Dothan Regional Airport

Dothan Regional Airport (DHN), the gateway to the so-called "Wiregrass" region of southeast Alabama, represents a unique blend of history and modernity. Established in 1941 as a military airfield, today it serves as an important transport hub for both business travellers and tourists. Despite its compact size, the airport provides convenient access to the global flight network through one of the major hubs. This makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the southern USA and the city of Dothan.

Although the airport has only one terminal with two boarding gates, it offers passengers everything necessary for a comfortable journey. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, a small business centre for those who need to work, a café serving Southern cuisine, and a gift shop. Dothan Airport prides itself on combining the personal service and friendly atmosphere of a small regional airport with the efficiency and connectivity usually associated with larger air hubs. Furthermore, police and fire services are on duty 24/7 on the premises, ensuring a high level of safety.

Planning a trip through Dothan Airport? Here is all the necessary contact information to help you navigate and resolve any queries.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can be found at www.flydothan.com.
• Information Desk Phone: For general information and enquiries, please call +1 (334) 983-8100.
• Airport Address: 800 Airport Drive, Dothan, AL 36303, USA.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow news and airport updates on their official page on Facebook.
• Lost and Found: If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration. If items were lost on board the aircraft or your luggage did not arrive, you must contact your airline representatives directly.
• Passenger Support: For all general questions related to your stay at the airport, please contact the information desk at the phone number listed above.

Getting to Dothan Regional Airport (DHN) from the city centre of Dothan and its surroundings is quite simple, though it is worth noting that transport options are typical for smaller cities in the USA. The main focus is on private and rented vehicles.

Taxis and Ridesharing Services: The most convenient and fastest way to reach the airport is by using taxi services or popular apps such as Uber and Lyft. A trip from the city centre will take approximately 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. The estimated cost is around $20–35. This is a reliable option, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

Car Rental: If you plan to travel actively around the region, renting a car is the optimal solution. several major rental companies operate at Dothan Airport. You can both pick up and return the car directly at the terminal. This provides maximum freedom of movement and allows you not to depend on the schedules of other transport.

Airport Parking: For those arriving in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided on the airport grounds. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. The service costs are moderate, and the location of the parking lot allows for quick access to the terminal.

Public Transport: It is important to note that there is no direct public transport connection (buses, trains) to Dothan Airport. Therefore, tourists should not rely on this method. When planning your trip, it is better to book a taxi or rent a car in advance.

Recommendations: Considering all options, a car is the most practical way to get to Dothan Airport. If you are planning a more extensive journey across the region and are looking for a greater variety of flights, it is also worth considering larger air hubs nearby, for example, Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, located approximately two hours away by car.

Dothan Airport (DHN) features a simple and passenger-friendly structure, which is characteristic of regional airports in the USA. There is one main passenger terminal operating here, which services all flights — both arrivals and departures. This makes navigation intuitively clear and fast even for those visiting for the first time.

The terminal layout is extremely simple and logical. Immediately after entering the building, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and car rental offices are located. After passing through the security checkpoint, passengers enter a small departure area with several boarding gates. The arrival area with the baggage claim belt is located separately but in the same building, eliminating the possibility of getting lost.

Since all operations are concentrated in one compact building, there are no transfers between terminals. You will not need to use internal trains or shuttles — everything is within walking distance. This makes the airport particularly convenient for families with children, elderly travellers, and those who value their time.

Check-in and security procedures at Dothan Airport usually proceed very quickly compared to major international hubs. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before your flight departure. This time will be more than sufficient to check in your luggage, pass security control, and find your boarding gate without haste. Signs in the building are clear and understandable, so navigation will not cause any difficulties.

The history of Dothan Airport (DHN) is inextricably linked with the military aviation of the USA. Its story began in 1941, when Napier Field airfield was opened here during World War II. It served as a major training centre for fighter pilots of the US Army Air Forces and played an important role in training thousands of aviators for combat operations. This period laid the foundation for the future development of aviation in the region.

After the war ended, the military base was deactivated, and in 1947 the facility was transferred to the city of Dothan and Houston County for use as a civil airport. Old military buildings served as a temporary terminal for some time until a new, modern passenger building was constructed in 1965. This step became a key moment in transforming the former military airfield into a fully-fledged commercial airport capable of serving growing passenger traffic.

