Tri-State/Milton Airport

Tri-State Airport (HTS) is a cosy air harbour where the journey begins without the usual hustle and bustle of megacities. Located on the picturesque hills of West Virginia, this airport serves as an important transport hub for three states simultaneously, including neighbouring Kentucky and Ohio. Here, instead of endless queues and stress, passengers are greeted by an atmosphere of warm hospitality and tranquillity characteristic of this region. Thanks to its unique location and well-thought-out infrastructure, the airport has become the ideal choice for those who value comfort and time.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The key advantage of Tri-State is its compactness and speed of service. The entire journey from the car park to the boarding gate takes mere minutes, allowing passengers to arrive at the airport just an hour before departure without fear of being late. Travellers often note that security screening procedures (TSA) are much faster and conducted in a friendlier environment here compared to major hubs.

The airport is also known for its unusual location atop a flattened hill, which ensures high flight safety and offers stunning views during takeoff and landing. This is particularly impressive in autumn when the surrounding forests are painted in vibrant colours. For Marshall University students and regional residents, the airport is an indispensable alternative to long drives to Charleston or Columbus.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Tri-State/Milton Airport (HTS). You can contact airport representatives in several ways.

• Official Website: www.tristateairport.com — here you will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (304) 453-6165
• Address: 1449 County Route 3/1, Huntington, WV 25704, USA
• Email: info@tristateairport.com
• Social Media: The airport has an official Facebook page where the latest news and updates are published.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must contact the representative of the airline you flew with directly. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance within the airport, please contact the information desk by phone or speak to staff at the information counters.

Getting to Tri-State/Milton Airport (HTS) from the centre of Huntington is quite simple, as it is located just a 15-20 minute drive away. This airport serves not only West Virginia but also the neighbouring states of Kentucky and Ohio, making it an important transport hub for the region. Several transport options are available to travellers, varying in cost and convenience.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly method. Buses operated by the Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) connect the airport with the city. However, it is worth checking the schedule on the official TTA website in advance, as routes may run infrequently, especially on weekends. This option is best suited for travellers without large luggage and with plenty of time to spare. The bus journey will take about 30-40 minutes.

Taxis and Rideshare Services, such as Uber and Lyft, are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. The trip from the city centre takes just 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. The cost of a taxi ride is usually $25-35. This is the ideal choice for those who value comfort, are travelling with luggage, or simply do not wish to depend on public transport schedules. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which is particularly convenient for groups.

Car Rental is an excellent option for those planning to move actively around the region. Offices of major rental companies (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise) are present at Tri-State Airport. By renting a car, you gain complete freedom of movement, which is very convenient for travelling around the USA. You can book a car online in advance or arrange the rental upon arrival.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided. There are zones for short-term and long-term parking located in immediate proximity to the terminal. Rates vary depending on the duration of parking, but overall they are quite affordable. This is a good option if someone is seeing you off or if you are leaving your car for the duration of your trip.

When planning your trip, it is also worth considering alternative air harbours. The nearest major airport is Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, located approximately 84 km away. Other options within a 200 km radius include airports in Beckley (BKW), Parkersburg (PKB), as well as Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) and Lunken Airport (LUK) in the Cincinnati area. Sometimes checking flights to these airports can help find more favourable tickets or convenient connections.

Tri-State Airport (HTS), also known as Milton J. Ferguson Field, is a compact and convenient regional airport serving the city of Huntington and its surroundings in the USA. Its key feature is simplicity and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for travellers who value their time. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all flights — both departures and arrivals.

The structure of the terminal is extremely simple and intuitive. All main zones are located in one building and within walking distance of each other. Airline check-in counters and the baggage claim area are located on the ground floor. After check-in, passengers proceed to a single security screening area leading to the boarding gates. Since there is only one terminal, you do not have to worry about transferring between buildings or using shuttles — everything is under one roof.

Due to its small size and lower passenger flow compared to major hubs, completing all pre-flight formalities at Tri-State Airport usually takes minimal time. The check-in and security screening process typically goes very quickly. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure, which in most cases will be more than sufficient.

Navigating the terminal will not cause any difficulties even for first-time visitors. Clear signs will help you easily find check-in counters, the security zone, boarding gates, and the baggage claim area. Main tip: simply follow the signs. The compactness of Tri-State Airport is its main advantage, allowing you to avoid the stress and rush that often accompany travel through large aviation hubs.

The history of Tri-State/Milton Airport (HTS) is closely linked to the development of the city of Huntington and the entire tri-state region. Planning for a new, modern airport to serve West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio began in the late 1940s, and the airport was officially opened on November 2, 1952. Its emergence was an important step in improving transport accessibility for the region, which had previously relied on small and less-equipped airfields.

