporting local businesses and economic development. The airport is within close proximity to the Uintah and Ouray Indian Reservation, Dinosaur National Monument, and several other natural attractions.
The airport also serves as a base for search and rescue missions and firefighting efforts in the surrounding area. These functions are carried out by the airport’s Air Attack Base, which is operated by the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands.
Overall, Vernal Regional Airport is an important asset to the local community and provides valuable services to both general aviation and government agencies. Its strategic location and capabilities make it a key player in the development and growth of eastern Utah’s economy.
Terminals at Vernal Regional Airport
The Vernal Regional Airport has two terminals that provide services to passengers and airlines. Terminal 1 serves commercial airlines while Terminal 2 caters to general aviation.
Terminal 1 is equipped with modern facilities and amenities such as check-in counters, security checkpoints, baggage claim, and waiting lounges for passengers. It features three boarding gates and can accommodate up to 200 passengers at a time. Terminal 1 operates daily flights to regional destinations such as Salt Lake City, Denver, and Las Vegas.
On the other hand, Terminal 2 is designed to cater to private and chartered flights. It features hangars, fueling stations, and maintenance facilities for private planes. Terminal 2 also has its own parking lot for guests and pilots.
Both terminals have their own restaurants, gift shops, and restrooms. For passengers who need mobility assistance, the airport provides wheelchairs and dedicated staff to assist them. The airport also offers Wi-Fi connectivity throughout both terminals.
Vernal Regional Airport’s terminals are designed to provide a seamless travel experience for passengers. With its modern amenities and world-class facilities, it aims to be the premier airport in the region.
Airlines and Destinations
– United Airlines operates daily flights from Vernal Regional Airport to Denver, Colorado.
– SkyWest Airlines flies from Vernal to Salt Lake City, Utah, three times a week.
– Boutique Air offers nonstop service to Denver, Colorado four times a week.
– Currently, all flights from Vernal Regional Airport are domestic.
– During peak travel seasons, some airlines may offer additional routes or increase the frequency of their flights.
– Passengers should check with individual airlines for specific schedules and destinations.
Transportation Options at Vernal Regional Airport
Vernal Regional Airport, located in Uintah County, Utah, offers a variety of transportation options for travelers wishing to explore the surrounding area. One of the most popular options is shuttle service, which provides convenient and affordable transportation from the airport to hotels and other destinations. Shuttle service can be pre-booked online or arranged upon arrival at the airport.
Another popular option for transportation is car rental. Several major car rental companies are located at the airport, including Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise. Renting a car provides the freedom to explore the local area at your own pace and is a great option for longer trips.
For travelers who prefer not to drive themselves, shuttle buses are available from the airport to nearby towns and cities. These shuttles offer a cost-effective way to travel to your final destination and can be booked through various providers online or at the airport.
If trains are more your speed, there are several train lines that serve the area. Amtrak offers service to Salt Lake City, Utah, which is approximately 3 hours away from Vernal by car. From Salt Lake City, travelers can connect to other major cities throughout the United States.
For those who need to travel to neighboring states or beyond, there are several airports located within a few hours’ drive of Vernal Regional Airport. These include Salt Lake City International Airport, Grand Junction Regional Airport, and Denver International Airport.
No matter what your transportation needs may be, Vernal Regional Airport has a variety of options to choose from. From shuttle service to car rentals, shuttle buses to train lines, and more, travelers have access to convenient and affordable transportation to help them explore all that the region has to offer.
Parking at Vernal Regional Airport
Vernal Regional Airport offers various parking options for passengers flying out of the airport. There is a parking lot located directly in front of the terminal building, which is convenient for those who want to park close to the entrance. In addition, there is an overflow parking lot located just across the street from the terminal building, which is perfect for peak travel times when the main parking lot fills up quickly.
The parking rates at Vernal Regional Airport are very affordable. The hourly rate for parking in the main parking lot is $1 per hour, with a daily maximum rate of $6. The overflow parking lot also costs $1 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $4. For long-term parking, there is a weekly rate of $30 for the main parking lot and $20 for the overflow parking lot.
Passengers can pay for parking using cash or credit cards at the parking kiosk located in the main parking lot. It is important to note that all vehicles must be removed from the parking lots within 24 hours of departure. Vehicles left for more than 24 hours may be towed at the owner’s expense.
Overall, parking at Vernal Regional Airport is convenient and affordable, making it an excellent choice for travelers in the area.
Check-In Procedures
At Vernal Regional Airport, passengers have several options for checking in before their flight. Firstly, passengers can check-in online using the airline’s website or mobile app. This allows them to avoid lines at the airport and print their boarding pass or receive an electronic version on their phone.
For those who prefer self-service, there are kiosks located throughout the terminal where passengers can print their boarding pass and check their bags. These kiosks are easy to use and provide a quick and efficient way to check in.
Finally, traditional check-in desks are available for those who would like assistance from a customer service representative. These desks are located in the terminal and are staffed by friendly and knowledgeable agents who can help with any questions or concerns.
Regardless of the check-in method chosen, all passengers must present a valid government-issued ID and any necessary travel documents, such as a passport or visa. It is also important to arrive at the airport with enough time to go through security and reach the gate before the flight departure time.
Overall, Vernal Regional Airport offers a variety of check-in options to make the process as convenient as possible for its passengers.
Security Procedures and Tips at Vernal Regional Airport
The airport ensures the safety of its passengers by conducting security checks before boarding. All passengers are required to pass through a metal detector, while their carry-on and checked luggage undergoes X-ray screening.
To ensure a smooth security check, make sure to remove all metal items, such as jewelry and belts. Also, ensure that all liquids in your carry-on bags are within the 3.4-ounce limit and placed in a clear plastic bag.
