Georgia is known for its vibrant cities, rich history, and beautiful landscapes. Among its many attractions, the state boasts several important airports that serve as gateways for travelers. From the bustling Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to smaller regional hubs, these airports play a crucial role in connecting Georgia to the rest of the world. In this article, we will explore the top airports in Georgia, highlighting their unique features and services.

Key Takeaways

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world.
• Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
• Augusta Regional Airport primarily handles domestic flights and is a key hub for the region.
• Columbus Metropolitan Airport offers convenient access to central Georgia.
• Valdosta Regional Airport is ideal for travelers heading to southern Georgia.

Top 10 Airports in Georgia

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, often referred to as ATL, is a major hub for air travel in the United States. Since 1998, it has been the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic. In 2023, the airport served over 104.6 million passengers, making it a vital gateway for both domestic and international flights.

Key Features

• Location: Just seven miles south of downtown Atlanta.
• Terminals: Two main terminals (domestic and international) with seven concourses.
• Transportation: Easily accessible via MARTA public transit, taxis, and shuttles.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Cons:

Quick Facts

 Hartsfield-Jackson is not just an airport; it is a bustling hub that connects travelers to the world. Its efficiency and extensive network make it a preferred choice for many flying into Georgia. 

2. Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

Located about 15 miles from our historic district, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the second busiest airport in Georgia. It serves as a vital hub for both tourists and locals, offering regular flights to over 30 non-stop destinations across the United States. This airport is not only a gateway for visitors heading to Savannah and Hilton Head Island but also plays a significant role in the local economy, being the headquarters for Gulfstream Aerospace.

Key Features of SAV

• Passenger Traffic: Approximately 3 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: Major airlines like Delta, JetBlue, United, and American operate here.
• Military Presence: The airport also serves as a military base for the 165th Airlift Wing of the Georgia Air National Guard.

Transportation Options

1. Public Transport: Chatham Area Transit and Coastal Regional Coaches provide bus services.
2. Airport Shuttles: Available for convenient travel to nearby locations.
3. Taxis and Rideshares: Easily accessible for direct transport to downtown Savannah.

 The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is a key player in connecting our beautiful region to the rest of the country, making travel easy and accessible for everyone. 

3. Augusta Regional Airport at Bush Field

Augusta Regional Airport, also known as Bush Field, is located just south of Augusta, Georgia. This airport serves as a convenient gateway for travelers heading to and from the area. With a total of 300,598 enplanements in 2023, it is a vital part of the region’s transportation network.

Key Features

• Location: Approximately 8 miles south of downtown Augusta.
• Airlines: Primarily serviced by Delta and American Eagle, offering flights to major hubs like Atlanta and Charlotte.
• Accessibility: The airport is easily reachable by taxi, which takes about 15 minutes and costs around $30.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: 

• Not crowded, making for a stress-free travel experience.
• Quick access to downtown Augusta.
• Cons: 

• Limited flight options compared to larger airports.
• Seasonal service to some destinations.

 Augusta Regional Airport is a great choice for those looking for a hassle-free travel experience without the crowds of larger airports. 

4. Columbus Metropolitan Airport

Columbus Metropolitan Airport, located in Northeast Columbus, is a key travel hub for the region. Covering 680 acres, it features two intersecting runways, making it a vital part of Georgia’s aviation landscape. This airport serves Georgia’s second largest city and is recognized as the fourth busiest airport in the state.

Key Features:

• Single Airline Service: The airport is primarily serviced by Delta Connection, which offers flights to Atlanta.
• Passenger Traffic: In 2019, Columbus Metropolitan Airport had approximately 49,354 enplanements.
• Accessibility: It takes about 15 minutes to reach downtown Columbus by taxi, costing around $30.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: 

• Not crowded, providing a stress-free travel experience.
• Convenient location for residents of Columbus.
• Cons: 
• Limited flight options, primarily to Atlanta.

 Columbus Metropolitan Airport is a great choice for travelers looking for a less hectic airport experience while still having access to major destinations. 

5. Valdosta Regional Airport

Valdosta Regional Airport, located just south of the city of Valdosta, sits on 760 acres of land. This airport serves as a vital link for both travelers and cargo in the region.

Key Features

• IATA Code: VLD
• ICAO Code: KVLD
• Role: Primary commercial service airport
• Enplanements (2023): 54,609

Pros and Cons

1. Pros:
2. Cons:

 Valdosta Regional Airport is a convenient choice for travelers looking for a less hectic airport experience while still having access to major destinations. 

Valdosta Regional Airport is a key player in Georgia’s aviation landscape, offering essential services while maintaining a calm atmosphere for its passengers.

6. Brunswick Golden Isles Airport

Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (IATA: BQK) is a key gateway to the beautiful coastal region of Georgia. This airport serves as a vital link for travelers heading to the stunning Golden Isles. With its convenient location, it offers easy access to popular destinations like St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

Key Features:

• Location: Situated just outside of Brunswick, GA.
• Passenger Traffic: The airport recorded approximately 40,443 enplanements.
• Facilities: The airport features modern amenities, including rental car services and a comfortable waiting area.