The most tragic and significant event in the airport's history was the air disaster on November 14, 1970. Chartered flight Southern Airways 932, carrying the Marshall University "Thundering Herd" football team, coaching staff, and fans, crashed while approaching for landing. This tragedy, which claimed the lives of all 75 people on board, left a deep scar on the history of the city and the university. The event attracted nationwide attention and served as a catalyst for reviewing and tightening flight safety regulations, especially in difficult weather conditions.

Despite the tragedy, the airport continued to develop. In subsequent decades, modernisation and expansion works were carried out. The runway was lengthened to accommodate larger aircraft, and infrastructure was updated. In 1993, the airport's airfield was officially named Milton J. Ferguson Field in honour of its first and long-serving manager, who made a huge contribution to the establishment and development of the air harbour.

In the 21st century, Tri-State Airport has undergone several stages of terminal reconstruction aimed at increasing passenger comfort and improving navigation. Today, it remains an important transport node for the region, ensuring connections with major hubs in the USA and playing a key role in the economic life of the local community. Its history is not just a chronicle of infrastructure development, but an integral part of the history of Huntington itself.

Tri-State/Milton Airport (HTS) offers its guests a set of essential services ensuring a comfortable stay before departure. There is a café in the terminal where you can have a full meal or grab light snacks and drinks. There is also a small shop with newspapers, souvenirs, and travel necessities.

Throughout the terminal, passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, allowing them to stay connected, work, or relax by viewing online content. Charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets are equipped in the waiting lounges. Although there are no exclusive VIP lounges at the airport, the general waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable and spacious.

An ATM is installed in the terminal for financial transactions. The airport is fully adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and assistance with boarding and disembarking is provided upon prior request through the airline. Families with small children can use changing tables in the restrooms. It is important to know that there is no separate medical centre at the airport. In case of illness or an emergency, you must contact any airport staff member — they will provide first aid or call emergency services.

There are no hotels within the airport itself, however, a wide selection of hotels and motels can be found a few minutes' drive away in the city of Huntington. There are no specialised conference rooms or business centres in the terminal building, but the availability of free internet creates conditions for handling work matters directly in the waiting lounge.

Tri-State/Milton Airport (HTS) is a compact regional airport, and the choice of dining establishments here corresponds to its size. Despite this, passengers have an excellent opportunity to experience a true gastronomic symbol of West Virginia without leaving the terminal building.

The main and, effectively, the only place where you can have a full meal is the restaurant Tudor's Biscuit World. This is not just a café, but a cult local fast-food chain famous for its freshly baked biscuits with various fillings. The restaurant is located in the main hall of the terminal, before passing security control (landside). It is an ideal place for both a quick snack and a hearty lunch or dinner before departure.

What to try:

• For a quick snack: Be sure to order one of the signature biscuits. Popular options include the "Ron" (with sausage, egg, and cheese) or the "Peppi" (with pepperoni and cheese). It is filling, tasty, and very local.
• For a full meal: Tudor's also offers "dinner platters" with dishes such as fried chicken, meatloaf, or country-fried steak with side dishes.

Practical Information:

• Price range: The establishment belongs to the budget category, offering generous portions at affordable prices.
• Opening hours: Tudor's Biscuit World operates in accordance with the flight schedule, usually opening early in the morning to serve passengers on morning departures and working until the last flight departs.
• Special diets: Options for vegetarians, vegans, or people with gluten intolerance are extremely limited here due to the specific nature of the cuisine. Passengers with strict dietary requirements (including Halal restrictions) are recommended to bring food with them.
• After security control (airside): In the departure zone, the choice is limited to vending machines where you can purchase drinks and packaged snacks. All main establishments are located before the security checkpoint.

To ensure your journey through Tri-State/Milton Airport in the city of Huntington goes smoothly, use these tips. It is a small regional airport, so there is usually less bustle here than in major USA hubs, but preparation is never wasted.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage and pass security control without rushing. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24 hours before the flight.

Passing Security and Seat Selection: Security lines at Tri-State Airport are usually shorter than at large airports, but still prepare in advance: keep your passport and boarding pass to hand, and place laptops and large electronics in a separate tray. When choosing a seat on the plane, remember: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely and exit the plane first.

Hand Luggage: In hand luggage, liquids are permitted in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Laptops, power banks, and other lithium batteries should be carried specifically in hand luggage, and not in checked baggage.

Connections and Customs Control: If you have a connection at another airport, check the gate number for your next flight immediately upon arrival. For international travel, you will have to pass customs and passport control. Declare all necessary goods and prepare documents in advance to speed up the process.

Saving Money and Unforeseen Situations: To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security. You can also bring non-liquid snacks to avoid spending on food at the airport. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact a representative of your airline. Find out about your rights: depending on the reason and duration of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation.