Fort Meade/Odenton (Tipton)

Tipton Airport (FME) is not merely a transport hub, but a true gem for private aviation enthusiasts, strategically located between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Formerly a military airfield, today it has transformed into a cosy haven for business jets and light aircraft, offering exceptional comfort far from the bustle of major international hubs. An atmosphere of tranquillity reigns here: the runway borders picturesque nature reserves, and the absence of commercial traffic allows pilots and passengers to enjoy every moment of their journey.

• Strategic Location: Tipton boasts a unique location in immediate proximity to the Fort Meade base and the National Security Agency (NSA) headquarters. This makes it an ideal choice for business visits and government flights, ensuring rapid access to the Capital Region.
• Historical Heritage: Until 1995, the airfield belonged to the US Army and was named after Colonel William Tipton. Today, this civilian facility retains its historical charm, harmoniously combining it with modern amenities for general aviation.
• No Queues: Unlike the neighbouring giant BWI, there are no commercial airlines at Tipton. This guarantees instant service, no crowds of passengers, and the fastest possible access to your aircraft.
• Nature Surroundings: The airport borders the Patuxent Research Refuge. Scenic views of forests and lakes during take-off and landing create a sense of unity with nature that is rare for such a densely populated region.

To plan flights and resolve administrative issues, you can use the following contact details for Tipton Airport (FME):

• Official Website: www.tiptonairport.org
• Administration Phone (General Enquiries): +1 410-222-6815
• Airport Address: 7515 General Aviation Drive, Odenton, MD 21113, USA
• Email: For official enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport website or the direct contacts of the manager (Michael Wassel) listed in the contacts section.
• Social Media: Current news and notices for pilots are often published on the airport's official Facebook page.
• Lost Property Information: Since the airport exclusively serves private and business aviation (General Aviation), there is no classic Lost & Found service like in large terminals. In case of lost items on the airfield premises, please contact the Tipton Airport Authority office directly via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support: Support is provided by airport administration staff during working hours (usually from 08:30 to 18:00 on weekdays and from 09:00 to 18:00 on weekends).

Since Tipton Airport (FME) is oriented towards small and private aviation, the transport infrastructure here differs from the standard layout of large terminals. Express shuttles do not run here; however, reaching the airfield is quite simple due to its favourable location near Maryland's major transport arteries. The primary mode of transport here is by car or taxi.

Below are the main options for getting to the airport and moving around the Fort Meade and Odenton region.

Car and Taxi

The most convenient and common way to reach Tipton. The airport is located near Route MD-32, which connects to Interstate I-95 and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295).

• Taxi and Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft services are very active in this area. A trip from the residential areas of Odenton or the railway station will take just 5–10 minutes. The cost of a short trip within the district is usually 10–15 USD.
• From Odenton Centre: Travel time is about 5–7 minutes by car.
• From Annapolis: Approximately 20–25 minutes drive.
• From Washington D.C. or Baltimore: Depending on traffic, the journey will take from 30 to 45 minutes.

Public Transport

There is no direct bus route that enters the airfield territory directly to the hangars, but a combined route using the train is an excellent alternative for those travelling from the capital or Baltimore.

• Train (MARC Train): The nearest railway station is Odenton Station (Penn Line). It is located just 3 km from the airport. MARC trains run regularly between Washington (Union Station) and Baltimore. Upon arrival at Odenton Station, it is best to call a taxi, as walking is inconvenient due to the lack of pavements on some sections of the road.
• Bus: Local RTA (Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland) buses serve the Odenton and Fort Meade area (e.g., route 201), but stops may be located at a significant distance from the airport entrance. This option is recommended only for experienced travellers who know the area well.

Car Rental

As Tipton is a General Aviation airport, there are no standard rental counters in the terminal. However, if you are arriving here by private jet, a car can be ordered in advance.

• Rental companies (such as Enterprise or Hertz) located in Odenton or Hanover can often deliver a vehicle directly to the aircraft by prior arrangement with the airport administration or FBO.
• It is recommended to book a car at least 24 hours prior to arrival.

Parking

One of the main advantages of a small airport is accessible parking. Parking spaces for pilots and visitors are provided near the administrative building and hangars. Typically, parking here is free or costs a nominal fee, and you will not have to waste time searching for a spot as you would in major hubs.

