The Huntsville International Airport may be small compared to some airports, but it is a major hub for the city of Huntsville and surrounding areas. With more than 1.2 million passengers annually, it's the largest commercial airport in North Alabama.
It's easy to see why the Huntsville International Airport is the best airport in Alabama and is ranked among the top 10 airports in the country.
History of the Airport
Prior to 1967, there had been two other airports in the Rocket City. Then in October 1967, the Huntsville Jetport opened at a cost of between $18 - $20 million. Dr. Warner Con Braun and Senator Sparkman attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The facility was noted to be the first of its kind at the time, with Hertz Corp. of New York managing and operating all airport service facilities.
The Huntsville International Airport has undergone many changes since its opening. Just recently, it has been awarded a $10 million grant which will be used to improve amenities and access in the airport terminal.
At the Airport
The airport offers free Wi-Fi, a couple of restaurants to grab a bite, and a gift shop. Water fountains offer travelers a place to fill up their water bottles, ideal for staying hydrated while you're waiting for your flight.
The Four Points by Sheraton Hotel is located inside the airport facility. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, and fitness room. It's a great option for travelers who need a place to stay before their flight or after they've arrived in Huntsville.
The airport also has a car rental center with Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, National, Alamo, and Dollar Car Rental. There are also a few limousine services available. (Ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft are also available.)
Airlines and Destinations
The airlines serving HSV include American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Silver Airways, and United. Ticket counters open at various times depending on the airline. The earliest are Delta and American Airlines at 4:00 am. Current arrival and departure statuses can be checked online at FlyHuntsville.com.
Nonstop Service
Direct flights from HSV are available to:
- Atlanta
- Charleston
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Houston
- Las Vegas
- Miami (seasonally)
- Orlando
- Tampa
- Dulles (Washington, D.C.)
- National (Washington, D.C.)
Airport Parking
The first 30 minutes of parking is free at the airport. After that, it rates begin at $2/hour up to the maximum per day. Economy parking is $8 per day, parking deck levels 2-6 is $12 per day, and ground floor parking at the parking deck is $24 per day.
Have an electric vehicle and need a boost? Look for electric car charging stations. Two units are located on the first floor and four units are located on the fifth floor opposite the elevator interface.
Notable Fact
Huntsville International Airport is the first commercial airport allowed to land a space vehicle.
Airport Location
The Huntsville International Airport is located at 1000 Glen Hearn Boulevard.
Distance To Huntsville Attractions From HSV
If you have time, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is only a 15-minute drive from the Huntsville International Airport. Huntsville is known as the "Rocket City" because of its involvement in the space program. The center offers tours, exhibits, and simulators that give visitors a taste of what it's like to be an astronaut.
Other nearby attractions include:
- Bridge Street Town Centre - 8.6 miles
- Huntsville Botanical Garden - 10 miles
- Von Braun Center - 13 miles
- Huntsville Museum of Art - 13.7 miles
Samantha Baalman says
I am leaving the country for about two weeks. How long can I keep my car parked in long-term parking?
SelfLynda says
I tried calling the airport and did not have any luck reaching anyone. I think that if you are going to be gone for only 2 weeks you shouldn't have any problems. If you park on parking deck levels 2-6, you will be charged $12 per day. It's only $8 per day in economy parking.