Jackson Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport guide
Jackson Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) – A Complete Traveler’s Guide
Whether you’re flying in for business, visiting family, or exploring the vibrant culture of Mississippi, knowing what to expect at Jackson Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport makes the journey smoother. This guide covers everything from the airport’s background to practical tips for a stress‑free experience.
Overview of Jackson Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport
Jackson Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (IATA: JAN, ICAO: KJAN) serves the capital city of Jackson and the surrounding central‑Mississippi region. Located just 7 mi (11 km) southwest of downtown Jackson, the airport handles over 1.2 million passengers annually and offers a mix of domestic flights and limited international service.
History and Significance
Opened in 1941 as Hawkins Field, the airport was renamed in 2005 to honor civil‑rights leader Medgar Wiley Evers. The renaming reflected both the airport’s growth and its role as a gateway to Mississippi’s rich cultural heritage. Over the decades, JAN has undergone several terminal expansions and runway upgrades to accommodate modern aircraft and increasing passenger volumes.
Terminal Layout and Amenities
The airport features a single, compact terminal that houses all passenger services on one level, making navigation easy for first‑time visitors.
| Area | What You’ll Find | Hours (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Check‑in Counters | Major airlines’ ticketing and baggage drop | 4 am – 10 pm |
| Security Checkpoint | TSA screening with standard lanes | 4 am – 10 pm |
| Gate Area | 12 gates (A‑L) with seating, charging stations, and free Wi‑Fi | 24 h (gate access per flight) |
| Baggage Claim | Two carousels for domestic arrivals | 24 h |
| Restrooms | Family‑friendly, ADA‑compliant facilities | 24 h |
| Information Desk | Airport maps, flight status, local tips | 5 am – 9 pm |
| Pet Relief Area | Outdoor grassy spot near the south entrance | 24 h |
| Observation Deck | Views of the runway for aviation enthusiasts | 6 am – 8 pm |
The terminal’s layout minimizes walking distances—most gates are within a 5‑minute walk from security.
Airlines and Destinations
JAN hosts a mix of legacy carriers, low‑cost airlines, and regional operators. Below is a snapshot of the primary airlines and their most‑frequented non‑stop routes.
| Airline | Hub / Focus City | Popular Non‑Stop Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) | DFW, Chicago (ORD), Charlotte (CLT) |
| Delta Air Lines | Atlanta (ATL) | ATL, Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP) |
| United Airlines | Chicago (ORD) | ORD, Denver (DEN), Houston (IAH) |
| Allegiant Air | Las Vegas (LAS) | LAS, Orlando (SFB), Phoenix (AZA) |
| Southern Airways Express | Essential Air Service (EAS) | Tupelo (TUP), Meridian (MEI), Hattiesburg (HBG) |
| Contour Airlines | Seasonal charter | Various regional destinations |
Note: Flight schedules vary by season; always verify with the airline before travel.
Ground Transportation Options
Getting to and from JAN is straightforward, with several options catering to different budgets and preferences.
| Mode | Details | Approx. Cost (to Downtown Jackson) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Ride‑hail | Uber, Lyft, local cab companies available curbside | $15‑$25 | 15‑20 min |
| Airport Shuttle | Shared‑ride shuttles to hotels and downtown (pre‑book) | $10‑$12 per person | 20‑25 min |
| Public Transit | JATRAN Route 12 (Airport‑Downtown) | $2 (exact change) | 30‑35 min |
| Rental Cars | Major brands (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, Budget) on‑site | $30‑$70/day (varies) | N/A |
| Private Limousine | Luxury service for business travelers | $80‑$120 | 15‑20 min |
Tip: If you’re staying at a downtown hotel, many offer complimentary shuttle service—check with your accommodation ahead of time.
Parking Facilities
JAN provides both short‑term and long‑term parking, all within a short walk of the terminal.
| Parking Type | Location | Rate (per 24 h) | Daily Max | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short‑Term (Garage) | Directly opposite terminal, Levels 1‑2 | $2 per hour | $24 | Ideal for pick‑ups/drop‑offs |
| Long‑Term (Lot A) | Adjacent to terminal, covered | $8 per day | $48 | Economical for trips >1 day |
| Economy Lot (Lot B) | Further west, shuttle runs every 15 min | $5 per day | $30 | Best for extended stays |
| Valet Parking | Terminal curbside | $25 per day | N/A | Includes luggage assistance |
| Disabled Parking | Close to terminal entrances | Same as short‑term | N/A | ADA compliant spaces available |
All lots accept credit cards and offer free 15‑minute grace period for drop‑offs.
