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Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport

About the Airport

Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) is not merely a transit point, but a welcoming aerial gateway to the picturesque region of Southern Oregon. Nestled amidst majestic mountains, this airport immerses travellers in an atmosphere of tranquillity and natural beauty from the very first minute, serving as the ideal starting point for a trip to the famous Crater Lake or the vineyards of the Rogue Valley. The compact and modern terminal is renowned for its friendly service and unique architecture, which harmoniously combines the convenience of a transport hub with rustic charm.
IATA Code MFR
ICAO Code KMFR
City Medford
Distance to Centre ~5 km
Status International
Passengers per Year Over 1 million
Schedule Available on the official website
**Airport Features and Advantages:** * **Unique Architecture and Atmosphere:** The airport terminal is designed so that passengers can enjoy the views: there are open galleries and an observation deck offering a breathtaking panorama of the runway and Mount McLoughlin. The interior is adorned with works by local artists and historical exhibits, turning the wait for a flight into a small cultural excursion. * **"The Oval Office":** One of the most unusual features of MFR is a conference room named "The Oval Office". This is a fully equipped space for business meetings that can be rented right in the terminal, adding status and business convenience to the airport. * **Comfort and Speed:** Thanks to its compact size, navigating the airport is intuitive and takes minimal time. Passing through security and baggage claim here is generally much faster than in major hubs, while free Wi-Fi and comfortable waiting areas with charging stations allow for a productive time before departure. * **Dining with a View:** The Sky House Bar & Grill operates on the premises, where travellers can have a snack and drink coffee while watching planes through panoramic windows. It is an excellent place to relax before travelling across the Pacific Northwest.

Contact Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding airport operations, flight schedules, carriage rules, and other queries, it is recommended to use official channels. Below are the main contact details for Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR).

  • Official Website: You can find detailed information about flights, services, and airport news on the official website: jacksoncountyor.gov/airport.
  • Help Desk Phone: For general questions and enquiries, you can call: +1 541-776-7222.
  • Airport Address: 1000 Terminal Loop Parkway, Medford, Oregon 97504, USA.
  • Email: For official requests, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the airport's website.
  • Social Media: Follow updates and news on the airport's official page on Facebook.
  • Lost and Found Information: If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, please contact the Lost and Found bureau via the main airport phone number. In case of lost luggage during a flight or on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline's representative office directly.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For issues related to booking, ticket changes, special assistance, or flight status, please contact your airline directly. Carrier contacts are usually listed on the official airport website.

Getting to the Airport

Getting to Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) from the city centre of Medford is quite simple due to its close proximity. Travellers in the USA have access to several convenient options, allowing them to choose the best method depending on budget, time, and amount of luggage.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to get to the airport. The local transport company, Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD), operates routes that pass through the airport. The cost of a trip is typically only around 2-3 dollars. A bus ride from the city centre will take approximately 20-30 minutes. This option is ideal for those travelling light, however, it is worth checking the current schedule in advance, especially if you have an early morning or late evening flight.

Taxis and Transfers are the fastest and most comfortable option. A ride by taxi or via popular ride-hailing apps (such as Uber or Lyft) from the centre of Medford to the terminal will take just 10-15 minutes. The estimated cost of the trip will be between 15 and 25 dollars depending on traffic conditions and demand. This is an excellent solution if you are travelling with family, have a lot of luggage, or simply want to avoid unnecessary hassle.

Car Rental is a great choice for those planning to actively explore Southern Oregon. In the Rogue Valley-Medford airport building, you will find counters for all leading rental agencies. By renting a car, you gain complete freedom of movement and can easily reach not only the airport but also famous regional attractions, such as Crater Lake National Park.

For travellers arriving in their own vehicle, the airport provides convenient parking. Both short-term parking spaces for quick drop-offs or pick-ups and long-term lots are available. The cost of short-term parking is about 2 dollars per hour, and long-term is approximately 12-15 dollars per day. This allows you to safely leave your car for the entire duration of your trip.

Terminals and Map

Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. It operates one passenger terminal, which serves all flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, navigation through the airport is intuitive, and the risk of getting lost is minimal, making it particularly comfortable for travellers.

The terminal has two main levels. The Ground Floor is the arrival and check-in zone. Here you will find airline check-in counters, the baggage claim area, car rental desks, and exits to ground transport. If you are departing, your journey begins here. The Second Floor is dedicated entirely to departures. After checking in on the ground floor, passengers go upstairs to pass through the security checkpoint (TSA). Immediately beyond it lies a spacious waiting hall with boarding gates, as well as cafes and shops.

Since there is only one terminal in the airport, there is no need for transfers between buildings or the use of shuttles. All zones are located within a single building, which significantly saves time and energy. The arrival zone is located on the ground floor, allowing passengers to quickly collect luggage and leave the airport. The departure zone, as mentioned, is on the second floor after passing security control, where passengers await boarding.

Check-in and security procedures at MFR usually proceed quite quickly and efficiently compared to major airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before the departure of a domestic flight, and during peak seasons (holidays, summer months) — 2 hours prior. Waiting time at security rarely exceeds 20-30 minutes, but it is always better to have a buffer of time.

For easy navigation, simply follow the clear signs. The layout is simple: check-in and baggage are downstairs, security and gates are upstairs. One of the features of the Medford airport is that boarding for some flights (especially on smaller regional aircraft) may take place not via a jet bridge, but by walking onto the airfield. This adds a certain charm to the journey and allows for a better view of the aircraft.

