Harrisburg International Airport

Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is a cosy gateway to Central Pennsylvania, often referred to as the "secret weapon" of smart travellers. Unlike the overcrowded hubs of neighbouring metropolises, a surprisingly calm and almost home-like atmosphere reigns here, where passengers can pass the time gently swaying in the signature wooden rocking chairs. The airport serves as an ideal starting point for trips to the state capital, the famous chocolate factory in Hershey, or the colourful Amish settlements in Lancaster County.

Airport Features and Highlights:

• Unique Cosiness: The terminal's calling card is the famous wooden rocking chairs placed in waiting areas and on the observation deck. This creates a relaxed atmosphere that is completely atypical for modern airports.
• Speed and Comfort: Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, passing through security and baggage claim takes mere minutes. Long queues are a rarity here.
• Convenient Location: The airport is located just a 15-minute drive from the centre of Harrisburg and in close proximity to popular tourist sites, such as the Hersheypark amusement park.
• Modern Infrastructure: Despite its small size, the airport offers all necessary amenities, including free Wi-Fi, gadget charging stations, nursing pods for mothers (Mamava), and a multi-modal transport centre.

• Official Website: www.flyhbg.com
• Inquiry Phone: +1 717-948-3900
• Address: 1 Terminal Dr, Middletown, PA 17057, USA
• Email for General Inquiries: info@saraa.org
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on the official pages on Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage: If you have left items in the airport terminal, contact the airport police at +1 717-948-3575. For questions regarding items or luggage lost on board the aircraft, please contact your airline directly.
• Customer Service: For assistance and answers to questions, you can use the main airport telephone number: +1 717-948-3900.

There are several ways to get to Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located in Lower Swatara Township, Pennsylvania, USA. The choice of the best option depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. A trip from Harrisburg city centre usually takes between 20 to 40 minutes.

Public Transport

The most economical way to reach the airport is by bus. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) public transport system offers Route #7, which directly connects downtown Harrisburg with the airport terminal. This is an excellent choice for travellers without a large amount of luggage. The bus journey will take approximately 35-45 minutes. Please note that the Amtrak train station is located in the city, so if you are arriving by train, you will need to transfer to a bus or taxi.

Taxi, Ridesharing, and Transfers

For greater convenience and speed, you can use taxi services or popular ridesharing apps such as Uber and Lyft. This is an ideal option if you are travelling with family, have a lot of luggage, or simply wish to reach your destination without extra transfers. A car journey from the city centre will take about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Pre-booked shuttle services are also available, which can be beneficial for large groups.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to travel extensively around the region, renting a car is the best solution. Offices of all major rental companies are represented at Harrisburg Airport. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, various parking options are provided: from short-term, located a few steps from the terminal, to more affordable long-term parking lots with a regular free shuttle to the terminal.

Alternative Airports

Although Harrisburg International Airport is the main one for the region, depending on your route and airline, you may consider other options. Nearby are Lancaster Airport (LNS) and Hagerstown Regional Airport (HGR). For a wider selection of international flights, it is worth considering a major hub — Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), although it is located at a significant distance. Also in the region are smaller airfields such as Fort Indiantown Gap (Muir AAF) and Edgewood (Weide Army Heliport).

Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is distinguished by a thoughtful and passenger-friendly structure consisting of one main terminal. This significantly simplifies navigation and makes staying at the airport comfortable even for those visiting for the first time.

The terminal has a multi-level organisation, which is standard for modern airports. On the first level, the arrivals area and Baggage Claim are located. Here you will also find car rental counters and exits to ground transport. The second level is intended for departing passengers: Ticketing/Check-in counters for all airlines are located here. On the third level is the central security checkpoint, after passing which, passengers enter the secure area with boarding gates.

All boarding gates are consolidated in one concourse (Concourse A), so after passing security control, you will not have to use additional transport or make long walks. Navigation is intuitive thanks to clear signage. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals.

Check-in and security procedures at Harrisburg Airport usually proceed significantly faster than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before the departure of domestic flights to check in luggage, pass control, and reach your gate without rushing. During peak hours or holidays, it is worth allowing a little more time.

Main navigation tip: simply follow the signs. Thanks to the compact size and logical layout, it is practically impossible to get lost in MDT airport. All key zones — check-in, security, boarding gates, and baggage claim — are located in one building and are easily accessible.

The history of Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located in Lower Swatara Township, Pennsylvania, USA, is unique and closely intertwined with the country's military history. Its journey began long before the appearance of commercial aviation in the region. In 1918, a US Signal Corps aviation school was founded on this site, training pilots and mechanics during World War I. In subsequent decades, the facility expanded significantly and became a key Air Force base during World War II, known as Olmsted Air Force Base.

