Idaho Falls Regional Airport

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) is not just a transport hub, but a welcoming gateway to the natural treasures of the American West. Located just a few minutes' drive from the city's hustle and bustle, this airport serves as the ideal starting point for those heading to the legendary Yellowstone National Park or the majestic peaks of Grand Teton. The compact terminal and friendly atmosphere allow travellers to avoid the stress of major hubs and immediately get into the spirit of adventure.

The terminal is renowned for its efficiency: long queues are rare here, and security procedures are surprisingly quick. Panoramic windows offer picturesque views, reminding guests that they are in one of the most beautiful regions of the country. This is a place where your journey through the Idaho wilderness begins with comfort and a smile.

Airport Features and Advantages:

The main advantage of IDA is its strategic location. It is one of the closest airports to Yellowstone National Park, making it extremely popular among tourists during the summer season. The journey from the aircraft steps to the park entrance takes significantly less time than from many other major cities.

The airport's infrastructure is thoughtfully designed for guest convenience. The terminal features free high-speed Wi-Fi, and car rental counters are located right inside the building, allowing you to get your car keys immediately after claiming your luggage without wasting time on transfers. Despite its modest size, the airport offers modern amenities while maintaining a small-town charm and tranquillity.

• Official Website: You can always find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations on the airport's official website: idahofallsidaho.gov/181/Airport-IDA.
• Information Desk Phone: For general questions regarding airport operations, you can call: +1 (208) 612-8224.
• Airport Address: Idaho Falls Regional Airport is located at: 2140 N Skyline Dr, Idaho Falls, ID 83402, USA.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on its official Facebook page: facebook.com/idahofallsregionalairport.
• Lost and Found: If you have lost an item within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration at +1 (208) 612-8224. If your luggage or personal belongings were lost on board the aircraft, you should contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and answers to questions, it is recommended to use the main airport phone number +1 (208) 612-8224 or the contact forms on the official website.

Getting to Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) from the city centre of Idaho Falls is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres west of the downtown area. A car journey usually takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Travellers have several transport options available, including taxis, ride-sharing services, car rentals, and private transport.

Public transport options for direct connection to the airport are limited. The local bus system, Greater Idaho Falls Transit (GIFT), serves the city, but its routes may not go directly to the terminal. Passengers choosing this budget-friendly method may have to walk some distance from the nearest stop. It is recommended to check the schedule and route map on the carrier's official website in advance to plan your journey.

The most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport is via taxi or ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft. They are available throughout the city and offer door-to-door service. The cost of a trip from downtown Idaho Falls is usually around 15-25 USD, making this an attractive option for small groups or travellers with luggage.

If you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings, such as Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Parks, car rental is the ideal choice. Many major rental companies have counters right inside the airport building, allowing you to comfortably pick up a car upon arrival or return it before departure. This gives you maximum freedom of movement around the region.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided. There are zones for both short-term (picking up or dropping off passengers) and long-term parking. Parking rates at Idaho Falls Regional Airport are significantly lower than at major airports in the USA, making this an economically viable option for long trips.

Thus, the choice of transport depends on your priorities. Taxis and ride-sharing offer the best balance of speed and convenience. Car rental is indispensable for those who want to travel around the region independently. A personal car using airport parking is a good option for locals, while public transport suits the most budget-conscious tourists ready for minor inconveniences.

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by its simple and clear structure. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all arriving and departing flights. Thanks to this, you won't have to worry about complex transfers or searching for the right building—everything is under one roof, making your stay at the airport maximally convenient.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building has two main levels. On the first floor, you will find airline check-in counters, the baggage claim area, and car rental desks. This is also the arrival area for those meeting passengers. Departing passengers, after checking in, need to proceed to the second floor, where the security checkpoint and boarding gates are located.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated, making navigation very simple. After landing, you enter the arrival area on the first floor, where the baggage claim belt is immediately located. For departing passengers, the process is also optimised: check-in on the first floor, then proceed upstairs to the second floor for security control. Going through all procedures usually takes little time, but it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

Despite its modest size, the terminal offers everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight. Here you will find a café where you can have a snack or a coffee, as well as a small shop. For those planning to travel around the region by car, offices of leading rental companies operate right in the terminal building, next to the baggage claim area.

The main advice for navigating Idaho Falls Airport is not to worry. Its compactness is its main advantage. Signs are clear and located everywhere, and staff are always ready to help. Since all key points—from check-in to the boarding gate—are within a few minutes' walk of each other, you will easily and quickly orient yourself on-site, even if it is your first time here.

The history of Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) is a vivid example of how a modest airfield turned into an important transport hub. The airport was officially opened in 1930 and was originally named Idaho Falls Municipal Airport. Its first decades were dedicated to serving private aviation and pilot training, which laid the foundation for future growth.

