Naples Municipal Airport

Naples Municipal Airport (APF) is not merely a transport hub, but an elegant aerial gateway to Florida's "Paradise Coast". Unlike noisy metropolises, an atmosphere of exclusivity and tranquility reigns here: the airport specializes in private aviation and ensures maximum privacy for resort guests. Located literally a stone's throw from the city centre, it allows travellers to find themselves on famous beaches or golf courses just a few minutes after landing.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Despite its compact size, Naples Airport (APF) has repeatedly been recognised as one of the best general aviation airports in the USA. Its main advantage is its phenomenal proximity to the city: the journey to historical quarters and the coast takes less than 10 minutes by car, which is a rarity for aviation hubs. The terminal is distinguished by a modern design and a "boutique" approach to service, where special attention is paid to every passenger.

For aviation and history enthusiasts, the Museum of Military Memorabilia operates on the airport grounds, housing unique exhibits from the Second World War era. Furthermore, the airport is known for its "good neighbour" policy and strict noise control, allowing it to coexist harmoniously with the residential areas of this elite resort. There are no endless queues or the hustle and bustle typical of large hubs here, making the start or end of a journey as relaxed as possible.

Below you will find the contact information for Naples Municipal Airport (APF), which will help you get in touch with its services.

• Official Website: flynaples.com — here you can find flight schedules, information about services, and airport news.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (239) 643-0733.
• Address: 160 Aviation Drive North, Naples, FL 34104, USA.
• Social Media: You can follow updates on the airport's official page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If items were lost in the terminal or on airport grounds, please call +1 (239) 643-0733. If you left something on board an aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general enquiries and assistance, please contact the main airport phone number.

Naples Municipal Airport (APF) is located very conveniently, just a few kilometres northeast of the centre of Naples, making the journey to it quick and simple. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can reach the terminal in several ways, including public transport, taxi, or a rented car.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The local bus system, Collier Area Transit (CAT), serves this area. Route No. 12 passes near the airport, however, the stop may be at some distance from the terminal, which will require a short walk. This method is suitable for travellers without heavy luggage who wish to save money.

Taxis and Rideshare Services, such as Uber and Lyft, are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. The trip from the city centre will take just 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. The cost of the trip is usually between 15-25 dollars, but may vary depending on demand. This is the ideal choice for those who value speed and comfort.

Car Rental is an excellent option for travellers planning to explore the picturesque surroundings of Southwest Florida. Several major rental companies have counters right in the airport building. If you are driving your own vehicle, the airport grounds provide both short-term and long-term parking, located in immediate proximity to the terminal.

Although Naples Municipal Airport mainly serves private and corporate aviation, most tourists travelling by commercial airlines arrive at larger neighbouring airports. The nearest and most popular of these is Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, located approximately 45 minutes away by car. Other alternatives located at a greater distance include Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) and major hubs such as Miami International Airport (MIA).

Naples Municipal Airport in Naples (APF) is a compact and modern aviation hub that offers passengers the simplest and fastest service possible. Its structure differs significantly from large international airports, which is its main advantage.

The airport operates with just one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, navigation through the building is intuitively clear, and the risk of getting lost is reduced to zero. Departure and arrival zones are in the same building a short distance from each other. Upon entering the terminal, you will immediately see airline check-in counters and the security screening area, and upon arrival — the baggage claim belt and car rental counters.

Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between them is irrelevant — all necessary services and boarding gates are within a few minutes' walk. The terminal layout is extremely simple: after check-in and passing security control, passengers enter a small but cosy waiting hall with boarding gates. The entire process is organised to minimise time and stress for travellers.

The main feature and advantage of APF airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Due to the small number of commercial flights, queues for check-in and screening are a rarity here. Usually, the entire process from entering the terminal to the waiting hall takes no more than 15–20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 60–90 minutes before departure to check in luggage and complete all formalities without rushing.

The history of Naples Municipal Airport (APF) is closely tied to the development of the city of Naples and key events in the history of the USA. The airport was founded in 1943 during the Second World War as a military airfield named Naples Army Airfield. Its primary task was training pilots for the US Air Force. Located on the southwest coast of Florida, it played a strategic role in training and supporting military operations.

After the war ended, the airfield was transferred to the ownership of the city and Collier County, and its transformation into a civil facility began. Officially, it became a public airport in 1953. In subsequent decades, the airport grew along with the popularity of Naples as a tourist destination. It served scheduled commercial flights, connecting the city with other points in the country. Particularly significant was the role of Provincetown-Boston Airlines (PBA), which was the main carrier for many years.

