Senator Clark Airport

Senator Clark Airport is not merely an air gateway to Gallup, but a starting point for immersing yourself in the unique culture of the Southwestern United States. Located in the very heart of the "Native American Capital of the World," it welcomes travellers eager to explore the rich heritage of America's indigenous peoples. This small yet strategically important airport serves as a bridge between modernity and ancient traditions, opening the way to the incredible landscapes and historical sites of New Mexico.

The main advantage of Senator Clark Airport is its strategic location. It is situated just a few minutes' drive from the famous Route 66, making it a convenient starting point for a road trip along this legendary route. For those arriving by private or charter flight, the airport offers basic services, including refuelling and aircraft maintenance.

The airport plays a key role in the life of the local community. It serves as an important transport hub during the annual Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial, attracting guests from all over the world. Additionally, it is used by medical aviation services, ensuring rapid transport in emergency cases. Although the airport does not serve large commercial airlines, its compact size and lack of queues make it the ideal choice for private and business aviation, providing quick and comfortable access to one of America's most colourful regions.

Below you will find the main contact information for Senator Clark Airport (GUP), also known as Gallup Municipal Airport.

• Official Website: The official portal of the city of Gallup has a section dedicated to the airport: gallupnm.gov/153/Airport.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +1 (505) 722-4896.
• Airport Address: 1800 South State Road 602, Gallup, NM 87301, USA.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain active official pages on popular social networks. It is best to check the official website for up-to-date information.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you must contact the airline you used directly. For items left in the terminal, please contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information, consultations, and passenger assistance, please call the main airport telephone number.

Senator Clark Airport (GUP) is located just a few kilometres east of the city centre of Gallup, making the journey there quick and convenient. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several ways to reach the terminal. The trip from the city centre usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes.

Taxis and Transfers are the most popular and reliable way to get to the airport. Several taxi services operate in the city; a car can be called by phone or via an app. This is especially convenient if you have a lot of luggage. The cost of the trip will be reasonable due to the short distance. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which will meet you at your hotel at the appointed time.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to explore the picturesque surroundings of Gallup and the famous Route 66. Offices of several major rental companies are represented in the city. You can return your rented car directly at the airport before departure. This provides maximum freedom of movement and allows you not to depend on transport schedules. The airport has parking facilities where you can leave a personal or rented car.

As for public transport, options for travelling to the airport are limited. Although Gallup has a city bus system, direct and regular routes to the airport may not be available. This option is suitable only for the most budget-conscious travellers prepared for possible transfers and waiting times. It is recommended to check in advance the current schedule and routes on the official website of the city's transport company.

Senator Clark Airport has parking located in immediate proximity to the terminal. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available here at reasonable prices, making travelling by your own or rented car even more convenient.

Senator Clark Airport (GUP) in the city of Gallup, USA, is a small and convenient regional airport that handles all flights within a single terminal. Its compact structure makes it extremely easy to navigate, even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport layout is extremely simple. The terminal is a single-story building where all zones necessary for the passenger are gathered. Immediately upon entry, you find yourself in the general hall with airline check-in counters. Further on is the security checkpoint, followed by a small waiting lounge with a boarding gate. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals.

The departure and arrival zones are effectively in the same space. Departing passengers undergo check-in and screening, after which they await their flight. Arriving passengers disembark and immediately enter the baggage claim area located in the main hall of the terminal. Everything is within walking distance, which eliminates confusion and long walks.

One of the key features of the airport is the rapid completion of all formalities. Check-in and screening procedures usually take no more than 20-30 minutes thanks to the low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport approximately one hour before departure to calmly check in luggage and pass through security.

The main advice for navigation at Gallup Airport is not to worry. Its size allows you to get your bearings in a couple of minutes. All signs are clearly visible, and staff are always ready to help. This is a perfect example of an airport where everything is simple, fast, and hassle-free.

The history of Senator Clark Airport (GUP) dates back to the years of World War II. It was founded in 1942 as Gallup Army Air Field and played an important role as a transit point for the Air Transport Command. Aircraft being ferried across the country were refuelled and serviced here.

After the end of the war, in 1948, the facility was transferred to the city of Gallup and converted into a civilian municipal airport. It received its name in honour of William A. Clark, an influential senator and industrialist who made a significant contribution to the development of the mining industry in this region of the USA.

