Richards Field

Richards Field Airport is not a massive international hub, but rather a cosy and strategically important air gateway to Upstate New York, USA. Located in the city of Massena, it serves as a starting point for journeys through the picturesque St. Lawrence River valley. For many tourists and residents, this is the quickest and most convenient way to reach this remote yet charming corner of the country, situated near the Canadian border.

The main advantage of Richards Field is its compactness and simplicity. There is none of the hustle and bustle of large transport hubs here, allowing for quick and stress-free check-in and pre-flight procedures. The airport is a participant in the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) programme, which guarantees air connectivity for smaller communities, making it a key element of the local infrastructure.

For travellers, this is a convenient starting point for exploring the Thousand Islands region, fishing on the St. Lawrence River, or business trips. Despite its modest size, the terminal has everything necessary for a comfortable wait. The absence of queues and its convenient location make it an attractive alternative to major airports for those who value their time and peace of mind.

If you need to contact the administration of Richards Field (MSS), please use the information provided below. Please note that for questions related to ticket bookings, flight schedules, or baggage, you should contact your airline directly.

• Official Website: Current information can be found on the official website of the city of Massena in the section dedicated to the airport. The direct page address is massena.us/201/Airport.
• Information Desk Phone: For information about airport operations, you can call: +1 (315) 769-7601.
• Airport Address: 90 Aviation Road, Massena, New York 13662, USA.
• Email: There is no specific email address for general passenger enquiries. It is recommended to use the phone number listed above for communication.
• Social Media: Currently, Richards Field does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: Tracing lost or damaged baggage is handled exclusively by the airline you flew with. Please contact your carrier's support service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to your flight (date changes, check-in, baggage allowance), please contact your airline. For questions regarding airport infrastructure (e.g., parking), you may call the general phone number.

Richards Field (MSS) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Massena, making the journey there quick and convenient. You can reach the terminal in several ways, but it is worth noting that this is a small regional airport, and transport options here are not as extensive as in major aviation hubs in the USA.

Taxi and Transfers

The simplest and most convenient way to get to the airport is to use a local taxi service. The trip from the centre of Massena will take no more than 10-15 minutes. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially if you have an early flight, to ensure timely pickup. The cost will be moderate given the short distance. Some hotels may also offer transfer services for their guests.

Car Rental

If you plan to travel around the region, renting a car is the best solution. This will give you freedom of movement and allow you not to depend on transport schedules. You can rent a car in the city and return it directly at the airport before departure. The road to Richards Field is simple and well-signposted. There is parking on the airport grounds where you can leave both personal and rental cars for short or long periods.

Public Transport

There are no direct public transport routes, such as city buses or trains, to Richards Field. This option should not be considered when planning your trip to the airport, so it is better to opt for a taxi or car.

Alternative Airports

Travellers looking for more flight options and transport connections often consider larger airports in the vicinity. For example, Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport or Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport offer far more flights but are located at a significant distance, requiring additional planning for ground transfers. Closer alternatives for regional flights include Ogdensburg International Airport and Adirondack Regional Airport.

Richards Field (MSS) in Massena is a small and compact aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. Travellers need not worry about complex navigation: everything here is intuitive and accessible.

Structure and Terminals

The airport consists of one passenger terminal that serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to its compact size, all key zones are within walking distance of each other. You will not have to spend time on long walks or searching for the right exit — everything is located in one building.

Layout and Navigation

Immediately after entering the terminal building, you will see the airline check-in counters. After checking in and dropping off your luggage, you will proceed to the security checkpoint. Once through security, you will find yourself in a small departure waiting area with the boarding gate. The arrival area is just as simple: after leaving the aircraft, passengers enter the baggage claim hall, located next to the main entrance/exit of the airport.

Processing Time

One of the main advantages of Richards Field is the speed of service. The check-in and security screening process here takes significantly less time than in large international airports. typically, all formalities can be completed very quickly, allowing you to arrive at the airport shortly before departure. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive approximately 60-90 minutes before your flight to go through all procedures without haste.

Recommendations for Passengers

• Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to worry about transfers between buildings.
• Follow the simple signs that will guide you from the entrance to the gate.
• Due to the small size of the airport, services are limited, so it is better to purchase necessities (snacks, reading material) in advance.

Overall, Richards Field offers a comfortable and quick start to your journey without the unnecessary stress and bustle typical of large aviation hubs.

