Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport

Welcome to the air gateway of the Texas Panhandle, where the sky seems endless and the hospitality is genuinely warm. Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport is not just a transit point, but a place imbued with pride for its famous astronaut compatriot. Here, amidst the famous plains of Amarillo, you will feel the unique atmosphere of the Wild West, combined with modern comfort and a lack of the hustle and bustle typical of megacities.

Amarillo Airport stands out for its compactness and thoughtful logistics, making it one of the most convenient for passengers in the region. The terminal is designed so that the journey from the check-in counter to the boarding gate takes only a few minutes, and queues for security screening are a rarity here. It is the ideal start to a journey for those who value their time and peace of mind.

Special attention at the airport is paid to historical heritage. The terminal building houses an exhibition dedicated to Rick Husband, the commander of the Space Shuttle Columbia, which gives this place special significance. Travellers can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the area, and the proximity of car rental counters allows you to set off without delay to explore the famous Palo Duro Canyon or the legendary Route 66.

Below you will find contact information for Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA). We recommend always checking the official website for up-to-date data before travelling.

• Official Website: You can find the latest information on flights, services, and regulations on the airport's official website: www.fly-ama.com
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can contact the airport administration by phone: +1 (806) 335-1671.
• Airport Address: 10801 Airport Blvd, Amarillo, TX 79111, United States.
• Email: The airport prefers enquiries via phone or the contact form on the official website. A direct email address for general queries is usually not published.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on its official social media pages, for example, on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the airport terminal, contact the Lost and Found service at +1 (806) 335-4402 (Airport Police). If your items were lost on board the aircraft or your luggage did not arrive, you must contact your airline representatives directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and answers to questions, it is recommended to use the main airport phone number: +1 (806) 335-1671.

Getting to Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA) from the city centre of Amarillo is quite simple, as it is located just 16 kilometres east of the business district. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient methods. The journey from the city centre usually takes about 15-20 minutes, excluding traffic.

Taxis and Rideshare Services are the fastest and most convenient way to get to the airport. You can order a car via popular apps such as Uber and Lyft, or take a traditional taxi. The cost of a trip from the city centre is usually $25-$35, but may vary depending on demand and the time of day. This is an ideal option for those travelling with luggage or who value comfort and speed. You can also book a private transfer in advance.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. The Amarillo City Transit bus system offers routes that may pass near the airport, however, direct service is not always available. Schedules and routes are subject to change, so it is strongly recommended to check up-to-date information on the carrier's official website before your trip. This method is suitable for economical travellers without a large amount of luggage who are willing to spend more time on the road.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively move around the city and its surroundings in the USA. Most major rental companies have their counters right in the airport terminal, allowing you to return the car immediately before departure. The airport is conveniently located next to the major I-40 highway, making travel by car particularly easy.

If you are driving to the airport in your own vehicle, several parking zones are at your service. There is both short-term parking, located closer to the terminal and suitable for dropping off or picking up passengers, and more economical long-term parking for those leaving their car for several days. The cost depends on the duration of parking.

Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA) is a compact and convenient aviation hub, the structure of which is intuitive even for those visiting for the first time. The airport consists of one main terminal that handles all domestic flights, which completely eliminates confusion with finding the right building or transferring between terminals.

The terminal building has two main levels. On the ground floor, you will find airline check-in counters, baggage claim points, and the arrivals area with carousels for luggage retrieval. Car rental offices and exits to ground transport are also located here. The second floor is entirely dedicated to the departure zone. After passing through security screening, passengers enter a general waiting hall, from where there is access to all boarding gates. Due to the small size of the airport, all gates are within walking distance of each other.

Navigation through the terminal is extremely simple thanks to clear signage. Since all key zones—check-in, security, and boarding gates—are arranged linearly, it is practically impossible to get lost here. Transitions between terminals are not required, as all operations are concentrated in one building.

The time required to complete procedures is usually short. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before departure. During peak hours or holidays, it is better to allow a little more time—up to two hours—to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening without haste. In general, Amarillo Airport is renowned for its efficiency and lack of long queues, making travel through it as comfortable as possible.

The history of Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport begins in 1929, when it was opened under the name English Field. Initially, it served as a modest airfield for the first airmail and passenger flights that began connecting the Texas Panhandle region with the rest of the country. These early years laid the foundation for the future development of aviation in Amarillo.

A key moment in the airport's history was the Second World War. In 1942, the facility was transferred to the US Army Air Forces and transformed into Amarillo Army Air Field. It became one of the country's largest centres for training technical specialists and flight crews for B-17 and B-29 bombers. Thousands of military personnel were trained here, making a significant contribution to the war effort.

