Outagamie County Regional Airport

Appleton International Airport (ATW), formerly known as Outagamie County Regional Airport, is not just an air gateway to the Fox River Valley in Wisconsin, but a modern and dynamically developing transport hub. Despite its relatively small size, the airport prides itself on efficiency and convenience, offering passengers a quick and comfortable start for travels across the USA. Thanks to constant modernization and thoughtful infrastructure, it serves as an excellent alternative to large and busy regional airports, making the start and end of a trip as pleasant as possible.

Appleton Airport is valued by travellers for its compactness and thoughtful design. There are no long queues or tiring transfers between terminals here, allowing you to save time and prevent stress. A key advantage is its commitment to innovation: the airport is undergoing a major reconstruction that will nearly double the terminal area, add new boarding gates, dining options, as well as special zones such as a sensory support room and a pet relief area. Being the only base for Allegiant Air in Wisconsin, ATW ensures excellent connections to more than 18 non-stop destinations and convenient connections to the country's largest international hubs.

Below you will find contact information for Outagamie County Regional Airport (ATW), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any questions that may arise.

• Official Website: www.atwairport.com
• Inquiry Service Phone: +1 (920) 832-5268
• Address: W6390 Challenger Dr, Appleton, WI 54914, USA
• Email: You can contact the airport administration via the contact form on their official website.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates on the airport's official page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage: For all questions related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative office at the airport directly.
• Passenger Support: For assistance or consultation on-site, please approach the information desk in the airport terminal.

Getting to Outagamie County Regional Airport (ATW) from Appleton and its surroundings is quite simple. The airport is conveniently located, and travellers can choose from several modes of transport depending on their budget, time, and preferences. A trip from the city centre usually takes about 15–20 minutes, excluding traffic.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to get to the airport. The Valley Transit bus network serves the Fox Cities region, including Appleton. However, it is worth checking routes and schedules in advance, as a transfer may be required, and there may not be a direct express to the terminal. This is a good option for those travelling light and not in a hurry. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the airport.

Taxis, Ridesharing, and Transfers offer an ideal balance between cost and convenience. Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in the USA and can be ordered via a mobile app. A trip from downtown Appleton will cost approximately 20–30 dollars. You can also use traditional taxi services or book a private transfer in advance, which is especially convenient for families and large groups with bulky luggage.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively move around the region. Counters of several major rental companies are located in the ATW terminal. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore not only Appleton but also neighbouring cities, for example, heading to Green Bay or Milwaukee. If you are driving your own car, you can reach the airport via major highways by following the signs.

For those arriving in their own vehicle, the airport provides convenient parking. There are options for both short-term parking (ideal for meeting or seeing off passengers) and long-term parking — for the duration of your trip. The cost varies depending on the parking duration. It is recommended to check current rates and availability on the official airport website before your trip.

Although Appleton Airport serves many destinations, travellers sometimes consider other nearby airports to find more flights or better deals. The nearest alternative is Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) in Green Bay, located about a 40-minute drive away. The largest in the region is General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Milwaukee, which is about a two-hour drive away. Other options include Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) near Madison and Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) in Wausau.

Outagamie County Regional Airport (ATW) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all domestic flights — both departures and arrivals. Thanks to its compact size and thoughtful layout, navigating it causes no difficulties even for those here for the first time.

The terminal layout is extremely logical. All key zones are located in one building and within walking distance of each other. Upon entering, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off points are located. After checking in, passengers proceed to a single security checkpoint, beyond which lies the "clean" departure zone with boarding gates.

Since the airport has only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals. This significantly saves time and eliminates the stress associated with finding the right building or moving on shuttles, which often happens in large airports. Departure and arrival zones are functionally separated but located in the same building. The arrival zone with baggage claim belts is positioned so that arriving passengers can quickly collect their belongings and exit to car rental counters or the parking lot.

Completing all pre-flight procedures, including check-in and security screening, at Outagamie Airport typically takes significantly less time than at large aviation hubs. Nevertheless, it is always recommended to arrive at the airport in advance, in accordance with your airline's rules, especially during peak hours or holidays. Orienting yourself in the terminal is very simple: follow the clear signs that will guide you from the entrance to the required gate or to the baggage claim area.

Outagamie County Regional Airport (ATW) is not just a transport hub, but an important part of the history of the city of Appleton and the entire Fox Valley region. Its history began in 1965, when it was opened to replace an old airport that could no longer cope with the growing passenger flow and the demands of modern aviation. From the very beginning, ATW became a key factor in economic development, ensuring convenient connections for business circles and residents of Northeast Wisconsin.

Since its opening, the airport has constantly evolved. The original terminal, built in the 60s, underwent several significant renovations and expansions over time to meet growing needs. Key stages of modernization took place in the 1980s and 2000s, when passenger areas were improved and throughput capacity was increased. In 2011, a new modern terminal with four gates was opened, which became an important milestone in the airport's development.

