Quad City International Airport

Quad City International Airport (MLI) is not just a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the heart of the US Midwest, uniting the unique "Quad Cities" agglomeration on the border of Illinois and Iowa. Here, travellers are welcomed by an atmosphere of calm and comfort, so rare for giant aviation hubs, allowing you to begin your acquaintance with the region without unnecessary fuss and stress. Thanks to thoughtful infrastructure and the sincere hospitality of the staff, waiting for a flight turns from a routine into a pleasant part of your American adventure.

Airport Features and Benefits:

Quad City Airport is famous for its incredible compactness and convenience: the journey from the terminal entrance to the gate takes mere minutes, which is especially appreciated by passengers tired of queues in metropolises. One of the main highlights is the Art at the Airport gallery, where works by local artists are regularly exhibited, turning waiting halls into a cultural space.

For the comfort of travellers, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the territory along with cosy relaxation zones, including a business lounge for work. The airport also prides itself on its accessibility: it is located just a few minutes' drive from many hotels and business centres in Moline, making it an ideal choice for both business trips and tourism.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Quad City International Airport (MLI). If you have questions related to your flight, schedule, or baggage allowance rules, we recommend contacting your airline directly.

• Official website: www.qcairport.com
• Help desk phone: +1 (309) 764-9621
• Airport address: 2200 69th Ave, Moline, IL 61265, USA
• Email: You can contact the airport administration via the contact form on the official website.
• Social media: You can follow airport news on their pages on Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram.
• Lost luggage information: If your items were lost within the terminal, contact the airport's lost and found service. For questions regarding lost or damaged checked baggage, you should contact your airline's representative office directly.
• Passenger support contacts: For general questions, you can use the main help desk phone. For questions related to booking, tickets, and in-flight service, please contact your airline.

Reaching Quad City International Airport (MLI), which serves the city of Moline and neighbouring settlements in the USA, is possible via several convenient methods. The choice of the optimal option depends on your budget, time, and amount of luggage. A car trip from the centre of Moline to the terminal usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes. However, it is always recommended to leave with extra time, especially during peak hours.

The most economical way is to use public transport services. The local MetroLINK bus network serves the airport with route No. 20, connecting it to the city centre and other districts. This is an excellent choice for solo travellers with light luggage. Before your trip, be sure to check the current schedule on the carrier's official website, as service intervals may change.

For maximum convenience, you can order a taxi or use mobile apps such as Uber and Lyft, which are widely available in the region. This "door-to-door" option is ideal if you are travelling with family or heavy luggage. The cost of the trip will be higher than the bus, but you will save significant time. Private shuttles are also available and can be booked in advance, which is particularly beneficial for large groups.

If you prefer to move around by private transport, convenient parking lots are provided at the airport. Both short-term and long-term parking areas are available with different rates depending on the distance from the terminal. Additionally, representatives of all major car rental companies operate at the airport. Renting a car will be a wonderful solution if you plan to explore the Quad Cities region on your own.

When planning your journey, it is also worth considering flights to neighbouring airports, which may offer more flight options or better rates. Among them are Burlington Airport (BRL), Dubuque Airport (DBQ), Peoria International Airport (PIA), The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), and Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI). Remember that choosing an alternative airport will require additional time and costs for ground transfer to your destination.

Quad City International Airport (MLI) is distinguished by a compact and passenger-friendly structure consisting of one main terminal. This makes navigation intuitive and fast, relieving travellers of the need to move between different buildings. All domestic and international flights are serviced within this single complex.

The airport layout is logical and simple. The terminal has two main levels. On the upper level, check-in counters for all airlines and the central security checkpoint are located. After passing through screening, passengers enter the general sterile area, from which two passenger concourses (wings) diverge: Concourse A and Concourse B, where the boarding gates are located. The arrivals and baggage claim area is on the lower level of the terminal.

Since the airport has only one terminal, transitions between all zones are done on foot and take mere minutes. There is no need to use shuttles or automated trains. After passing security, you can freely move between Concourses A and B, where waiting lounges, several cafes, and souvenir shops are located.

One of the main features and advantages of the airport in Moline is the speed of completing all formalities. On average, check-in and security screening take significantly less time than in large hub airports — often no more than 20–30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure to check luggage and go through all procedures without rushing.

For convenient navigation, simply follow the clear signs. After security, pay attention to the flight information screens to find your gate number and the corresponding concourse. Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, the walk from the security checkpoint to the furthest gate will take no more than 5-7 minutes.

