List of airports in Missouri

Missouri, the heartland of America, boasts a vibrant network of airports that serve travelers, businesses, and aviation enthusiasts alike. From mega‑hubs that welcome international flights to cozy regional strips that nurture local pilots, the state’s aviation infrastructure is both diverse and indispensable. Whether you’re planning a trip, researching aviation opportunities, or simply curious about where the next flight will take you, this guide offers a comprehensive look at Missouri’s airports, including a handy alphabetical table, quick tips for choosing the right airport, and answers to the most common questions.

Missouri’s two flagship airports handle the bulk of passenger traffic and connect the state to domestic and global destinations.

• St. Louis International Airport (IATA: STL, ICAO: KSTL)

  • Located in St. Louis Metropolitan Area, it serves over 21 million passengers annually and offers nonstop service to major U.S. cities and several international hubs.

• Kansas City International Airport (IATA: MCI, ICAO: KJKC)

  • Situated in the Kansas City metro area, it is the busiest airport in the state, handling more than 12 million passengers each year.

These hubs provide extensive flight options, modern facilities, and are staffed by major airlines such as United, Delta, American, and Southwest.

Beyond the commercial giants, Missouri’s landscape is dotted with airports that cater to regional travel, flight training, and aviation businesses.

• MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (IATA: MSE, ICAO: KMEH) – a popular relay for low‑cost carriers.
• Columbia Regional Airport (IATA: COU, ICAO: KCOU) – serves the university town and surrounding counties.
• Northwest Missouri Regional Airport (IATA: CKW, ICAO: KCKW) – vital for the rural northwest region.
• Springfield-Branson National Airport (IATA: SGF, ICAO: KSGF) – gateway to the scenic Branson area.
• St. Joseph St. Mary’s Regional Airport (IATA: JEF, ICAO: KJEF) – key for agricultural and corporate aviation.

These airports typically handle regional airlines, cargo, general aviation, and some military flight operations.

Missouri hosts several military installations that also function as public airports during peacetime.

• Kansas City Army Airfield – supports U.S. Army aviation units.
• St. Louis Air National Guard Base – conducts both active duty and guard training missions.

These fields are integrated into the FAA’s national airspace and offer limited civilian access.

The state’s numerous municipal strip and state airport provide excellent training environments for aspiring pilots.

• St. Louis Downtown Airport (IATA: STJ, ICAO: KSTJ) – a bustling general‑aviation hub with flight schools and flying clubs.
• Clinton State Airport (IATA: CLN, ICAO: KCLN) – an ideal training base due to its open fields and low traffic.
• Neosho County Airport (FAACodes: NQF) – popular for instructional flights.
• Potosi Airport (FAACode: PTS) – used for sport aviation and airshows.

These airports offer aircraft rental, flight instruction, and maintenance services, making them essential for the growing pilot community.

Note: Some airports do not have an IATA code as they primarily accommodate general aviation and do not handle commercial airline traffic.

1. Destination & Airline Options – Pick a commercial airport (STL or MCI) for major airlines and international flights.
2. Proximity to Your Base – Smaller regional or general‑aviation airports reduce travel time for corporate or private flights.
3. Facility Amenities – Consider airport parking, rental car services, dining, and lounges for passenger comfort.
4. Flight Training or Operations – For pilot schools or aircraft maintenance, choose an airport with ample air‑traffic and support services.
5. Cost Factors – General‑aviation airports often have lower landing fees and fuel prices compared to commercial hubs.

Q1: What is the largest airport in Missouri?

*A1: St. Louis International Airport (STL) is the largest, serving over 21 million passengers annually.*

Q2: Do Missouri airports offer international flights?

*A2: Yes, both St. Louis International and Kansas City International have nonstop services to major U.S. and select international destinations.*

Q3: Which airport is best for general aviation pilots?

*A3: St. Louis Downtown Airport (STJ) and Clinton State Airport (CLN) are popular choices for training and sport flying.*

Q4: Are there any military airfields in Missouri?

*A4: Missouri hosts military installations such as the Kansas City Army Airfield and the St. Louis Air National Guard Base.*

Q5: How can I find flight schedules for Missouri airports?

*A5: Check each airport’s official website, use flight booking platforms like Expedia or Skyscanner, or consult the FAA’s online flight schedule database.*

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Comprehensive database of U.S. airports, airspace, and air traffic data.
• Missouri Department of Transportation – Aviation Division – State‑level information on airport infrastructure, funding, and regulations.
• St. Louis International Airport Official Site – Flight schedules, terminal maps, and travel information.
• Kansas City International Airport Official Site – Airport services, parking, and event calendars.
• AirNav.com – Detailed airport navigation charts, radio frequencies, and operational details.
• SkyVector – Free flight planning and aeronautical chart tools for Missouri airspace users.

Ready to explore Missouri’s skies? Whether you’re flying into the bustling hubs of STL and MCI or carving a personal route from a local strip, Missouri’s airports provide a gateway to the heartland’s opportunities, landscapes, and culture. Safe travels!