Alpena County Regional Airport

Alpena County Regional Airport is more than just a transport hub; it is a cosy aerial gateway to the picturesque shores of Lake Huron and the renowned Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The uniqueness of this location lies in the harmonious coexistence of civil aviation and a major combat training centre, so you can see both ordinary passenger liners and military aircraft here. Thanks to a modern terminal opened quite recently and the absence of the hustle typical of metropolises, the journey from here begins with a feeling of exceptional comfort and tranquillity.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Alpena County Regional Airport stands out favourably from large hubs due to its intimate atmosphere and passenger-oriented approach. The main pride of the air harbour is the absolutely free parking for all travellers, which is a rarity for American airports. This allows you to significantly save on your travel budget, especially if you leave your vehicle for a long period.

The second important advantage is the speed of service. In 2020, a new passenger terminal with a jet bridge opened here, making boarding comfortable in any weather. Check-in and security screening take mere minutes, sparing passengers the need to arrive several hours before departure and stand in long queues.

Furthermore, the airport possesses a special charm for aviation enthusiasts. Since it shares the runway with the Combat Readiness Training Center (CRTC), passengers can often observe impressive take-offs and landings of military hardware. Despite its modest size, the airport ensures reliable connection of the region with major transfer hubs while remaining a quiet and hospitable place.

• Official Website: www.alpenacounty.org/airport
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (989) 354-2907
• Address: 1617 Airport Rd, Alpena, MI 49707, USA
• Email: To contact the airport administration, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website or call the indicated phone number.
• Social Media: The airport has an official page on Facebook, where you can follow news and updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information about airport services, please use the main phone number. For questions regarding tickets, booking, and flight details, please contact your airline.

Getting to Alpena County Regional Airport (APN) from the city centre of Alpena is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres away. The main methods are taxi, rental car, or private vehicle. The trip usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes, making the transfer quick and convenient.

Taxi and Transfer are the most popular and reliable ways to reach the airport. You can use the services of local taxi companies. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially if you have an early morning or late evening flight. The cost of a trip from the city centre is generally around 20–30 dollars. Ridesharing services, such as Uber or Lyft, may also be available, but their availability in smaller cities in the USA is best checked directly before your trip.

Car Rental is an excellent option for those who value independence and plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of Lake Huron. Many major rental companies have representatives both at the airport itself and in the city. Having your own transport gives you freedom of movement and allows you not to depend on public transport schedules or taxi availability.

If you are driving to the airport in your own or a rented car, convenient parking is at your service. One of the main advantages of Alpena Airport is that parking for passengers is completely free. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are provided, located in immediate proximity to the terminal, making this option extremely convenient and economical.

Public Transport in Alpena is represented by the Dial-a-Ride service from the Thunder Bay Transportation Authority. This is not a bus with a fixed route, but an on-demand transport service that must be booked in advance. Although it can take you to the airport, this option is less convenient for travellers due to the need for prior planning and potential waiting times.

It is worth noting that for a greater choice of flights, some travellers fly into larger regional airports, for example, Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City or Pellston Regional Airport, and travel to Alpena from there by rental car.

Alpena County Regional Airport (APN) is a small and convenient regional airport serving the city of Alpena and its surroundings within the USA. Its structure is extremely simple and intuitive, making travel through it as comfortable and fast as possible.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which handles both arriving and departing flights. Thanks to its compact size, all key zones are within walking distance of each other. The terminal layout is very simple: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and car rental desks are located. The security screening area, a small waiting lounge for departing passengers, and the baggage claim area for arrivals are clearly designated.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, the issue of transfers between terminals is not relevant. Departure and arrival zones are in the same building but are functionally separated for passenger convenience. After passing check-in and security, you enter the secure area with the boarding gate. Upon arrival, passengers proceed immediately to the baggage claim hall located near the main exit of the terminal.

The main feature and advantage of Alpena County Airport is the speed of completing all formalities. Flight check-in and security screening usually take a minimum amount of time due to the low passenger traffic. As a rule, arriving at the airport 60–90 minutes before departure is more than sufficient, however, it is always worth verifying the recommendations of your airline. Navigation through the terminal will not cause any difficulties: all signs are clear, and staff are always ready to help.

