Mobile Regional Airport

Mobile Regional Airport (MOB), located in the state of Alabama, is more than just a transport hub. Its history is closely intertwined with the aviation history of the USA: during World War II, it was known as Bates Field and served as a training centre for military pilots. Today, it is a modern civil and military airport that welcomes and sends off travellers heading to the picturesque city of Mobile and the Gulf Coast. The airport is managed by the independent Mobile Airport Authority and serves as an important aerial gateway to the region.

Despite its relatively small size, Mobile Airport offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable journey. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and for those needing to charge electronic devices, there are dedicated stations and outlets built into the seats at the boarding gates. For travellers with children, there is a dedicated nursing room equipped with a changing table and comfortable seating. While waiting for a flight, you can have a snack at the grill restaurant, drink coffee, or visit the Executive Club lounge, where admission is free for military personnel. Passengers also have access to a newsstand, ATMs, and even a post office.

If you need to contact representatives of Mobile Airport (MOB), please use the following contact information. We have gathered the main communication channels for your convenience.

• Official Website: You will always find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations on the official airport portal: mobileairportauthority.com.
• Help Desk Phone: For inquiries or immediate assistance, you can call the number: +1 (251) 639-4680.
• Airport Address: 8400 Airport Blvd, Mobile, AL 36608, USA.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on its official pages on Facebook (@MobileRegionalAirport) and Instagram (@mobairport).
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building, contact the airport's Lost and Found service at +1 (251) 639-4680. If your items were lost on board the aircraft, you should contact your airline directly.
• Customer Support Contacts: For all questions related to your journey, you can approach the information desks in the terminal or call the general airport phone number.

Reaching Mobile Regional Airport (MOB), which is located approximately 21 kilometres west of the city centre of Mobile, can be done in several ways. Although direct public transport routes to the airport are limited, travellers have convenient alternatives allowing them to plan their trip according to their budget and preferences.

Taxis and Ridesharing Services, such as Uber and Lyft, are the most popular and reliable way to get to the airport. The journey from the city centre usually takes about 20–25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of a taxi ride or app-based service typically ranges from 35 to 50 US dollars. This is a convenient option, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively explore not only Mobile but also other cities on the Gulf Coast in the USA. Counters for all major rental companies are located within the airport terminal. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to guarantee the availability of the desired vehicle at the best price.

For travellers arriving in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided on the airport grounds. Both short-term and long-term parking zones with different tariff rates are available. This is a safe and practical way to leave your car for the duration of your absence.

It is worth noting that there is currently no direct bus or rail connection to Mobile Airport. Some hotels may offer shuttle services for their guests, so it is worth clarifying this information when booking accommodation. Otherwise, it is best to rely on taxis, ridesharing, or a rental car for the trip to the airport.

If you are planning your journey and looking for alternative flight options, it is worth considering other airports in the region. Nearby are Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT), approximately 85 km away, and Pensacola International Airport (PNS), at a distance of about 104 km, which offer more flights and may be a convenient point of arrival.

Mobile Airport (MOB) is a compact and convenient regional airport distinguished by a simple and clear structure. This makes navigation intuitive even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport operates with one main terminal, which serves all domestic flights. Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about complex transfers or finding the right building—all processes, from check-in to boarding, take place in one building. The terminal has two main levels, which is a standard layout for many airports.

On the ground floor, you will find the Arrivals areas and baggage claim. The car rental counters and exits to ground transport, including taxis and shuttles, are also located here. The second floor is dedicated entirely to departing passengers: here you will find airline check-in counters, the security checkpoint (TSA), and the exit to the gates.

After passing through security control, passengers enter the secure area (airside) with waiting lounges at the boarding gates. Despite its modest size, the terminal offers basic amenities, including small cafes and shops. Since all gates are located in one concourse, moving between them takes only a few minutes.

Passing through check-in and security at Mobile Airport usually takes significantly less time than at major hubs. On average, all procedures take about 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during morning peak hours.

The history of Mobile Airport (MOB), also known as Mobile Regional Airport, is closely linked to the development of aviation on the Gulf Coast in the USA. Its predecessor, the municipal airfield Bates Field, was opened in 1929. For the first few decades, it served as the main centre for civil aviation in the city of Mobile, receiving early mail and passenger flights.

A key moment in the airport's history was the closure of the major US Air Force base, Brookley Field, located closer to the city centre, in 1969. Following this event, all commercial air traffic was transferred to Bates Field. This required significant modernization and expansion of the infrastructure. In 1979, a modern two-story terminal building was built and opened, which is still in use today, replacing older, more modest structures.