Furthermore, wearing easy-to-remove shoes and avoiding clothing with metal embellishments can also help speed up the process. Follow these tips and arrive at the airport with ample time, so you can avoid any unnecessary delays.
Customs and Immigration Process at Vernal Regional Airport
All international flights arriving at Vernal Regional Airport must clear customs and immigration. Arriving passengers must fill out an arrival card and present it along with their passport to a customs and border protection officer.
Passengers may be subject to a secondary inspection, which may involve X-ray machines, searches, or questioning. Departing passengers should arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for enough time to pass through security screening and immigration procedures.
Passengers are required to have all necessary travel documents, including passports and visas, for entry and exit to the United States. Any passenger found to be in violation of these requirements may be denied entry or exit and may be subject to fines and other penalties.
Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and Beverage concessions
- Gift shop
- Lounge area with comfortable seating
- Conference rooms with audiovisual equipment
- Baby-changing stations in restrooms
- Wheelchair assistance upon request
- Parking for short-term and long-term stays
- Car rental services onsite
Accessibility Services
At Vernal Regional Airport, we strive to provide facilities and services that accommodate the needs of all our passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues. Our airport is equipped with multiple accessible parking spaces for vehicles displaying disability permits.
Inside the terminal building, there are elevators and ramps to assist passengers in navigating between floors. Additionally, we offer wheelchair assistance upon request, and our staff is trained to assist passengers who may require extra assistance during their travels.
We also have accessible restrooms and drinking fountains located throughout the airport to ensure that all passengers can comfortably use our facilities. If you have any questions about our accessibility services or need further assistance during your visit, please do not hesitate to reach out to our friendly airport staff.
Connecting Flights at Vernal Regional Airport
Connecting flights at Vernal Regional Airport are easy to catch if you follow a few simple tips.
First, make sure to check the gate number and departure time of your connecting flight as soon as you land.
If you have a short layover, consider asking a flight attendant or airport staff for assistance in getting to your gate quickly.
It’s also helpful to pack light and avoid carrying unnecessary items that may slow you down.
Be sure to have all of your travel documents and boarding passes easily accessible, as you will need them to pass through security checkpoints and board your connecting flight.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arriving at Vernal Regional Airport, passengers can head to the baggage claim area to retrieve their checked luggage. It is important to check the baggage tags to ensure that you are taking the correct bags.
If a passenger’s baggage is lost or damaged, they should report it to the airline’s customer service desk immediately. The airline will provide information on how to file a claim and may offer compensation for any damages or losses.
In the event that a passenger loses an item while at the airport, they should contact the airport’s lost and found department. The department will take down a description of the lost item and will contact the passenger if the item is found.
It is important to keep track of your belongings while traveling and to report any issues as soon as possible to ensure a smoother process and increase the likelihood of recovering lost items.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In the event of an emergency, Vernal Regional Airport has a comprehensive plan in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff.
The airport has a fully-equipped fire department on site, as well as trained personnel to respond to any medical emergencies that may arise.
There is also a medical clinic within close proximity to the airport, providing easy access to healthcare services for anyone in need.
In addition, the airport has a designated area for emergency landings and a range of emergency equipment, including defibrillators and oxygen masks, readily available.
Passengers can feel secure in the knowledge that Vernal Regional Airport places the safety and health of its customers and staff as its top priority.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Vernal Regional Airport to provide convenient and comfortable rest for travelers.
Some of the notable hotels in the vicinity of the airport include SpringHill Suites by Marriott Vernal, located 1.3 miles from the airport, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Vernal – Dinosaurland, situated 3.7 miles away, Quality Inn Vernal, which is 3.9 miles away, Comfort Inn & Suites Vernal – National Monument Area, located 4.2 miles away, and Best Western Dinosaur Inn, which is only 4.2 miles from the airport.
Each of these hotels offers superb accommodation, friendly service, and a range of amenities to ensure that guests have a relaxing and memorable stay. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, you’re sure to find the perfect hotel option to fit your needs and budget near the Vernal Regional Airport.
Useful Tips
Looking to make your travels through Vernal Regional Airport as smooth and stress-free as possible?
Here are some insider tips to help you navigate the airport and enjoy your time there:
First off, arrive early to avoid any potential lines or delays.
Consider bringing a small carry-on bag to make your time in the airport more comfortable.
During peak travel times, be prepared for longer wait times at security checkpoints.
Take advantage of the airport’s free Wi-Fi to stay connected during your travels.
And finally, don’t forget to grab a bite to eat or a souvenir before you leave!
Contact Information
– Airport Administration: (435) 789-9501
– Fixed Base Operator (FBO): (435) 781-2626
– Airport Security: (435) 790-8935
– Ground Transportation: (435) 722-2889
Please note that these numbers may change without notice. If you require assistance, please ask a staff member or call the main airport number for more information.
Airports Near Vernal Regional Airport
If you’re traveling to the Vernal area, there are several other airports nearby that you might consider as well. Here are a few options:
1. Salt Lake City International Airport
- Distance from Vernal Regional Airport: approximately 180 miles to the west
- Transportation options: rental cars, taxis, shuttles, private transfers, and buses are available
2. Grand Junction Regional Airport
- Distance from Vernal Regional Airport: approximately 115 miles to the southeast
- Transportation options: rental cars, taxis, and shuttles are available
3. Rock Springs-Sweetwater County Airport
- Distance from Vernal Regional Airport: approximately 120 miles to the northeast
- Transportation options: rental cars, taxis, and shuttles are available
Keep in mind that while these airports may offer additional flight options or more convenient schedules, transportation to and from them will need to be factored into your travel plans.