In the 1970s and 1980s, significant renovations were carried out: new terminals were built, and runways were modernised to accommodate larger aircraft. However, with the opening of the larger Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in neighbouring Fort Myers, the commercial significance of Naples airport began to decline. By the late 1990s, most major airlines had moved their flights to RSW.

Today, Naples Municipal Airport is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the country, specialising in serving private and corporate aircraft. An interesting fact: due to its location near residential areas, the airport administration developed and implemented some of the strictest noise reduction programmes in the USA, making it an example of a community-friendly airport. Despite the change in its profile, APF remains an important transport hub, reflecting the rich history and modern status of this prestigious resort city.

Naples Municipal Airport (APF) is a compact and convenient aviation hub offering all necessary services for a comfortable wait for your flight. Despite its small size, the airport provides passengers with key amenities. Here you will find a cosy café where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase light refreshments for the road. There is also a small shop where you can buy fresh press, souvenirs, and essential goods.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the terminal. Charging stations for electronic devices are located in the waiting areas so you can prepare your gadgets for the flight. Although there are no dedicated VIP lounges in the airport, the general waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable and spacious. Financial services are represented by ATMs available in the main terminal.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with special needs in accordance with ADA standards. Wheelchairs are provided upon request, as well as specially equipped restrooms and ramps. Families with children can use baby changing rooms. In case of necessity, basic medical assistance and first aid services are always available to passengers.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, however, thanks to its convenient location, you will find numerous hotels to suit any taste and budget just a few minutes away by car or taxi. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent in the terminal, but such services are easily found in nearby hotels, which often offer modern venues for holding business meetings.

When planning a flight through Naples Municipal Airport (APF), it is important to consider that this is a small airport serving predominantly private and business aviation. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is limited and concentrated in one compact terminal building.

The main and, essentially, the only place where you can have a full meal is Plane Jane's Cafe. It is located in the main terminal building before the security checkpoint (landside), making it accessible for both departing passengers and those meeting them. The café is designed in the style of a classic American diner and is popular with pilots and locals.

Here is what is worth knowing about dining at APF airport:

• Menu and Atmosphere: Plane Jane's Cafe offers traditional American dishes. Here you can order a hearty breakfast, for example, an omelette or pancakes, and for lunch — burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. It is an excellent place for both a quick snack with a cup of coffee and a leisurely lunch with a view of the runway.
• Dietary Options: Specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes are absent from the menu. However, the staff is usually ready to accommodate and offer simple vegetarian options, for example, a salad or a meat-free sandwich. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them.
• Prices and Opening Hours: The price range is average, typical for airport cafés. The establishment is usually open for breakfast and lunch and closes in the afternoon. It is recommended to check current opening hours directly before your visit.

Besides the café, vending machines with drinks and snacks may be installed in the terminal, available around the clock. Given the limited selection, if you are looking for gastronomic variety or fine dining establishments, it is better to dine at one of the numerous restaurants in the city of Naples before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through Naples Municipal Airport (APF) goes smoothly, take advantage of these tips. The airport in Naples, USA, is relatively small, making it convenient for passengers, but preparation is always important.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Passing Security Control. Since this is a small regional airport, queues for screening are usually shorter than in large hubs. Nevertheless, be prepared in advance: place laptops and large electronics in a separate tray, remove outer clothing and belts. Remember the rules for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent bag.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If you want to enjoy views of the Florida coast, choose a window seat. An aisle seat will give more legroom and allow you to stand up freely. For those in a hurry, the best seats are in the front part of the cabin, as you will be able to leave the aircraft faster upon arrival.

Hand Luggage. Besides restrictions on liquids, ensure that there are no prohibited items in your hand luggage: sharp objects, flammable substances, and certain types of batteries. Always check the current rules on your airline's website, as requirements for weight and dimensions of hand luggage may differ.

Connecting Passengers and Customs. Transfers at Naples Municipal Airport usually proceed very quickly thanks to its compact size. Ensure you have enough time between flights and check the number of your next boarding gate. Since the airport mainly serves domestic flights, customs control is irrelevant for most passengers. If you are arriving on an international private flight, the procedure will be standard.

Saving Time and Money. Book a transfer from the airport or parking in advance if you are driving your own car. To avoid spending extra in the airport, bring an empty water bottle with you (it can be filled after security) and light snacks.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, remain calm. Contact an airline representative to obtain information and clarify your rights. The airport has waiting areas, a café, and free Wi-Fi. Ensure your phone is charged and that you have everything necessary in your hand luggage to pass the time comfortably while waiting.