Dining and Shopping
Though modest in size, the terminal offers a satisfying selection of food, beverages, and retail outlets.
- Breakfast & Coffee: Starbucks (near gate A), Jackson Coffee Co. (serves local pastries)
- Quick Bites: Chick‑fil‑A, Subway, and a classic Mississippi‑style BBQ stand (serves pulled pork and catfish)
- Sit‑Down: The Airport Grill (American fare, open 6 am‑9 pm) offers a full menu with vegetarian options
- Retail: Duty‑free shop (limited to domestic travel), Mississippi Gift Shop (local crafts, blues CDs, and memorabilia), and a newsstand for travel essentials and reading material
- Services: Currency exchange, ATM, shoe shine, and a small business center with printing and fax services
Travel Tips for Passengers
- Arrive Early: For domestic flights, aim for 90 minutes before departure; during peak holiday periods, add an extra 30 minutes.
- Check Flight Status: Use the airport’s free Wi‑Fi to access the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) or the airline’s app for real‑time updates.
- Pack Smart: JAN’s security follows TSA guidelines—liquids in containers ≤ 3.4 oz (100 ml) in a clear quart‑size bag.
- Stay Connected: Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the terminal; look for the “JAN‑FreeWiFi” network.
- Explore Local Flavor: If you have a layover, grab a Mississippi‑style tamale or a slice of pecan pie from a concession stand—great way to taste the region without leaving the airport.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair assistance is available upon request; contact your airline at least 48 hours in advance for seamless service.
- Ground Transport Booking: Pre‑book shuttles or rental cars online to guarantee availability, especially during events like the Mississippi State Fair or Jackson’s blues festivals.
Nearby Attractions and Hotels
If you have extra time before or after your flight, consider these nearby points of interest:
| Attraction | Distance from JAN | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi State Capitol | 6 mi | Guided tours, historic architecture, free admission |
| Mississippi Museum of Art | 5 mi | Regional art collections, rotating exhibitions |
| Farish Street Historic District | 4 mi | Birthplace of blues music, live music venues |
| LeFleur’s Bluff State Park | 8 mi | Walking trails, lake, picnic areas, Mississippi Natural Science Museum |
| Jackson Zoo | 9 mi | Family‑friendly, over 200 animal species |
| Hotel Recommendations | ||
| Hyatt Place Jackson/Downtown | 5 mi | Free breakfast, shuttle service, modern rooms |
| The Westin Jackson | 4 mi | Upscale amenities, rooftop pool, close to downtown |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jackson Airport | 2 mi | Complimentary airport shuttle, fitness center |
| La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Jackson | 3 mi | Pet‑friendly, free Wi‑Fi, breakfast included |
FAQ
Q1: Does Jackson Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport have international flights?
A: Currently, JAN primarily handles domestic flights; limited seasonal charter services may connect to destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean.
Q2: Is there a hotel directly on airport property?
A: There is no hotel inside the terminal, but several hotels (e.g., Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jackson Airport) are within a 2‑mile radius and offer complimentary shuttle service.
Q3: Can I bring my pet through security?
A: Yes, pets in carriers are allowed through the TSA checkpoint. Service animals accompany passengers at all times. Outdoor pet relief areas are available before and after security.
Q4: What is the best way to get to downtown Jackson if I’m traveling with heavy luggage?
A: A taxi or ride‑hail service (Uber/Lyft) provides door‑to‑door service and handles luggage without the need for transfers.
Q5: Are there charging stations for electronic devices?
A: Yes, charging outlets and USB ports are located throughout the gate area and near the seating zones; look for the symbols marked on the floor or walls.
Resources
- Official Airport Website: https://www.flyjan.com
- Jackson‑Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport – FAA Page: https://www.faa.gov/airports/airport_safety/airportdata_5010/menu/airport_info.jsp?ap=JAN
- Mississippi Department of Transportation – Airport Information: https://dot.state.ms.us/airports/ – JATRAN Public Transit Routes & Schedules: https://www.jatran.org/routes
- TSA Guidelines for Travelers: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring
Safe travels, and enjoy your visit to Jackson, Mississippi!
