Fort Leonard Wood (Waynesville-St. Robert Regional)

Waynesville-St. Robert Regional Airport, also known as Forney Airfield, is a unique aerial gateway located within the grounds of the Fort Leonard Wood military base. This airport successfully combines two important functions: serving service members of one of the largest USA army training bases and welcoming civilian flights. Despite its compact size, it ensures reliable air connections and serves as a starting point for exploring the picturesque Ozark region, remaining open to all categories of passengers.

A key feature of the airport is its location on an active military base, which, however, does not create inconvenience for civilian travellers. On the contrary, the terminal is designed for maximum comfort: there is free parking available, and check-in and security screening are quick, without fuss or long queues. The sole commercial carrier operating regular flights is Contour Airlines. It connects Fort Leonard Wood with St. Louis Lambert International Airport, giving passengers access to a vast network of onward flights and making the airport an important transport hub for the entire region.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Waynesville–St. Robert Regional Airport (TBN), serving the city of Fort Leonard Wood and its surroundings in the USA. You can contact airport representatives in several ways.

• Official Website: You will always find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations on the official website: www.flyflw.com.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries and information, you can call: +1 (573) 329-4216.
• Airport Address: 5000 Iowa Ave, Fort Leonard Wood, MO 65473, USA.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address for general inquiries. It is recommended to use the telephone or the contact form on the official website if available.
• Social Media: Follow the airport's news and updates on its official social media pages, such as Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you should contact your airline's representative immediately. For items left in the terminal building, please contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to airport operations, use the main telephone number. To resolve issues regarding tickets, schedules, and in-flight service, please contact your airline directly.

Fort Leonard Wood Airport (Waynesville–St. Robert Regional, TBN) is a small regional aviation hub primarily serving the Fort Leonard Wood military base, as well as the nearby cities of Waynesville and St. Robert in the USA. Given its compact size and location, transport options to the terminal have specific characteristics. The trip from the city centre usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes, as the airport is located in close proximity.

Taxis and Shuttles are the most common and convenient way to get to the airport. Several local taxi services operate in the region and can be called by phone. Private transfer services (shuttles) are also available and are recommended to be booked in advance, especially if your flight is early in the morning or late at night. A trip to the city centre will cost approximately $15–$25. Please note that popular ride-sharing apps may have a limited number of cars available in this area.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those who value independence and plan to travel around the region. Several rental companies have counters or offices at the airport or nearby. A rented car ensures maximum flexibility and allows you not to depend on transport schedules. The cost of renting an economy class car usually starts from $45–$80 per day. It is recommended to book a car online in advance to guarantee availability and get the best price.

Unfortunately, public transport, such as regular city buses or trains, does not run directly to Fort Leonard Wood Airport. This is typical for small regional airports in the US, so travellers should not rely on this method to get to their flight. When planning your trip, it is necessary to consider one of the alternative options in advance.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, parking is provided. A significant advantage for travellers is that both short-term and long-term parking on the airport territory are provided absolutely free of charge. This makes travelling by private car particularly convenient and cost-effective if you plan to leave your car for the duration of your absence.

Waynesville–St. Robert Regional Airport (TBN), serving the Fort Leonard Wood military base and nearby cities in the USA, is notable for its compactness and simplicity. It is a small airport with a structure that is intuitive even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal that handles all flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between terminals or long navigation. All key zones are located in one building, in close proximity to each other. The airport layout is extremely simple: after entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and ticket offices are located.

The departure zone and arrival zone are effectively parts of the same space. For departing passengers, after check-in, it is necessary to pass through the security checkpoint, which leads to a small waiting lounge with a boarding gate. The arrival zone includes a baggage claim belt located immediately after exiting the arrival area. There is no need to travel between zones — everything is within a few minutes' walk.

Passing through check-in and security procedures at Fort Leonard Wood Airport usually takes significantly less time than at major airports. On average, you can count on 20–40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5 hours before departure, especially if you are travelling with luggage or during periods of high demand, for example, during holidays or graduation ceremonies at the military base.

The history of Waynesville–St. Robert Regional Airport (TBN), also known as Forney Field, is inextricably linked with the Fort Leonard Wood military base, on whose territory it is located. The airfield was built in the early 1940s, shortly after the founding of the base itself, to support USA military operations during World War II. Originally known as Fort Leonard Wood Army Airfield, it was renamed Forney Army Airfield in 1956 in honour of Colonel Joseph Forney. Since then, it has served as a key transport hub for army needs.

A key feature of the airport is its dual purpose. Along with fulfilling military tasks, it also serves civilian flights as Waynesville–St. Robert Regional Airport. This civilian function has become vital for the surrounding towns and for the families of service members coming to visit their loved ones. Commercial transport here is often supported under the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) programme, which ensures air connectivity with small communities.