In recent decades, Outagamie County Regional Airport has demonstrated impressive growth rates, becoming one of the fastest-growing airports in the USA. The constantly growing passenger flow required further expansion, including the construction of new gates and infrastructure modernization, which allowed attracting new airlines and opening more destinations. The airport has repeatedly set records for the number of passengers served, confirming its status as an important air gateway for the region.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history is the unofficial interpretation of the ATW code as "Appleton, The World", which humorously emphasizes its significance for local residents. The airport has also frequently hosted prominent political figures, including US Presidents, during their visits to the state of Wisconsin. This air harbour is a living testament to how local initiative can turn into a successful and modern transport hub.

Outagamie County Regional Airport (ATW) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the airport is well-equipped to satisfy the basic needs of travellers. Here you will find several establishments where you can have a snack or drink coffee, as well as a shop with souvenirs, press, and travel goods.

For all passengers, free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in waiting areas near boarding gates. Although there are no exclusive VIP lounges in the airport, the general waiting areas are quite comfortable. ATMs are located in easily accessible places; however, currency exchange services are not provided, so it is better to resolve this issue in advance.

The airport fully complies with accessibility standards for passengers with reduced mobility, offering ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. Upon request, airlines provide wheelchair assistance services. For travellers with small children, nursing rooms are equipped. In case first aid is needed, please contact airport staff.

If you need to stay overnight near the airport, there are many hotels within a few minutes' drive, many of which offer free shuttle service for their guests. For business travellers, the airport provides conference rooms that can be rented for meetings or events, making the wait for a flight not only comfortable but also productive.

Despite its compact size, Outagamie County Regional Airport (ATW) in Appleton offers passengers convenient options for a snack or a full meal before departure. The main catering establishments are located in the secure area (airside), allowing you to comfortably spend time waiting for your flight.

The main place for lunch is the Fox Cities Hub restaurant, which offers guests classic American cuisine dishes. Here you can order a hearty breakfast if you have an early flight, or choose something from the main menu during the day — burgers, sandwiches, fresh salads, and hot appetizers. Given the location in the state of Wisconsin, known for its dairy products, pay attention to dishes with local cheese — this is a great opportunity to try something authentic.

For those short on time, quick snack options are available: ready-made sandwiches, pastries, yoghurts, and drinks that you can take on board. If time permits, you can enjoy a full lunch in a quiet setting with a view of the runway. The price range at the airport is usually average or slightly above average, which is typical for most air hubs.

Regarding dietary restrictions, vegetarian options are usually present on the menu, for example, salads or meat-free dishes. For stricter requirements, such as gluten-free or special dietary meals, it is recommended to clarify information with the staff — they may suggest suitable options or modify existing ones. The opening hours of catering establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning before the first flights and close after the departure of the last evening aircraft.

Travelling through Outagamie County Regional Airport (ATW) in the city of Appleton can be simple and comfortable if you know a few useful tips. This guide will help you prepare for your flight and avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival time at the airport. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before departure. Despite the fact that ATW is a small regional airport and queues here are usually shorter than in major hubs, a buffer of time will allow you to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening.

Check-in and Security. The fastest way to check in is to do it online on your airline's website. This way you can select a seat in advance and receive an electronic boarding pass. The screening procedure is standard: be prepared to present identification and a boarding pass, as well as remove laptops and liquids in containers up to 100 ml from your carry-on luggage.

Choosing a seat on the plane. During online check-in, you will have the opportunity to choose a seat. Window seats (A, F) are ideal for those who love to contemplate views during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight or want to exit the plane among the first.

Carry-on Luggage. Remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids: containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz), packed in one transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and most aerosols in carry-on luggage. Always check current rules on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website and your airline's baggage allowance.

Passengers with connections. If your route includes a transfer at another airport, ensure you have enough time between flights — preferably at least 60–90 minutes for domestic transfers. This will give you a buffer in case of a slight delay of the first flight.

Customs Control. When departing from the USA, customs control is generally absent. If you are arriving in the USA from another country and transferring in Appleton, you will pass border and customs control at the first airport of arrival in the country. Keep your passport, visa, and customs declaration ready.

Saving time and money. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle (it can be filled after security) and non-perishable snacks. Pay for luggage online — it is almost always cheaper than at the airport. The surest way to save time is online check-in and travelling light with only carry-on luggage.

In case of flight delay. First of all, approach your airline's counter for information on the flight status and possible options (for example, rebooking). Monitor information on departure boards. Outagamie Airport offers free Wi-Fi, cafes, and rest areas where you can comfortably spend time while waiting.