Greater Rochester International Airport

Welcome to Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) — your gateway to the scenic Finger Lakes region and the third-largest city in New York State. This modern and convenient airport is not just a transport hub, but a part of the city's cultural space, where artworks and installations greet you immediately upon arrival. Despite its compact size, the airport has repeatedly received national awards for its high level of service, accessibility, and passenger comfort. Your acquaintance with the rich history and innovative spirit of Rochester begins here.

Rochester Airport is renowned for its thoughtful and passenger-oriented infrastructure. Here you will find not only standard waiting lounges but also unique amenities, such as a free play area in partnership with the famous Strong National Museum of Play, making the wait for a flight comfortable even for travellers with children. For passenger convenience, free high-speed Wi-Fi, numerous gadget charging stations, and modern furniture in lounge zones are provided. The airport has also received recognition for its "green" initiatives, including the use of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. Thanks to the terminal's compactness, navigation is intuitive, and security wait times are minimized, allowing for stress-free travel.

To ensure your journey through Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared a list of key contacts. We recommend always verifying the accuracy of the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: You can find the current schedule, terminal maps, and other important passenger information on the site. Address: www.rocairport.com.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (585) 753-7000.
• Airport Address: 1200 Brooks Ave, Rochester, NY 14624, USA.
• Email: To contact the administration, it is recommended to use the special contact form available on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: Follow the latest news and updates on the airport's official pages on networks such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost and Found Information: If your items were lost in the terminal, contact the Lost and Found office at +1 (585) 753-7053. If the loss occurred on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline representatives directly.
• Passenger Support Service: General inquiries can be directed to the main airport phone number. Questions regarding tickets, check-in, or flight status should be addressed directly to your air carrier.

Getting to Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) from the Niblack Street Area (Rochester, New York) is effortless thanks to a well-organised transport system. The airport is conveniently located just a few kilometres southwest of the city centre, making the trip quick and accessible. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods.

Public Transport. The most economical option is travelling by bus. The Regional Transit Service (RTS) public transport system offers routes connecting the city centre and other districts to the airport. The bus journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes. This is an excellent choice for solo travellers with light luggage who wish to save money. It is recommended to check the current schedule on the carrier's official website before travelling.

Taxis and Ridesharing. For those who value comfort and speed, taxis or ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are the best solution. A trip from central Rochester to the terminal usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes, excluding traffic. This method is especially convenient if you are travelling with family, a large group, or have significant luggage. The cost will be higher than the bus, but the direct "door-to-door" service justifies the expense.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to move actively around the region and not depend on transport schedules, renting a car is the ideal solution. Offices of all major rental companies are represented at Greater Rochester Airport. For travellers with their own vehicles, various types of parking are provided on the airport grounds: from hourly short-term parking right at the terminal to more affordable long-term parking zones, from where shuttles run to the terminal.

When planning a trip to this region of the USA, it is also useful to explore flights to neighbouring airports. Sometimes this helps find more favourable or convenient flight options. Alternatives include Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), and Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG), located within a one-and-a-half to two-hour drive.

Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) is distinguished by a thoughtful and passenger-friendly structure. The airport operates one main passenger terminal, which completely eliminates confusion regarding finding the right building or the need to move between different terminals. Such compactness makes it particularly convenient for travellers.

The terminal building is divided into two levels. The upper level houses the Departures Zone: airline check-in counters and the central security checkpoint are located here. After passing through control, passengers enter the general area, from where two concourses (wings) with boarding gates diverge: Concourse A (gates A1-A11) and Concourse B (gates B1-B10). The lower level houses the Arrivals Zone, where baggage claim belts and exits to ground transport, including taxis, shuttles, and car rental points, are located.

Navigation within the terminal is intuitive thanks to clear signage. Since all boarding gates are in one building, after passing security, you can easily walk to any gate within 5-10 minutes. Transitions between Concourses A and B are free and do not require additional security checks.

Typically, there are no long queues at Greater Rochester Airport. Time for check-in and security screening rarely exceeds 20-30 minutes on ordinary days. However, during peak hours or holidays, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before domestic flights to complete all formalities calmly. For comfortable navigation, simply follow the signs to your concourse and gate number indicated on your boarding pass.

The history of Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) is a chronicle of the development of aviation and the city itself. The airport was officially opened in 1928 and was originally named Rochester Municipal Airport. In its first decades, it served primarily mail flights and a small number of passenger services, becoming an important link in the emerging aviation network of the USA.

