Richmond International Airport

Welcome to Richmond International Airport (RIC) — the gateway to Virginia's Capital Region, harmoniously combining modern infrastructure with the convenience of a compact aviation hub. Opened back in 1927 as Richard Evelyn Byrd Flying Field, with a dedication ceremony attended by Charles Lindbergh himself, today the airport has transformed into one of the most technologically advanced in the eastern USA. This airport is renowned for its efficiency and short wait times, making the start of your journey as comfortable as possible. As the third busiest airport in the state, it serves millions of passengers annually, heading towards the historic and cultural treasures of Virginia.

Richmond International Airport offers travelers not only a convenient schedule but also a high level of service. Following a recent renovation costing 300 million dollars, the terminal has been transformed into an elegant and modern space with additional boarding gates and check-in counters. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, a business center, a tourist information center, as well as over 15 shops and restaurants. The airport is also a significant cargo hub and holds Foreign Trade Zone status, handling substantial cargo volumes, including temperature-sensitive and high-security shipments. Additionally, it is a joint-use airport, hosting a unit of the Virginia Army National Guard.

To ensure your journey through Richmond International Airport (RIC) is as comfortable as possible, we have prepared a list of key contacts. This information will help you promptly resolve any issues — from locating lost luggage to checking flight schedules.

• Official Website: On the portal flyrichmond.com, you will find the latest information on flights, parking, services, and security regulations.
• Helpline: For general inquiries, please call +1 (804) 226-3000.
• Airport Address: 1 Richard E Byrd Terminal Dr, Highland Springs, VA 23250, USA.
• Email: To contact the administration, it is recommended to use the special contact form available on the official website, as a direct email for general inquiries is not published.
• Social Media: Follow the airport's official pages to stay updated on the latest news and operational changes:
  • Facebook: facebook.com/flyrichmond
  • X (Twitter): twitter.com/flyrichmond
  • Instagram: instagram.com/flyrichmond
• Lost and Found: If you have lost personal items in the public areas of the terminal, please contact the Lost and Found office at +1 (804) 226-8585. For lost luggage or items left on board the aircraft, please contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support: Staff at the information desks within the terminal are always ready to help you find your way. You can also use the general helpline for assistance.

Getting to Richmond International Airport (RIC), located in Highland Springs, is possible via several convenient methods. The choice depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and available time. The airport serves Richmond, the capital of Virginia, and has good transport links to the city center and surrounding areas.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The bus company GRTC (Greater Richmond Transit Company) offers Route No. 7, which directly connects downtown Richmond with the airport terminal. The bus ride usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is an excellent choice for those traveling light; however, it is advisable to check the current schedule in advance, especially if you have an early morning or late evening flight. There is no direct metro or train connection to the airport.

Taxis and Ride-hailing Services (such as Uber or Lyft) offer a faster and more comfortable way to reach the airport. A trip from downtown Richmond will take approximately 15-20 minutes excluding traffic jams. This option is ideal for those traveling with a lot of luggage, with family, or simply valuing their time. The cost will be higher than the bus, but the comfort and speed often justify the expense.

If you are traveling by rental or private car, getting to the airport is straightforward. It is conveniently located near major highways I-64 and I-295, and numerous road signs will help you easily navigate to the terminal. This ensures maximum flexibility in planning your route across the USA.

For those arriving in their own vehicle, Richmond Airport offers several parking options. You can use hourly or daily parking lots located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal, or choose more budget-friendly long-term lots. Free shuttles run from the remote parking zones to the terminal. It is recommended to allow extra time for parking and transfer to the terminal building.

Richmond International Airport (RIC) is distinguished by a well-thought-out and passenger-friendly structure. It consists of one terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to use shuttles or trains to move between different buildings. All passenger infrastructure — from check-in to boarding gates — is located under one roof.

The terminal has two levels, which is a classic and efficient layout. The Upper Level is designed for departing passengers: here you will find airline check-in counters and the central security checkpoint. After passing through security, passengers enter a common area with shops and restaurants, from where two passenger concourses diverge — Concourse A and Concourse B. The Lower Level is entirely dedicated to the arrivals area, housing baggage claim belts and exits to ground transportation, including taxis, shuttles, and car rental desks.

Movement inside the terminal is intuitive. Concourses A and B are two wings extending from the central atrium after the security zone. The direction to the required concourse and boarding gate is indicated on your boarding pass. Distances here are short, so moving from one gate to another, even in different concourses, does not take much time. The allocation of airlines to concourses may change, so always check current information before your flight.

Although Richmond Airport is not among the giant hubs, it is recommended to arrive for check-in and security screening well in advance. For domestic flights, allow at least 90 minutes before departure, and during peak hours (early morning, holidays) — about 2 hours. Security procedures here generally move faster than at major airports, but it is better to have a buffer of time to complete all formalities without rushing and find your boarding gate.

