Kearney Regional Airport

Kearney Airport is not just a transport hub, but a truly welcoming "gateway" to the vast expanses of Nebraska, where your journey begins without unnecessary hustle. Here, far from noisy metropolises, aviation retains its unique charm: it is literally just a few steps from the check-in counter to the aircraft steps. This airport proves that even a small regional harbour can offer a level of comfort that major hubs would envy, allowing passengers to enjoy tranquillity before their flight.

Kearney Airport possesses a number of unique features that make it attractive for travellers:

• Complete absence of stress: Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, check-in and security procedures are lightning-fast. There are no endless queues here typical of large international airports.
• Free parking: One of the main advantages for local residents and guests arriving by car is the ability to leave their vehicle at the terminal car park absolutely free of charge for any duration.
• Convenient connections: Regular flights connect Kearney with the major hub in Denver, opening access to hundreds of destinations worldwide with minimal effort.
• Modern infrastructure: Recent terminal updates have provided passengers with a comfortable departure lounge featuring necessary amenities, including free Wi-Fi.

For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations, it is recommended to contact the official channels directly. Below are the contact details for Kearney Regional Airport (EAR).

• Official Website: www.flykearney.com
• Inquiry Service Phone: +1 (308) 234-2318
• Address: 5125 Airport Rd, Kearney, NE 68847, USA
• Email: For communication, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on their official Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost luggage during a flight, please contact your airline's representative directly. For items lost within the terminal building, please contact the main airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general enquiries and support, you may call the main airport telephone number.

Getting to Kearney Regional Airport (EAR) from the city centre of Kearney is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres to the east. Although it is a small airport, travellers have several convenient options to reach the terminal, each suitable for different budgets and preferences.

Taxi or Ride-sharing is the fastest and most convenient way to get to the airport. The trip from the city centre usually takes about 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. You can use the services of local taxi companies or order a car via apps popular in the USA, such as Uber or Lyft. The estimated cost of the trip will be 15–25 US dollars. Many hotels also offer shuttle services for their guests, so it is worth checking this possibility when booking.

Public Transport in Kearney is represented by the Kearney Area Transit (KAT) service. It is important to note that these are not buses running on a fixed route, but a demand-response service. This means you need to book your trip in advance by phone. This is the most budget-friendly option, but it requires planning and may not be the most convenient if you are short on time. There is no direct scheduled bus, train, or metro to the airport.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those who value independence and plan to explore not only Kearney but also its surroundings. Several major rental companies have counters located in the Kearney Airport terminal. Having your own car will give you the freedom to move around Nebraska and easily reach other cities, such as Grand Island or Lincoln. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during peak season.

If you are arriving at the airport in your own vehicle, a convenient car park located right next to the terminal building is at your service. One of the main advantages of Kearney Airport is that parking here is absolutely free for both short-term and long-term stays. This makes driving your own car to the airport not only comfortable but also very economical, distinguishing it favourably from major airports.

Kearney Airport (EAR) is a small regional aviation hub with a structure that is maximally simple and convenient for passengers. Its main feature is that it consists of one compact terminal which handles all flights — both arrivals and departures. This completely eliminates the need for complex transfers or long searches for the right gate.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Immediately after entering the building, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off are located. After completing check-in, you proceed to the single security screening point. The departure zone is a small and cosy waiting hall with a boarding gate. The arrival zone is located right here, in the same building, and includes a baggage claim belt. Due to the small size of the airport, all key points — from the entrance to the gate — are within walking distance of each other.

One of the main advantages of Kearney Airport is the speed of procedures. Flight check-in and security screening rarely take much time due to the low passenger flow. As a rule, arriving at the airport 60-90 minutes before departure is more than sufficient to check in luggage, pass control, and reach the boarding gate without haste.

Navigating the terminal requires no special knowledge or maps. All signs are clearly visible, and staff are always ready to help. Since everything happens in one small building, getting lost here is practically impossible. This makes Kearney Airport an ideal choice for those who value peace of mind and dislike the bustle of large aviation hubs.

The history of Kearney Regional Airport (EAR) is a fascinating narrative of transformation from a small municipal airfield into a strategically important military facility and, finally, into the modern air gateway of central Nebraska. Officially opened in April 1940, the airport soon attracted the attention of the military on the eve of the USA's entry into World War II.

