Hinesville/Ft Stewart (MidCoast Regional)

Hinesville/Fort Stewart Airport, also known as MidCoast Regional Airport, represents a unique combination of civil aviation and military strength. Located on the grounds of the largest military base east of the Mississippi — Fort Stewart — this airport serves as an important gateway for military personnel and their families, as well as private pilots and business travellers. Its name, "MidCoast", reflects its strategic position on the Georgia coast between the airports of Savannah and Brunswick. Since its conversion to a joint-use facility in 2007, the airport has become a symbol of successful cooperation between the USA Army and local authorities.

A key feature of the airport is its dual purpose: it functions both on the base of the active military airfield Wright Army Airfield and as a modern civil terminal. For travellers, this means access to high-class infrastructure, including a comfortable FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) with pilot lounges, flight planning rooms, and conference halls. The airport is renowned for its Southern hospitality and efficient service, making it a popular stopover for private pilots. Its immediate proximity to Fort Stewart makes it indispensable for military needs, ensuring fast and convenient logistics.

To contact representatives of Hinesville/Fort Stewart Airport (MidCoast Regional), please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.flymidcoast.com
• Helpline Phone: +1 912-877-4359
• Airport Address: 1116 E Oglethorpe Hwy, Hinesville, GA 31313, USA
• Email: To contact the administration, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: The airport has an official page on Facebook, where you can follow updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline you travelled with directly. If you left personal items in the terminal building, contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and assistance, please contact the main airport phone number or your airline staff at the check-in counters.

Getting to Hinesville/Fort Stewart Airport (MidCoast Regional) from the city centre of Hinesville in the USA is simple, thanks to its close location. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the main districts of the city, so the trip will not take much time. Here are the main ways to reach the terminal.

Taxis and Ridesharing Services

The most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport is by taxi or by booking a car through apps like Uber and Lyft. The trip from downtown Hinesville will take approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. The cost of such a trip is usually around $15–25. This is an excellent option if you are travelling with luggage or value comfort.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to explore the surroundings, renting a car is the best solution. You can rent a car in the city and return it at the airport before departure, or vice versa. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, parking is provided. Typically, there are both short-term and long-term parking spaces available on the premises, located in immediate proximity to the terminal.

Public Transport

Options for getting to MidCoast Regional Airport by public transport may be limited. Direct bus routes to the terminal are not always available. It is recommended to check the schedule and routes of the local transport service, Liberty Transit, in advance; however, be prepared that you may need to transfer or use a taxi additionally.

Alternative Airports

If flights to Hinesville do not suit you, consider flying into larger neighbouring airports. The nearest one is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), located approximately 43 km away. You can also consider Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (Glynco Jetport) (BQK) in Brunswick. From these airports, it is most convenient to get to Hinesville by rental car or pre-booked transfer.

Hinesville/Fort Stewart Airport (MidCoast Regional Airport, LIY) is a small and convenient aviation hub serving the Hinesville region in the USA. Its key feature is one passenger terminal, which makes navigating it extremely simple and intuitive. You won't have to worry about long walks or finding the right gate — everything here is under one roof and within walking distance.

The terminal layout is very logical. Airline check-in counters are located immediately at the entrance. After checking in, you proceed to the single security checkpoint, beyond which lies a cosy departure lounge. The arrivals area will also cause no difficulties: after exiting the aircraft, passengers enter a small baggage claim hall located next to the main airport exit. Car rental counters can also be found here.

Thanks to the airport's compact size, all pre-flight formalities here are fast and simple. Long queues for check-in or security are a rarity. Generally, arriving at the airport 60-90 minutes before your flight departure is sufficient to check your luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing. This makes travelling through LIY particularly comfortable and eliminates unnecessary stress.

The main advice for navigating Hinesville/Fort Stewart Airport is not to worry. It is practically impossible to get lost here. All important zones — from check-in to the boarding gate — are located on one floor and are well-marked. This airport is ideal for those who value peace and prefer to avoid the hustle of major aviation hubs.

The history of MidCoast Regional Airport (LIY), serving the city of Hinesville and its surroundings in the USA, is closely tied to the region's military history. It was founded during World War II as Hinesville Army Airfield. Its primary task was to support the training and operational needs of the nearby Fort Stewart military base, which was actively expanding in those years to train troops.

After the war ended, the airfield was transferred to civil jurisdiction and began to be managed jointly by the City of Hinesville and Liberty County. For many decades, it functioned as a general aviation airport, serving private jets, business flights, and providing a venue for flight schools. Its strategic location near one of the largest military bases in the eastern US has always defined its significance.

