Nantucket Memorial Airport

Welcome to a place where the journey becomes part of the holiday before you even leave the terminal. Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) is not your typical impersonal transport hub made of glass and concrete, but rather a cosy gateway steeped in the spirit of maritime romance and the history of old New England. Its architecture, designed in the island's traditional style with grey cedar shingles, sets a relaxed mood from the very first minute. Here, amidst the fresh ocean breeze that you feel immediately upon descending the stairs, begins your acquaintance with the mysterious "Grey Lady" of the Atlantic.

Airport Features and Highlights:

Nantucket Airport possesses a unique character that distinguishes it from its mainland counterparts. Here are a few traits that make it special:

• Authentic Architecture: The terminal is designed to blend harmoniously with the island's strict architectural code. Instead of industrial structures, you are greeted by a building resembling a large country cottage, creating a sense of home-like comfort.
• Walk on the Tarmac: There are no jet bridges here. Passengers descend the stairs directly onto the tarmac and walk to the terminal. This allows you to breathe in the clean sea air and enjoy the view of the aircraft from the very first seconds.
• Distinct Seasonality: The life of the airport is dictated by the rhythm of the holiday season. While in winter it is a quiet harbour for rare flights, in summer ACK transforms into the second busiest airport in the state of Massachusetts, receiving hundreds of private jets and scheduled flights daily.
• The Fog Challenge: The island is known for its dense fogs, earning it the nickname "The Grey Lady". The airport is equipped with modern navigation equipment, but landing here often requires high skill from pilots, adding a touch of adventure to the flight.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK). We recommend always checking the accuracy of the data on official resources before travelling.

• Official Website: www.nantucket-ma.gov/airport. Here you will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call +1 508-325-5300.
• Airport Address: 14 Airport Road, Nantucket, MA 02554, USA.
• Email: For most enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the airport's official website in the contacts section.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news and updates on its official social media pages, such as Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you must contact your airline's baggage tracing service immediately. For items left in the terminal building, please contact the airport's lost and found service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to booking, ticket changes, special assistance on board, or flight information, please contact your airline directly.

Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) is located just a few kilometres south of the island's main town, making the journey there quick and convenient. The trip from the centre of Nantucket to the terminal usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes by car. The choice of transport depends on your budget, time, and preferences.

The most economical way to get to the airport is by public transport. During the summer season (usually from May to October), Nantucket Regional Transit Authority (NRTA) buses, known as The Wave, operate across the island. A special route connects the city centre with the airport. This is an excellent option for travellers with light luggage, and the cost of the trip is just a few dollars, making it the most budget-friendly choice.

Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport. They are available 24/7 and will take you directly to the terminal. The cost of a trip from the city centre is usually between $20–$35 depending on demand and time of day. For a guaranteed car at a time convenient for you, consider pre-booking a private transfer.

Car rental on the island is possible but not always necessary due to its compact size and well-developed network of bicycle paths. Nevertheless, if you prefer complete freedom of movement, counters for several rental companies are located directly at the airport. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented car, both short-term and long-term parking is provided.

When planning a trip to this picturesque corner of the USA, it is useful to know about other air harbours in the region. The nearest alternatives include Martha's Vineyard Airport on the neighbouring island and Barnstable Airport on the Cape Cod peninsula. The journey from them to Nantucket will require an additional trip by ferry or a local flight.

Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) is characterised by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. It consists of one main terminal that handles all commercial flights—both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, you won't have to worry about complicated transfers between buildings: all key zones are under one roof, making navigation extremely simple.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Airline check-in counters are located immediately at the entrance. After checking in, passengers proceed to a single security checkpoint, beyond which lies the general departure area. The compact size of the airport makes it easy to orient yourself even for first-time visitors, and staff are always ready to assist with any questions.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated for passenger convenience. The Departure Zone includes several boarding gates located in one waiting hall. There are comfortable seats here, as well as basic amenities such as small cafes and shops. The Arrival Zone consists of a baggage claim hall located in immediate proximity to the terminal exit, where taxis, shuttles, and hotel representatives await passengers.

Going through pre-flight formalities at ACK usually takes less time than at major airports. However, it is worth considering the high seasonal congestion, especially during the summer months (June to August) and on public holidays. In peak season, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure to pass through check-in and security without rushing. Significantly less time will be required in the off-season.

The main advice for navigating Nantucket Airport is not to worry. Due to its compactness, it is practically impossible to get lost here. Signs are clear and logical. Your main focus should be on your arrival time at the airport, especially if your trip falls during the peak tourist season, to avoid queues and start your holiday on the island stress-free.

The history of Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) begins during the years of World War II. It was founded in 1941 and originally functioned as the Nantucket Naval Air Station. Its main task was patrolling the Atlantic coast and protecting sea routes. After the war ended, the military base was deemed surplus, and in 1946 the facility was transferred to the Town of Nantucket. It was then that it received its current name—"Memorial"—in honour of the veterans who gave their lives in service to the country.

The transition to civilian status marked a new stage in the airport's development. In the 1950s, the first full-fledged passenger terminal was built, responding to the island's growing popularity as a tourist destination. Since then, the airport has been expanded and modernised multiple times. Key renovations included lengthening the runways to accommodate larger aircraft and installing modern navigation equipment, which is critical for operations in the famous Nantucket fog.

An interesting fact: during the summer months, Nantucket Memorial Airport becomes one of the busiest in the state of Massachusetts in terms of take-offs and landings, surpassing even some large regional airports. This clearly demonstrates its key role in the transport infrastructure and economy of the island, which depends largely on tourism. Today, ACK is not just an air gateway to a popular resort in the USA, but also an important historical site reminding us of the island's past.

Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK), despite its compact size, offers passengers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable journey. Here you will find several options for a snack and relaxation before your flight. The terminal features a restaurant and a small cafe where you can order hot meals, snacks, and beverages. There is also a shop offering souvenirs, press, and travel goods.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. If you need to recharge your phone or laptop, special charging stations are equipped in the waiting halls. There are no dedicated VIP lounges in the airport, but the general waiting areas are comfortable enough for resting before a flight.

ATMs are installed in the terminal, but please note that currency exchange points are absent, as the airport is oriented primarily towards domestic flights. The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility, offering an accessible environment and special services upon request from the airline. For families with small children, baby changing tables are available in the restrooms. First aid is available in emergency cases.

There are no hotels within the airport territory itself, but many accommodation options are located in close proximity, in the town of Nantucket, which can be reached in a few minutes by taxi. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are not provided in the terminal building. Business travellers are advised to seek such services in city hotels. This is typical for small regional airports in the USA, where the main focus is on quick and convenient passenger service.

Despite its modest size, Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal to help wait for their flight in comfort. The choice of establishments here is small, but they cover the basic needs of travellers.

The main establishment at the airport is Crosswinds Restaurant. It is located in the main building before the security checkpoint (landside), making it accessible for both departing passengers and those meeting them. Here you can have a leisurely breakfast, lunch, or dinner in a cosy atmosphere overlooking the runway. The menu includes classic American dishes: burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups. It is an excellent place to try local specialities, for example, the famous New England clam chowder or a lobster roll. Prices here are average, making it a good choice for a full meal.

If you have already passed security control and are looking for a quick bite, your choice is The Handlebar Cafe. It is located in the departure area (airside), next to the gates. This is an ideal option for those with little time. Here you will be offered freshly brewed coffee, tea, pastries, ready-made sandwiches, snacks, and soft drinks. This place is designed for a quick and convenient snack right before boarding the flight.

Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Vegetarians will likely find salads or meat-free sandwiches on the menu. However, finding certified gluten-free, vegan, or Halal dishes might be challenging. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff or choose pre-packaged snacks. Opening hours usually align with the flight schedule—they open early in the morning and operate until the last flight departs. Nevertheless, it is always useful to check current information in advance, especially if your flight is late in the evening.

Travelling through Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) has its nuances; knowing them will make your trip more comfortable. Here are some useful tips for travellers.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Nantucket Airport is small, but during the peak season (especially in summer) it can be very busy. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure. To save time, check in for your flight online and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone. Security checkpoints here are standard (TSA), but due to the small size of the terminal, queues can form suddenly.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If possible, choose a window seat—in good weather, stunning views of the island will open up to you during take-off and landing. Please note that many flights to Nantucket are operated on small turboprop aircraft. This means that requirements for the size and weight of hand luggage may be stricter than on major airlines. Large wheeled suitcases that pass as hand luggage on regular flights may need to be gate-checked here.

Connections and Customs. Nantucket Airport serves mainly domestic flights. If you have a connecting flight in another US city, you will likely have to collect your luggage yourself and re-check it for the next flight. International travellers pass through customs and passport control at their first airport of arrival in the USA (for example, in Boston or New York), so there are no such procedures in Nantucket.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets and accommodation in advance, especially if you plan a trip for the summer months when prices reach their peak. To avoid spending extra at the airport, bring an empty water bottle (it can be filled after security) and light snacks. Ground transport on the island is quite expensive, so study the schedule of the local NRTA Wave bus or consider sharing a taxi.

Flight Delays. The main reason for flight delays and cancellations in Nantucket is the weather, especially the famous dense fogs. Always check your flight status via the airline's app. If a flight is cancelled, contact the carrier's representative immediately for rebooking. Given the small size of the terminal and limited amenities, keep a book, headphones, and a portable phone charger with you in case of a long wait.