DeKalb Peachtree Airport

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), often referred to by locals simply as PDK, is not just another runway in the Atlanta area, but the second busiest airport in the state of Georgia in terms of flight operations, second only to the giant Hartsfield-Jackson. Founded on the site of a former World War II Naval Air Station, today it is a key hub for business, private, and corporate aviation. Located in the city of Chamblee northeast of Atlanta, it effectively relieves the main airport of small and medium-sized aircraft, serving as an important gateway for private travellers and business missions.

The main feature of DeKalb-Peachtree Airport is its specialisation. This is not a place where you will find check-in counters for global airlines and crowds of tourists, but rather a thriving hub for private and business aviation. For passengers, this means maximum convenience: there are no long queues, and all formalities take mere minutes and take place in the comfortable lounges of private terminals (FBOs). This organisation makes PDK the ideal choice for those who value time and privacy.

In addition, the airport is an important centre for pilot training — several flight schools are based here. For aviation enthusiasts and families with children, there is a special park with a playground on the territory, offering a beautiful view of the runways. This allows you to observe the dynamic life of one of the busiest general aviation airports in the US up close.

Below you will find contact information for DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), which primarily serves private and corporate aviation in Atlanta.

• Official Website: www.pdkairport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (770) 936-5440
• Airport Address: 2000 Airport Rd, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
• Email: You can contact the airport administration via the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: The airport is present on platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, where news and updates are posted.
• Lost Luggage Information: Since the airport mainly serves non-commercial flights, for lost luggage issues you should contact your air carrier directly or the charter company.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and support, please contact your Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) or airline. General questions can be asked via the main airport phone number.

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) is conveniently located northeast of the centre of Atlanta, making it easily accessible for travellers. Although it primarily serves private and corporate aviation, there are several ways to reach it, each offering its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport (MARTA)
The most economical way to get to the airport is to use Atlanta's public transport system, known as MARTA. The nearest metro station to the airport is Chamblee Station (Gold Line). From the city centre, for example, from Five Points station, the train journey will take about 20-25 minutes. From Chamblee station to the airport, you can take a MARTA bus (route 19) or take a taxi for a short distance (5-10 minutes). The entire journey from the city centre will take approximately 40-60 minutes. The cost of a MARTA trip is very affordable, making this option ideal for travellers with a limited budget and light luggage.

Taxi and Ridesharing
For maximum convenience, you can use taxi services or popular car-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft, which are widely available in Atlanta. A car journey from the city centre to DeKalb-Peachtree Airport usually takes 20-30 minutes, but travel time can increase significantly during peak hours. The estimated cost of the trip is $25-40. This option is excellent for those who value comfort, are travelling with a lot of luggage, or are in a small group.

Car Rental and Private Transport
If you prefer to drive yourself, car rental is an excellent choice, especially if you plan to travel around the city and its surroundings extensively. The USA has a well-developed road system, and the airport is located near major highways I-85 and I-285, ensuring convenient access. Several rental agencies operate at and near the airport. DeKalb-Peachtree Airport has parking facilities offering both short-term and long-term options for your vehicle, which is convenient if you arrive in your own car.

Important Note
It is worth remembering that DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) specialises in general aviation. Most scheduled domestic and international flights are served by the region's main aviation hub — Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), located to the south of the city.

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) is not a typical commercial airport with large passenger terminals that many travellers are accustomed to. It is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the USA, serving mainly private, corporate, and charter flights. Instead of standard terminals, so-called FBOs (Fixed-Base Operators) operate here — service complexes that act as private terminals for passengers.

Several major FBOs conduct the main activities at the airport, such as Signature Flight Support and Atlantic Aviation. Each of them is a separate building with its own infrastructure. Passengers departing on private flights arrive directly at their FBO, where all necessary services are provided: from car parking to completing formalities and waiting in comfortable lounges. Arrival and departure zones are also located here, but they are not as strictly separated as in large hubs. The entire process is organised for maximum convenience and privacy.

Navigation around the airport territory is quite simple. Signs lead to various FBOs and the main administrative building. Since the "terminals" (FBOs) are separate complexes, there are no walkways between them as such — movement is carried out by car. The airport layout is intuitive for those who know exactly which FBO they need to go to.

One of the main advantages of flying from DeKalb-Peachtree is the speed of procedures. Check-in for the flight and security screening (if required) take mere minutes. There are no long queues or crowds of passengers. All formalities are handled by FBO staff quickly and efficiently, allowing you to arrive at the airport shortly before departure.

Main recommendation for travellers: confirm in advance with your airline or charter operator exactly which FBO will be servicing your flight. This is key information for navigation. Additionally, there is a public observation deck and the famous Downwind restaurant on the airport grounds, offering a beautiful view of the runway, making this place popular even among those not flying.

The history of DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) is rich and multifaceted, beginning long before its transformation into a modern civil aviation hub. Its roots go back to the First World War when a US Army training camp, Camp Gordon, was located on this territory. Officially, the aviation history of this place began in 1941. During the Second World War, the Naval Air Station Atlanta was founded here, playing a key role in training Navy pilots.

After the war ended, the base was deactivated. In 1957, DeKalb County voters approved the purchase of the land, and the deal was completed in 1959. After necessary reconstruction, in 1961 the airport was officially opened for civil aviation under its current name — DeKalb-Peachtree. From the very beginning, it was oriented towards serving general aviation (private and corporate aircraft), quickly turning into an important transport hub for the region.

