List of airports in Connecticut
Introduction
Connecticut may be small in size, but it plays a big role in the region’s aviation landscape. From a major international hub to a network of charming general‑aviation airfields, the state’s airports serve business travelers, tourists, and aviation enthusiasts alike. This guide offers a clear overview of every airport in Connecticut, details its key features, and helps you plan your next flight or travel adventure.
Overview of Connecticut’s Airports
Connecticut’s aviation facilities are categorized mainly into:
- Commercial airports – handle scheduled passenger flights and cargo.
- General aviation (GA) airports – serve private pilots, flight schools, business jets, and emergency services.
- Multi‑purpose airfields – some GA airports accept limited scheduled flights or offer specialized services.
All airports in the state fall under the FAA’s regulations and are integrated into the National Airspace System.
Bradley International Airport (BDL)
Bradley International Airport is the single commercial gateway for Connecticut. Located near Windsor Locks and Greenwich, the airport offers:
- International reach to Europe and Asia via United Airlines, Delta, and seasonal low‑fare carriers.
- Domestic destinations including New York, Chicago, and Houston.
- Facilities such as free Wi‑Fi, food courts, duty‑free shops, ground transportation links, and a modern security system.
- Ground transport: Amtrak’s New Haven‑New York City line & several bus lines serve the terminal; rental car agencies are in the concourse.
Hartford‑Bradford Airport (HFD)
A key player for Connecticut’s corporate and regional aviation, Hartford‑Bradford Airport:
- Serves both business jets and flight training.
- Offers an airport‑managered FBO with private lounges, meeting rooms, and aircraft maintenance.
- Equipped with dual jetways for larger GA aircraft.
- Situated close to downtown Hartford, making it the preferred choice for executives.
Danbury Municipal Airport (DBN)
Danbury Municipal Airport is a popular spot for:
- Flight schools and charter companies.
- Corporate travel to the north‑western region.
- Amenities: a modest terminal, free parking, on‑site fueling, and a small airport café.
Latham Memorial Airport (LTH)
A historic GA hub that boasts:
- Paved turf runway ideal for light aircraft.
- Flight training with an emphasis on vintage aircraft.
- Community events such as open homes and fly‑ins.
Norwich Airport (NWI)
Norwich Airport provides:
- A compact yet efficient runway system serving the southeastern Connecticut region.
- A steady stream of private and business flight traffic.
- On‑site mechanical services and an FBO.
New Britain Municipal Airport (NBK)
A small but well‑regulated GA field in the Central Valley known for:
- Educational programs with nearby colleges.
- Emergency air response facilities.
- Limited but reliable fuel services.
Other General Aviation Airports
In addition to the highlighted fields, Connecticut hosts several other GA airports, including:
- Stamford Municipal Airport – small, close to the Long Island Sound.
- Hartford Executive Airport – private‑only airfield with upscale facilities.
- Windsor Locks Air Park – popular for glider operations.
For a comprehensive look, the table below lists every public use airport in the state.
List of Airports in Connecticut
| Airport Name | City | IATA/FAA Code | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bradley International Airport | Windsor Locks/Greenwich | BDL | Commercial | Major hub; international flights |
| Hartford‑Bradford Airport | Hartford | HFD | General Aviation | Corporate, flight training |
| Danbury Municipal Airport | Danbury | DBN | General Aviation | Flight schools, charter |
| Latham Memorial Airport | Latham | LTH | General Aviation | Light aircraft & vintage planes |
| Norwich Airport | Norwich | NWI | General Aviation | Business traffic |
| New Britain Municipal Airport | New Britain | NBK | General Aviation | Community pilot center |
| Stamford Municipal Airport | Stamford | (No IATA) | General Aviation | Coastal airfield |
| Hartford Executive Airport | Hartford | (Private) | General Aviation | Private‑only |
| Windsor Locks Air Park | Windsor Locks | (Private) | Glider operations | Recreational field |
FAA codes marked as “(Private)” or “(No IATA)” indicate the airport does not have an IATA code and is mainly used for charter or non‑commercial operations.
Airport Services & Facilities
All Connecticut airports provide a spectrum of services, from jet fuel options (Avgas, Jet A) to maintenance centers, and from ground handling agencies to rental car centers. High‑traffic airports such as Bradley also host international customs officers and tax‑free retail.
Airport Transportation
Connecting to and from Connecticut’s airports is relatively straightforward:
- Road: Major highways (I‑84, I‑91, Route 15) give direct access. Ample parking—free for short‑term, paid monthly rates for longer stays.
- Public transit: Bradley International has an Amtrak station and bus routes; Hartford‑Bradford ties into regional bus networks.
- Rideshare & taxis: Widely available, especially at Bradley and Hartford‑Bradford.
Safety & Security
All airports in Connecticut are subject to FAA oversight, periodic inspections, and adherence to the FAA’s Aviation Safety Action Plan (ASAP). Local authorities collaborate with national agencies to ensure swift emergency responses, robust cybersecurity for flight operations, and regular training for air traffic controllers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the largest airport in Connecticut?
A1: Bradley International Airport (BDL) is the state’s largest commercial airport, handling the most passengers and flights.
Q2: Does Danbury Municipal Airport support commercial flights?
A2: It is primarily a general‑aviation field; scheduled commercial service is not available there.
Q3: How do I travel from Bradley International to downtown Hartford?
A3: Take the Amtrak train from Bradley’s rail station to Hartford’s Union Station, or use the commuter bus line. Taxis and rideshare also offer direct connections.
Q4: Which airport is best for corporate jet travel?
A4: Hartford‑Bradford Airport (HFD) is tailored for business travel with premium FBO services and a convenient location near downtown Hartford.
Q5: Are free parking options available at Connecticut airports?
A5: Yes. Bradley International offers free airport parking for 24 h; many GA fields provide free parking for short stays.
Resources
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Airport Directory
- Connecticut Department of Transportation – Connecticut Airport Authority
- Bradley International Airport Official Site – https://www.bdl.com
- Hartford‑Bradford Airport – https://www.hartfordairport.com
- Airline and Flight Schedules – FlightAware or FlightRadar24
Whether you’re planning a business trip, a leisure getaway, or a pilot’s excursion, Connecticut’s airports offer reliable service, convenient amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere. Happy flying!