A key stage in the airport's history began in 1942 when it was transferred to the US Army Air Forces and renamed Kearney Army Airfield. The airfield became one of the largest bases for training heavy bomber crews, including the legendary B-17 "Flying Fortress" and B-29 "Superfortress". Thousands of pilots, navigators, and gunners who participated in combat operations in the Pacific theatre underwent their training here. After the war, the base was used for transporting troops and equipment back to the USA before being returned to the city in 1948.

With the return to civilian status, the airport resumed servicing commercial flights and received its modern name — Kearney Regional Airport. For decades, it served as an important transport hub for the region. In 1971, a terminal building was constructed which served passengers faithfully for nearly half a century, welcoming and sending off flights from various airlines.

In the 21st century, the airport entered a new era of development. Understanding the need to meet modern standards of comfort and safety, a large-scale modernisation was initiated. The culmination of this process was the opening of a completely new, modern passenger terminal in 2021. This event not only improved the quality of passenger service but also confirmed the airport's status as a key element of the state's transport infrastructure.

An interesting fact: the architectural layout of the airport today still partly retains traces of its military past, reminding us of its contribution to history. Having survived several eras, Kearney Airport has transformed from a modest airstrip into a modern aviation complex that proudly carries its rich history while continuing to connect Nebraska with the rest of the world.

Kearney Airport (EAR) is a small and convenient regional airport offering passengers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Although there is not the great variety of amenities characteristic of large international hubs, everything necessary for a short stay before departure is available.

In the terminal, you will find essential facilities for travellers. For a snack before the flight, there is a small cafe or dining area where you can purchase beverages and light meals. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for boarding. Power outlets for charging electronic devices are also available. Although there are no bank branches or currency exchange points in the airport, you can typically find an ATM for cash withdrawals.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility in accordance with ADA standards. Accessible washrooms, ramps, and dedicated parking are available. For assistance with a wheelchair or other support, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance. Families with small children can use changing tables in the restrooms.

There are no on-site hotels, VIP lounges, or conference centres within the airport building. However, in the immediate vicinity of the airport and in the city of Kearney itself, there are many hotels to suit every taste and budget, which can be quickly reached by taxi or rental car. The general waiting areas offer sufficient space for all passengers.

Kearney Airport (EAR) is a small regional hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited but allows for a comfortable snack or lunch while waiting for a flight. All infrastructure is concentrated in one compact terminal.

The main place to eat is the LandLocked Hangar restaurant, located in the terminal building. It is accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. The menu offers classic American cuisine typical of the Midwest USA: juicy burgers, various sandwiches, salads, and hot appetisers. It is a great place for a full meal in a relaxed atmosphere.

If time is limited, you can order something for a quick snack at the same restaurant. Additionally, for those in a hurry, vending machines offering beverages, crisps, chocolate, and other snacks may be available in the terminal.

The restaurant's opening hours are usually aligned with the flight schedule, allowing passengers to be served throughout the day. The price range can be described as average. Regarding dietary requirements, such as vegetarian or Halal options, it is best to check available options directly with the staff. Although a specialised menu may not be available, employees are often ready to adapt standard dishes to a client's request.

To ensure your journey through Kearney city airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This is a small regional airport, so many procedures here are faster than in major aviation hubs in the USA.

Arrival at the airport and check-in. We recommend arriving at the airport approximately 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure. This time is sufficient to check in luggage and pass security control without haste. To save time, complete online check-in on the airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone. At the check-in counter, you will only need to drop off your suitcase.

Passing security and hand luggage. Standard TSA rules apply at the security checkpoint. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag. All liquids, gels, and aerosols in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Sharp objects, such as knives or scissors with long blades, are prohibited in the cabin.

Seat selection and transfers. If you love gazing at the clouds, choose a window seat. If the ability to stand up freely and stretch your legs is important to you, choose an aisle seat. Flights from Kearney are often operated to major hubs for further connections. There is no customs or passport control at Kearney Airport, as it does not serve international destinations. You will go through all international formalities at the first airport of entry into the country or at your final destination outside the USA.

Saving money and unforeseen situations. To save money, book tickets in advance, and bring an empty water bottle to the airport — it can be filled after the security zone. In case of a flight delay, contact airline representatives for information on the departure status and your rights. Keep an eye on updates on information screens and in your airline's app.