A significant modernization phase began in the 2000s when efforts were made to attract commercial air travel. In 2007, a new modern passenger terminal was opened, which was a key step in the airport's development. It was during this period that it received its current name — MidCoast Regional Airport at Wright Army Airfield, highlighting its dual purpose: civil and military.

For several years, the airport hosted scheduled passenger flights, mainly under the Essential Air Service program, connecting Hinesville with major hubs such as Atlanta. Although commercial flights were eventually discontinued, the airport continues to play an important role. Today, it serves private and corporate aviation and remains a critical facility for supporting Fort Stewart operations, ensuring the rapid transfer of personnel and cargo.

Hinesville/Fort Stewart Airport (MidCoast Regional Airport) is a small regional air terminal offering passengers a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is important to understand that the airport's infrastructure corresponds to its size, so many amenities typical of large hubs are absent here.

In the terminal, you will find a cosy waiting area. Shopping and dining options here are limited, so it is recommended to have a meal before arriving at the airport. For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi is available on the premises, as well as power outlets for charging electronic devices. Specialised VIP lounges or business lounges are not provided at the airport.

Financial services, such as bank branches or currency exchange points, are absent. It is recommended to handle all financial matters in the city of Hinesville in advance. The airport is equipped in accordance with accessibility requirements for passengers with reduced mobility. Standard amenities in restrooms are available for families with children. If you require special assistance, it is best to notify your airline well in advance.

There are no hotels or conference halls on the airport territory itself. However, nearby hotels and business centres can easily be found in the city of Hinesville, which is located just a few minutes' drive from the terminal. This is a convenient option for those arriving late in the evening or departing early in the morning.

When planning a departure from Hinesville/Fort Stewart Airport (LIY), it is important to consider that this is a small regional aviation hub, and the choice of dining establishments here is very limited. Unlike large international airports, you will not find a wide variety of restaurants and food courts here. Dining options are mainly designed for a quick snack before departure.

The airport's single terminal usually operates a small café or snack bar. Most often, it is located in the public area before security control, but there may be basic options in the departure zone as well. The assortment typically includes standard offers: sandwiches, pastries, chips, chocolate, as well as hot and cold drinks such as coffee, tea, and sparkling water. Do not expect gourmet dishes or signature Georgia culinary delights — the menu is focused on simple and universal snacks.

For travellers with specific dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free, or Halal food), choices will likely be unavailable. In such cases, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. If you wish to have a full lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to do so before arriving at the airport, for example, in one of the establishments in the city of Hinesville.

Prices in the airport café are generally slightly higher than in the city, which is standard practice for aviation hubs. The establishment's operating hours depend directly on the flight schedule — it opens some time before the first departure and closes after the last plane departs. Vending machines with drinks and snacks may also be available for a quick bite.

To ensure your journey through Hinesville/Fort Stewart Airport (MidCoast Regional) goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, use these proven tips. A thoughtful approach will help save time, money, and nerves, making your trip from Hinesville as comfortable as possible.

For domestic flights within the USA departing from such a small regional airport as MidCoast Regional, arriving 90 minutes before departure is usually sufficient. This time is enough to check in luggage and pass through security control without rushing. Nevertheless, always check your airline's recommendations, especially during peak seasons.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your phone. Security control (TSA) at small airports generally moves faster than at large hubs. Be prepared in advance: remove all items from your pockets, take off outer clothing, and remove laptops and other large electronics from your carry-on luggage.

Choosing the right seat on the plane can significantly affect flight comfort. If a quick exit upon arrival is important to you, choose seats in the front of the cabin. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight, and window seats are best if you want to enjoy the views or sleep. For more legroom, pay attention to seats at emergency exits (age restrictions may apply).

It is forbidden to carry liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, and flammable substances in carry-on luggage. All liquids must comply with the TSA 3-1-1 rule: containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz), packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre. Do not forget to take valuables, documents, medicines, and a portable charger into the cabin.

If you have a connecting flight, study the map of the next airport in advance and check the gate number for the connecting flight. MidCoast Regional Airport is not a major transfer hub, so your connection will likely be at a larger airport. Ensure you have enough time between flights — a minimum of 60-90 minutes for domestic transfers.

Customs and border control are only for passengers arriving in the country on international flights. When departing from Hinesville on a domestic US flight, you do not need to pass customs. This procedure awaits you only when returning from abroad at the first airport of arrival in the country.

Flight delays, unfortunately, happen. Before leaving for the airport, check the status of your flight on the airline's website. In case of delay or cancellation, contact an airline representative to learn about your rights to compensation, meals, or accommodation. Keep essentials, a book, or downloaded movies in your carry-on to pass the waiting time.