Imperial County Airport

Imperial County Airport (IATA: IPL, ICAO: KIPL), also known as Boley Field, is a vital aviation hub for the Imperial Valley in Southern California. Located just a couple of kilometres from the business centre of the city of Imperial, this airport serves as the gateway to one of the most unique agricultural regions in the USA. Despite its modest size, it plays a key role in providing connectivity for local residents and business travellers, offering flights subsidized under the Essential Air Service programme. The airport combines general aviation services with scheduled commercial transport.

Features and Services

Imperial County Airport is distinguished by its compactness and convenience, making pre-flight formalities quick and comfortable. Passengers are advised to arrive 90 minutes before departure to complete check-in and security screening without rushing. One of the main advantages for travellers by car is the free parking, which is a rarity for airports. In the airport's single terminal, you can find basic amenities as well as car rental agency counters. The airport primarily serves flights by Southern Airways Express, which operates routes to major hubs such as Los Angeles (LAX) and Phoenix (PHX) using 9-seater Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft.

Below you will find contact information for Imperial County Airport (IPL) to help you plan your trip and address any potential enquiries.

• Official Website: www.imperialcountyairport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (760) 355-7980
• Airport Address: 1099 Airport Rd, Imperial, CA 92251, USA
• Email: airport@co.imperial.ca.us
• Social Media: Currently, the airport does not maintain active official pages on social media. We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date information.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost luggage during a flight, you should first contact your airline's baggage tracing service. For items left within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions regarding airport operations, you may call the information desk. For issues related to tickets, flight check-in, or schedules, please contact your airline directly.

Getting to Imperial County Airport (IPL), which serves the city of Imperial and its surroundings in the USA, is quite simple due to its close proximity to major transport arteries. Travellers can choose the most suitable method depending on their budget, time, and personal preferences.

Taxis and Ride-hailing Services, such as Uber and Lyft, are the fastest and most convenient way to reach the airport. The journey from the city centre usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes. This is an ideal option if you have a lot of luggage or value comfort. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which is particularly beneficial for groups. The cost will be higher compared to public transport, but it is justified by the speed and convenience.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The local bus network, Imperial Valley Transit (IVT), offers routes passing near the airport. While this is the cheapest method, it may not be the most convenient as it requires more time and possibly a walk from the bus stop to the terminal. It is extremely important to check the current schedule and routes on the carrier's official website in advance to plan your trip without haste.

Car Rental is a popular choice for those who desire maximum freedom of movement. Several rental companies operate counters at or near the airport. By renting a car, you can not only easily reach your departure point but also comfortably explore the Imperial Valley and other attractions of Southern California. This option is especially convenient for families and those planning an extended stay in the region.

If you are arriving by private vehicle, parking is provided at the airport. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. This is a safe and reliable way to leave your car during your absence. Parking rates may change, so it is recommended to verify them on the airport's official website before your trip.

For travellers requiring a wider selection of flights, alternative airports are worth considering. Major hubs, such as San Diego International Airport (SAN) or Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), offer more destinations, although the journey to them will take significantly longer—about two hours by car. The nearest international alternative is Mexicali Airport (MXL) in Mexico, located just 40 kilometres away.

Imperial County Airport (IPL) is a small and convenient regional airport distinguished by a simple and clear structure. It consists of one passenger terminal serving all flights, both departures and arrivals. Such compactness makes it ideal for those who dislike the hustle and bustle of large aviation hubs.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. All key zones—check-in counters, security screening, the departure lounge, and baggage claim—are located in a single building a short distance from one another. Thanks to this, navigation poses no difficulties even for those visiting for the first time. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals.

The departure and arrival areas are logically separated but located nearby. After check-in and security screening, passengers enter a cosy waiting lounge with access to boarding. The arrival area is equipped with a baggage claim belt and counters for several car rental companies.

The main feature of the terminal is its efficiency. Passing through check-in and security procedures usually takes minimal time due to the low passenger flow. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure to complete all formalities without rushing. For navigation, simply follow the signs—it is practically impossible to get lost here.

The history of Imperial County Airport (IPL) is a fascinating reflection of the development of aviation in the USA. Although the first runways in this area appeared as early as the 1920s, the official history of the modern airport began during World War II. In 1942, it was transferred to the US Navy and functioned as a Naval Auxiliary Air Station. During these years, the airfield played an important role in pilot training and servicing military aviation.

