Bangor International Airport

Bangor International Airport (BGR) is often referred to as the "Western Gateway" of the USA, but for tourists, it is primarily a cosy and peaceful starting point for a journey through the picturesque state of Maine. Located away from the bustle of megacities, it offers travellers a unique combination of provincial hospitality and full-scale modern infrastructure. The airport serves as the main air harbour for those planning to visit the famous Acadia National Park and the rocky Atlantic coast, which can be reached by car in just one hour. Thanks to its history and technical capabilities, the terminal is able to accept all types of aircraft while maintaining an atmosphere of comfort and a lack of queues.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Bangor International Airport is valued by tourists for the opportunity to avoid the stress of major hubs and quickly begin their holiday in nature.

• Strategic Location: It is the closest major airport to the popular resort of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park; the drive by rental car takes about one hour.
• Infrastructure and Comfort: The terminal is equipped with everything necessary, including free Wi-Fi and rest zones. A unique feature is the presence of a hotel connected to the terminal by a warm covered walkway, which is incredibly convenient for late arrivals or early departures.
• Speed of Service: Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, passing through pre-flight security and claiming baggage takes mere minutes.
• Transport Accessibility: Counters of all major car rental companies are present within the airport territory, allowing you to immediately set off on a journey along the scenic roads of New England.

For your convenience, we have collected the main contact information for Bangor International Airport (BGR). We recommend always checking current data on the airport's official website before your trip.

• Official Website: www.flybangor.com
• Help Desk Phone: +1 207-992-4600
• Airport Address: 287 Godfrey Blvd, Bangor, ME 04401, USA
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website for communication.
• Social Media: The airport actively maintains pages on social networks where you can follow news and updates. You can find them under the official name "Bangor International Airport" on platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged checked baggage, you should contact your airline directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, contact airport security at: +1 207-992-4620.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and support, you can use the main help desk phone: +1 207-992-4600.

Bangor International Airport (BGR) is conveniently located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Bangor in the USA, so getting to it is quick and hassle-free. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose one of several methods of transport.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The local bus system, Community Connector, serves the city and its surroundings. Although there may not be a direct express route to the terminal, some buses stop within walking distance of the airport. It is recommended to study the schedule and route map on the carrier's official website in advance. The trip from the city centre usually takes about 20-30 minutes, and the ticket cost is approximately $1.50–$2.00.

Taxis and Car Sharing (such as Uber or Lyft) are the most convenient and fastest way to get to the terminal. A trip from the centre of Bangor will take just 10-15 minutes, making this option ideal if you are in a hurry or travelling with a lot of luggage. The cost of the trip usually varies in the range of $15 to $25 depending on demand and time of day, but it is compensated by speed and comfort.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively travel around the state of Maine. Counters for several major rental companies are located at Bangor Airport. You can easily rent a car upon arrival or return it right before departure. The drive from the city centre to the airport by car will also take no more than 15 minutes. The cost of rental depends heavily on the car class, season, and company, so booking in advance is recommended to get the best rates.

For travellers with a personal vehicle, convenient parking is provided at the airport. At your service are both short-term parking spaces near the terminal for quick drop-offs and pick-ups, as well as more affordable long-term lots. Prices for long-term parking are usually more favourable and can start from approximately $10–$14 per day. All parking lots are located in the immediate vicinity of the main airport building.

Bangor International Airport (BGR) is distinguished by a compact and passenger-friendly structure. The airport operates with one main terminal, which serves all domestic and international flights. Such an organisation significantly simplifies navigation and reduces the time required to move through the building.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The check-in and baggage drop-off area is located in the main part of the hall. Immediately after this, passengers proceed to a single security checkpoint. Since there is only one terminal, you do not have to worry about long transfers between different buildings—all boarding gates are located in one secure zone after screening. The arrivals area with baggage claim carousels is also located in the same building, making meeting passengers as convenient as possible.

Check-in and security procedures at Bangor airport usually proceed faster than in major hubs due to lower passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure and 2-3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, even during peak load periods.

The main advice for navigating BGR is to follow the signs. Thanks to the simple and clear layout, getting lost here is practically impossible. All key areas—from airline counters to cafés and boarding gates—are within walking distance of each other, making your stay at the airport comfortable and carefree.

The history of Bangor International Airport (BGR) is a fascinating journey from a modest airfield to a strategically important transport hub with a global reputation. Its story began in 1927 when a small private airfield named Godfrey Field was founded. With the approach of World War II, its potential was noticed by the military, and in 1941 it was transferred to the US Army Air Corps, receiving a new name—Dow Field.