Nearest International Airports

If you are planning to travel by scheduled commercial flights, you should use one of the major hubs nearby, and then reach Odenton by rented car or train.

• BWI: The nearest and most convenient option for tourists is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. It is located just 13 km from Tipton. A car journey will take about 15 minutes.
• DCA: For those who wish to be closer to the capital's centre immediately, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (35 km) is suitable. Please note that traffic around Washington can significantly increase travel time.
• IAD: The region's largest hub for long-haul flights is Washington Dulles International Airport (about 62 km). Transfer from there to Fort Meade will take about an hour.

Unlike large international hubs with multiple buildings and complex transfer systems, the structure of Tipton Airport (FME) is distinguished by extreme conciseness and convenience. It is a General Aviation facility designed to minimize passenger time on the ground.

Terminals and Their Function

The airport features one main administrative building, which functions as a terminal for pilots and passengers. There is no division into Terminal A, B, or C as in commercial airports. All service is concentrated in one point.

• Administrative Building (General Aviation Terminal): This is a small single-storey building housing the Tipton Airport Authority office and a lounge area. Here, passengers can await departure in a comfortable environment, and pilots can engage in route planning.
• Purpose: The building serves as a unified centre for registration (if required by the flight operator), meeting the crew, and short rest before boarding.

Layout and Departure/Arrival Zones

Navigation within Tipton is intuitive and does not require terminal maps.

• Departure Zone: Upon arrival at the airport, you pass through the lobby of the administrative building or, depending on the arrangement with the pilot, proceed directly through the security gates to the apron where the aircraft is parked. The path from the car to the aircraft steps takes mere minutes.
• Arrival Zone: Arriving passengers disembark onto the apron and head immediately either to the terminal building or to the transport awaiting them. Luggage is unloaded by the crew and handed to you personally right at the aircraft side.
• Transfers: Since the complex consists of one building and adjacent hangars, the need for shuttles or long walks is completely absent.

Terminal Features and Amenities

Despite its compact size, the terminal offers a basic set of amenities necessary for business aviation:

• A cosy waiting area (lounge) with Wi-Fi.
• A room for flight planning and pilot briefings.
• Vending machines with drinks and snacks (there are no full-service restaurants or Duty-Free shops inside).
• Clean washrooms.
• A conference room (available upon prior request to the administration).

Check-in and Screening Procedures

The main advantage of Tipton is the absence of exhausting queues and strict regulations typical of commercial airlines.

• Processing Time: It is recommended to arrive at the airport just 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This is sufficient to meet the pilot and load luggage.
• Check-in: There are no classic check-in counters with boarding pass issuance here. Document verification is carried out by the aircraft captain or a representative of the charter company.
• Security: Tipton does not have TSA checkpoints with metal detector frames and scanners. Security is ensured by access control to the airfield. However, pilots have the right to check your documents and luggage before boarding.

Navigation Recommendations

To ensure your arrival at the airport goes as smoothly as possible, follow these simple tips:

When entering the territory, look for the "Tipton Airport Authority" signs. Visitor parking is located directly in front of the administrative building. If you are being met by a transfer, the driver is permitted to pull up as close as possible to the terminal entrance. For vehicle access directly to the aircraft (airside access), prior permission from the administration and an escort are required, so it is better to coordinate this issue in advance with your air carrier.

The history of Fort Meade/Odenton Station Airport, better known as Tipton Airport, is a fascinating journey of transforming a restricted military facility into a welcoming civilian harbour. Over several decades, this airfield has gone from a US Army training ground to a key hub for business aviation in Maryland.

Military Origins and Foundation

The airfield was founded in 1960 as part of the Fort Meade military base infrastructure. Initially, it was called Tipton Army Airfield and was intended to support army operations. For 35 years, helicopters and light aircraft were based here, performing transport and training tasks for military needs.

The airfield was named in honour of an outstanding figure — Colonel William "Bill" Tipton. He was a World War I hero and aviator whose biography inspired generations of pilots. Tipton was famous for his incredible resilience: even after losing a leg in battle, he did not give up the sky and continued his career in aviation, later playing a key role in the development of civilian flights in Maryland.

Transition to Civilian Life

A turning point in the airport's history was 1995, when, as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) programme, a decision was made to transfer the airfield to civilian authorities. This event opened a new chapter in the facility's life.

