List of airports in Wisconsin
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a flight‑planning enthusiast, or simply curious about the aviation landscape in the Badger State, this guide covers everything you need to know about airports in Wisconsin. From bustling major hubs to cozy general‑aviation fields, find the right airport for your next trip or research project.
Major Airports in Wisconsin
| Airport Name | City | IATA | ICAO | FAA | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Mitchell International | Milwaukee | MKE | KMKE | MKE | Major |
| Dane County Regional | Madison | DSM | KDSM | DSM | Major |
| Appleton International | Appleton | ATW | KEAT | ATW | Major |
| Green Bay Austin Straubel | Green Bay | GRB | KGRB | GRB | Major |
| Wausau Downtown Airport (Vilas County) | Wausau | WTC | KWTC | WTC | Regional |
| Oshkosh Municipal | Oshkosh | OWK | KOWK | OWK | Regional |
| Superior Municipal | Superior | SUP | KSUP | SUP | Regional |
| La Crosse Regional | La Crosse | LSE | KLSE | LSE | Regional |
| Eau Claire Municipal | Eau Claire | MLW | KMLW | MLW | Minor |
| Fox Cities Airport | Appleton | ATW | KEAT | ATW | Minor |
Tip: The IATA code is what you’ll see on your ticket and luggage tags, while the ICAO code is used by flight‑planning software and ATC.
Regional & General Aviation Airports
If you’re a private pilot or flying a small aircraft, Wisconsin offers a plethora of low‑traffic airfields, flight schools, and scenic routes:
- Waukesha County Airport (WAK) – Popular for recreational flying and flight training.
- Vilas County Airport (VIL) – Hidden gem for pilots seeking quiet, unpaved runways.
- Eau Claire Municipal (MLW) – The best place to practice short‑takeoff and landing (STOL).
- Ridgefield Municipal (RFD) – Small field that hosts local aviation events.
These fields provide easy access to Wisconsin’s lush forests, water‑filled landscapes, and small‑town charm.
Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip
- Destination Proximity: Select an airport within a 30‑mile radius of your final location.
- Airline Options: Major hubs (MKE, DSM, ATW) offer domestic and limited international flights.
- Flight Frequency: Regional airports often have fewer daily flights—check schedules in advance.
- Airport Services: Look for on‑site car rentals, pet accommodations, and dining options.
- Weather & Terrain: Wisconsin’s cold, snowy winters can affect runway conditions; check weather alerts before departure.
Planning Your Trip: From Bookings to Ground Travel
- Research the Airport: Visit airline and airport websites to verify flight options, baggage policies, and real‑time weather.
- Book Early: Major airports open flight sales weeks ahead; securing a seat early often saves money.
- Arrive on Time: Domestic airports benefit from a 2‑hour pre‑flight window; international routes require 3 hours.
- Ground Transportation: Major hubs offer public transit; smaller airports often use taxi or rideshare services.
- Local Attractions: Plan sightseeing—Milwaukee’s lakefront, Madison’s State Capitol, or the Apostle Islands—after your flight.
FAQs
What’s the biggest airport in Wisconsin?
Milwaukee Mitchell International (MKE) is Wisconsin’s largest airport by passenger traffic and flight volume.
Which Wisconsin airport is best for international flights?
Milwaukee (MKE) handles most international routes. Some charter and seasonal flights also depart from Madison.
Do I need a special waiver to fly into smaller airports?
No waiver is required for public airports—just ensure you have a valid pilot certificate if you’re flying yourself.
What are the airport parking rates in Milwaukee?
Rates vary: the MKE Main Terminal parking averages $5 per day, while the MKE Southwest Terminal is around $4.
- Is there a low‑cost airline operating out of Appleton Airport?
United Airlines and Southwest Airlines frequently operate flights to and from Appleton International (ATW).
Resources
- AirNav.com – Comprehensive database of U.S. Airports (search by state).
- FAA Airport Data & Information Portal – Official FAA airport listings and technical details.
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation – Aviation Office – State‑wide aviation regulations and improvement projects.
- Airfarewatchdog Wisconsin Page – Alerts for the latest flight deals out of Wisconsin airports.
- SkyVector – Online charts and flight planning tools for Wisconsin airspace.
Feel free to explore these sites for deeper dives into flight listings, runway data, and upcoming airport projects. Whether you’re booking a business trip, planning a scenic detour, or researching for a research paper, Wisconsin’s diverse airports make travel within the state and beyond seamless and efficient. Happy flying!
