Ancona Falconara Airport

Ancona Falconara International Airport, proudly bearing the name of the great artist Raffaello Sanzio, serves as the main air gateway to the picturesque Marche region. This cosy and compact aviation hub is located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, offering travellers a relaxed atmosphere without the hustle and bustle typical of large hubs. Upon arrival here, you find yourself just a step away from golden beaches, medieval hilltop towns, and the cultural treasures of central Italy.

Airport Features and Advantages

Raffaello Sanzio Airport is valued by tourists for its compactness and convenience. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, check-in and passport control procedures take significantly less time here than in the congested airports of Rome or Milan. Navigation is intuitive: all necessary services are within walking distance, making it an ideal choice for families with children and independent travellers.

One of the main advantages is excellent transport accessibility. The airport is directly connected to the Castelferretti railway station, located just a few minutes' walk from the terminal, from where you can easily reach Ancona and other cities in the region. For those who prefer car transport, there is convenient access to the A14 motorway, as well as regular Aerobus Raffaello shuttle services connecting the air terminal with the city centre and the port.

Although the range of services here is basic, it covers essential needs: there are cafes for a snack, a small duty-free area, and car rental points. Travellers should note that the airport does not operate around the clock and closes at night, so sleeping in the terminal is not possible. Its strategic location makes it the best starting point for trips to the popular resorts of the Conero Riviera.

To obtain the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations at Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI), it is recommended to use official communication channels. Below are the main contact details that a traveller might need.

• Official Website: www.ancona-airport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +39 071 28271
• Address: Piazzale Sordoni, 60015 Falconara Marittima AN, Italy
• Email (for general enquiries): info@ancona-airport.com
• Lost & Found Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the relevant service by phone at +39 071 2827 511 or by e-mail: lost&found@ancona-airport.com.
• Social Media: The airport maintains an official Facebook page where news and operational information are published.
• Passenger Support: For resolving most issues related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the general information desk.

Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI), named after the artist Raffaello Sanzio, is located approximately 18 km west of the centre of Ancona, making it easily accessible for travellers. You can reach the terminal in several convenient ways, suitable for any budget and preference.

One of the fastest and most economical options is the train. Directly opposite the terminal is the Castelferretti railway station, from where Trenitalia trains regularly depart for Ancona Central Station (Ancona Centrale). The journey takes only about 15-20 minutes, and the ticket price is one of the lowest. This is the ideal choice for budget travellers and those who want to avoid traffic jams.

An alternative form of public transport is the Aerobus Raffaello shuttle bus (operated by Conerobus). It runs between the airport, the central railway station, and Piazza Cavour in the city centre. The travel time is approximately 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver or at newsstands (tabaccheria). This method is convenient if your accommodation is located near one of its stops.

For maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling with children or a large amount of luggage, you can use a taxi or book a transfer. The official taxi rank is located right outside the arrivals area. The trip to the centre of Ancona will take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions, and the estimated cost is €35-€45. Pre-booking a transfer online will help fix the price and ensure a meeting with the driver at the airport.

If you plan to actively travel around the picturesque Marche region and other corners of Italy, renting a car would be the best solution. In the arrivals hall, there are counters for several major international and local rental companies. For those arriving at the airport in their own car, both short-term (P1) and long-term parking (P2 and P3) are available at reasonable prices. To get the best rate, it is recommended to book a parking space in advance online.

Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI), also known as Marche Airport (Aeroporto delle Marche), is a modern and compact aviation hub. Its main advantage for travellers is its simple and clear structure. The airport has only one passenger terminal, which handles both domestic and international flights, including destinations within the Schengen and non-Schengen zones.

The terminal layout is intuitive and divided into two main levels. On the Ground Floor (Piano Terra), the arrivals area is located. Here, passengers collect their luggage, pass through customs control (if necessary), and can also use car rental desks, find the information point, and exit to taxi and bus stops. There are no transfers between terminals, as all operations are concentrated in one building.

The First Floor (Primo Piano) is entirely dedicated to the departures area. Escalators and lifts lead here from the arrivals hall. On this level, you will find airline check-in counters and the baggage drop-off zone. After check-in, passengers pass through security control, followed by the general departure lounge with several boarding gates. A few shops, cafes, and a waiting area are also located here.

Thanks to the airport's small size, completing all formalities usually does not take much time. The check-in and screening process is typically fast and efficient. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 2 hours before an international flight and 1.5 hours before a domestic one, especially during the peak tourist season (summer) when passenger traffic increases. Navigation through the terminal is extremely simple: follow the clear signs in Italian and English. It is practically impossible to get lost here, as all key zones are within walking distance of each other.

The history of Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI), officially known as Marche Airport named after Raffaello Sanzio, begins in 1962. Originally built as a military airfield, it soon opened for civil flights, becoming an important air gateway for the entire Marche region in Italy. Its strategic location near the city of Ancona and a major seaport predetermined its key role in the development of the local economy and tourism.

Over the decades, the airport gradually developed, but a real breakthrough occurred at the beginning of the 21st century. A key stage in its history was a large-scale reconstruction, culminating in the opening of a new modern passenger terminal in 2004. This event significantly increased capacity, improved passenger service quality, and attracted new airlines, including popular low-cost carriers, which opened the region to a greater number of international travellers.

