Pocatello Regional Airport

Pocatello Regional Airport is a welcoming air gateway to the scenic southeast of Idaho, where the journey begins with a sense of calm and comfort. Located in the Snake River Valley, this aviation hub is free from the hustle and bustle of giant hubs, offering passengers an almost home-like atmosphere and stunning views of the mountain ranges directly from the runway. For tourists heading to Yellowstone or the hot springs, the airport serves as a convenient and friendly starting point where modern aviation standards combine with sincere local hospitality.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Pocatello Airport is its free parking. Unlike most airports in the USA, here passengers can leave their car for any duration — be it a weekend or two weeks — absolutely free of charge, which allows for significant savings on the travel budget. The parking area is within walking distance of the terminal, making logistics as simple as possible.

The airport is renowned for its speed of service. Thanks to the compactness of the terminal, the path from the entrance to the gate takes mere minutes. Queues for security screening (TSA) are extremely rare here, which spares travellers from unnecessary stress and the need to arrive several hours before departure. This is an ideal choice for those who value their time.

A special historical atmosphere reigns in the terminal building. The airport carefully preserves the memory of its military past: inside, there is a small but interesting exhibition with aircraft models and historical photographs from World War II, when an airbase was stationed here. This allows you to pass the time while waiting for your flight by immersing yourself in the region's aviation history.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Pocatello Airport (PIH). We recommend checking the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: www.iflypocatello.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 208-234-6154
• Airport Address: 1950 Airport Way, Pocatello, ID 83204, USA
• Email: To contact the airport administration, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on their official page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all questions related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline you flew with directly. Airport staff do not process such requests.
• Passenger Support Service: For general information and support, you can call the main airport phone number.

There are several ways to get to Pocatello Airport (PIH), located approximately 13 km west of the city centre of Pocatello. The choice of transport depends on your budget, time, and preferences. When planning a trip to this corner of the USA, it is worth thinking through the logistics in advance, as options for a small regional airport have their own specifics.

Public transport in the city is represented by the Pocatello Regional Transit (PRT) bus network. However, please note that regular city routes do not enter the airport. To travel to the airport by bus, you must order an "on-demand" service in advance by contacting the transport company. This is a budget-friendly option, but it requires preliminary planning.

The fastest and most convenient way to get to the terminal is via taxi or ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft. The trip from downtown Pocatello will take approximately 15–20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is a more expensive option compared to the bus, but it ensures comfort and door-to-door delivery, which is especially convenient if you have luggage. You can also book a private transfer in advance.

Many travellers prefer to move around by car. If you have rented a car, you can easily return it at the airport before departure — there are representatives of several major rental companies here. Travelling by private or rental car is an excellent choice for those who value independence and flexibility in their movements.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided. It is located in immediate proximity to the terminal building. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available at Pocatello Airport. Parking costs are generally low, which is typical for regional airports. It is recommended to check current rates on the airport's official website.

Thus, the choice of transport for the trip to the airport depends on your priorities. A taxi will be the ideal solution for those who value speed and comfort. Car rental suits independent travellers, while a pre-booked bus is the most economical option for those ready to plan their trip in advance.

Pocatello Airport (PIH) is a small regional airport, so its structure is extremely simple and intuitive for any traveller. There is only one passenger terminal here, which handles all flights — both departures and arrivals. This makes navigation through the airport maximally convenient and fast, eliminating the need to transfer between buildings.

The terminal building is very compact. Immediately upon entering, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and the baggage claim area are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the single security screening point. After passing through it, you will find yourself in a small departure area where the boarding gates are located. It is practically impossible to get lost here, as all key points are within walking distance of each other.

Passing through all pre-flight formalities at Pocatello Airport usually takes a minimum amount of time. Thanks to the low passenger flow, queues for check-in and screening are typically non-existent or very short. The entire process from entering the terminal to boarding rarely takes more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before departure to complete all procedures without rushing.

The main advice for navigation is simple: follow the signs. But even without them, you will easily orient yourself. All services — from counters to restrooms and the waiting area — are located on one floor and are clearly visible. You won't have to worry about long walks or searching for the right gate — at Pocatello Airport, everything happens quickly and without fuss, which is its main advantage.

The history of Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) dates back to the years of World War II. Although the first runway in the vicinity of the city appeared back in the 1930s, the modern airport was founded in 1942 as a military facility — the Pocatello Army Air Base. During the war years, the base played a key role in training crews for heavy bombers, including the famous B-17 Flying Fortress and B-24 Liberator, contributing to the history of American aviation.

