Saipan International Airport

Welcome to Saipan International Airport, the main aerial gateway to the paradise island of Saipan and the entire Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands! It is here that your introduction to a tropical fairytale begins, where travellers are awaited by pristine white beaches, the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, and incredible experiences. The airport, officially named after Francisco C. Ada, is a modern and convenient transit hub that receives flights around the clock from Asian countries and other islands of Micronesia.

Despite its relatively small size, Saipan Airport offers everything necessary for a comfortable journey. The main terminal is equipped with six jet bridges, ensuring quick boarding and disembarking for passengers. Travellers have access to the counters of five car rental companies, ATMs, tourist information kiosks, souvenir shops, and a large Duty Free store. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and cafes and restaurants are open for those who wish to dine.

The airport operates 24 hours a day, serving both international flights and local connections to the neighbouring islands of Tinian and Rota, for which a separate small terminal is designated. Its convenient location allows you to quickly reach major hotels and resort areas of the island by taxi or bus; the trip usually takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Thus, your immersion into the atmosphere of a tropical holiday begins almost immediately after landing.

If you need to contact representatives of Saipan International Airport (SPN), you may use the following contact details. Below is the essential information for passengers.

• Official Website: Current information on flight schedules and airport services can be found on the website of the managing company, the Commonwealth Ports Authority (CPA) — www.cpa.gov.mp.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (670) 237-6500. This is the main number for the airport administration, where you can receive general enquiries.
• Airport Address: Airport Rd, Saipan, MP 96950, Northern Mariana Islands.
• Email: For general questions and requests, you can write to the administration via email: cpa.admin@pticom.com.
• Social Media: News and operational updates are often published on the official Commonwealth Ports Authority page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should firstly contact your airline's representative office directly at the airport. Their staff will provide you with the necessary assistance.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and traveller support, it is recommended to use the main airport information desk number.

Getting to Saipan International Airport (SPN) from central areas of the island, such as Garapan, is quite simple. A trip by car usually takes from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your exact location and traffic conditions. Given the specific island transport system of Saipan, it is better to plan your route in advance.

Taxis and Transfers are the most common and convenient way to reach the airport. You can easily find a taxi in tourist zones or order one through your hotel reception. The estimated cost of a trip from Garapan to the airport is 25–35 USD, but it is always better to confirm the price with the driver before starting the journey. Many hotels also offer their own transfer services, which can be both convenient and cost-effective. This is an especially reliable option if you are travelling with a large amount of luggage.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those who value independence and plan to actively explore the island. The rental cost for a compact car starts from approximately 40–50 USD per day, but this may vary depending on the season, car class, and rental company. Most agencies are represented both at the airport and in popular tourist locations. You can rent a car for the entire duration of your holiday and return it at the airport right before your departure without any issues, granting you maximum freedom of movement along the scenic roads of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Regarding public transport, it is important to know that the island does not have a conventional system of city buses or trains running to the airport on a schedule. The main modes of transport for tourists, aside from car rentals, are taxis and shuttles organised by hotels and tour operators.

If you are travelling to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is at your service. The airport terminal complex provides zones for both short-term and long-term parking. This is convenient both for those seeing someone off and for those leaving their car during a short trip to neighbouring islands.

The International Airport of Saipan (SPN), the main air gateway to the Northern Mariana Islands, is a modern and compact complex. The airport consists of one two-storey passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to the thoughtful layout, navigating here is very easy, and you will not have to worry about complicated transfers or long searches for the right zone.

The terminal structure is intuitive. The Ground Floor is designated for arriving passengers and flight check-in. Here, airline counters, the baggage claim area, and customs control are located. The First Floor is the departure zone, where security checkpoints and boarding gates are situated. Since there is no need to transfer between terminals, the entire logistics of your journey are significantly simplified.

The Departure Zone is organised as efficiently as possible. After checking in on the ground floor, passengers proceed to the first floor to pass through standard security screening. The process usually does not take much time, but during peak hours, it is recommended to allow extra time. After screening, you enter a spacious waiting hall with boarding gates, shops, and cafes.

The Arrival Zone is also designed for passenger convenience. Upon arrival, you first pass through immigration control (U.S. Customs and Border Protection), then proceed to the ground floor to the baggage claim hall. After collecting your suitcases, you pass through customs inspection, and you will find yourself in the main airport hall, where representatives of hotels and car rental companies may be waiting to meet you.

For comfortable navigation through the terminal, simply follow the clear signs in English, which are duplicated in the languages of major tourist destinations (Japanese, Korean, Chinese). To avoid rushing, arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your international flight departs. This time will be quite sufficient to calmly complete all formalities and enjoy waiting for your flight in the relaxed atmosphere of a tropical island.

The history of Saipan International Airport (SPN) is not just the story of a transport hub, but a chronicle of key events that shaped the island. Its origins are directly linked to the events of World War II. Initially, a Japanese military airfield called Aslito was located on this site. In 1944, after fierce battles, the island came under the control of American forces. The airfield was quickly restored, significantly expanded, and renamed Isely Field in honour of U.S. Navy Commander Robert Isely.