A turning point in the airport's history occurred in 1969, when the military base was officially closed, and its infrastructure was transferred for civilian use. It was then that a new chapter began — the birth of Harrisburg International Airport. The early years of operation were dedicated to adapting military facilities for passenger and cargo transport needs. This was an important stage of development, transforming a strategic military hub into a gateway for travellers and business.

One of the most dramatic and significant events in the airport's history occurred in March 1979 during the accident at the nearby Three Mile Island nuclear power plant. In those tense days, Harrisburg Airport became a centre for national and world press, as well as a logistical hub for government officials, including President Jimmy Carter, who flew here to personally assess the situation. The airport was placed on full alert for a possible mass evacuation, demonstrating its strategic importance even in civilian status.

By the early 2000s, it became obvious that the old, converted military buildings no longer met modern requirements. In 2004, a massive reconstruction was completed, resulting in the opening of a new, modern passenger terminal. This event marked the complete transformation of the airport. The new building, costing 203 million dollars, was designed with a focus on passenger comfort, efficiency, and safety, allowing MDT to compete worthily with other regional airports.

Among interesting facts, it can be noted that the airport still retains some elements of its military past, and its runway, over 3 kilometres long, is capable of accepting practically any type of aircraft. Today, Harrisburg International Airport is not just a transport hub, but a living monument to aviation history, successfully traversing the path from a military base of the World Wars era to a modern and comfortable airport serving the capital of Pennsylvania and the entire central region of the state.

Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find various dining outlets — from cafes where you can have a quick snack and coffee, to restaurants with a full menu. Shops are also at your service, where you can purchase souvenirs, press, books, and travel essentials.

For those for whom staying connected is important, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for electronic devices will allow you not to worry about your smartphone or laptop battery. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the services of VIP lounges, where comfortable seating, snacks, and beverages are offered in a quiet environment.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport: ATMs are installed here for cash withdrawals. In case of unforeseen health situations, a first aid station is provided, ready to assist passengers.

Harrisburg Airport cares for all categories of travellers. For passengers with children, special mother and child rooms are equipped where you can feed and change a baby in a quiet setting. For people of determination (passengers with reduced mobility), an accessible environment has been created: ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. Additionally, you can always request assistance services from an airline representative.

If you have a long layover or an early departure, several hotels offering comfortable accommodation are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers, conference rooms or business centres may be available where meetings can be held or work done in silence. These services are typically provided either within the airport itself or in adjacent hotel complexes.

At Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), travellers will find diverse options for a snack or a full meal, located both before and after security control. Regardless of whether you are rushing for a flight or have time for a leisurely meal, there is an establishment to suit any taste here.

Before Security (Landside): If you have time before check-in or are meeting/seeing off passengers, pay attention to The Perfect Landing Diner. This establishment in the style of a classic American diner offers guests hearty breakfasts, burgers, and milkshakes. It is a great place to experience local flavour without entering the secure zone.

After Security (Airside): Most dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal, in the departure area. Here lies the main food court, where you can find both full-service restaurants and fast-food outlets.

For a full lunch or dinner, you can choose one of several establishments. The restaurant Phillips Seafood is famous for its seafood dishes, including the famous crab cakes — a regional speciality. If you prefer classic American cuisine, visit The Susquehanna Grille or The Cameron Street Pub, serving burgers, sandwiches, and a variety of beverages in a casual atmosphere.

If time is limited, Starbucks is at your service, where you can quickly grab coffee, pastries, and light snacks. The Auntie Anne's kiosk is also popular, offering freshly baked pretzels — an ideal option to refuel right before boarding your flight.

Passengers with special dietary preferences can find vegetarian options in most establishments — from salads to sandwiches. However, the selection of vegan or gluten-free dishes may be limited, so it is recommended to check ingredients with the staff. Prices at Harrisburg Airport correspond to the average level for most airports in the USA. Opening hours of establishments are generally tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and serve passengers until the departure of the last evening flight.

When planning a trip through Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) in Lower Swatara Township, USA, use these tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This buffer allows you to pass all pre-flight formalities without rushing.

To save time, complete check-in online via the airline's website or mobile app. This way you can avoid queues at check-in counters. At the security checkpoint (TSA), have your passport and boarding pass ready. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage for separate scanning.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat is ideal for those who love admiring views, while an aisle seat gives more freedom to move around the cabin. Liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, are permitted in hand luggage. Sharp objects and flammable substances are strictly prohibited. Make sure to check the full baggage allowance rules on your airline's website.

Passengers with connections, especially those arriving on international flights, must pass border and customs control. You will likely need to collect your luggage and re-check it at the transfer desk. Ensure there is sufficient time between connecting flights for these procedures.

To save money, book airport parking in advance online — this is often more cost-effective. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security at the drinking fountains to avoid buying expensive water. Free Wi-Fi is usually available at the airport, which will help you stay connected.

If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for the latest information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or beverages. Study the terminal map — you might find interesting shops or a cosy cafe to brighten up the wait.