During the Cold War, Dow Air Force Base became one of the key bases of the US Strategic Air Command on the East Coast. Heavy bombers and aerial refuelling tankers were based here, ready for takeoff at any moment. After the closure of the military base in 1968, the facility was transferred to the city of Bangor and received its current name—Bangor International Airport. Due to its geographical location, it quickly became a popular refuelling point for transatlantic flights, earning the unofficial title "Gateway to America".

However, the airport gained its greatest fame through its unique role in supporting American military personnel. Starting with Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991 and continuing to this day, BGR serves as a primary entry and exit point for hundreds of thousands of soldiers returning from abroad or deploying for service. This airport became known nationwide thanks to the volunteer movement "Maine Troop Greeters"—local residents greet every military flight around the clock to thank the soldiers, offer them snacks, and provide an opportunity to call home. Over the decades, millions of service members have passed through Bangor.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history is its connection to the famous writer Stephen King, a resident of Bangor. It was the sight of the deserted BGR terminal late at night that inspired him to create the novella "The Langoliers". Today, the airport continues to fulfil its functions, serving both civil flights and military charters, remaining a symbol of hospitality and an important part of the history of not only the state of Maine but the entire United States.

Bangor International Airport (BGR) provides passengers with a set of essential services to make their stay comfortable and convenient. Despite its relatively small size, the airport is well-equipped to meet the needs of travellers. In the terminal, you will find several cafés and dining venues where you can have a snack before departure, as well as shops offering souvenirs, press, and travel goods. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will allow you to always stay connected.

ATMs are installed in the airport for passenger convenience. Bangor Airport is known for its hospitality towards USA military personnel, for whom volunteers have organised a special lounge. Families with small children can use nursing rooms. Furthermore, the terminal is fully adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring a barrier-free environment and special services for comfortable movement.

If you need to stay overnight, there are several hotels of various price categories located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, which can be easily reached. Although there are no dedicated conference halls or large business centres within the airport itself, the quiet atmosphere of the terminal allows one to find a place to work while waiting for a flight. In case first aid is needed, appropriate services are provided at the airport.

At Bangor International Airport (BGR), travellers will find several convenient options to have a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the selection of establishments is not as vast as in major hubs, Bangor Airport offers quality food focused on passenger needs.

The main place for dining at the airport is The Highlands Cafe & Pub. This establishment has service points both in the public zone before security control (landside) and in the "secure" zone near the boarding gates (airside). Here you can order a full breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The menu includes classic American dishes: burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups. Be sure to pay attention to seasonal or signature dishes, which may use famous Maine products, such as lobster or wild blueberries. This is an excellent option for those who have time for a relaxed meal.

For passengers who are limited on time, there is an option for a quick snack. At the café, you can take away freshly brewed coffee, pastries, yoghurts, or ready-made sandwiches. There are also vending machines in the terminal with drinks, snacks, and sweets. This is an ideal solution if there is very little time left before departure or you want to take something with you on board the aircraft.

Regarding special dietary requests, the main restaurant menu typically includes vegetarian options (for example, salads or meat-free sandwiches). It is best to clarify the availability of vegan or gluten-free dishes directly with the staff. The price range in the airport establishments can be characterised as average for airports in the USA. The operating hours of the café and restaurant are flexibly adjusted to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning before the first departures and close after the departure of the last evening flight.

Planning a trip through Bangor International Airport (BGR)? Here are a few useful tips that will help make your journey smoother and more pleasant, regardless of whether you are flying from Bangor or using it as a transit hub.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Bangor International Airport is a relatively small and convenient airport, however, it is always better to arrive with time to spare. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure, and for international ones—3 hours. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website.

Passing Security Control: At the TSA checkpoint, be ready to present your boarding pass and identification (passport or driver's licence compliant with the REAL ID standard). Remove laptops and other large electronic devices from your hand luggage in advance. Remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids: all liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. A window seat is ideal for sleeping and admiring the views, while an aisle seat is for those who want the freedom to stand up. Seats in the emergency row offer more legroom but also impose certain obligations. In your hand luggage, besides permitted liquids, do not pack sharp objects, weapons, or flammable substances. Be sure to take a portable charger with you so your gadgets are always ready for work.

Transfers and Customs Control: If you have a transfer in Bangor, note that it is a compact airport, and moving between gates will not take much time. If you arrive on an international flight and are flying further within the country, you will need to pass passport and customs control, collect your luggage, and check it in again. At customs, have your passport and completed declaration ready. Answer the officer's questions honestly and declare all goods you are bringing in.

Savings and Actions During Flight Delays: To save money, book parking at the airport online in advance. You can also take dry snacks and an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing control. In case of a flight delay, follow the information on the departure boards and in your airline's app. Contact an airline representative at the boarding gate to find out about rebooking options. Remain calm and polite—this will help resolve the problem faster.