List of airports in Virginia
**Airports in Virginia: Your Comprehensive Guide to All FAA‑Registered Facilities**
Virginia’s diverse landscape—from the Coastal Plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains—meets a robust network of airports that serve everything from commercial travel to private aviation. Whether you’re a resident looking to fly a private jet, a business professional planning a trip to Richmond, or a tourist curious about the state’s aviation options, this guide gives you a full picture of the airports in Virginia.
**1. Why Virginia’s Airports Matter**
- Economic Driver: Airports are key to Virginia’s economy, supporting logistics, tourism, and business travel.
- Strategic Locations: Proximity to Washington D.C., the Baltimore‑Washington corridor, and coastal destinations.
- Variety of Services: Commercial, general aviation, cargo, and military operations all coexist.
**2. Major Commercial Airports**
| IATA Code | Airport Name | City | FAA Code | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RIC | Richmond International Airport | Richmond | RIC | Public |
| PVD | Charlottesville Albemarle Airport | Charlottesville | PVD | Public |
| CLT | Norfolk International Airport | Norfolk | CLT | Public |
| IAD | Washington Dulles International Airport | Washington D.C. (VA) | IAD | Public |
| SHV | Huntington/Big Stone Gap Airport | Big Stone Gap | SHV | Public |
| BWI | Baltimore‑Washington International Airport | Baltimore (MD) | BWI | Public |
These hubs handle the majority of commercial flights, with connections to major carriers such as American, Delta, and United. Richmond International Airport (RIC), for instance, is the busiest in the state, offering flights to 40+ cities worldwide.
**3. General Aviation Airports**
General Aviation (GA) airports are the backbone of private pilots, business jets, and flight training. The most notable GA airports include:
- Lynchburg Regional Airport (LYH) – A popular destination for private jets; hosts an annual fly‑in with aviation enthusiasts.
- Winchester Regional Airport (WNC) – Famous for the historic “Stoneman’s Raid” and its proximity to National Air & Space Museum.
- Harrisonburg–Rappahannock Regional Airport (HRV) – Provides essential services for crop‑dusting and flight schools.
These airports typically offer on‑demand air‑taxis, flight schools, and maintenance facilities.
**4. Military & Other Tactical Airfields**
- Virginia also hosts several military installations that double as aviation hubs for both defense and emergency response.*
| Facility | Location | Operational Use |
|---|---|---|
| Norfolk Navy Base | Norfolk | Naval aircraft operations |
| Fort Belvoir Air Field | Fairfax | Army aviation, training |
| Smith Air Force Base | Norfolk | Tactical air operations |
| U.S. Coast Guard Air Station 69 | Norfolk | Search & rescue, cargo |
These sites are restricted to military use but are crucial for national security and disaster relief efforts.
**5. How to Choose the Right Airport for Your Trip**
| Consideration | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Proximity to Destination | Choose the closest major or general‑aviation airport. |
| Airline Availability | Verify carriers that serve the airport. |
| Cost of Travel | Some GA airports have lower landing fees, but commercial airports often have more competitive airfare. |
| Ground Transportation | Parking, rental cars, and public transit options. |
| Airport Services | Look for on‑site FBOs (Fixed‑Base Operators), flight schools, and maintenance facilities. |
**6. Planning Your Flight: Practical Tips**
- Book Early: Commercial fares drop when booked 6–12 weeks in advance.
- Check Weather Conditions: Virginia’s weather can vary drastically—especially in mountainous areas.
- Airport Charts: Familiarize yourself with the airport diagram for landing or takeoff procedures.
- Flight Regulations: Remember that GA pilots must comply with FAA Part 91 laws—no “do anything you like”!
- Flight Schools: If you’re training, Virginia’s flight schools such as Virginia Aviation Academy and Northern Virginia Flight School offer excellent programs.
**7. FAQ: Quick Answers to Your Common Questions**
Q1: What’s the busiest airport in Virginia?
A1: Richmond International Airport (RIC) is the busiest, handling the most commercial traffic.
Q2: Are there any direct flights from Virginia to Europe?
A2: Yes, RIC and IAD (Washington Dulles) offer nonstop flights to major European hubs like London, Frankfurt, and Paris.
Q3: Can private pilots land at major commercial airports?
A3: Generally no; commercial airports are restricted to scheduled carrier operations, though certain GA airports within commercial complexes may allow private landings with prior arrangement.
Q4: How can I find cargo flight services in Virginia?
A4: Major cargo carriers such as FedEx Express and UPS Flight Forward operate at RIC, CLT, and SHV; contact your freight agent for specific needs.
Q5: Are there any aviation museums near Virginia airports?
A5: Yes, the Virginia Aviation Museum in Norfolk and the Washington Air & Space Museum in Arlington are within a half‑hour drive of major airports.
**8. Resources**
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Airport Directory: https://www.faa.gov/airports/
- Virginia Department of Transportation – Aviation – State‑wide Airport Data: https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/aviation/
- AirNav – Airport Information, Flight Deck Data, and Approach Charts: https://www.airnav.com/
- Virginia Aviation Academy – Flight School and Aviation Career Programs: https://www.virginiaaviationacademy.com/
- Travel Virginia – Official Tourism Site with Airport Information: https://travelvirginia.org/
**9. Final Thoughts – The Future of Virginia Airports**
Virginia is poised for aviation growth. Planned expansions at Richmond International and the introduction of advanced air mobility concepts—such as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) hubs—promise to make the state a leading aviation corridor. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, the airports in Virginia provide reliable, accessible, and future‑ready options for all your flight needs.