A significant, albeit tragic, event in the airport's history was a major fire in 1973, which destroyed the main hangar and several aircraft. This incident served as a catalyst for large-scale modernisation. In the 1980s and 1990s, work was carried out to extend the runways, build new hangars, and construct a modern control tower, which significantly improved flight safety and the airport's capacity.

Today, DeKalb-Peachtree Airport consistently ranks among the busiest general aviation airports in the country. It serves as an important "reliever" airport for Atlanta, taking on a large portion of private, corporate, and charter flights that would otherwise be directed to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Thanks to the presence of its own customs service, PDK can also handle international flights.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that thanks to its rich military past, a small park has been created on the airport grounds where decommissioned military aircraft can be seen. Furthermore, due to its proximity to Atlanta's film studios, the airport is frequently used by celebrities and film crews, earning it the unofficial nickname "Airport to the Stars".

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the USA, primarily serving private, corporate, and charter flights. Consequently, the range of services here differs from large commercial airports and is concentrated in the terminals of ground handling operators, known as Fixed-Base Operators (FBO).

Although the airport does not have a traditional food court or a multitude of shops, it is famous for its restaurant, The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge. This is a popular spot with a view of the runway, attracting not only pilots and passengers but also local residents. Here you can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner while watching aircraft takeoffs and landings.

Main passenger amenities are provided through FBOs, such as Signature Flight Support and Atlantic Aviation. In their terminals, you will find comfortable lounges, often comparable to VIP halls in commercial airports. Passengers have access to complimentary Wi-Fi, work areas, and charging stations for electronic devices. For business travellers, FBOs also offer conference rooms and business services, including access to computers and printers.

It is important to note that specialised services, such as currency exchange points, bank branches, or large medical centres, are absent at the airport. However, all buildings and facilities comply with accessibility standards for passengers with disabilities, and staff are ready to provide necessary assistance. There are no dedicated play areas for children, but the comfortable FBO lounges are suitable for family stays. There are no hotels within the airport itself, but many hotels to suit any taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity, in the Chamblee and Brookhaven districts.

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), being one of the busiest general aviation airports in the USA, offers its guests a special approach to dining. Unlike large commercial hubs with their numerous food courts, the emphasis here is on a unique restaurant experience which can become a part of your journey in itself.

The main and, essentially, the only full-service restaurant on the premises is the famous The 57th Fighter Group Restaurant. This is not just a place to eat, but a true themed restaurant designed in the style of an American military airbase from World War II. Its key feature is large panoramic windows and an open terrace with a direct view of the runway, allowing you to watch private jets taking off and landing during your meal.

The restaurant menu offers classic American cuisine: steaks, seafood, hearty salads, burgers, and sandwiches. This place is ideal for a full lunch or dinner, rather than a quick snack on the run. The price range is medium to above average. Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian options (such as salads) are usually present on the menu. To confirm the availability of vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes, it is recommended to contact the restaurant directly. The establishment typically operates during lunch and evening hours, but it is best to check opening times on its official website.

The restaurant is located landside (public area), meaning you do not need to pass through pre-flight security to visit it. It is popular not only with passengers and pilots but also with Atlanta locals as an unusual place for dinner. If you need a very quick snack, your options will be limited. In the buildings of ground handling operators (FBOs) serving private flights, there are typically vending machines with snacks and drinks, as well as coffee.

Travelling through DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), which mainly serves private and corporate aviation, has its own specific features. To ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips.

Arrival time at the airport: Unlike large international airports, procedures at DeKalb-Peachtree are significantly faster. As a rule, arriving 30-60 minutes before departure is sufficient. However, always check the recommended time with your charter company or FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) operator, as requirements may vary.

Check-in and Security: The check-in and screening process here is more personalised and faster. You will still need identification and flight documents. Security control meets TSA standards but takes place without long queues, which is one of the main advantages of the airport.

Seat Selection: On private and charter flights, seat selection is often more flexible. If you have the opportunity, choose a window seat to enjoy views of Atlanta from above, or an aisle seat if extra legroom is important to you.

Hand Luggage: Strict rules regarding liquids apply in the USA: they must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Electronics typically require separate scanning. Weapons, explosives, and sharp objects are prohibited in hand luggage. Ensure that all valuables, documents, and medications are with you.

Passengers with Transfers: DeKalb-Peachtree Airport is rarely used for connecting flights in the traditional sense. If you have a transfer planned from one private flight to another, ensure both flights are coordinated by your operator. There are no standard transit zones here, and movement between terminals or FBO operators needs to be planned in advance.

Customs Control: The airport has facilities to receive international flights. Upon arrival from abroad, you will need to pass through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The procedure is standard: passport check, visa check, and customs declaration. Thanks to lower passenger traffic, this happens significantly faster than in major hubs.

Saving Time and Money: The main saving when using PDK is time. To avoid unnecessary expenses, book ground transport (taxi or car rental) in advance. Clarify all flight details the day before so as not to encounter unexpected changes.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a delay or cancellation, immediately contact a representative of your airline or charter operator. They will provide up-to-date information and suggest possible options. FBO terminals have comfortable lounges where you can pass the time in comfort.