After the end of the war, in 1948, the airfield was transferred to civilian authorities and was named Pocatello Municipal Airport. This moment became a turning point in its history, marking the beginning of the development of commercial passenger and cargo transportation. In 1959, a new terminal was built, which became the face of the airport for many years. The geography of flights gradually expanded, and runways were modernised to accommodate more modern aircraft.

To emphasise the increased importance of the airport for the entire southeast Idaho region, in 1997 it was officially renamed Pocatello Regional Airport. In the early 2000s, a large-scale reconstruction of the terminal was carried out to meet new security requirements and ensure greater comfort for passengers. Today, PIH continues to serve both commercial and private flights, remaining an important transport hub.

One of the interesting facts from the airport's history is its continuous connection with military aviation. Even after transitioning to civilian status, a unit of the National Guard continues to be based on its territory. Thus, Pocatello Airport has travelled a unique path from a strategic military facility to a modern civilian hub, while preserving a piece of its heroic past.

Pocatello Airport (PIH), despite its compact size, offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. There is a café in the terminal where you can have a snack, order sandwiches, salads, and beverages. There is also a small shop where you can purchase souvenirs, press, and travel goods. The atmosphere in the airport is calm and cosy, allowing you to prepare for your flight without unnecessary bustle.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting areas near the boarding gates, so you can always stay connected. Although there are no separate VIP lounges at the airport, the general waiting areas are quite comfortable and equipped with convenient seating.

Passengers with reduced mobility can count on comprehensive assistance: the airport is fully equipped with ramps, special restrooms, and offers an escort service to the aircraft. For travellers with small children, changing tables are provided in the restrooms. ATMs are installed in the airport building; however, currency exchange points are absent, so it is worth taking care of money exchange in advance. First aid services can be provided by airport staff, who will call emergency services if necessary.

Although there are no hotels on the airport territory itself, several hotels to suit any taste and budget are located just a few minutes away by car. Specialised conference halls or business centres are not provided at the airport in Pocatello; however, the quiet atmosphere and availability of the internet allow for comfortable work while waiting for your flight. This is a convenient and functional airport that meets the basic needs of travellers in the USA.

Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) is a compact and convenient aviation hub, and the dining options here correspond to its size. The airport does not have a large variety of restaurants like in major hubs, but passengers can comfortably have a snack before departure.

The main and only place where you can eat at the airport is the Skyline Café. It represents a classic American diner and is located in the main terminal building before the security screening area (landside). This is an ideal place for those who want to have a full breakfast or lunch before their flight. On the menu, you will find traditional dishes: burgers, sandwiches, salads, as well as morning options such as omelettes and pancakes. Considering you are in Idaho, it is worth trying the local French fries.

For a quick snack at the Skyline Café, you can order coffee and pastries. There are also vending machines in the airport building where you can purchase drinks and snacks. Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Vegetarian passengers should check the ingredients of salads and sandwiches with the café staff, but finding specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes will be difficult. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you.

Important point: since all establishments are located before the control zone, be sure to plan your meal in advance. After passing through security (airside), there will be no opportunities to buy food or drinks. The café's operating hours are usually synchronised with the flight schedule, opening before the first departures and closing after the last ones. Prices in the café can be described as moderate, typical for small regional airports in the USA.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Pocatello goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, money, and nerves, making the start of your adventure pleasant and organised.

Arrival time at the airport. Although Pocatello Airport is not among the giant hubs, we recommend arriving 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening without haste, even if small queues arise.

Check-in and security control. The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on your airline's website. At the airport security checkpoint, be ready to present your ID and boarding pass. All electronics larger than a mobile phone must be removed from your bag, and liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) must be packed in a single transparent bag.

Seat selection on the plane. If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. If you value the ability to stretch your legs or stand up freely, your choice is an aisle seat. Many airlines allow you to select a seat during online check-in.

Hand luggage. Clarify your airline's requirements regarding the size and weight of hand luggage. It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable liquids in the cabin. Snacks, portable electronics, and personal items are permitted.

Passengers with connections. Most flights from Pocatello are connecting flights. When purchasing a ticket, ensure that you have enough time for the transfer at the next airport — preferably at least 90 minutes. This will allow you to calmly find the necessary terminal and boarding gate.

Customs control. Since Pocatello Airport serves mainly domestic flights within the USA, customs and passport control are absent here. If you are setting off on an international journey, you will undergo these procedures at the major international airport from which you fly out of the country.

Saving time and money. Book tickets in advance to get the best price. To avoid paying for luggage, travel light with only hand luggage. Take an empty water bottle with you — it can be filled after passing through security.

In case of flight delay. Before leaving for the airport, check the status of your flight on the airline's website. If the flight is delayed, contact an airline employee for information on further actions. Have a book, headphones, or a power bank with you to brighten up the wait.