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Laughlin Bullhead International Airport

About the Airport

Laughlin Bullhead International Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP) is not just a transit hub, but a true sunny gateway to a world of entertainment in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Located right on the banks of the majestic Colorado River, it offers travellers a unique experience: landing in Arizona, you can find yourself amidst the bright lights of Nevada's entertainment venues within minutes. This compact and cosy airport allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of megacities, immersing guests in an atmosphere of relaxation and excitement immediately after stepping off the plane.

IATA Code IFP
ICAO Code KIFP
City Bullhead City
Distance to centre ~3 km
Status International (predominantly charter)
Passengers per year About 115,000
Schedule

Airport Features and Advantages:

The main highlight of the airport is its scenic location. The approach over the turquoise waters of the Colorado River against the backdrop of desert mountains leaves an unforgettable impression. Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, all procedures — from baggage claim to exiting into the city — take mere minutes. This is an ideal option for those who value their time: transfers to most Laughlin hotels take no more than 15 minutes, and the absence of long queues at security makes the journey maximally comfortable and stress-free.

Contact Information

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP).

  • Official Website: You can always find up-to-date information on flights, services, and passenger regulations on the official website www.flyifp.com.
  • Inquiry Phone: For general questions, you can contact the number +1 (928) 754-2134.
  • Address: 2550 Laughlin View Dr, Bullhead City, AZ 86429, USA.
  • Email: For written inquiries, you can use the address info@flyifp.com.
  • Social Media: You can follow airport news on its official Facebook page.
  • Lost & Found: If you have left personal items in the airport terminal, contact the service at +1 (928) 754-2134. For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly.
  • Passenger Support: For questions related to service at the airport, you can contact the main inquiry phone number.

How to Get to the Airport

Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP) is conveniently located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Bullhead City, making the trip to the terminal quick and simple. Thanks to its proximity to the city and the resorts of Laughlin (Nevada), the journey from most hotels takes no more than 10-20 minutes. Travellers can choose the most suitable method of transport based on their budget and preferences.

Taxis and Shuttles are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. Taxi stands are located at the terminal exit, and cars can also be ordered via mobile apps. A trip to the city centre or hotels in Laughlin usually costs between 15–30 dollars. Many hotels and resorts in Laughlin offer shuttle services to their guests, which may be complimentary or available for an additional fee. It is recommended to check the availability and schedule of shuttles with your hotel in advance. This is an excellent option for those travelling with luggage.

Car Rental is the ideal choice for those planning to actively explore this region of the USA. Offices of several major rental companies are present at Laughlin Bullhead Airport. The cost of renting an economy class car starts from approximately 50–70 dollars per day. Renting a car gives you complete freedom of movement, allowing you to easily reach not only your hotel but also visit places like Lake Havasu or even head to the Grand Canyon. Having your own transport is particularly convenient in this part of Arizona, where distances between attractions can be significant.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. The Bullhead Area Transit System (BATS) operates routes connecting the airport with key points in the city. The fare is only about 2 dollars, making it the most economical way to travel. However, it is worth checking the schedule and routes on the official BATS website in advance, as intervals between buses can be long, and travel time may be longer compared to a taxi.

For travellers arriving in their own vehicle, the airport provides convenient parking. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available at reasonable prices. The parking area is located in immediate proximity to the terminal, allowing you to quickly reach the check-in counters.

Terminals and Map

Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP) is a compact and convenient aviation hub that mainly serves charter and seasonal flights. Its structure is as simple as possible, making navigation intuitive even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both arriving and departing flights. Due to its small size, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All key zones — check-in counters, security screening, the waiting area, and baggage claim — are within walking distance of each other.

Terminal Layout and Navigation:

Upon entering the terminal building, you immediately find yourself in the general area. Airline check-in counters and car rental offices are located right here. After checking in, passengers proceed to the single TSA security checkpoint. Beyond this, access opens to the boarding gates. The arrivals area with the baggage claim belt is also located in the same building and is well marked with signs.

Since there is only one terminal, transfers between terminals are not required. The entire journey from the airport entrance to the boarding gate takes just a few minutes on foot. The time for check-in and security screening is generally minimal compared to major airports. On a regular day, all procedures take no more than 20-30 minutes; however, on peak days associated with the arrival of large charters, it is recommended to arrive 90 minutes before departure to avoid rushing.

Overall, Laughlin Bullhead Airport is designed for fast and efficient passenger service. Its main advantages are the absence of long queues and simple logistics, allowing travellers to start their holiday in Bullhead City or Laughlin without unnecessary stress.

Airport History

The history of Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP) is closely tied to the development of two cities located on opposite banks of the Colorado River. The airport was founded in 1942 as a military airfield for the USA Air Force under the name Davis Field. During World War II, it served as a training base for pilots, but after the war ended, it was decommissioned and transferred to the ownership of Mohave County.