In the mid-20th century, the airport experienced its heyday. Starting from the 1950s, Frontier Airlines operated scheduled passenger flights from here, connecting Gallup with major cities such as Albuquerque and Phoenix. For many residents, this was the main way to travel quickly around the country. However, like many small regional airports, by the end of the century, it faced a decline in passenger traffic, and scheduled commercial service was suspended.

Today, Senator Clark Airport continues to play an important role in the region's life. It primarily serves private and business aviation, charter and tourist flights, and is also used for medical evacuation and firefighting. Modernisation works on the runway and navigation equipment are periodically carried out to maintain modern safety standards. Although the airport cannot boast passenger traffic records, its history is a vivid example of evolution from a military facility to a key element of civilian infrastructure.

Senator Clark Airport (GUP) is a compact regional airport providing passengers with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is important to understand that the infrastructure here is oriented towards serving a small flow of travellers, so the range of amenities corresponds to the size of the terminal.

Dining and Shopping. The choice of dining establishments and shops at the airport is limited. Typically, vending machines with drinks and light snacks are available in the terminal. If you wish to have a full meal, it is better to do so at one of the cafes or restaurants in the city of Gallup before arriving at the airport.

Internet and Charging Devices. For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi operates in the terminal building, allowing you to stay connected. Also, in the waiting lounge, you can find power outlets for charging mobile phones, laptops, and other electronic gadgets.

Passenger Amenities. The airport fully meets accessibility requirements for passengers with reduced mobility. If you require special assistance or a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance to organise support. There are no specialised VIP lounges, nursing rooms, or play areas in the airport.

Financial and Other Services. There are no bank branches, currency exchange points, business centres, or conference rooms at Senator Clark Airport. It is recommended to complete all financial transactions in the city beforehand. There is also no permanently operating medical post in the terminal.

Hotels. There are no hotels on the airport territory. However, in immediate proximity, in the city of Gallup, located a few minutes' drive away, there is a large selection of hotels and motels to suit any taste and budget.

When planning a trip through Senator Clark Airport (GUP), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and dining options directly within the terminal building are extremely limited. Here you will not find the restaurants, cafes, or dining lounges typical of major aviation hubs.

Passengers are strongly advised to plan their meals in advance. The best solution would be to eat before arriving at the airport or to bring your own snacks and beverages. Vending machines with a basic set of snacks (crisps, chocolate) and soft drinks may be installed in the terminal, but one should not rely on them as a substantial source of nutrition.

If you have time before your flight, various dining options can be found in the city of Gallup itself, which is a few minutes' drive from the airport. There you will find both fast-food chains for a quick bite and restaurants where you can dine at leisure and try local cuisine, including authentic culinary traditions of the Southwestern USA. Please check locally for options that meet any specific dietary requirements.

To ensure your journey through Senator Clark Airport, which serves private and charter aviation in the city of Gallup, is as comfortable as possible, use our tips. Flights on private jets have their own specifics, and knowing a few nuances will make your experience flawless.

Coordination and Arrival Time. Unlike commercial flights, there is no need to arrive several hours early. The key to success is direct communication with your charter operator or pilot. They will inform you of the exact recommended arrival time. Usually, it is sufficient to be at the airport 20-30 minutes before departure to meet the crew without rushing and settle on board.

Airport Procedures. Forget about long queues and the bustle of large terminals. At Senator Clark Airport, private aviation passenger service goes through the FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) — a business aviation terminal where fast and personalised service awaits you. Security screening is mandatory, as everywhere in the USA, but it proceeds significantly faster and in a more private setting. Rules for luggage and hand luggage may be more flexible, however, always verify the permissible weight and dimensions with the operator — this is critically important for small aircraft.

Comfort on Board. The beauty of a private flight lies in its personalisation. You do not need to worry about seat selection — the entire cabin is at your disposal. If you have special requests regarding catering, beverages, or other amenities on board, be sure to discuss them with your charter broker in advance. This will allow the flight to be organised in exact accordance with your preferences.

Transfers and Customs Control. Senator Clark Airport mainly serves domestic flights. If you are arriving from another country, you will undergo all customs and immigration formalities at the first airport of arrival into US territory. When planning a route with transfers to another private flight, all coordination falls on the shoulders of the crew and operator, ensuring you the smoothest possible transition from one aircraft to another.

In Case of Flight Delay. Although delays happen less frequently in private aviation, they are possible (for example, due to weather conditions). Your main source of information will be the pilot or an operator representative. Instead of waiting in a general hall, you will be able to spend time comfortably in the FBO lounge. Keep your operator's contacts at hand and stay in touch — they will do everything possible to minimise inconvenience.