Crow Wing County Airport

Crow Wing County Airport (BRD) is not just a runway, but your gateway to Minnesota's famous lake country. Located near the city of Brainerd, it serves as a key transport hub for tourists coming to enjoy nature, fishing, and recreation on the region's countless lakes. This compact and convenient airport offers a quick and comfortable start to your adventure in the heart of the USA.

The main advantage of the airport is its strategic location. From here, you can reach popular resorts, golf courses, and the picturesque lakes for which Brainerd is famous in a matter of minutes. Unlike major hubs, BRD offers an atmosphere of tranquility: there are no long queues or hustle, allowing passengers to complete all formalities quickly and stress-free. All necessary services are available in the terminal, including car rental counters, which is essential for traveling around the region. Thanks to regular flights, primarily operated by Delta Connection, the airport ensures reliable connections with major hub airports such as Minneapolis/St. Paul.

If you need to contact the administration of Crow Wing County Airport (BRD), please use the following contact information:

• Official Website: You can find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations on the airport's official website: brainerdairport.com.
• Help Desk Phone: For immediate information and inquiries, please call: +1 218-825-3400.
• Airport Address: 16384 Airport Road, Suite 1, Brainerd, MN 56401, USA.
• Email: For written inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the official airport website.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items on board the aircraft, please contact your airline directly. If items were left in the terminal building, contact the airport administration at +1 218-825-3400.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main phone number listed above.

Getting to Crow Wing County Airport (BRD) from the center of Brainerd is quite simple, as it is located very close to the city. Travelers can choose one of several convenient methods to get to their flight on time.

Taxi and Ridesharing is the most popular and fastest option. The trip from the city center to the terminal usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes. Local taxi services operate in the region, as well as popular apps like Uber and Lyft. The cost of the trip will depend on demand and the time of day, but generally remains quite affordable. This is an ideal choice for those who value comfort and travel light.

Car Rental is an excellent solution for those who want maximum freedom of movement around the lake country of the USA. Most major rental companies have counters right at the airport, allowing you to conveniently pick up or drop off a car before departure. If you rented a car in the city, you can return it at the airport without any problems. The road to the terminal is well-marked with signs.

Many hotels and resorts in the Brainerd area offer their guests an airport shuttle service. Some do this for free, others for an additional fee. Be sure to check the availability of this option when booking accommodation. This can be a very convenient and cost-effective solution.

It is worth noting that there is no direct public transport connection (buses or trains) between the city and the airport. Therefore, when planning your trip, do not rely on this option. To guarantee arrival for your flight, it is better to use a taxi, transfer, or car.

For those arriving in their own vehicle, the airport provides parking. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, located within walking distance of the terminal. Parking rates are quite moderate, making this option convenient for those leaving their car for several days.

Crow Wing County Airport (BRD), also known as Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport, is a compact and convenient air hub. Its structure is as simple as possible, making navigation intuitive even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, travelers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings. Everything is in one place, which significantly saves time and effort.

The terminal layout is very logical. Upon entering, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area. After control, you will find yourself in a small but cozy waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrivals area is located in the same part of the building as check-in, but with a separate exit to the baggage claim belt.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Brainerd Airport usually takes very little time. On average, check-in and screening take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure to go through all procedures without rushing. Navigation through the terminal will not cause difficulties: there are signs everywhere, and the small size of the building makes it easy to orient yourself.

The history of Crow Wing County Regional Airport (BRD) begins in 1948. It was opened to serve the growing flow of tourists and business travelers to the popular lake region of Brainerd, replacing an older and smaller airfield. From the very beginning of its existence, the airport became an important transport hub for the region, being jointly owned by the city and Crow Wing County.

One of the most significant events in the airport's recent history was its large-scale modernization. In 2007, the construction of a new, modern passenger terminal with an area of more than 3,500 square meters was completed. This project radically changed the appearance of the air harbor, allowing it to offer passengers a higher level of comfort and service efficiency. The new building replaced an outdated structure and became a symbol of the airport's development.

Throughout its history, the airport in Brainerd has been served by various airlines, ensuring stable connections with major hubs in the USA. This continuity of air service has played a key role in the development of the local economy, especially in the tourism sector, which is the foundation for the Brainerd Lakes region. The airport has repeatedly expanded and improved its infrastructure, including runways, to meet modern aviation requirements.