The transfer and conversion process took several years. The official opening of Tipton Airport as a civilian facility took place on 1 November 1999. From that moment, it became accessible to private pilots, business jets, and aviation enthusiasts, quickly gaining popularity due to the absence of the heavy traffic typical of major hubs.

Modernisation and Development

Having become civilian, the airport began to develop actively. The main task of the new administration (Tipton Airport Authority) was to bring the infrastructure in line with modern safety and comfort standards.

• Runway Reconstruction: One of the most significant milestones was the large-scale reconstruction of the runway. Initially, the strip was only 3,000 feet (about 914 metres) long, which limited the reception of many types of modern business jets.
• Expanding Capabilities: In the mid-2010s, a project was launched to extend the runway to 4,200 feet (1,280 metres). The completion of this project allowed Tipton to accept larger and faster private aircraft, significantly raising its status in the region.
• Infrastructure: New modern hangars were built, lighting equipment was updated, and the passenger service area was improved.

Interesting Historical Facts

Tipton's history holds many curious details that make it a unique place on the US map:

• Neighbours with Secrets: Throughout its history, the airfield has been (and remains) literally "across the fence" from the headquarters of the National Security Agency (NSA). During the Cold War, this gave the place a special status and an atmosphere of mystery.
• World War II Legacy: Although the airfield itself was built later, the land on which it stands was used by the military during the World Wars as a training ground, and artifacts from those times were found during construction.
• Ecological Balance: When transferring the airport to civilian authorities, a condition was set to preserve the unique ecosystem of the region. Tipton is one of the few airports that developed in close cooperation with ecologists so as not to disturb the peace of the inhabitants of the neighbouring Patuxent Refuge.

The infrastructure of Tipton Airport (FME) differs significantly from what passengers of large commercial aviation hubs are accustomed to. There are no multi-storey terminals, Duty-Free shops, or food courts here. All services are concentrated in the single administrative building and are organised to ensure maximum speed of service and comfort for pilots and passengers of private flights.

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops

Since the airport does not serve scheduled passenger flights, there are no full-service cafés or restaurants on its premises. Catering service is organised taking into account the specifics of general aviation:

• Food: Vending machines with soft drinks, coffee, snacks, and light bites are installed in the waiting area. This is sufficient for a quick snack during a short wait.
• Catering: For passengers flying on private aircraft, an in-flight catering ordering service is available. The order must be placed in advance through your flight operator or the airport administration. Meals can be delivered from the region's best restaurants directly to the aircraft steps.
• Shops: There is no retail trade on the premises. The nearest supermarkets, pharmacies, and restaurants are located in the city of Odenton, just a 5–7 minute drive away.

Lounges and VIP Services

At Tipton, there is no division into service classes. The entire terminal essentially represents a unified comfortable lounge.

• General Rest Area: The cosy hall of the administrative building is equipped with soft furnishings and televisions. The atmosphere here is quiet and business-like, allowing for relaxation before a flight.
• For Pilots: A separate room for flight planning (Snooze Room/Flight Planning Room) is provided, where the crew can rest and prepare for the flight in silence.

Connectivity and Technology

The airport is fully adapted for business people for whom staying connected is essential:

• Wi-Fi: Free high-speed wireless internet is available throughout the terminal and on the adjacent apron.
• Charging Stations: A sufficient number of sockets for charging laptops and mobile devices are available in the waiting area.

Financial and Medical Services

• Banks and ATMs: There are no ATMs or currency exchange points inside the terminal. It is recommended to carry necessary cash or use banking services at the nearby Odenton Shopping Center.
• Medical: There is no medical centre at the airport. Staff are trained in first aid, and first aid kits are available. In case of emergency, an ambulance is called from the nearest hospital (arrival time is minimal due to proximity to city services).

Services for Passengers with Children

Specialised playrooms or mother-and-child rooms are not provided in the terminal due to its small size. However, the calm environment without crowds and queues makes staying here with children much less stressful than in large airports. The washrooms are maintained in immaculate cleanliness.

Accessibility

Tipton Airport is convenient for passengers with reduced mobility:

• The terminal is single-storey, which eliminates the need for lifts or escalators.
• Entrances are equipped with ramps or are at ground level.
• Washrooms are adapted for wheelchair users.
• Airport staff are always ready to personally assist with boarding and disembarking from a car or aircraft.