The airport received a significant boost in development during World War II, when it was used as a base for training flights. After the war, the era of commercial transport began. One of the first airlines to start operating regular flights was Western Airlines, connecting Idaho Falls with other cities in the USA. This became a key moment, turning the airport into the region's gateway for business travellers and tourists.

With the advent of the "Jet Age," the need for modernisation arose. In 1959, a new terminal building was constructed, which became the basis for the modern complex. In subsequent decades, numerous renovations were carried out, including the expansion of runways and improvement of navigation equipment, to meet the growing demands of the aviation industry and accommodate larger aircraft.

The most extensive modernisation in the airport's recent history was completed in 2022. As part of the project, the terminal was significantly expanded: new boarding gates appeared, the waiting lounge was enlarged, and the security zone was updated. These changes allowed not only for increased passenger comfort but also for increased capacity, which is especially important given the growing popularity of Idaho Falls as a starting point for trips to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Interesting fact: throughout its history, the airport has changed its name several times, reflecting its growing regional status. Today, IDA is not just an airport, but a dynamically developing hub that plays a key role in the economy and tourism appeal of Eastern Idaho, serving hundreds of thousands of passengers annually and continuing to write its success story.

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the airport is well-equipped to meet the basic needs of travellers, though there are no dedicated VIP lounges.

You can have a snack or enjoy a coffee before departure at Kathryn's Restaurant and Lounge, which offers a full menu, beverages, and light bites. Here you can also purchase souvenirs and travel essentials. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal for passengers, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in waiting areas, allowing you to always stay connected.

There are no currency exchange offices at the airport, but you can use ATMs to withdraw US Dollars. Family restrooms are available for passengers with children. There is no specialised medical clinic in the terminal, but in case of emergency, you should immediately seek assistance from airport staff. For travellers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created in accordance with ADA standards, including accessible parking spaces, ramps, and specially equipped restrooms. If necessary, escort services can be requested in advance.

Although there is no hotel within the airport building itself, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, many of which offer complimentary transfers for their guests. Specialised conference rooms or a business centre are not provided in the terminal, but business travellers can make use of the free internet and comfortable waiting areas for work.

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) is a compact airport, so dining options here are concentrated in one main location that serves both departing and arriving passengers. When planning a snack or a full meal, it is worth noting that the main restaurant is located before the security checkpoint.

The primary and essentially the only dining establishment at the airport is Kathryn's Restaurant and Lounge. It is located on the second floor of the terminal, in the public zone (landside), accessible to all visitors. It is a full-service restaurant with a menu, offering visitors a comfortable atmosphere to wait for their flight.

Kathryn's menu offers classic American cuisine. Here you can order a hearty breakfast before a morning flight, as well as a variety of sandwiches, burgers, salads, and hot dishes for lunch or dinner. While there may not be distinct local delicacies, it is worth looking out for dishes using the famous Idaho potatoes. The price range is average for airports.

The menu usually includes vegetarian options, such as salads or meat-free dishes. However, for passengers with strict dietary requirements (vegan, gluten-free, or halal), the selection may appear limited. It is recommended to clarify the ingredients of dishes with the staff in advance. The restaurant's operating hours are flexibly adjusted to the flight schedule: it opens early in the morning for the first departures and operates until the last evening flight departs.

Kathryn's Restaurant and Lounge is the ideal choice for those who have time for a full lunch or dinner in a relaxed setting before passing through security control. If you are in a hurry, the best solution would be to get takeaway food from the restaurant or use vending machines for beverages and snacks. It is important to remember that after passing through security (airside), opportunities to purchase food are practically non-existent, so it is better to take care of meals in advance.

Travelling through Idaho Falls Regional Airport can be simple and convenient if you know a few nuances. Here are some tips to help you save time, money, and stress during your trip through the air gateway of Idaho Falls.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before departure. Although Idaho Falls Regional Airport is smaller than major hubs, queues can occur here during peak hours too. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and print your boarding pass at home or save it on your phone. If you are travelling with hand luggage only, this will allow you to head straight to the security checkpoint.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage. The security checkpoint here operates according to TSA standards. Remember the "3-1-1" rule for liquids: containers no larger than 100 ml (3.4 oz) must be packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If the airline allows you to select a seat, consider your preferences. Window seats are good for views, aisle seats for freedom of movement. Seats in the front of the cabin will allow you to disembark faster upon arrival. Since this is a regional airport, most flights are direct or have one connection. If you have a connecting flight, IDA is a convenient airport for transfers due to its compact size; you won't have to walk long distances from one gate to another.

Customs Control. Since the airport mainly serves domestic flights, passengers travelling within the USA do not need to go through customs and border control. If you are arriving from abroad, you will go through these procedures at the first airport of entry into the country.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, consider bringing an empty reusable water bottle with you (it can be filled after security) and light snacks. In case of a flight delay, follow updates via your airline's app. Check with an airline representative regarding your rights to compensation or provision of services (meals, hotel). At a small airport, leisure options are limited, so a book, a film on a tablet, or a portable charger will be very useful.