The history of Alpena County Regional Airport (APN) is closely intertwined with the military history of the USA. The airport was founded in 1943 during World War II as a military airfield named Phelps Collins Field. Its primary task was training fighter pilots for the US Army Air Forces, and it played a vital role in training thousands of aviators before their deployment to the front. This military heritage remains an integral part of the airport's identity today.

After the war ended, the airfield was transferred to the ownership of Alpena County for civil use, marking the beginning of its new role as a regional transport hub for the city of Alpena and its surroundings. However, the military presence here did not disappear. The Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center (CRTC) was established at the airfield base — one of four such centres in the country, which to this day remains a key facility for training units of the Michigan Air National Guard and other branches of the military.

Over the years, the airport has gone through several stages of modernisation to meet both civil and military requirements. An important step was the construction of a new modern passenger terminal in 2000, which significantly increased comfort for travellers. The runways and airport infrastructure are maintained in a condition that allows for the reception of a wide range of aircraft — from small private planes to large military transport aircraft participating in large-scale exercises, such as the annual "Northern Strike" manoeuvres.

The uniqueness of Alpena County Airport lies in its dual purpose. It is a rare example of the successful integration of civil aviation and a major military training centre. The ability to simultaneously service regular passenger flights and conduct complex military exercises is a major achievement and an interesting feature of its history, demonstrating its strategic importance for both the local community and national defence.

Alpena County Regional Airport (APN) is a small regional airport offering passengers a set of basic services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is important to understand that due to its size, the terminal does not possess such a wide range of amenities as large international hubs, but everything essential is available here.

A general waiting area is equipped for passengers in the terminal building. Although specialised VIP lounges are absent, you will be able to use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal to stay connected. Power outlets for charging electronic devices are also available. Options for snacks and shopping here are quite limited and may be restricted to vending machines with drinks and snacks, so it is better to have a full meal or do some shopping in the city.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with disabilities in accordance with accessibility standards, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Families with small children can use changing tables in the washrooms. Specialised services, such as bank branches, currency exchange points, or business centres, are absent in the terminal. It is recommended to complete all financial transactions in advance.

Emergency medical assistance is provided by airport staff, who will call city services if necessary. There are no hotels within the terminal itself, however, many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Alpena, which is easily accessible by taxi or rental car. For business meetings or conferences, one should also utilise venues within the city itself.

When planning a departure from Alpena County Regional Airport (APN), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Opportunities for a full lunch or dinner are absent, however, passengers can find options for a quick snack and beverages before their flight.

In the main terminal building, there is typically one small kiosk or café operating. Here you can purchase basic items: coffee, tea, bottled water, and soft drinks. Regarding food, packaged snacks are usually available, such as crisps, sandwiches, pastries, and chocolate bars. This is a convenient option to refresh yourself quickly while waiting for a flight.

Passengers with special dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal meals, are strongly recommended to bring food with them. Specialised options at the airport will most likely be unavailable. The operating hours of the food outlet are closely tied to the flight schedule, so it may be closed between flights.

If you are counting on a more substantial meal, the best decision would be to visit one of the cafés or restaurants in the city of Alpena before travelling to the airport. This will allow you to enjoy a full meal without rushing and with a greater selection of dishes.

To ensure your journey through Alpena County Regional Airport in the city of Alpena, USA, goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these helpful tips. Alpena County Airport is a small regional airport, which often means faster and calmer processing of all procedures compared to large hubs.

Arrival and Check-in: For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and passing through security control without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage: Prepare your documents (passport or ID and boarding pass) in advance. Remember the standard rules for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics usually need to be taken out of your bag and placed in a separate tray. Sharp objects and other potentially dangerous items are prohibited in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers: When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, whilst an aisle seat allows you to stand up and exit freely. If you have a connecting flight, study the map of the transfer airport in advance. Ensure you have enough time between flights — for large airports, allow at least 1.5–2 hours.

Customs Control: Alpena County Airport primarily serves domestic flights, so most passengers do not encounter customs control here. If you are flying on an international flight with a connection in another city in the USA, you will go through customs and immigration formalities at the first airport of arrival in the country.

Savings and Flight Delays: To save money, book tickets in advance and consider bringing an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing security control. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. Keep a book, headphones, or a charged power bank with you to pass the waiting time comfortably. Monitor your flight status updates via the airline's mobile app.