Shreveport Regional Airport guide
Shreveport Regional Airport Guide: Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth Trip
Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) serves as the primary gateway to northwestern Louisiana and eastern Texas. Whether you’re flying in for business, visiting family, or exploring the vibrant culture of Shreveport‑Bossier City, knowing what to expect at the airport can make your journey stress‑free. This guide covers terminal amenities, transportation, parking, dining, and insider tips to help you navigate SHV with confidence.
Overview of Shreveport Regional Airport
Located just five miles southwest of downtown Shreveport, SHV handles over 800,000 passengers annually. The airport features a single-terminal layout with two concourses (A and B) that streamline check‑in, security, and baggage claim. Recent renovations have upgraded Wi‑Fi, seating areas, and signage, making the passenger experience more comfortable and efficient.
Getting to and from the Airport
Ground Transportation Options
- Rental Cars: Major brands (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget) operate counters in the baggage claim area.
- Rideshares & Taxis: Designated pickup zones are outside the terminal’s south entrance; Uber and Lyft are readily available.
- Public Transit: SporTran bus Route 12 connects the airport to downtown Shreveport and key hotels.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many local hotels provide complimentary shuttle service—check with your accommodation in advance.
Driving Directions
From I‑20, take Exit 13 (LA‑1 South) and follow signs for “Shreveport Regional Airport.” The airport is clearly marked, and ample signage guides you to the terminal and parking lots.
Parking Options
SHV offers several parking choices to suit different budgets and trip lengths.
| Parking Lot | Rate (per day) | Distance to Terminal | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short‑Term Garage | $2.00 (first 20 min), then $1.00 per 20 min (max $12/day) | Adjacent to terminal | Quick drop‑offs/pick‑ups |
| Long‑Term Lot A | $6.00/day | 5‑minute walk | Extended stays |
| Economy Lot B | $4.00/day | 8‑minute shuttle ride | Budget travelers |
| Valet Service | $15.00/day | Terminal entrance | Convenience & premium service |
All lots accept credit cards and provide 24/7 security patrols. Reservations are not required, but arriving early during peak travel periods ensures a spot.
Terminal Facilities & Services
- Free Wi‑Fi: Available throughout the terminal; network name “SHV_Free_WiFi.”
- Charging Stations: Located near each gate and in the main concourse.
- Business Center: Private workstations, printing, and fax services (fee‑based) near Gate A5.
- Family Amenities: Nursing rooms, children’s play area, and stroller rentals at the information desk.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair assistance, TDD phones, and accessible restrooms are standard; request help at least 24 hours before arrival if needed.
- Lost & Found: Located in the baggage claim office; open 24 hours.
Dining & Shopping Options
SHV may be smaller than major hubs, but it offers a satisfying selection of food and retail.
| Category | Venue | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Café du Monde | Beignets, coffee, and fresh pastries |
| Grab‑and‑Go | Market Fresh | Sandwiches, salads, fruit cups, and snacks |
| Sit‑Down Meal | The Landing Grill | Burgers, steaks, and Southern classics |
| Bar | Skyway Lounge | Local brews, cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere |
| Retail | Louisiana Gifts | Mardi Gras memorabilia, local art, and travel essentials |
| Duty‑Free | World Traveler | Limited selection of spirits, cosmetics, and electronics (international flights only) |
Most eateries open at 4:30 am and close around the last flight’s departure, ensuring travelers have options regardless of schedule.
Airlines & Destinations
Shreveport Regional Airport is served by three main carriers, offering a mix of domestic routes.
| Airline | Non‑Stop Destinations | Frequency (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Charlotte (CLT) | Multiple daily flights |
| United Airlines | Houston (IAH), Denver (DEN) | Several daily flights |
| Allegiant Air | Las Vegas (LAS), Orlando‑Sanford (SFB), Phoenix‑Mesa (AZA) | Seasonal & weekly flights |
While there are no direct international flights, convenient connections via DFW or IAH provide access to global destinations.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Arrive Early: For domestic flights, aim to be at the airport 90 minutes before departure; for international connections via hubs, allow 2 hours.
- Check Flight Status: Use the airport’s website or the airline’s app for real‑time updates; SHV’s flight information displays are refreshed every minute.
- Pack Smart: The TSA PreCheck lane is available at SHV; enrolling can save you time at security.
- Stay Informed: Follow @ShreveportAirport on Twitter for immediate notices about weather delays or gate changes.
- Explore Local Attractions: If you have a layover, the RiverFront district, Sci-Port Discovery Center, and the Louisiana Boardwalk are all within a 15‑minute drive.
Conclusion
Shreveport Regional Airport combines the convenience of a smaller airport with the amenities needed for a comfortable journey. From easy parking and diverse dining options to reliable ground transport and helpful staff, SHV is designed to get you where you need to go with minimal hassle. Keep this guide handy for your next trip, and enjoy all that Shreveport‑Bossier City has to offer.
Resources
- Official Airport Website: www.flyshv.com – flight schedules, parking info, and contact details.
- Shreveport‑Bossier City Tourism: www.visitshreveportbossier.org – local attractions, dining, and event calendars.
- TSA PreCheck Enrollment: www.tsa.gov/precheck – locations and enrollment steps near SHV.
- SporTran Bus Schedule: www.sportranschedule.com – Route 12 timings and fares.
- American Airlines, United Airlines, Allegiant Air: Respective airline websites for booking and baggage policies.
