Albany International Airport

Albany International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true historic gateway to the capital of New York State and the picturesque Catskill region. As the oldest municipal airport in the USA, it wonderfully combines rich heritage with modern comfort and technology. Travellers appreciate this air harbour for its cosy atmosphere, which allows them to avoid the bustle of giant hubs while maintaining a high level of service and access to the main natural beauties of the country's northeast.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Albany (ALB) is famous for its unique Art & Culture Program. Unlike many faceless terminals, here passengers can enjoy rotating art exhibitions and installations by local authors right in the waiting areas, turning the wait for a flight into a cultural leisure activity.

The airport is distinguished by its compactness and thoughtful logistics. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, passing through the security zone (TSA) and the path to the gates take a minimum amount of time, which is especially important for business travellers and families with children.

The location of the airport makes it an ideal starting point for trips not only to Albany but also to the famous mineral springs of Saratoga Springs, as well as to the ski resorts and lakes of the Adirondack Mountains.

For your convenience, we have collected the main contact information for Albany International Airport (ALB).

• Official website: www.albanyairport.com
• Information desk phone: +1 (518) 242-2200
• Address: 737 Albany Shaker Rd, Albany, NY 12211, USA
• Email: To contact airport representatives, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social networks: You can follow airport news on its official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
• Lost luggage: For items left in the airport terminal (except for luggage checked in for a flight), you should contact the Lost and Found service at +1 (518) 242-2300. In case of loss of checked luggage, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions and assistance, you can contact the main information desk number.

Getting to Albany International Airport (ALB), which is located in the suburb of Latham and serves the capital of New York State, the city of Albany, is quite simple. Travellers can choose the most suitable option from several types of transport, depending on budget, time, and comfort preferences. The airport is located approximately 15 kilometres northwest of downtown Albany, and the trip usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

The most economical way to get to the airport is public transport. The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) bus company offers regular routes connecting the airport with the city centre and other key points. Pay attention to the Route 737 bus, which goes directly to the airport. The cost of the trip is only a few dollars, making it an excellent choice for budget tourists. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the airport, but you can take an Amtrak train to Albany-Rensselaer station, and from there take a taxi or CDTA bus to the terminal.

For those who value comfort and speed, the optimal solution would be a taxi or ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft. A car can be ordered at any time of the day, and it will take you directly to the entrance of the required terminal. A trip from downtown Albany to the airport will cost approximately $25-40 depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. This is a convenient option for travellers with a large amount of luggage or for those travelling in a small group.

If you plan to actively move around the region, it is worth considering car rental. Offices of all major rental companies are represented at Albany Airport. For those arriving in their own car, various parking options are provided on the airport territory: from short-term parking right at the terminal to more affordable long-term and economy parking lots, from where free shuttles run to the terminals. It is recommended to familiarise yourself with the rates in advance and book a spot online to save time and money.

Albany International Airport (ALB) has a thoughtful and passenger-friendly structure consisting of one main terminal. This significantly simplifies navigation, as all flights — both domestic and international — are served in one building. You will not have to worry about moving between different buildings.

The terminal is divided into two main levels. The first floor is intended for arriving passengers: baggage claim areas and ground transport counters, including taxis, shuttles, and car rentals, are located here. The second floor is the departure zone. Here you will find airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and the main food court. After passing security control, passengers enter the general secure area, from where there is access to all boarding gates.

Three passenger concourses (wings), designated by the letters A, B, and C, diverge from the central zone of the terminal. They are all connected to each other, and you can move between them freely on foot after security screening. The distances are small, so walking from one end of the airport to the other will take you no more than 10-15 minutes.

• Concourse A usually serves Southwest Airlines flights.
• Concourse B is typically used by major carriers such as Delta, United, and American Airlines.
• Concourse C most often accepts flights from budget airlines, for example, Allegiant and Frontier Airlines.

It is important to remember that the distribution of airlines across concourses may change, so always check the information on your boarding pass or on the departure board.

Due to the relatively small size of the airport, passing through check-in and security procedures usually takes less time than in large hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5 hours before the departure of a domestic flight and 2-2.5 hours during peak periods (holidays, morning hours) to go through all formalities without haste, enjoy a coffee, and reach your boarding gate.

The history of Albany International Airport (ALB), serving the capital of New York State and located in the immediate vicinity of the city of Latham, goes back to the dawn of the aviation era. The airport was officially opened in 1928 and is one of the oldest municipal airports in the USA. Notably, the legendary pilot Charles Lindbergh was present at its opening ceremony, which immediately gave the new aviation hub a special status.