During the war years, Isely Field became one of the busiest and most strategically important airbases in the Pacific Ocean. It was from here that long-range B-29 "Superfortress" bombers took off for missions over Japan. After the war ended, the airport began its transition to civilian use, although it retained military significance for some time.

The decisive stage in the airport's development as a civilian facility came in the 1970s with the growth of tourist interest in the Northern Mariana Islands. In 1976, the modern passenger terminal that we see today was opened. This event provided an impetus for tourism development and turned the airport into the main air gateway of the Commonwealth. In subsequent years, the infrastructure was repeatedly modernised to accommodate wide-body aircraft and serve the growing passenger flow from Asian countries and other regions.

An interesting fact: in the vicinity of the airport, one can still find reminders of its military past — abandoned bunkers, wartime runways, and other historical artefacts. These silent witnesses of history make Saipan International Airport not just a point of arrival, but a place with a unique historical heritage.

Saipan International Airport (SPN) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped and thought out to make your stay here pleasant before departure or after arriving on this tropical island.

At the airport, you will find several options for dining and shopping. There are cafes where you can have coffee and a sandwich, as well as small restaurants. Duty Free shops offer a standard assortment of perfumes, beverages, and tobacco products, as well as local souvenirs that will be a great reminder of your trip to the Northern Mariana Islands.

For those who prefer to wait for their flight in a quieter setting, the airport has a VIP lounge (Hafadai-CNMI). Guests here are offered snacks, drinks, and more comfortable seating for relaxation. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in waiting areas, so you will always remain connected.

The terminal building houses ATMs and currency exchange points, where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure. For first aid, passengers can visit the medical station, which is ready to assist if necessary.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with children and people with reduced mobility. There are mother and child rooms for infant care, and for passengers with limited mobility, ramps, special restrooms, and staff assistance during boarding are provided. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance if assistance is required.

There are no hotels within the airport territory itself, but several hotels are located just a few minutes' drive from the terminal, offering convenient accommodation for transit passengers or those with early flights. Specialized conference rooms or business centres are not provided at the airport, but basic conditions for work can be found in the VIP lounge.

Saipan International Airport (SPN) is small and compact, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Most cafes and snack bars are located in the main, public zone (landside), before passing security control. After passport control and screening (airside), options are generally limited to a small kiosk or vending machines with drinks and snacks.

In the main hall of the airport, you will find several cafes where you can order coffee, refreshing drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. This is an excellent option for a quick bite before checking in for your flight. Typically, there is also one establishment offering more substantial meals — for example, simple American or Asian cuisine, such as burgers, rice with chicken, or noodles. This is the best place for a full lunch or dinner at the airport.

Although there are no specialized restaurants with local cuisine at the airport, sometimes dishes with elements of Chamorro culinary traditions can be found on the menu. Pay attention to offers with red rice or barbecue chicken — this will allow you to form a first or final impression of the gastronomy of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Prices for food and drinks at Saipan airport correspond to standard airport rates — they are noticeably higher than in the city. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule, especially departures. Most outlets close after the departure of the last evening flight and open in the morning.

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegans, vegetarians, people with gluten intolerance) will find it difficult to find suitable dishes. The selection is very limited, so it is strongly recommended to bring food with you to avoid inconvenience. Please note that there are also no specialized Halal establishments at the airport.

To ensure your journey through Saipan International Airport goes smoothly, please consider our advice. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2-3 hours before the departure of international flights. Although the airport is relatively small, this time will be sufficient to calmly complete all formalities, including check-in and screening.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. At security control, be prepared to present liquids (in containers no larger than 100 ml each, packed in a transparent bag), and remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. Since the Northern Mariana Islands are a U.S. territory, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules apply at the airport.

When choosing a seat on the plane, note that window seats will offer you unforgettable views of the Pacific Ocean and the island during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats provide more convenience if you need to stand up during the flight. If extra legroom is important to you, try booking a seat near the emergency exit.

It is strictly prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable liquids in hand luggage. Remember the restriction on carrying liquids exceeding 100 ml. Particular attention on the islands is paid to controlling the import of agricultural products, seeds, and plants to protect the local ecosystem. Clarify the rules in advance to avoid issues.

Passengers with transfers in Saipan should check with their airline in advance whether their luggage will be transferred automatically or if it needs to be collected and re-checked. Keep all necessary documents for your next destination close at hand to speed up the transfer process.

Upon arriving at the island, you will pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) control. You will be required to fill out a customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods you are bringing in, especially food items, beverages, and tobacco. The import of most fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat products is prohibited.

To save money, bring an empty reusable bottle with you, which can be filled with water after passing security screening. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so a light snack in your carry-on won't hurt. Use the free Wi-Fi in the terminal to avoid spending money on mobile roaming. A pre-booked transfer to the hotel may also be more cost-effective than a taxi upon arrival.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter for current information. Find out about your rights regarding the provision of meals, drinks, or even a hotel in case of a long wait. Use this time to rest in the waiting lounges, visit a cafe, or use the free internet.