After the war ended, the airport was demilitarized and transferred to the jurisdiction of Imperial County for civil use. This became a turning point, transforming it into a key transport hub for the entire region. Commercial air service began soon after; one of the first airlines to launch regular flights was Bonanza Air Lines. This marked the beginning of a long history of passenger and cargo service, connecting the Imperial Valley with major cities.

Over the decades, the airport has been continuously modernized to meet the growing demands of the aviation industry. A key stage in its development was the construction of a new passenger terminal, which opened in 1996. This large-scale update significantly improved the level of comfort for passengers and the airport's operational efficiency.

An interesting fact from the airport's history lies in its dual heritage: first as a strategic military facility, and then as a vital civil hub. Today, Imperial County Airport continues to play an indispensable role, ensuring air connectivity for residents, businesses, and the agro-industrial complex of this unique corner of California.

Imperial County Airport (IPL), despite its compact size, offers passengers all the basic services necessary for a comfortable journey. Conditions here are designed to ensure that waiting for a flight passes calmly and without unnecessary hassle.

A small cafe operates within the terminal building where you can have a snack, coffee, or soft drinks. For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and the waiting lounges have power outlets and charging stations for mobile devices. If you require cash, you can use the ATMs located in the terminal. Currency exchange services are not provided at the airport.

The airport is equipped for the comfortable stay of passengers with special needs and complies with accessibility standards. For travellers with small children, changing tables are provided in the restrooms. Specialized VIP lounges and business centres are absent at the airport, but the environment in the general waiting lounge allows for work in a quiet atmosphere if necessary.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options can be found in the city of Imperial and its surroundings, located just a few minutes' drive away. You can reach them by taxi or rental car. In case of an urgent medical emergency, please contact any airport staff member to summon assistance.

Passengers departing from Imperial County Airport (IPL) should be aware that dining options on the premises are practically non-existent. This is a small regional air hub, and there are no full-service restaurants, cafes, or bars in the terminal building. You will not be able to plan a full lunch or dinner while waiting for your flight here.

The only way to acquire food and drinks at the airport is through vending machines. Their assortment is typically limited to a standard set for a quick snack: chips, chocolate bars, packaged biscuits, and soft drinks. Do not count on hot food, fresh sandwiches, or coffee. Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, or those requiring Halal options) are advised to bring food with them, as suitable options will likely not be found in the machines.

Given the complete absence of catering establishments, it is strongly recommended to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner before arriving at the airport. The best solution would be to visit one of the numerous cafes or restaurants in the city of Imperial or neighbouring El Centro. This guarantees you not only a hearty meal but also a much wider selection of dishes at affordable prices.

To ensure your journey through Imperial County Airport goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, take advantage of our useful tips. This small regional airport offers simple and fast navigation, but knowing a few nuances will help avoid unnecessary hassle.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5 hours before departure. Although Imperial County Airport is not as busy as major hubs, this time will be sufficient to check luggage and pass through control calmly. To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines.

Security Screening. The security checkpoint here usually operates quickly, but standard rules apply. Have your ID and boarding pass ready in advance. Remember the rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage (3-1-1 rule: containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag up to 1 litre). Laptops and other large electronics must be placed in a separate bin.

Seat Selection. On the short regional flights typically served by this airport, seat selection is not as critical. However, if you want to enjoy views of the Californian desert landscapes, choose a window seat. An aisle seat will provide more legroom and allow you to disembark first upon arrival.

Connecting Passengers. Imperial County Airport is usually the starting or ending point of a route. Most flights are operated to major hubs, such as Los Angeles, where the main connection takes place. Ensure you have sufficient time between flights at the transfer airport, as you will likely have to change terminals.

Customs Control. It is important to know that Imperial County Airport serves only domestic flights. There are no border or customs control points here. You will go through all these procedures at your first international airport of arrival in the USA.

Saving Time and Money. Book tickets and pay for luggage online in advance—this is often cheaper. Bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill after passing security screening to avoid spending on drinks at the airport.

In Case of Flight Delay. Before leaving for the airport, check your flight status on the airline's website. If the flight is delayed while you are already at the airport, contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be offered food vouchers or other services.