Since then, the airport has been modernised repeatedly. Works have been carried out to expand and strengthen runways, update navigation equipment, and improve terminal infrastructure to meet modern safety and comfort standards. Today, Dothan Airport is a vital transport hub for southeast Alabama, continuing its history of serving the region which began over 80 years ago.

A curious fact: the original name, Napier Field, was given in honour of Major Edward L. Napier, an Army flight surgeon from Alabama who died in a plane crash in 1923. This name still serves as a reminder of the airport's rich military past.

Dothan Airport (DHN) is a compact and convenient regional airport offering passengers all essential services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, you can find everything you need here.

For those wishing to grab a bite, The Hangar Restaurant & Bar operates within the terminal, where you can order full meals or beverages. There is also a small shop selling snacks, drinks, and travel essentials. Although there are no specialised VIP lounges or business lounges at the airport, the general waiting area is sufficiently comfortable.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected or work while waiting for departure. Special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. ATMs are installed in the airport building; however, currency exchange services are not provided, as the airport primarily serves domestic flights.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with disabilities in accordance with ADA standards, including accessible restrooms, ramps, and staff assistance during boarding and disembarking. For travellers with small children, changing tables are available in the restrooms. There are no specialised children's play areas at the airport. In case first aid is required, please contact any airport staff member.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, many hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity, just a few minutes' drive away. Specialised conference rooms or business centres for meetings are absent at Dothan Airport.

The Dothan Airport (DHN) is a compact regional airport, so all dining options are concentrated in one convenient location. Passengers will not have to search long for a place to have a snack before departure or spend time waiting for a flight.

The main catering establishment at the airport is The Hangar Restaurant & Bar. It is located in the main terminal building, before the security checkpoint (landside), making it accessible for departing passengers as well as for those seeing them off or meeting them. The establishment's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: it opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the last one departs.

The menu features classic American dishes ideally suited for travellers. For a full meal, you can order burgers, sandwiches, salads, and hot appetisers, sometimes with an accent on the Southern cuisine of the USA. For a quick snack, pastries, crisps, coffee, tea, and soft drinks are available. The price range is average for airports: slightly higher than in city cafés, but quite acceptable.

Given that this is the only establishment, choices for passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, halal dishes) may be very limited. Typically, basic vegetarian options can be found, for example, a salad or a meat-free sandwich. If you have specific dietary requirements, it is recommended to bring food with you or check the availability of suitable dishes in advance by calling the airport.

To ensure your journey through Dothan Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these useful tips. They will help save time, reduce stress, and potentially save money, making the start of your trip comfortable and predictable.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Dothan Airport is relatively small, so completing all procedures here usually takes less time than in major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This will give you enough time for check-in, luggage drop-off, and passing security control without unnecessary haste.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, check in for your flight online via your airline's website or mobile app. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint. When passing security control, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronic devices from bags, as well as to comply with liquid carriage rules.

Hand Luggage Regulations. Liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml (3.4 oz) are allowed in hand luggage, packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Prohibited items include weapons, explosives, and sharp objects. We recommend checking the full list on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website of the USA in advance.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If the airline allows you to select a seat when booking, consider your preferences. Window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, aisle seats provide more freedom of movement, and seats in the front of the cabin allow you to leave the plane faster upon arrival.

Connecting Passengers. If you are flying from Dothan with a connection at another airport, ensure when booking that you have enough time between flights — preferably at least 1.5-2 hours. Check with the airline whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next flight or if you will need to collect and re-check it.

Customs Control. Since Dothan Airport primarily serves domestic flights, you will likely not have to pass through customs or passport control here. These procedures are relevant only for international flights.

Saving Time and Money. Booking tickets and airport parking in advance often helps to save money. To avoid extra spending in the terminal, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control, along with light snacks.

In Case of Flight Delay. First, contact your airline representative for the latest information. Download the carrier's mobile app — updates appear there fastest. Ensure your electronic devices are charged and find out about your rights regarding compensation, provision of meals, or hotel accommodation depending on the duration of the delay.