Airport History

The history of Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) begins in 1922, when the first airfield, known as Newell Barber Field, opened in the city of Medford. Initially, it was a simple airfield for private planes and airmail. Officially, the airport at its current location was opened in 1930 as the Medford Municipal Airport. This event laid the foundation for the future development of air travel in Southern Oregon.

An important stage in the airport's history was the period of World War II. In 1942, it was taken under the control of the US Army Air Forces and used as an auxiliary base for pilot training and military aircraft maintenance. After the war, the airport returned to civilian use, and a period of active growth began. In the 1960s, the first jet liners landed here, marking a new era in passenger transport for the region.

Throughout its history, MFR has been modernised repeatedly. In the 1970s, a new passenger terminal was built to cope with the growing flow of travellers. However, the most significant reconstruction took place in 2009, when a modern two-storey terminal with an area of about 10,000 square metres was opened. This project radically changed the appearance of the airport, increased its capacity, and improved the level of comfort for passengers. It was after this modernisation that it received its international status and current name — Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the airport plays a key role in fighting forest fires in the region. In summer, US Forest Service tanker planes and helicopters are based here, deploying rapidly to extinguish fires. Today, MFR is the third busiest airport in the state of Oregon, second only to Portland and Eugene, and continues to serve as an important aerial gateway for the southern part of the state and Northern California.

Services and Amenities

Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR), located in the city of Medford, USA, offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the airport is well-equipped to satisfy the basic needs of travellers.

Within the terminal, you will find several options for dining and shopping. In the main hall, the Sky House restaurant and bar operates, where you can have a full lunch or a drink while waiting for departure. For those who prefer coffee and light snacks, Boulevard Coffee is open. There is also a shop where you can purchase souvenirs, newspapers, and essential goods.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport, making it easy to stay connected, check email, or work. Numerous charging stations for electronic devices are located in the waiting lounges. There are no separate VIP lounges in the airport, however, the general waiting areas are spacious and comfortable enough for relaxing before a flight.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with disabilities and complies with ADA standards, offering ramps, accessible restrooms, and special parking. For families with small children, nursing rooms equipped with changing tables are available. There is no separate medical clinic in the terminal, however, in case of needing first aid or an emergency, you should immediately contact any airport staff member or the information desk.

ATMs for withdrawing cash are installed in the terminal, but currency exchange services are not provided — it is worth arranging this in advance. Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, many hotels to suit every taste and budget are located a few minutes' drive away. Most of them offer free transfers for their guests. The airport does not have its own conference halls or business centres, but these services are easily found in nearby hotels.

Where to Eat

Despite its compact size, Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal before departure. The main catering establishments are located in the `airside` zone, that is, after passing security control, in the main passenger terminal.

The airport's main establishment is the Sky House Bar & Grill. This is an ideal place for those who want to relax and enjoy a full lunch or dinner. The menu includes classic American dishes: burgers, sandwiches, salads, and various snacks. The bar deserves special attention, offering local beverages from the Rogue Valley vineyards, allowing you to experience the region's gastronomy right before departure.

For those short on time, Boulevard Coffee is an excellent choice. Here you can quickly grab coffee, tea, pastries, yoghurts, or ready-made sandwiches. This is a wonderful option for a light breakfast or a quick snack. The coffee shop is also located in the departure zone, which is very convenient for passengers waiting for their flight.

Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian options, such as salads or meat-free sandwiches, can usually be found at Sky House Bar & Grill. Passengers with stricter requirements (vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes) are advised to verify the availability of suitable options with the staff. The price range at MFR airport, as in most airports, is moderately high. Opening hours generally cover the time from the first morning flights to the last evening ones, ensuring access to food and drinks for the majority of passengers.

Travel Tips

Planning a trip through Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)? Here are some useful tips to ensure your journey goes smoothly. MFR is a relatively small and convenient airport, but good preparation never hurts. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before the departure of domestic flights. If you are travelling during peak season, with a lot of luggage, or require special assistance, it is better to allow about 2 hours.

To save time, complete online check-in and save the boarding pass on your phone or print it in advance. The security checkpoint at the airport in Medford operates according to TSA standards adopted throughout the USA. Pack all liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on luggage in containers of no more than 100 ml and place them in a single transparent bag. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag for separate scanning.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will give you magnificent views of Southern Oregon during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and the ability to stand up easily. Regarding hand luggage, always check the current rules of your airline regarding weight and size. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. A full list can be found on the official TSA website.

Most passengers departing from MFR make transfers at major hubs such as San Francisco, Seattle, or Denver. Rogue Valley Airport itself is compact, so if you have a connection here, it will be quick and simple. Although the airport holds international status, most flights are domestic, so the majority of passengers will not have to pass through customs control. This procedure is mainly relevant for private and some charter international flights.

To save money, consider bringing an empty reusable water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security, as well as your own snacks. If you are driving to the airport, study the parking options and book a spot online — this may be cheaper. Using airline mobile apps will help track flight status and receive notifications about changes.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. Clarify information about the new departure time, the possibility of rebooking on another flight, and rights to compensation (for example, vouchers for food or hotel accommodation). There are several cafes and shops in the airport where you can pass the time while waiting. Stay calm and keep all documents close at hand.

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