Wilkes Barre Scranton International Airport guide
Overview
Wilkes Barre Scranton International Airport (AVP) serves the northeastern Pennsylvania region, providing convenient access to both business and leisure travelers. Located just nine miles from downtown Wilkes‑Barre and twelve miles from Scranton, the airport handles over 600,000 passengers annually and offers a mix of major carriers and regional service.
History and Development
Originally opened in 1942 as a military airfield, AVP transitioned to civilian use in the late 1940s. Over the decades, the airport has undergone several upgrades—including runway extensions, terminal renovations, and the addition of modern cargo facilities—to keep pace with growing demand. Today, it remains a vital gateway for the Wyoming Valley and the surrounding Pocono Mountains.
Airlines and Destinations
AVP hosts a handful of airlines that connect the region to major hubs across the United States. Below is a quick reference table of the carriers, their primary destinations, and contact information.
| Airline | Primary Destinations (non‑stop) | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Eagle | Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Charlotte (CLT) | 800‑433‑7300 | aa.com |
| Delta Connection | Detroit (DTW), Atlanta (ATL) | 800‑221‑1212 | delta.com |
| United Express | Newark (EWR), Washington Dulles (IAD) | 800‑864‑8331 | united.com |
| Allegiant Air | Orlando/Sanford (SFB), St. Petersburg (PIE) | 702‑505‑8888 | allegiantair.com |
| Boutique Air | Pittsburgh (PIT), Philadelphia (PHL) | 855‑268‑8478 | boutiqueair.com |
Terminal Facilities and Services
The single‑terminal building is designed for ease of navigation. Key amenities include:
- Free Wi‑Fi throughout the concourse
- Charging stations at each gate
- Currency exchange and ATMs near baggage claim
- Nursing rooms and family restrooms
- Pet relief area located outside the main entrance
- Executive lounge (accessible via day pass or certain airline memberships)
Dining and Shopping Options
Although modest in size, AVP offers a satisfying selection of food and retail:
- The Hangar Café – breakfast sandwiches, salads, and locally roasted coffee
- Gateway Grill – burgers, wraps, and a kid‑friendly menu
- News & Gifts – travel essentials, magazines, and Pennsylvania‑made souvenirs
- Duty‑Free Shop – limited selection of liquor, tobacco, and luxury items (available for international departures)
Ground Transportation
Getting to and from the airport is straightforward thanks to multiple options:
| Mode | Details | Approx. Cost (to downtown Wilkes‑Barre) |
|---|---|---|
| Rental Cars | Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz (located in the terminal) | $30‑$50 per day |
| Taxi / Ride‑Share | Uber, Lyft, local cab companies (pickup curb outside arrivals) | $15‑$25 |
| Public Bus | COLTS Route 101 (airport‑downtown loop) | $2.00 |
| Hotel Shuttles | Several nearby hotels offer complimentary service (advance request) | Free (with stay) |
| Parking | Short‑term ($2/hr, max $12/day) and Long‑term ($6/day) lots | Varies |
Nearby Attractions
AVP’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring northeastern Pennsylvania:
- Poconos Mountains – skiing, hiking, and waterfalls (≈30 min drive)
- Steamtown National Historic Site – Scranton’s railroad museum (≈15 min)
- Mohegan Sun Pocono – casino and entertainment venue (≈20 min)
- Ricketts Glen State Park – famous for its 22 waterfalls (≈45 min)
- Wilkes‑Barre River Commons – scenic trails along the Susquehanna River (≈10 min)
Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience
- Arrive early – Aim for 90 minutes before domestic flights and 2 hours for international departures.
- Check parking availability – Use the airport’s online portal to reserve a spot during peak travel periods.
- Pack smart – The TSA PreCheck lane is available; enrolling can save you time at security.
- Stay informed – Sign up for flight alerts via the airline’s app or the airport’s website for real‑time updates.
- Explore local flavor – If you have a layover, grab a slice of Pennsylvania‑style pizza at the Hangar Café before heading to your gate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Wilkes Barre Scranton International Airport have international flights?
A: Currently, all scheduled services are domestic; however, the airport handles occasional charter and cargo flights to international destinations.
Q: Is there a hotel inside the airport terminal?
A: No, but several hotels are within a 5‑minute drive and offer complimentary shuttles.
Q: Can I rent a car at the airport without a reservation?
A: Walk‑up rentals are possible, but availability is limited—especially during holidays—so booking in advance is recommended.
Q: Are there any lounges for economy passengers?
A: The airport offers a pay‑per‑use executive lounge accessible to all travelers for a modest fee.
Q: What is the best way to get to downtown Scranton from AVP?
A: Taking a taxi or ride‑share is the quickest option (~20 minutes, $20‑$30). The COLTS bus also runs a direct route for a lower fare.
Resources
- Official Airport Website: https://www.avpairport.com
- Flight Status & Information: https://www.avpairport.com/flights
- COLTS Public Transit: https://www.coltsbus.com
- Pocono Mountains Visitor Bureau: https://www.poconos.org
- Steamtown National Historic Site: https://www.nps.gov/stea
- Mohegan Sun Pocono: https://www.moheganSunpoconoc.com
Safe travels, and enjoy all that northeastern Pennsylvania has to offer!