The history of Quad City International Airport (MLI) is a vivid example of aviation development in the USA. It all began in the 1920s when a private airfield, known as Franning Field, appeared on this site. An important turning point was the acquisition of the field by the city of Moline in 1947. The first commercial terminal, built with the support of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), opened back in 1935, laying the foundation for future growth.

During the Second World War, the airport played a strategic role, serving as a military airbase. This period facilitated the modernization of runways and infrastructure. The post-war years were marked by a transition to civil aviation and a gradual increase in passenger traffic. A real breakthrough occurred in 1985 when a modern terminal building was opened, which, after numerous renovations, continues to serve passengers today. This event became a symbol of a new era for the airport.

One of the significant achievements in the history of MLI was obtaining the status of an international airport. This became possible thanks to the opening of a US Customs post, which allowed for the acceptance of international and charter flights. Over the years, the airport became an important hub for airlines such as AirTran Airways, underscoring its significance for the region. Today, the airport continues to develop, regularly updating infrastructure and expanding its route network to meet the modern requirements of travellers.

Quad City International Airport (MLI) offers passengers all necessary amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find services here that meet your needs.

For those feeling hungry, cafes and restaurants operate within the terminal. Here you can quickly grab a coffee with a sandwich or have a full lunch in a calm environment. In the airport shops, you will find souvenirs, press, books, and essential items that may be useful during your journey.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work. Numerous power outlets and USB ports are provided in the waiting halls for charging gadgets. Passengers requiring a quieter environment for work can use the business centre services or secluded workstations.

For comfortable rest before departure, the airport has a special lounge. Although there are no large VIP halls of international airlines here, the existing relaxation zone offers guests silence, comfortable armchairs, and a pleasant atmosphere away from the main bustle of the terminal. Financial services are represented by ATMs located in easily accessible places. Please note that currency exchange services may be limited, so it is better to arrange this in advance.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, elevators, special restrooms, and parking spaces. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms with changing tables are provided. In case first aid is required, please contact airport staff.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, many hotels to suit any taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity. Most of them provide a free shuttle for their guests, which is very convenient for early departures or late arrivals.

At Quad City International Airport (MLI), passengers will find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal, located both before and after the security zone. Although the airport is not very large, everything necessary to comfortably spend time waiting for a flight is available here.

Before Security (Landside): In the public area, there is typically a coffee shop where you can meet with those seeing you off or have a coffee before check-in. Here you will be offered fresh pastries, sandwiches, and a variety of beverages. This is an ideal place for those who have arrived at the airport early.

After Security (Airside): The main part of the catering establishments is located in the sterile area, accessible to passengers after passing security control. Here the choice is wider:

• Restaurant and Bar: A grill-bar style establishment, such as The Cockpit Grille, usually operates in the main departure area. Here you can order full hot meals, such as burgers, steaks, salads, and soups. This is the best option for a leisurely lunch or dinner. Often on the menu, you can find dishes typical of the Midwest USA, and the bar serves beverages from local producers.
• Coffee Shop and Quick Snacks: For those with little time, a Grab & Go kiosk or similar establishment is ideal. Here you can quickly buy sandwiches, yoghurts, fruit, crisps, and drinks to take with you on board the plane.

Special Dietary Needs and Prices: Most establishments offer vegetarian options, for example, salads or sandwiches with vegetables. It is best to check information regarding halal, gluten-free, or vegan dishes directly with the staff. Prices at the airport are generally slightly higher than in the city but remain within reasonable limits. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey through Quad City International Airport in the city of Moline goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. This airport in the USA is quite compact, making it convenient for passengers, but preparation is never superfluous.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before departure. During peak seasons (for example, on holidays), it is better to add another half hour. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage. The TSA checkpoint here usually works faster than in large hubs, but the rules are standard. Remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids: containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz) in a transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre, one bag per passenger. Large electronics, such as laptops, will need to be placed in a separate tray. Check the list of items prohibited in hand luggage on the TSA website in advance.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If you want to admire the views, choose a window seat. If you need more legroom or the ability to exit quickly after landing, an aisle seat is your choice. If you have a connecting flight, study the map of the next airport in advance and ensure you have enough time between flights (optimally — at least 1.5-2 hours for domestic connections in large airports).

Customs Control. When arriving from another country, you will have to pass through customs and passport control. Have your passport, visa (if required), and completed customs declaration ready. Be prepared to answer the officer's questions about the purpose of your trip and the duration of your stay.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, book tickets and parking in advance. Take an empty water bottle with you to fill it after security, as well as light snacks. In case of a flight delay, first contact the airline representative to find out about rebooking options. Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to monitor flight status and find something to do — for example, read or work in one of the cafes.