The history of Richmond International Airport (RIC) began in 1927 when it was inaugurated as Richard Evelyn Byrd Flying Field. This event was marked by a visit from the famous aviator Charles Lindbergh, who flew here in his legendary aircraft "Spirit of St. Louis" just a few months after his historic transatlantic flight. The airport was named in honor of Admiral Byrd, a renowned polar explorer, aviation pioneer, and native of Virginia.

With the outbreak of World War II, the airfield was transferred to the control of the US Army Air Corps and transformed into an important military facility — Richmond Army Air Base. Pilot and technical personnel training took place here, making a significant contribution to the country's war efforts. After the war ended, in 1947, the facility was returned to the city of Richmond and resumed operations as a civil airport, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its development.

In the 1950s, with the advent of the jet age, the airport began to expand actively. A new terminal building was constructed, and runways were lengthened to accommodate larger and faster aircraft. An important milestone in history was the renaming: in 1984, to reflect the growing number of international flights and its status, the airport received its modern name — Richmond International Airport.

The most massive reconstruction and modernization took place at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. In 2007, a major expansion project was completed, resulting in a modern two-level terminal with two concourses (A and B). This modernization not only significantly increased capacity but also raised the level of comfort for passengers, turning the airport into a modern and convenient transport hub that continues to develop and serve millions of travelers annually.

Richmond International Airport (RIC) ensures that your stay here is as comfortable and pleasant as possible. In the airport terminals, you will find a wide selection of establishments to suit every taste: from cozy coffee shops where you can quickly grab a cup of coffee, to restaurants offering full meals. Additionally, shops with souvenirs, press, and essential goods are at your service.

For passengers wishing to relax in a quieter environment, comfortable lounges are available. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous power outlets and charging stations for gadgets will allow you to stay connected and not worry about low battery levels.

Richmond Airport provides all necessary services. Financial matters can be resolved using ATMs and currency exchange points. Baby care rooms are equipped for travelers with children. The airport is fully adapted to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring a barrier-free environment. If necessary, you can visit the first aid station.

If you need to stay overnight or rest between flights, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travelers who need to work or hold a meeting, specially equipped business centers or conference rooms may be available.

At Richmond International Airport (RIC), passengers have access to a good selection of establishments for every taste and budget, from a quick snack to a full meal. Most restaurants and cafes are located after passing through security (airside), but there are options in the public area as well.

In the main terminal area, before security, you will find several spots where you can drink coffee and grab light snacks. This is convenient if you are seeing someone off or arrived at the airport well before departure. However, the main gastronomic choice awaits you in the departure zones.

After passing through security control, dining options are distributed across two concourses — A and B.

• In Concourse A, you can find both fast-food chains, ideal for those in a hurry, and cafes with a more relaxed atmosphere. Here you can refresh yourself with sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
• In Concourse B, there are also several restaurants and dining venues. Here you will find famous American chains offering burgers and pizza, as well as establishments with table service where you can sit comfortably while waiting for your flight.

If you want to try something with local flair, look for grills and dining venues where the menu might feature dishes inspired by Virginia cuisine. regarding prices, they vary from budget options at fast-food points to moderate prices in full-service restaurants. Most establishments open early in the morning for the first flights and operate until the departure of the last evening planes.

For travelers with special dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free diets, many cafes feature salads, fruits, and other suitable options on their menus. However, it is recommended to clarify the ingredients with the staff in advance. Finding certified Halal or Kosher meals may be difficult, so it is best to prepare in advance.

To make your journey through Richmond International Airport as smooth as possible, take advantage of our tips. Planning is key to a calm start and end to your trip to the city of Highland Springs.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive 3 hours early. This will give you enough time to check luggage, pass through security, and board the flight calmly. To save time, complete online check-in in advance and save your boarding pass on your phone.

Passing Security Control: Strict rules apply in American airports. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your carry-on luggage. Liquids (shampoos, gels, creams) can be carried in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent resealable bag with a volume of up to 1 liter. The TSA PreCheck program can significantly speed up the process if you are a member.

Seat Selection and Carry-on: When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views, while an aisle seat gives more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing neighbors. Seats at emergency exits are usually more spacious but impose certain obligations. In your carry-on luggage, besides personal items, it is worth packing chargers, necessary medications, and a change of clothes in case of luggage delay.

For Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight in Richmond, study the airport map in advance to know how to quickly get from one gate to another. Ensure you have enough time for the transfer, especially if you need to go through security again.

Customs Control and Saving Money: Arriving from abroad, you will have to pass through customs and passport control. Keep your passport and visa ready, and be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your trip. To save money, book parking online in advance or use public transport. You can also bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing through security.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first keep track of updates via the airline's mobile app or on information screens. For long delays, airlines often provide meal vouchers. Do not hesitate to contact airline representatives to learn about your rights and possible compensation options.