A significant stage of development occurred in the post-war years. With the growing popularity of air travel, the need for expansion arose. In 1953, a new terminal, more modern for that time, was built, capable of handling increased passenger flow and larger aircraft. However, the real transformation happened with the advent of the jet age. Between 1988 and 1992, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out, resulting in the current two-level terminal. It was then that the airport received its modern name — Greater Rochester International Airport, highlighting its international status.

In the 21st century, modernization continued. The main runway was extended, and in 2018, a major renovation project worth 79 million dollars was completed. As part of this project, the famous futuristic canopy over the approach road was created, security zones were updated, and modern technologies for passenger convenience were implemented.

Perhaps one of the most significant and interesting events in the airport's recent history was its renaming. In 2020, it was named Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport in honour of Frederick Douglass — a prominent social activist, rights campaigner, and publisher who lived and worked in Rochester for a long time. This decision immortalized the memory of an important historical figure closely connected with the city and highlighted the cultural heritage of the region.

Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything necessary for a pleasant time here.

Various dining points are located within the terminal: from cafes with quick snacks and aromatic coffee to restaurants where you can have a full lunch or dinner. Shops offer travellers fresh press, books, souvenirs, and essential goods. You will easily find something to do while waiting for boarding.

For those who need to stay connected or work, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for mobile devices, located at boarding gates and in rest zones, will allow you not to worry about low battery charge. Business zones are equipped for business travellers, and conference rooms are available for meetings.

Financial services are represented by ATMs located in different parts of the terminal. Currency exchange points are also available here. In case of need, passengers can seek medical assistance at a special point.

The airport cares about the comfort of all categories of passengers. For travellers with children, mother and child rooms and family restrooms are provided. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on full accessibility of the environment: ramps, elevators, specially equipped restrooms, and staff assistance when moving through the terminal.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, many of which offer free transfers for their guests. This is a convenient option for rest before or after a flight.

At Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), passengers can find diverse dining options, from quick coffee to a full dinner. Establishments are located both in the public zone before security control and in the sterile zone near the boarding gates, offering menus to suit every taste and budget.

Before security (landside), in the main terminal hall, it is convenient to grab a snack at Dunkin' Donuts. This is a great place to have coffee with fresh pastries if you are seeing off loved ones or arrived at the airport with time to spare. Vending machines with drinks and snacks are also installed here for those in a hurry.

The main selection of restaurants and cafes awaits travellers after passing security control (airside). If you are in the mood for a hearty lunch, pay attention to several establishments. Gusto Ristorante offers Italian cuisine dishes in a calm and pleasant atmosphere. Fans of classic American food should visit ROC Burger Bar for a juicy burger. Another popular option is Jeremiah's Tavern, which is a branch of a well-known city establishment.

To feel the local atmosphere without leaving the airport, the best choice would be Jeremiah's Tavern. Here you can not only try traditional American tavern dishes but also sample beverages from local producers. For those looking for quality coffee and light snacks before a flight, the coffee shop Resistance Coffee is available.

Most establishments offer vegetarian dishes. Information regarding the availability of vegan, gluten-free, or halal options is recommended to be checked directly with the cafe or restaurant staff. Prices at the airport are at an average level for airports in the USA. Opening hours are generally synchronised with the flight schedule: establishments open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last evening planes.

To ensure your journey through Greater Rochester International Airport is as comfortable as possible, use these helpful tips. Knowing a few nuances will help save time and reduce stress when departing from or transferring at the airport serving the Niblack Street Area (Rochester, New York).

Arrival Time at the Airport: The standard recommendation is to arrive 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. This time is usually sufficient for calmly passing all formalities: check-in, baggage drop, and security control. Always check your airline's recommendations, as they may change during peak seasons.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on the airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone. At the security checkpoint, be prepared to remove large electronic devices from your carry-on luggage. All liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag — this is a standard requirement in airports in the USA.

Carry-on Allowance: Check the weight and size limits for carry-on luggage with your airline before travelling to the airport to avoid unexpected extra charges. It is forbidden to bring sharp objects and flammable substances. Medicines and baby food are exceptions to liquid rules, but be prepared to present them to security.

For Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, study the airport map in advance and calculate the time for moving between gates. Clarify at check-in whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Typically, on domestic flights with a single airline, luggage is transferred automatically.

Customs Control: Upon arrival from abroad, you will have to pass passport and customs control. Keep your passport, visa (if necessary), and other documents ready. Be prepared to clearly answer the officer's standard questions about the purpose and duration of your trip.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, bring an empty bottle with you and fill it with water at drinking fountains after the security zone. You can also book parking in advance on the airport website — this is often cheaper than paying on the spot.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative for information on flight status and possible options (for example, rebooking). Learn about your rights: depending on the length of the delay, you may be entitled to vouchers for food or even hotel accommodation.