Yeager Airport

Yeager Airport, situated atop a hill, is not merely an air gateway to Charleston, but a true hallmark of West Virginia. While the United States has many airports, this one proudly bears the name of the legendary test pilot Chuck Yeager, the first human to break the sound barrier. Thanks to its unique location, the airport offers passengers breathtaking views of the city and the picturesque hills of the Kanawha and Elk River valleys. This air harbour is the state's main aviation hub and a convenient starting point for travel across the region.

Despite its relatively small size, Yeager Airport is renowned as one of the most passenger-friendly in the country. Travellers particularly appreciate it for short security queues, nearby parking, and a general atmosphere of calm, which distinguishes it favourably from large and bustling hubs. Inside the terminal, there is everything necessary for a comfortable wait for departure: several cafés, car rental counters, and free Wi-Fi. The airport is constantly evolving, implementing terminal modernisation projects to make travel through Charleston even more pleasant.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Yeager Airport (CRW). We recommend checking the accuracy of the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: You can find the latest information on flights, services, and regulations on the airport's official website: www.yeagerairport.com.
• Information Service Phone: For general inquiries and information, you can call the main number: (304) 344-8033.
• Address: The airport is located at: 100 Airport Rd, Charleston, WV 25311, USA.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the special contact form on the airport's official website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow the latest news and airport updates on its official pages on social networks such as Facebook and Twitter.
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost personal items within the terminal, contact the Lost and Found department at airport security by calling (304) 344-5314. For issues related to the loss or damage of checked baggage, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance directly at the airport, you can approach staff at the information desks in the terminal or call the general information phone number.

Yeager Airport (CRW) is located very close to the city centre of Charleston, just a few kilometres away, making the journey there quick and convenient. Depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions, the trip from the centre usually takes between 10 to 15 minutes.

The most economical way to get to the airport is to use public transport. The Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority (KRT) bus company operates a route that stops at the terminal. Look for bus No. 11 (Airport/W. VA. State Univ.), which connects the airport with the city centre. This is an excellent option for travellers without large luggage. It is worth noting that there is no metro or direct railway line to the airport in Charleston.

For maximum convenience and speed, you can use taxi services or ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft, which are active in the city. This is the simplest way to get to the terminal, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family. A trip from the centre will cost approximately 15-25 dollars, depending on demand and time of day.

If you plan to travel around West Virginia and explore the surroundings, the best solution would be car rental. Yeager Airport features counters for several major rental companies. You can book a car in advance online or rent one upon arrival. This will give you complete freedom of movement during your trip across the USA.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided. Both short-term parking spaces, located directly opposite the terminal and ideal for dropping off or picking up passengers, and more affordable long-term parking for those leaving their car for the duration of their trip are available.

Although Yeager Airport is the main one for Charleston, there are other air harbours in the region. The nearest alternatives include Beckley Airport (about 77 km away) and the larger Tri-State/Milton Airport (approximately 84 km away). However, for trips directly to Charleston, CRW remains the most convenient option.

Yeager Airport (CRW) is a compact and convenient aviation hub that is easy to navigate thanks to its simple and logical structure. Travellers need not worry about complex transfers or long transits between different parts of the airport.

The airport operates one main terminal which serves all flights, both arrivals and departures. The terminal building has two main levels. On the upper level, airline check-in counters and the central security checkpoint are located. After passing through screening, passengers enter a single "secure" area, from where access is available to all boarding gates, grouped into three concourses: A, B, and C. Since all gates are located in one zone after security, transferring between flights served at CRW does not require passing through control again.

The lower level of the terminal is designed for arriving passengers. Here you will find baggage claim areas, car rental company counters, and exits to ground transport, including taxis and shuttles. Thanks to the airport's small size, the path from exiting the aircraft to retrieving luggage and leaving the building takes a minimum amount of time.

Check-in and screening procedures at Yeager Airport usually proceed significantly faster than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before the departure of a domestic flight to check luggage and pass security control without haste. Navigation through the terminal is intuitive: clear signs are installed everywhere, and due to the building's compactness, getting lost is practically impossible.

The history of Yeager Airport (CRW) is a striking example of engineering ingenuity and resilience. The decision to build a new airport for the city of Charleston was made after World War II. The terrain, surrounded by mountains, presented a serious challenge. Creating a flat surface for runways and the terminal required a colossal project: over 6.8 million cubic metres of earth were moved, and three mountain peaks were literally leveled. The official opening of the airport, originally named Kanawha Airport, took place in 1947.