Since the construction of the new terminal, the airport has gone through several stages of renovation to meet modern standards of safety and passenger comfort. Waiting lounges have been modernized, baggage handling systems updated, and security screening areas expanded. Although the airport cannot boast world records, it consistently fulfils its main task—providing reliable air connections for residents and guests of the region, serving several hundred thousand passengers annually.

Interesting fact: the airport is still often referred to as Bates Field in honour of the old airfield, which is a tribute to its rich history. Today, Mobile Airport continues to play an important role in the economic life of Alabama, supporting business and tourism. Discussions are underway regarding the construction of a new terminal in the city centre on the site of the former Brookley Field, which could open a new chapter in its history.

Mobile Airport (MOB) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Within the terminal, you will find various cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack or coffee, as well as shops with travel essentials, press, and souvenirs. It is a great place to pass the time before departure and purchase last-minute gifts.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport building, allowing you to stay connected, work, or view entertainment content. Numerous stations for charging electronic devices are provided in the waiting lounges. In addition to general areas, some airlines may offer access to their own premium lounges — it is recommended to check this information with your carrier.

ATMs for cash withdrawal are located within the airport. In case of need, passengers can visit the first aid station. Currency exchange services may also be available for financial matters, but it is better to check their availability and operating hours in advance.

Mobile Airport is well-equipped for passengers with special needs. For families with small children, nursing rooms are provided where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment. Travellers with reduced mobility can count on full accessibility of the terminal: there are ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. Additionally, assistance services can be booked in advance.

If you need to stay overnight before an early flight or after a late arrival, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers, conference rooms or business services may be available, allowing you to hold a meeting or work in a quiet environment. Information on booking such facilities should be clarified at the airport information desk.

At Mobile Airport (MOB), passengers can find convenient dining options for both a quick snack and a full meal. Food and beverage outlets are concentrated in the main terminal, offering options both before and after security control.

The main place for a leisurely lunch is the MOB Grille restaurant, located airside (in the secure zone), immediately after screening. This is an establishment with a full menu and beverages, usually operating from the first to the last flight of the day. Here you can order a hearty breakfast, burgers, and sandwiches, as well as experience the cuisine of the Southern USA. Look out for local specialties such as shrimp and grits or traditional gumbo soup. This is an ideal option to relax while waiting for your flight.

For those in a hurry or simply wanting to take something away, a cafe-shop operates landside (in the public area) before security control. They offer fresh coffee, soft drinks, pastries, packaged sandwiches, and various snacks. This is an excellent solution for a quick bite, especially if you are seeing off passengers.

Prices in airport establishments can be described as moderate by airport standards. Regarding dietary restrictions, the MOB Grille menu typically includes salads suitable for vegetarians. If you require Halal, vegan, or gluten-free meals, it is best to verify availability directly with the staff—they can help select a suitable option or adapt an existing dish.

To ensure your journey through Mobile Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, stress, and money, making the start or end of your trip to the USA more comfortable.

Arrival time at the airport: For domestic flights, which make up the majority from Mobile Airport, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass through security control, and reach the boarding gate. During peak seasons or holidays, it is better to add an extra 30 minutes as a buffer.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on your airline's website. This way, you can receive your boarding pass immediately. At the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage at the designated counter. Security control (TSA) here follows standard rules: be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronic devices, as well as containers with liquids, from your carry-on luggage.

Choosing a seat on the plane: If the airline allows you to choose a seat in advance, consider your preferences. Window seats offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, whilst aisle seats provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. For a quick exit from the aircraft, choose rows in the front part of the cabin.

Carry-on luggage rules: Remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids: all gels, aerosols, and creams must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in carry-on luggage. Check the permitted dimensions of carry-on luggage on your airline's website.

Passengers with connections: If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage in Mobile. Generally, on domestic flights, luggage is checked through to the final destination. Immediately after arrival, find information about your next flight on the display boards to find out the boarding gate number.

Customs Control: Mobile Airport serves mainly domestic flights, so most passengers do not encounter customs control. However, if you are arriving on an international flight, you will have to pass through passport and customs control, where you will need to present documents and declare imported goods if required.

Saving time and money:

• Book parking online if you are driving to the airport — this is often cheaper.
• Bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security control to avoid spending money on drinks.
• Research transfer options from the airport to the city in advance: shuttles or taxi booking services may be more cost-effective than taking a taxi on the spot.

What to do in case of flight delay: In the event of a delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time or alternative options. Clarify if you are entitled to compensation (for example, food vouchers). The airport provides free Wi-Fi, which will help you stay connected and pass the time.