An interesting fact: the airport bears the name of Raffaello Sanzio, one of the greatest artists of the High Renaissance, who was born in the city of Urbino, located in the same Marche region. This name highlights the cultural richness of the land served by the airport and pays tribute to its famous native son.

Today, Ancona Falconara Airport is not just a transport hub. It is a symbol of the dynamic development of the region, successfully combining its rich history with modern needs. It continues to play an important role in the transport system of central Italy, serving both business and tourist flows and acting as a starting point for exploring picturesque landscapes, historic cities, and the beautiful beaches of the Adriatic coast.

Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI) is a compact and modern airport offering all necessary services for a comfortable wait for your flight. Despite its small size, it is well-equipped to meet the needs of travellers.

Within the terminal, you will find several cafes and bars where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or enjoy a beverage before departure. There are shops offering souvenirs, local products, newspapers, and travel goods. There is also a Duty Free shop where you can purchase perfumes and international goods at competitive prices.

For passengers wishing to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Charging stations for mobile devices are installed in waiting areas. Although there are no dedicated conference rooms in the airport, business travellers can use the VIP lounge. It offers a quiet environment for work and relaxation, as well as snacks, drinks, and essential business services.

ATMs are installed in the terminal for financial matters. It is worth noting that there is no specialised currency exchange bureau at the airport, so it is advisable to arrange for cash in advance. In case of need, a first aid station is located in the terminal building. For passengers with small children, special mother and child rooms are equipped where you can take care of your baby in a quiet setting.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Special parking spaces, ramps, lifts, and equipped restrooms are provided. Passengers can request assistance services in advance. Although there are no hotels directly in the airport building, several comfortable hotels are located a few minutes' drive away and are easily accessible by taxi or shuttle.

Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI), being a regional airport, offers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. Here you can enjoy classic dishes of Italy and the Marche region before departure or immediately upon arrival in Ancona.

Most dining establishments are located in the public area (landside), before security control. Here you will find the main cafeteria-restaurant where you can leisurely drink coffee, have breakfast, or lunch. The menu usually includes fresh pastries (for example, cornetto croissants), various sandwiches (panini), pasta, salads, and desserts. This is an ideal place if you have time before check-in or are meeting arrivals.

After passing security control, in the secure departure area (airside), there is also a bar-cafe. It is oriented towards passengers waiting for boarding. Here you can have a quick snack, take drinks on board (water, juices), or enjoy a final Italian espresso. The assortment here may be slightly smaller than in the main hall and is designed for quick service.

If you want to try something local, look for sandwiches with local cheeses, and also order a cup of authentic Italian cappuccino. Regarding dietary needs, vegetarian options such as salads or vegetable sandwiches can usually be found on the menu. The availability of specialised gluten-free or vegan dishes is limited, so it is better to check the ingredients with the staff. Please note that Halal options are generally not available.

Prices at the airport correspond to the average European level for such places — slightly higher than in the city. The opening hours of the main cafes and bars are tied to the flight schedule; they are open from early morning until the last departure. For a quick snack, the bar in the departure zone is perfect, while for a full meal or a meeting, it is better to choose the restaurant in the public zone before control.

To ensure your journey through Ancona Falconara Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. It is a small and quite convenient airport, but knowing some nuances will help save time and reduce stress.

Arrival Time. We recommend arriving at the airport 2-2.5 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before flights within Italy and to Schengen countries. During the peak tourist season, it is better to allow extra time for possible queues.

Check-in and Screening. The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on the airline's website. Thus, if you are flying without luggage, you can go straight to security control. Have your passport and boarding pass ready during screening. Laptops, tablets, and liquids in a special bag will need to be removed from hand luggage and placed in a separate tray.

Seat Selection. If you want to enjoy beautiful views of the Adriatic coast during take-off or landing, choose a window seat (A or F). If freedom of movement around the cabin during the flight is more important to you, book an aisle seat (C or D).

Hand Luggage Rules. You can take personal items, electronics, reading materials, and food (except liquids) into the aircraft cabin. Remember the rule for carrying liquids: all must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in one transparent resealable bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check the hand luggage and baggage allowance on your airline's website, as they may vary.

Connecting Passengers. Ancona Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub. If you do have a connection planned, follow the "Transit" / "Connecting flights" signs. When checking in for the first flight, be sure to ask if you need to collect and re-check your luggage in Ancona.

Customs Control. Arrivals from non-EU countries must pass through the "green" and "red" channel system. If you have no goods to declare, go through the "green" channel. Otherwise, go through the "red" one. For passengers from EU countries, customs formalities are kept to a minimum.

Saving Time and Money. A pre-booked transfer or parking often costs less. Bring an empty water bottle with you — it can be filled at drinking fountains after passing screening. Avoid exchanging currency at the airport due to unfavorable rates; it is better to use an ATM or pay for purchases by card.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay, remain calm. Monitor information on the departure boards and look for your airline's representative counter to find out about the flight status and your rights. Under EU rules, for long delays, passengers are entitled to drinks, meals, and sometimes hotel accommodation. Travel insurance may also cover related expenses.