The history of Richards Field (MSS) is closely linked to the events of World War II. It was founded as a military airfield, Massena Army Air Field, and officially opened in May 1942. Its primary task was the protection of strategically important facilities in the region, including hydroelectric power stations on the St. Lawrence River, the ALCOA aluminium plant, and the seaway itself. The airfield served as a base for fighter squadrons of the US Air Force, which patrolled the airspace and secured the northern borders.

After the war ended, the military need for the airfield ceased, and in 1945 it was transferred to civilian authorities. Thus began a new stage in its history — the airfield was transformed into a municipal airport serving the city of Massena and surrounding areas. Receiving a new name, Richards Field, it became an important transport hub for the local population and business, ensuring air connectivity with other cities.

Over the decades, the airport has undergone various stages of modernisation to meet modern aviation standards. Regular reconstructions of the runway were carried out, navigation equipment was updated, and passenger terminal infrastructure was improved. In different years, Richards Field has been served by several regional airlines, often within the framework of the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) programme, which ensures flights to smaller communities.

An interesting fact from the airport's history lies in its dual heritage. Founded as a military facility for national defence, it successfully transformed into a civil air gateway while preserving the memory of its original purpose. This transformation from a military airfield to a civilian airport is a vivid example of how infrastructure can adapt to the changing needs of society, continuing to serve people in peacetime.

Richards Field (MSS) offers passengers a set of basic services necessary for a comfortable wait in a small and convenient terminal. A general waiting area is equipped for all travellers. To stay connected, you can use the free Wi-Fi available throughout the territory, as well as sockets for charging mobile phones and other gadgets.

Options for dining and shopping at the airport are limited, which is typical for compact regional hubs. There are no full-service restaurants, cafés, or shops here. Passengers are advised to carry light snacks with them or use vending machines for drinks and snacks if installed in the terminal.

The terminal is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility. To receive special assistance, for example, when boarding the aircraft, you should notify your airline in advance. For travellers with small children, changing tables are provided in the restrooms. There are no specialised VIP lounges at the airport.

There are no hotels, business centres, or currency exchange points directly within the airport building. The nearest hotels and all necessary business services can be found in the city of Massena, located nearby. An ATM may be installed in the terminal for cash withdrawals. If first aid is required, please contact airport staff.

Passengers planning to fly from Richards Field (MSS) should note that this is a small regional airport, and dining options directly within the terminal are very limited. You will not find restaurants, cafés, or dining lounges typical of large aviation hubs here.

In this regard, we strongly recommend that travellers plan their lunch or snack in advance, before arriving at the airport. The city of Massena is located just a few minutes' drive from the terminal, and it is there that you can find a variety of establishments to suit any taste: from fast-food restaurants for a quick bite to cosy cafés and diners where you can have a full meal.

If you have specific dietary preferences, for example, if you are looking for Halal, vegetarian, gluten-free, or other specialised meals, the best solution would be to find a suitable establishment in the city of Massena. Such options are not represented within the airport itself.

Thus, the key recommendation is to take care of your meals before travelling to the airport. At best, vending machines with drinks and light snacks may be available in the terminal, but one should not count on a full hot meal.

To ensure your journey through Richards Field goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This small regional airport serves the city of Massena and its surroundings in the USA, so many processes here are faster than in major hubs.

Arrival Time and Check-in
For domestic flights, which are the primary ones for this airport, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is more than sufficient to complete all procedures without rushing. You can check in for your flight online to save time, or use your airline's counter in the terminal. Security lines are usually short.

Security Screening and Seat Selection
The security screening procedure is standard for the USA. Be prepared to present your ID and boarding pass, as well as remove laptops and liquids from your carry-on luggage. Regarding seat selection on the plane: window seats will offer you beautiful views during take-off and landing, while aisle seats provide more convenience if you need to stand up during the flight.

Carry-on Luggage Rules
Liquids are allowed in carry-on luggage in containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz), packed in a single transparent resealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check current rules on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website before your trip.

Connecting Passengers and Customs
Richards Field is not a major transfer hub. Most passengers either begin or end their journey here. If you do have a connection planned, navigating the small terminal will not cause difficulties. The airport primarily serves domestic flights, so customs and border control procedures are generally not conducted here.

How to Save Money and What to Do During Delays
To save money, book tickets in advance and check your airline's baggage allowances online to avoid extra fees at the airport. You can also bring an empty water bottle and fill it after security. In case of a flight delay, first contact an airline representative for information. Given that the airport is small, the choice of cafés and shops may be limited, so bring a book, a charged power bank, or other entertainment with you.