Why Choose Brunswick Golden Isles Airport?

1. Accessibility: Close proximity to major attractions.
2. Friendly Staff: The personnel are known for their helpfulness and hospitality.
3. Scenic Views: The airport grounds are beautifully maintained, making for a pleasant arrival experience.

 Brunswick Golden Isles Airport is not just a transit point; it’s the start of an adventure in one of Georgia’s most picturesque areas. 

In summary, Brunswick Golden Isles Airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the coastal charm of Georgia. Its combination of convenience, friendly service, and beautiful surroundings makes it a standout option among the state’s airports.

7. Southwest Georgia Regional Airport

Located in Albany, Georgia, Southwest Georgia Regional Airport (IATA: ABY) serves as a vital hub for both commercial and general aviation. This airport plays a significant role in connecting the region to larger cities and facilitating travel for both business and leisure.

Key Features:

• Passenger Traffic: The airport recorded approximately 39,422 enplanements, showcasing its importance in the local travel landscape.
• Airlines: The airport is primarily served by Delta Airlines, which operates flights from Terminal 1.
• Facilities: Southwest Georgia Regional Airport offers essential amenities, including rental car services, free Wi-Fi, and a comfortable waiting area for travelers.

Quick Facts:

 The airport is a gateway to the beautiful landscapes of Southwest Georgia, making it a convenient choice for travelers. 

Southwest Georgia Regional Airport is not just a transit point; it is a crucial part of the community, providing access to various destinations and supporting local businesses. Its commitment to passenger service and connectivity makes it a noteworthy airport in Georgia.

8. Middle Georgia Regional Airport

Middle Georgia Regional Airport, located in Macon, serves as a vital hub for both commercial and general aviation. This airport plays a significant role in connecting the region to various destinations. With a focus on providing quality service, it caters to a variety of travelers, from business professionals to leisure seekers.

Key Features

• Location: Situated in Macon, it is easily accessible from major highways.
• Facilities: The airport offers modern amenities, including a comfortable waiting area and rental car services.
• Flight Services: It provides flights to several key destinations, enhancing connectivity for the region.

Enplanements

Importance of Middle Georgia Regional Airport

• Economic Impact: The airport supports local businesses by facilitating travel and commerce.
• Community Access: It provides essential air travel options for residents in the surrounding areas.
• General Aviation: The airport also accommodates private and charter flights, making it a versatile facility.

 Middle Georgia Regional Airport is not just an airport; it is a gateway to opportunities for the community and beyond. 

Middle Georgia Regional Airport is a key player among the airports in Georgia, offering essential services and connectivity for the region.

9. Athens-Ben Epps Airport

Athens-Ben Epps Airport (AHN) is a key airport serving the Athens area in Georgia. This airport plays a vital role in connecting the community to various destinations. It is classified as a general aviation airport, which means it primarily supports private and charter flights rather than commercial airline services.

Key Features

• Location: Situated just a few miles from downtown Athens, it is easily accessible for travelers.
• Facilities: The airport has a single runway and a small terminal that caters to general aviation needs.
• Annual Reports: The Athens-Clarke County provides annual reports that give insights into the airport’s operations and performance.

Enplanements

Athens-Ben Epps Airport is an essential part of the local infrastructure, providing necessary services to the community. It may not be as large as some other airports in Georgia, but its significance cannot be overlooked.

 The airport’s annual reports highlight its importance in the region, showcasing its contributions to local travel and economy. 

10. Waycross-Ware County Airport

Waycross-Ware County Airport (IATA: AYS, ICAO: KAYS) is a small yet significant airport located in Waycross, Georgia. This airport serves as a vital link for the local community and surrounding areas. It primarily caters to general aviation and offers a range of services to pilots and travelers alike.

Key Features

• Location: Conveniently situated near the city of Waycross.
• Runway: The airport has a single runway, which is suitable for small aircraft.
• Services: It provides essential services such as fueling, hangar space, and maintenance.

Enplanements

The airport may not handle a large volume of passengers, but it plays an important role in regional connectivity. Here’s a brief overview of its enplanements:

 Waycross-Ware County Airport is not just a travel hub; it’s a community asset that supports local businesses and tourism. 

While it may not be as large as other airports in Georgia, Waycross-Ware County Airport is a crucial part of the local infrastructure, providing essential services and connectivity for the region.

Georgia boasts a variety of airports that cater to different travel needs. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport stands out as the busiest, connecting millions of passengers to destinations around the globe. While Atlanta is the main hub, other airports like Savannah/Hilton Head and Augusta also provide valuable services, especially for regional travel. With numerous smaller airports scattered throughout the state, travelers have many options to choose from. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, Airports in Georgia offer convenience and accessibility, making it easy to explore this vibrant state.