A significant stage in the development of the civilian part of the airport was the opening of a new modern passenger terminal in 2011. This project radically changed the travel experience for passengers, replacing the old, much smaller building. The new terminal was designed taking into account modern requirements for comfort and safety, which became an important milestone in the history of the airport's modernization and its adaptation to the needs of the region.

One of the most interesting facts is the very location of the civilian airport on an active military base — a phenomenon not too frequent. Throughout its history, from troop training during major global conflicts to the present day, the airport serves as a unique example of successful cooperation between military and civilian structures. It remains an indispensable link in the transport infrastructure of central Missouri, ensuring the region's connection with the rest of the country.

Fort Leonard Wood Airport (Waynesville–St. Robert Regional), being a compact regional aviation hub, provides passengers with a basic set of amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for departure. It is important to understand that the range of services corresponds to the size and traffic of the airport.

Usually, there is a small café or snack bar in the terminal where you can order drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks. Vending machines may also be installed. The choice of shops is generally limited to a small kiosk with necessities and souvenirs. Specialized VIP lounges are absent, but a general waiting hall is available for all passengers.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is provided within the terminal. In the waiting areas, you can find power outlets or special stations for charging mobile phones and other electronic devices. Financial services are represented by ATMs. There are no currency exchange points at the airport, so it is worth arranging foreign currency in advance.

The airport fully meets accessibility requirements for passengers with reduced mobility, offering ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and staff assistance upon prior request through the airline. For families with small children, baby changing tables may be provided in the restrooms. Medical assistance is limited to the provision of first aid.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, however, a wide selection of accommodation options is available in the nearby towns of Waynesville and St. Robert, located a few minutes' drive away. Specialized business centres and conference rooms are not provided at the airport.

When planning a flight through Fort Leonard Wood Regional Airport (TBN), it is important to consider that this is a small and compact aviation hub. Dining options here are focused on convenience and speed, rather than the gastronomic variety typical of large international hubs. The airport does not have a multitude of restaurants or bars; all infrastructure is concentrated in one terminal.

The main and, as a rule, the only place where you can have a snack is a small café or snack bar located in the departure zone after passing security control (airside). Here, passengers can purchase everything necessary for a quick snack before boarding the flight. The assortment usually includes:

• Ready-made sandwiches, wraps, and salads.
• Various snacks: chips, crackers, nuts, and sweets.
• Pastries, such as muffins or croissants.
• Hot drinks (coffee, tea) and cold drinks (water, juices, soda).

Options for a full hot meal at the airport are typically unavailable. It is also worth noting that finding specialized meals, such as vegan, gluten-free, or Halal, will be extremely difficult. The choice for vegetarians may be limited to a packaged salad or pastries. Local Missouri dishes are not represented on the menu. Prices are moderate but, like in most airports in the USA, slightly higher than in city establishments.

The café's operating hours are directly linked to the flight schedule: it opens shortly before the first morning departure and closes after the last evening plane departs. If you have specific dietary requirements or wish to have a substantial dinner, it is strongly recommended to do so in one of the nearby towns, such as Waynesville or St. Robert, before travelling to Fort Leonard Wood airport.

Travelling through Fort Leonard Wood Airport (Waynesville–St. Robert Regional) can be easy and comfortable if you prepare in advance. These tips will help you navigate the airport of Fort Leonard Wood city and make your trip as pleasant as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Despite being a regional airport, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This will give you enough time for parking, checking luggage, and passing security control without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your smartphone.

Passing Security Control. Security procedures at USA airports are standard. Be ready to present your ID and boarding pass. All electronics larger than a mobile phone (laptops, tablets) must be placed in a separate bin. Remember the rule for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent resealable bag with a volume of up to 1 litre.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If the airline allows you to select a seat, consider your preferences. A window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat allows you to stand up and stretch your legs freely. Seats in the front of the cabin are convenient for a quick exit upon arrival, and rows by the emergency exit usually have more legroom, but specific restrictions apply to them.

Hand Luggage. Besides liquids, it is forbidden to take sharp objects (knives, scissors with long blades), flammable substances, and weapons in hand luggage. It is recommended to take a portable charger, a light snack, and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing security control.

Passengers with Connections. Fort Leonard Wood Airport primarily serves regional flights, so many passengers will have a connection at a larger hub. Study the map of the transfer airport in advance, check the time needed to move between terminals, and find out if you will need to collect and re-check your luggage or pass security control again.

Customs Control. Customs and passport control are only undergone by passengers arriving on international flights. Since Waynesville–St. Robert Regional Airport is oriented towards domestic transport, you will not have to worry about these procedures when flying to another US city.

What to do in case of flight delay? In case of a flight delay, follow updates on information screens and in your airline's app. Contact the carrier's representative to find out about your rights to food or accommodation (in case of a long delay). Use the free time for rest, reading, or work. In a small airport, the choice of entertainment may be limited, so movies or books downloaded in advance will be very useful.