A landmark event in the airport's history occurred in 1985 when it was renamed in honour of the legendary test pilot, Brigadier General Chuck Yeager. This native of West Virginia went down in history as the first person to break the sound barrier. The renaming was a tribute to a national hero and brought worldwide fame to the airport. This underscored the air harbour's close connection with the aviation history of the USA.

Over the years of its existence, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation, including terminal expansion and infrastructure improvements to serve growing passenger traffic. However, its history is also marked by a tragic event. In 1970, Southern Airways Flight 932, carrying the Marshall University football team, crashed while approaching for landing. This catastrophe left a deep mark on the history of the entire state and remains an integral part of the region's memory today.

One of the most serious challenges in the airport's recent history occurred in 2015, when a massive landslide damaged part of the runway and the surrounding area. This required complex engineering work to restore and reinforce the slope. The reconstruction project not only restored flight safety but also demonstrated the airport's ability to cope with emergency situations. Today, Yeager Airport continues to serve as a vital transport hub for the capital of West Virginia and the entire region, combining rich history with modern service standards.

Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is thoughtfully designed so that your journey begins and ends pleasantly. Here you can grab a bite at popular local establishments such as Tudor's Biscuit World, or have a coffee at Kanawha Café. A gift shop is also open, where you can purchase souvenirs and travel goods.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for electronic devices are installed in waiting halls and other areas of the terminal. Although there are no traditional airline VIP lounges at the airport, a special Military Lounge is open for military personnel and their families, where they can relax in a quiet atmosphere.

For financial matters, ATMs are located within the terminal. It is worth noting that currency exchange services may not be available at the airport, so it is recommended to take care of this in advance. In case first aid is needed, airport staff are always ready to assist and call medical services.

Yeager Airport is equipped for the comfortable stay of all categories of passengers. For travellers with small children, baby care rooms with changing tables are provided. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on full accessibility: ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and elevators. Airlines also provide escort services and wheelchairs upon prior request.

Business travellers can utilise the services of the business centre, where there are workspaces and the ability to charge gadgets in a quiet environment. If you need to stay overnight near the airport, there are many hotels of various price categories located a few minutes' drive away, many of which offer free transfers for their guests.

At Yeager Airport (CRW), serving the city of Charleston, dining options correspond to its status as a compact regional airport. Although there is not a wide variety of restaurants, passengers can find everything necessary for a hearty snack or a full lunch before departure.

The main part of the catering establishments is located in the secure area, after passing security control (airside). The main pride of the airport is a branch of the famous local chain Tudor's Biscuit World. This is a great opportunity to try authentic West Virginia cuisine. We highly recommend trying one of their signature biscuits—fluffy rolls with various fillings, from classic bacon and egg to fried chicken. This is an ideal choice for both a quick breakfast and a hearty lunch.

Besides Tudor's, a small grill and dining area usually operates in the departure zone, where you can order beverages, as well as standard American dishes like burgers and sandwiches. This is a good option for those who want to relax and have a leisurely lunch while waiting for a flight. For a quick snack, you can also buy packaged snacks, chips, sweets, and soft drinks here.

Passengers with strict dietary requirements should note that the selection for them will be extremely limited. It is practically impossible to find specialized vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes here. Vegetarians may have to limit themselves to a salad or pastries without meat. If you have specific dietary requirements, the most reliable solution would be to bring food with you.

Prices in Yeager Airport establishments can be described as average for airports in the USA—slightly higher than in city cafés. Opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule: establishments open early in the morning to serve passengers of the first flights and stop working after the departure of the last plane in the evening.

Travelling through Yeager Airport in the city of Charleston, USA, can be simple and convenient if you know a few nuances. Yeager Airport (CRW) is a relatively small regional aviation hub, which makes navigating it easier compared to large international hubs. Here are a few tips that will help you save time and reduce stress.

Arrival and Check-in: For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before departure. If you are travelling during peak periods (holidays, morning hours), it is better to allow 2 hours. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage: Security checkpoints at Yeager Airport usually operate quickly, but always be prepared for standard procedures. Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags. Check the current rules on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin.

Seat Selection and Transfers: When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat offers more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing neighbours. If you have a transfer planned at another airport, ensure you have enough time between flights—at least 60-90 minutes for domestic connections at major airports.

Customs Control: Since Yeager Airport serves primarily domestic flights, most passengers will not have to pass customs control. This procedure is mandatory only for those arriving on international flights, which is a rarity for this airport.

Savings and Flight Delays: To save money, book parking online in advance if possible, and bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security. In case of a flight delay, check information with an airline representative—they are obliged to provide you with current data and, depending on the duration of the wait, may offer meal vouchers. In a small airport like Yeager, leisure opportunities are limited, so a charged phone with films or a book will become your best friends.