The first decades were a time of gradual growth and development. Initially representing a modest airfield, the airport was constantly expanded and modernised. An important stage was the construction of a new terminal in 1962, which allowed it to cope with the growing passenger flow and the arrival of jet aviation. This structure served as the main airport building for several decades.

The most large-scale transformation in the history of Albany Airport took place in the 1990s. A comprehensive reconstruction programme was implemented, resulting in the opening of a new, modern terminal in 1998, which is used to this day. The project also included the construction of a new control tower, a multi-level car park, and improved access roads. This modernisation allowed the airport to meet the highest standards of service and safety.

Among the interesting moments of history, it can be noted that the airport witnessed flights not only of Charles Lindbergh but also of another famous female pilot — Amelia Earhart. Today, the airport is known not only for its efficiency but also for an interesting feature: an art gallery with constantly changing exhibitions is located in its halls, making it one of the most culturally rich airports in the country.

Albany International Airport (ALB) offers passengers a wide range of services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. In the terminal, you will find various dining outlets: from cafes with quick snacks and aromatic coffee to restaurants where you can have a full lunch or dinner. Numerous shops offer souvenirs, press, books, and essential goods for travellers.

For those for whom staying connected is important, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for electronic devices are located throughout the terminal, so you can easily recharge your phone or laptop before your flight. Passengers looking for greater comfort can use the services of premium lounges, where one can rest or work in a quiet environment.

Necessary financial services are available at the airport, including ATMs and currency exchange points. For passengers travelling with small children, special mother and child rooms are equipped where you can take care of your baby in privacy. Diaper changing tables are also available in the restrooms.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms are provided here. If necessary, you can request an escort service by contacting your airline in advance. In case of feeling unwell, there are first aid points at the airport.

For business travellers, conference rooms and business centres for meetings may be available. If you have an early flight or a long layover, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, many of which provide a free transfer for their guests.

At Albany International Airport (ALB), travellers will find diverse dining options capable of satisfying both those rushing to a flight and those who have time for a full meal. Catering establishments are strategically located for passenger convenience.

The majority of restaurants, cafes, and dining areas are located after passing security control (in the "airside" zone), in the main terminal and at the boarding gates. Here the choice is the widest. Before security control (in the "landside" zone), several cafes are usually available where you can drink coffee and have a snack while meeting or seeing off loved ones.

For a quick snack, coffee shops and grab-and-go establishments are perfect. Here you can purchase fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, and drinks. This is an ideal option if there is little time left before departure. For a more substantial meal, pay attention to full-service restaurants. They offer hot dishes, pizza, burgers, and a wide selection of beverages.

Passengers with special dietary needs will also find suitable options. The menus of many cafes include vegetarian and gluten-free items, for example, salads, fruit slices, or special sandwiches. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with the establishment's staff. The price range at the airport varies from moderate in fast-food outlets to higher in full-service restaurants, which is standard practice for airports.

The opening hours of establishments are adapted to the flight schedule. Coffee shops open early in the morning for the first passengers, and restaurants usually work until the departure of the last evening flights. Nevertheless, it is always useful to check the current information on opening hours on the official Albany Airport website before your trip.

Travelling through Albany International Airport, serving the capital of New York State and located in the city of Latham, USA, can be easy and pleasant if you know a few useful tips. To avoid haste, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. During peak hours and holidays, it is better to add another 30-40 minutes to this time, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

To save time, it is highly recommended to check in for the flight online. This will allow you to go straight to the baggage drop-off point or, if you are travelling light, to the security zone. The screening procedure here is standard: be prepared to remove electronics from bags, and liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Always check the current hand luggage rules on the airline's website, but keep a basic set — documents, medicines, a portable charger, and valuables — with you at all times. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat is ideal for those who like to admire the views or sleep, and an aisle seat is for those who value freedom of movement. Passengers with short connections at Albany International Airport should study the terminal map in advance and immediately after landing clarify the boarding gate number for the next flight. The airport is not very large, which simplifies navigation.

Those arriving on international flights will have to undergo customs control. Have your passport and completed declaration ready. Be prepared to answer standard questions about the purpose of your trip and the contents of your luggage. Honest and clear answers will help you go through this procedure quickly and without problems.

If your flight is delayed, do not panic. First of all, follow the information on the departure board and in your airline's app. Find out about your rights: in some cases, air carriers provide vouchers for meals or hotel accommodation. In Albany Airport itself, you will find cafes, shops, and comfortable waiting areas. This time can be used for rest, work, or leisurely exploring souvenir shops.