After the war, the airport returned to civil administration. To meet the demands of growing post-war aviation, a new passenger terminal was built in 1952. In the late 1950s, the main runway was significantly lengthened to accommodate the first jet airliners, opening a new era for travel from Amarillo. Further growth in passenger traffic led to the construction of a modern terminal in 1971, which forms the basis of the airport complex today.

The most significant and poignant event in the modern history of the airport occurred in 2003. It was officially renamed Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport in honour of NASA astronaut and Space Shuttle Columbia commander Rick Husband, who was a native of Amarillo and tragically died during the shuttle disaster that same year. This renaming immortalised the memory of a national hero and son of the city.

In subsequent years, the airport underwent several stages of modernisation, including a terminal renovation in 2011 to improve passenger convenience and increase efficiency. Today, Rick Husband Airport is an important transport hub that proudly bears the name of its famous compatriot and continues to play a key role in the economic and cultural life of the Texas Panhandle.

At Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, all necessary conditions have been created for a comfortable wait for your flight. Passengers can have a meal at a restaurant or drink coffee in a café, as well as purchase souvenirs, press, and travel goods at a local shop. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas near the boarding gates.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. To receive assistance, including the provision of a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance. Families with small children can use changing rooms located in the terminal's restrooms.

It is worth noting that there are no dedicated VIP lounges or business lounges at Amarillo Airport. There are also no currency exchange points here, however, ATMs are installed in the terminal for cash withdrawals. Passengers requiring business services, such as conference rooms, are recommended to use the facilities in nearby hotels.

Although there are no hotels directly in the airport building, there are many hotels within a few minutes' drive, most of which offer guests a free shuttle service. In case of need for basic medical assistance, you should contact airport staff who will call the appropriate services, however, there is no specialised medical centre provided in the terminal.

At Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA), travellers will find several convenient options to have a snack or a full meal before departure. The main catering establishments are concentrated in the main departure area, that is, after passing security control (airside), which allows you to calmly enjoy food while waiting for your flight.

The main gastronomic point of the airport is The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que restaurant. This is a wonderful opportunity to try the barbecue famous throughout Texas without leaving the terminal. The restaurant offers a full meal with classic dishes such as juicy beef brisket, ribs, and smoked sausages with traditional side dishes. A beverage service area is also located here where drinks can be ordered. This place is ideal for a leisurely dinner and immersion in local cuisine. Opening hours usually cover the period from early morning until the departure of the last evening flight.

For those short on time, the airport has options for a quick snack. A small café or bistro offers fresh coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and light bites. In addition, in shops and newsstands located both before (landside) and after security control, you can purchase packaged snacks, chocolate, and soft drinks. The price range in the establishments is average for US airports.

Passengers with special dietary needs should plan their meals in advance. In the barbecue restaurant menu, you can find vegetarian dishes among the side dishes (salads, beans, potatoes), however, the choice of main courses for vegetarians and vegans is limited. Some meat dishes may be gluten-free, but it is recommended to clarify this information with staff, especially regarding sauces. Specialised Halal or Kosher meals are generally not presented at the airport.

To ensure your journey through Amarillo airport goes smoothly, take advantage of our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, stress, and money, making the start of your trip as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time at the Airport. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass security control without haste. During holiday periods or morning peak hours, it is better to add another 30 minutes to this time.

Check-in and Security Control. The fastest way to check in is online via your airline's website or app. This will allow you to avoid queues at check-in counters. Security screening is carried out by the TSA. Be prepared to present your boarding pass and ID. Electronic devices (laptops, tablets) must be removed from bags, and liquids must comply with the 3-1-1 rule (containers up to 100 ml in a transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre).

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If the airline allows you to choose a seat in advance, consider your preferences. Window seats are suitable for those who like to admire the views. Aisle seats are convenient for those who need more legroom or plan to get up frequently. Seats in the front part of the cabin usually allow you to leave the plane faster upon arrival.

Hand Luggage. It is forbidden to take any sharp objects, flammable liquids, and aerosols with a volume of more than 100 ml in hand luggage. Liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz), packed in one transparent resealable bag. Power banks and other lithium batteries are generally allowed only in hand luggage.

Passengers with Transfers. Amarillo Airport is not a major transfer hub, so navigation here is simple. If you have a transfer to another flight, ensure your luggage is checked through to the final destination. For domestic flights, luggage is usually transferred automatically.

Customs Control. Since most flights from Amarillo Airport are domestic, passing through customs and passport control is not required. It is only necessary for rare international flights.

Saving Time and Money. Check in for your flight online. Take an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security control. If you are travelling by car, study and book parking in advance online—this is often cheaper.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and possible alternatives. Remain calm and clarify if the carrier provides vouchers for meals or accommodation if the delay is lengthy.