Business Services

For conducting business meetings right at the airport, a conference room is provided. It is located in the administrative building and accommodates small groups. The room can be rented upon prior request to the administration (Tipton Airport Authority). This is a convenient solution for meetings if your partners are flying in for just a couple of hours.

Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels on the airport territory itself, but thanks to its favourable location near the Fort Meade military base and the Arundel Mills entertainment complex, the choice of accommodation within a 5–10 km radius is vast. Here are several popular options nearby:

• Courtyard by Marriott Fort Meade at National Business Park — a business-class hotel located just a 5-minute drive away.
• The Hotel at Arundel Preserve — an upscale hotel with restaurants and a spa, approximately 10–12 minutes away.
• Hilton Garden Inn Odenton — a convenient option for a short stopover in immediate proximity to the railway station and the airport.
• Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland — a large hotel and entertainment complex for those who wish to combine their trip with leisure (about 15 minutes away).

The question of dining at Tipton Airport (FME) has its own specifics, dictated by the general aviation format. Here you will not find the food courts, chain coffee shops, or restaurants with runway views inside the terminal that are habitual in large hubs. The airport concept is built on speed: passengers arrive shortly before departure and leave the territory immediately after landing. However, this does not mean travellers will go hungry.

Below is a detailed guide to dining options directly in the administrative building and in its immediate vicinity.

In the single administrative building (General Aviation Terminal), dining possibilities are limited to a "quick snack" format.

• Vending Zones: Modern vending machines are installed in the terminal lobby. Here you can purchase bottled water, fizzy drinks, hot coffee, as well as a standard set of snacks: crisps, chocolate, biscuits, and nuts. This is an ideal option for those who simply need to quench their thirst or satisfy slight hunger while waiting for the pilot.
• Catering (In-flight Meals): For a full lunch on board the aircraft, a meal ordering service via catering companies is available. The crew or passengers can pre-order the delivery of dishes from the region's best restaurants directly to the aircraft steps. This allows you to enjoy fine dining during the flight, catering to any dietary preferences (gluten-free, Halal, vegan menus).
• Location: All machines are located in the waiting area (landside), and access to them is free for all visitors.

Since the airport is located within the city limits of Odenton and near Fort Meade, passengers have access to a wide choice of gastronomic establishments just a few minutes away by taxi or rental car. If you have time before or after your flight, we recommend visiting the following places:

1. Local Cuisine and Atmospheric Venues

• The Hideaway (Odenton): One of the most popular spots in the area, located just a 5-minute drive from the airport. It is an American cuisine restaurant known for its barbecue.
  What to try: Smoked dishes and, of course, the famous Maryland Crab Cakes — the state's gastronomic calling card.
  Average bill: $$ (15–30 USD).
• The Broken Oar Bar & Grill: A cosy grill bar with a casual atmosphere. Excellent for a hearty American-style lunch.

2. Quick Bites (Fast Food)

Along Route MD-175 (Annapolis Road), which runs near the airport, there are many chain establishments for express dining. This is a convenient option if you are in a hurry.

• Options: Starbucks, Dunkin' (doughnuts and coffee), Chick-fil-A, McDonald's.
• Opening Hours: Most of these outlets open early in the morning (from 06:00) and work until late evening, which is convenient for morning departures.

Dietary Requirements and Special Requests

Thanks to the proximity to major government facilities and the international community, food for every taste can be found within a 10–15 minute radius of Tipton:

• Vegetarians and Vegans: In the Arundel Mills shopping centre and the surroundings of Odenton, Pan-Asian cuisine establishments (Thai, Japanese) operate, where it is easy to find tofu and vegetable dishes.
• Halal: In the Hanover area, near the Live! casino, there are several cafés offering Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine (kebabs, falafel) that have Halal certification.
• Gluten-Free: Popular chain restaurants in the area (e.g., Outback Steakhouse or Bertucci’s) usually have a marked menu for guests with gluten intolerance.