Today, BRD airport is not just a point on the map, but a crucial element supporting the region's status as one of the main holiday destinations in Minnesota. Its history is an example of constant development and adaptation to the needs of travelers, allowing it to remain a modern and convenient gateway to the "land of lakes."

Crow Wing County Airport (BRD), serving the Brainerd Lakes region, offers passengers essential services and amenities for a comfortable journey. Although it is a small regional airport, all conditions are created here for a pleasant wait for your flight.

In the terminal building, you will find cozy seating areas. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and stations for charging your electronic devices are also provided. If you wish to have a snack, the restaurant The Landings operates at the airport, offering a view of the runway. This is a wonderful place to enjoy food or drinks before departure. There are no specialized VIP lounges at the airport, but the general waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable.

For the convenience of travelers, ATMs are installed in the terminal. Please note that currency exchange services are not provided here, so it is advisable to exchange money in advance. Rooms with changing tables are available for passengers with children. The airport fully complies with accessibility standards for people with disabilities. If you require special assistance, such as a wheelchair, it is recommended to notify your airline when booking your ticket.

There are no hotels directly within the airport building, however, a few minutes' drive away, in the city of Brainerd, there are many hotels to suit every taste and budget. For business travelers, the airport provides a conference room that can be rented for meetings. Medical services are limited to first aid; in emergencies, please contact any airport staff member.

Crow Wing County Airport (BRD) is a small and convenient regional airport, so dining options are concentrated in one place designed for passenger comfort. Do not expect a large food court, however, everything necessary for a snack before a flight is available here.

The main place for food and drinks at the airport is the café-bar, located in the main terminal building before the security checkpoint (landside). This makes it accessible not only to passengers but also to those seeing them off. The establishment combines the functions of a café, bar, and a small souvenir shop.

The menu usually features classic American dishes, ideal for a quick snack or a more substantial lunch. Here you can order:

• Hot and cold sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
• Soups, which may vary depending on the season.
• Pastries, muffins, and other desserts to accompany coffee or tea.
• Soft drinks, as well as beer and wine.

Sometimes the menu may include dishes inspired by local Minnesota cuisine, allowing you to experience regional flavors even during a short stop.

Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Simple vegetarian options, such as a salad or a vegetable sandwich, will likely be available. However, passengers with strict restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal) are recommended to arrange for food in advance and bring snacks with them. Prices in the café can be described as moderate for an airport. Operating hours depend directly on the flight schedule — the café opens before departures and closes after the last planes leave.

Thus, for a quick snack, coffee with pastries or a ready-made sandwich is perfect. If you have time for a full lunch, you can confidently order a burger or hot soup. Since the establishment is located in a public area, it is a convenient place to sit with friends or family before heading to boarding.

To ensure your journey through Crow Wing County Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. Since this is a regional airport, procedures here usually take less time than at major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before domestic flights. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without haste.

Flight check-in is available online 24 hours before departure in most cases — this is the fastest way to get your boarding pass. The security checkpoint at Brainerd airport is standard. To save time, prepare your documents in advance, and pack liquids in carry-on luggage (up to 100 ml each) in a transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics usually need to be removed from bags for separate scanning.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: window seats will give you beautiful views of Minnesota's lakes, while aisle seats provide more freedom of movement. If you want more legroom, look for seats at emergency exits, but remember that certain restrictions apply to them. Do not take sharp objects, flammable liquids, or other prohibited items in your carry-on luggage. The full list is always available on the airline's website and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) site.

If you have a connecting flight, make sure you have enough time between flights (usually at least 60-90 minutes). Customs and border control for international passengers take place at the first airport of arrival in the USA. If you are flying to Brainerd from abroad via a major hub, you will complete all formalities there, and the flight to Brainerd will be considered domestic.

To save money, book tickets and airport parking in advance. This is often more profitable than paying on the spot. Also, bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security control, and light snacks — this will help avoid unnecessary expenses while waiting for your flight.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative. They will provide up-to-date information and explain possible options: rebooking on another flight, and in case of long delays — providing vouchers for food or accommodation. Remain calm and clarify your rights as a passenger — they may vary depending on the airline and the reason for the delay.