A turning point in the airport's history came in the 1980s with the rapid growth of the entertainment industry in the neighbouring city of Laughlin, Nevada. To satisfy the growing flow of tourists heading to the resorts, there was an urgent need for a modern airport capable of accommodating large passenger aircraft. Thus began a new era for the airport in Bullhead City. In 1991, the construction of a new passenger terminal with an area of 5,500 square metres was completed, and the runway was extended to accept Boeing 737 class liners.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, the airport experienced its heyday, becoming one of the busiest in the country in terms of charter flights. Airlines such as Sun Country Airlines operated hundreds of flights per month, delivering thousands of tourists from all corners of the country directly to the entertainment complexes of Laughlin. In fact, the airport became the aerial gateway for the entertainment capital on the Colorado River, which was reflected in its official name — Laughlin Bullhead.

With changing tourism trends and a reduction in charter programmes in subsequent years, the volume of traffic decreased. Today, Laughlin Bullhead International Airport continues to play an important role in the region's transport infrastructure. It serves civil aviation flights, private jets, and periodic charter programmes, remaining a key link for tourists and local residents. Its history is a vivid example of how the development of one city can radically change the fate of an infrastructure facility in another.

Services and Amenities

Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP) is a compact and functional hub focused on comfort and quick service for passengers arriving in the resort zone. Despite its small size, the airport offers a basic set of services. Shopping and dining options here are limited: typically, there is a small café or snack bar operating where you can buy beverages and light snacks, as well as a souvenir shop. It is recommended to dine before departure or upon arrival in the city.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting halls. This allows you to stay connected and work while waiting for your flight. Please note that there are no specialised VIP lounges or business class lounges at the airport; all passengers are served in the general terminal.

The airport has ATMs for withdrawing cash, but currency exchange points are usually not provided, as the airport primarily serves domestic destinations within the USA. The terminal is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Families with small children can use the nursing rooms. Basic medical assistance can be obtained at the airport if necessary.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, but many accommodation options are located just a few minutes' drive away in the cities of Laughlin and Bullhead City. Most major resort hotels offer transfers for their guests. Business services, such as conference rooms or business centres, are not provided at the airport, but they are easily found in nearby hotel complexes.

Where to Eat

When planning a snack or lunch at Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport with a limited selection of establishments. Dining options here are designed to satisfy the basic needs of travellers waiting for their flights.

The main terminal building houses a single café-bar that serves all passengers. It is located in the general area, accessible both before and after passing security control, which is convenient for departing passengers and those meeting them. Here you can find options for a quick snack as well as more substantial dishes for a full lunch.

The menu typically includes classic American dishes: sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, soups, and salads. For those in a hurry, packaged snacks, pastries, crisps, as well as hot and cold drinks, including coffee, tea, and sparkling water, are available. The bar offers a selection of beverages. Prices for food and drinks are in the average range for airports.

Options for passengers with specific dietary needs (Halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) are extremely limited. It is recommended to arrange food in advance and bring suitable snacks with you if you follow a strict diet. The café's operating hours depend directly on the flight schedule — it opens a few hours before departure and closes after the last plane departs.

Recommendations:

  • For a quick snack, coffee with pastries or a ready-made sandwich is ideal.
  • For a full lunch, you can order a burger or hot soup.
  • If you are looking for variety, the best solution would be to eat at one of the numerous restaurants in Laughlin or Bullhead City before travelling to the airport.

Travel Tips

Travelling through Laughlin Bullhead International Airport is generally a quick and convenient process, as it is significantly smaller than major hubs. To ensure your trip from Bullhead City goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips.

Arrival and Check-in: For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is quite sufficient to drop off luggage and pass security control without rushing. To save time, check in for your flight online and print your boarding pass in advance or save it on your mobile device.

Security Control and Hand Luggage: Security procedures here are standard for airports in the USA. Remember the rule for liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre. Remove all metal items from your pockets in advance, and be prepared to take laptops and other large electronics out of your bags. Do not put sharp objects or other prohibited items in your hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Saving Money: If the airline allows, choose a window seat during check-in. The windows offer picturesque views of the desert landscapes of Arizona. To save money, bring an empty water bottle (you can fill it after security) and light snacks, as the choice of cafés in a small airport may be limited, and prices may be higher.

Transfers and Customs: Laughlin Bullhead Airport is rarely used as a transit hub; most passengers fly here on direct charter flights. If you do have a transfer planned, it is easy to carry out thanks to the compact size of the terminal. Although the airport has international status, it primarily serves domestic flights. Customs and border control are only undergone by passengers of rare international charter or private flights.

Flight Delays: In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and your rights to compensation (for example, food vouchers). Since the waiting area at the airport is small, it is useful to have a book or a charged power bank with you for entertainment.

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