• For a quick snack: If there are 20 minutes left before departure, limit yourself to coffee from the machine in the terminal. If you have 40 minutes, drive to Starbucks or Dunkin' on Annapolis Road (5 minutes drive), where there is a convenient drive-thru.
• For a full lunch: If you have arrived at Tipton and are planning a business meeting or lunch, head to The Hideaway (for local flavour) or the restaurants at Live! Casino & Hotel (for premium service and variety); the journey will take about 10–15 minutes.
• Local Speciality: While in Maryland, be sure to try dishes with blue crab. Even in simple cafés, the Cream of Crab soup is often excellent.

Travelling through Tipton Airport (FME) differs radically from the experience of flying through large commercial hubs. Since this is a general aviation facility, many customary rules do not apply here: you do not need to remove your shoes at security or arrive three hours before departure. However, to ensure the flight goes flawlessly, it is worth considering the specifics of private and charter flights.

Here are several useful tips that will make your journey through Fort Meade as comfortable as possible.

• The Golden Rule of Timing: Forget the need to arrive at the airport 2–3 hours in advance. At Tipton, the optimal arrival time is 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure. This time is quite sufficient to meet the pilot, load luggage, and calmly take your seat in the cabin. Arriving too early makes little sense, as there is limited entertainment in the terminal.
• Documents Always at Hand: Despite the absence of queues and metal detector frames, security measures are strictly observed. Always have your identification (passport or ID) with you. The aircraft captain is obliged to check the documents of all passengers before take-off.
• No Boarding Passes: You do not need to look for a check-in counter or a kiosk to print a ticket. Your "pass" on board is your name on the manifest (passenger list) held by the crew.

Luggage rules in private aviation are more flexible but depend on the type of aircraft.

• Liquids Permitted: The famous "100 ml rule" does not apply here. You can freely bring your favourite drinks, cosmetics, and perfumes on board in any volume, provided it is not prohibited by the specific aircraft operator's rules.
• Soft Bags Better than Suitcases: If you are flying on a small turboprop aircraft or light jet, luggage compartments may have non-standard shapes. Experienced travellers recommend using soft travel bags rather than rigid suitcases on wheels — they are easier to fit into the luggage hold.
• Check Dimensions: Always coordinate the number and weight of bags with the broker or pilot in advance. Overloading a small plane is a safety issue, not a surcharge matter, so excess items may simply not be taken on board.
• Dangerous Items: The ban on carrying weapons, explosives, and flammable substances applies here too. If you are transporting hunting weapons, the flight operator must be notified in advance.

• Free Seating: In most cases, seats in private jets are not rigidly assigned to passengers. You can choose any seat you like. However, the pilot may ask you to move to maintain the aircraft's centre of gravity (weight balance) — please comply with this request.
• Best Views: Take-off from Tipton offers stunning views of the Patuxent Refuge forests. If you want to take beautiful photos, choose a window seat.
• Interaction with the Pilot: On small aircraft, the cockpit is often not separated by a door. You can observe the crew's work, but remember the "sterile cockpit" rule: refrain from talking to pilots during take-off, landing, and radio communication.

• Connections with Commercial Flights: Tipton does not have direct connections with scheduled airlines. If you are arriving here on a private jet to transfer to an international flight, allow at least 1.5 hours for the transfer to BWI Airport (Baltimore/Washington) or about 2 hours to Dulles (IAD), taking possible traffic jams into account.
• Saving Time on the Ground: Pre-order a transfer directly to the aircraft side (ramp access). If the driver has the appropriate clearance or escort, they can pick you up right at the steps, and you won't spend a minute walking with suitcases.

• Free Parking: One of Tipton's main advantages is the ability to leave your car for free or for a nominal fee right at the terminal. This is a significant saving compared to parking at BWI or Reagan.
• Tipping: In US business aviation, it is customary (though not mandatory) to tip pilots if they helped with luggage, or the ground handling staff (line crew) who fuelled and prepared the aircraft.

Delays in small aviation are most often related to weather conditions, as small aircraft are more sensitive to wind and storms than large airliners.

• Direct Communication: You have an advantage — direct contact with the pilot. You do not need to wait for PA system announcements; the crew will personally inform you of the situation and forecasts.
• Flexibility: Unlike scheduled flights, a private jet waits for you. If you are late due to traffic, the flight will not leave without you (within reasonable limits and if it does not violate the crew's duty hours). If the delay is due to weather, you can wait for departure in the comfortable terminal lounge or reschedule the departure time in agreement with the operator.